《Supreme Warlock System : From Zero to Ultimate With My Wives》


 Chapter 1: The Night It All Began

    Warlock Ch 1. The Night It All Began


    Damian''s hands moved effortlessly between glassware, shakers, and bottles behind the bar. He was a twenty-three years old man, tall, dark blue haired and athletic. People were drawn to Damian because of his natural presence. He was a tough but friendly bartender who could keep the rowdier customers in line with a glance and win over regulars with a smile and a few well-chosen jokes.


    The usual mix of locals looking for a break from the busy metropolis, college students, and office professionals filled the pub tonight. Damian thrived in the chaos, finding a rhythm between orders and banter.


    "Another round for table five, D!" one of the waitresses called out, sliding him a ticket.


    "On it," Damian said, taking a few pints and pouring them as he was taught on the weirder side of cream without any head. A swift nod and he dismissed them, choosing a table near the bar.


    He was quick to clean the counter as something¡ªor more like someone caught his attention. He glanced up as the pub''s door opened and such an attractive woman strolled in. His gaze lingered longer to her than Damian had intended. There was a mysterious aura surrounding her, the one that got people thinking ''Did I...just end up in someone else''s story?''


    Her dark hair fell over her shoulders. She wasn''t dressed like the usual crowd either¡ªthere was something about her that screamed otherworldly. Her eyes, sharp and knowing, scanned the room before locking onto him.


    ''Great. Just what I need. Trouble in heels,'' he thought.


    She approached him.


    Quickly, Damian straightened and slung the bar rag over his shoulder. He couldn''t quite place it, but he felt a weird tug in her direction. She walked with purpose, as though every action had been prearranged before she entered the pub, as if she found what she was looking for.


    Leaning slightly on the counter, she came to a stop in front of him. "What do you recommend?" she asked in a quiet but firm voice.


    A smile tugged at the corner of Damian''s lips as he lifted an eyebrow. "It depends. It appears that you appreciate a little mystery. What about a Manhattan? Traditional, but with a modern twist."


    "A twist, huh?" She studied him for a moment, her eyes flicking over his broad shoulders, the way his shirt strained just slightly at the sleeves. "I think I''ll trust your instincts."


    He chuckled. "You''re either really confident or really dangerous."


    "Maybe both," she replied with a smirk.


    He started mixing the drink. His mind raced. There was something off about her, but in a way that made him more curious than cautious. Maybe it was the way she seemed to glide through the pub as if the noise and people didn''t affect her at all. Or maybe it was the fact that he couldn''t shake the feeling that she wasn''t just another customer looking for a drink.


    "So," he began, sliding the finished Manhattan toward her, "what brings you to this bar tonight? You don''t exactly seem like a regular."


    She took a sip of the drink, her eyes never leaving his. "Let''s just say I was... drawn here."


    Damian''s eyebrow shot up again. "Drawn here, huh? To me, or to the bar?" he joked.


    "Maybe a little bit of both." She set the glass down, her fingers tracing the rim. "I have a sense for places where something interesting is about to happen."


    "You think something interesting is going to happen tonight?" Damian leaned against the bar, folding his arms over his chest. His muscles tensed a little under his shirt, not from aggression but from something else¡ªanticipation. There was definitely more to this woman than she was letting on.


    "Yes, I''m counting on it," she responded, looking down at his hands for a moment before returning her gaze to his. "You''re not like the others here."


    "Is that a good thing?" Damian asked, attempting to maintain a pleasant tone.


    "I suppose we''ll find out," she said cryptically.


    Damian felt the conversation shift, as if he were on the verge of something he didn''t quite grasp. His instincts urged him to be vigilant, but his curiosity, combined with a weird sense of attraction, left him anchored in place.


    "So," he began, changing the subject slightly, "you got a name, or do I just keep calling you ''Trouble'' in my head?"


    The woman''s chuckle was gentle and melodious. "Evelyn," she said, giving him a wicked look. "But ''Trouble'' works too."


    "Evelyn," he repeated, letting the name roll off his tongue. "Nice to meet you. I''m Damian."


    Her eyes flashed briefly, almost like she recognized the name, but the moment passed quickly. "Nice to meet you, Damian."


    Before he could say anything else, the pub door flew open, and two rough-looking men entered. They scanned the room with an intensity that made Damian nervous. Something about their presence signaled danger, and Damian noticed Evelyn tense slightly.


    "Friends of yours?" he asked, trying to keep his voice casual.


    "Not exactly," she murmured, her tone darker now.


    The men made a beeline for the bar, their eyes locking onto Evelyn like predators sizing up their prey. Damian''s grip tightened on the bar as they approached.


    "Evelyn," one of them growled, his voice rough and menacing. "You''ve been causing a lot of problems for our people. It''s time to settle up."


    ''Our people?'' Damian didn''t know what was happening, but he knew trouble when he saw it. And right now, Evelyn was neck-deep in it.


    She stood her ground, her expression unreadable. "This isn''t the place for your threats," she said calmly.


    One of the men slammed his hand on the bar, leaning in closer. "We don''t care about the place."


    Damian''s protective instincts kicked in. "Hey, if you''re looking for a fight, this isn''t the place for that either."


    The man turned toward Damian, sizing him up. "Stay out of this, bartender. This doesn''t concern you."


    Damian smiled, though it didn''t quite reach his eyes. "See, that''s where you''re wrong. You mess with my customers, it becomes my business."


    For a moment, the air seemed to thicken. Damian could feel the adrenaline starting to pump through his veins. He could feel the heat rising from inside of him. It was a weird sensation. A new thing for him.


    He had no idea what Evelyn had gotten herself into, but one thing was clear, he wasn''t going to let these guys hurt her. It was weird since he usually stayed out of trouble, but this time he chose to take it.


    Evelyn glanced at him, her eyes softening for a split second before she turned her attention back to the men. "You really want to do this here?" she asked, her voice low, almost daring them.


    The thug closest to her smirked. "We don''t care about where. We just care about our business."


    Before Damian even had a second to think, the guy lunged forward, his hand reaching for Evelyn. His instinct kicked in. Damian was already vaulting over the bar, moving faster than he had time to realize. He grabbed the guy''s wrist, twisting it with enough force to make the thug yelp and release his grip.


    "Whoa, buddy," Damian said, pushing the thug back with enough pressure to send him stumbling. "You don''t want to go that route."


    The guy looked shocked. "Impossible..." he whispered in disbelief as if Damian just did something remarkable. "He is just a normal human..."


    Damian frowned. ''What is he talking about? Is he drunk?''


    The second guy was on him in an instant, swinging a fist at Damian''s face. Damian ducked just in time, the fist grazing past his hair. Without missing a beat, Damian drove his shoulder into the guy''s chest, sending him crashing into a nearby table. Glasses shattered, and the pub went quiet, all eyes on the sudden brawl.


    Damian spun back to the first thug, who was already recovering, snarling like a cornered animal. He came to Damian again, and this time, Damian was ready. He dodged the punch and countered with a quick jab to the guy''s stomach. The thug doubled over, gasping for air.


    "Stay down," Damian growled, his voice rougher than usual, adrenaline coursing through him.


    The second thug groaned from his position on the floor, slowly picking himself up, but Damian gave him a look that told him trying again would be a mistake. "You want some more?" Damian asked, his fists still clenched, his muscles tensing, ready to finish what they started.


    The second guy raised his hands in surrender, backing away slowly. The first thug, still clutching his stomach, glared at Damian but didn''t make another move.


    "You''re making a mistake," the thug wheezed, his face twisted in pain. "You don''t know who you''re messing with."


    Damian snorted. "Yeah, well, I''m not the one limping out of here, am I?"

 Chapter 2: Awakening

    Warlock Ch 2. Awakening


    The thugs exchanged glances before deciding it wasn''t worth the fight.


    With a final sneer in Evelyn''s direction, they stumbled toward the exit. The pub''s patrons watched in silence, a few murmurs breaking out as the door slammed shut behind the two goons.


    Damian exhaled, rolling his shoulders to shake off the tension. He glanced around the bar, noticing everyone''s eyes still glued to him. "Alright, folks, show''s over," he called, waving his hand in the air like it was just another Tuesday night. Slowly, the pub returned to its usual hum of chatter and clinking glasses.


    He turned back to Evelyn, who hadn''t moved from her spot at the bar. Her expression was unreadable, but her eyes... there was something in them, something beyond simple gratitude.


    "Well," Damian said, leaning against the bar and catching his breath, "that was more excitement than I usually get around here."


    Evelyn tilted her head slightly, studying him. "You didn''t have to step in."


    Damian chuckled, wiping his hands on his jeans. "Yeah, well, they looked like they were about to do something stupid. Figured I''d save you the trouble."


    She smiled, a small, almost secretive smile. "Thank you. That was brave."


    There was a flicker in her eyes¡ªadmiration mixed with something else. Something he couldn''t quite put his finger on. Damian felt a strange warmth settle in his chest, the adrenaline giving way to a feeling that had nothing to do with the fight.


    "No problem. I''ve handled worse," he said casually, though he couldn''t help but hold her gaze for a second longer than necessary. "What about you? Seemed like those guys had a bone to pick with you."


    Evelyn''s smile faded just a little, replaced by a hint of something more serious. "Let''s just say I''ve made a few enemies over the years."


    Damian raised an eyebrow. "Enemies, huh? You in some kind of trouble?"


    She hesitated for a moment, her eyes flicking to the door as if expecting the thugs to come back. "Trouble follows me," she said softly, her voice carrying an almost musical quality now, like the words themselves were laced with something... more.


    Damian felt his pulse quicken again, but not from fear. There was something about her voice, the way it wrapped around his thoughts, making him feel... drawn in. He shook his head, trying to focus.


    "You handled yourself pretty well back there," Evelyn said, her eyes locking onto his. "I''ve known warlocks who couldn''t have moved that quickly. Or with such strength."


    "Warlocks?" Damian repeated, confused. "I think you''ve got the wrong guy. I''m just a bartender." Now, he thought she was also drunk.


    Evelyn''s smile returned, but this time, it was knowing. "Are you?"


    Damian blinked, unsure how to respond. He was about to ask her what she meant when she placed her hand gently on his arm. It wasn''t a heavy touch, but Damian felt something stir inside him¡ªlike a door creaking open just a crack. There was warmth where her fingers rested, a sensation that spread through him, strange but not unpleasant.


    "You''ve got more inside you than you realize," she said quietly, her voice almost a whisper. "There''s a reason I was drawn here tonight, Damian. It wasn''t just luck."


    Damian opened his mouth to say something¡ªanything¡ªbut the words got stuck in his throat. He stared at her, feeling a sudden pull, like gravity itself had shifted. The warmth in his chest grew, spreading to his arms, his legs, his mind.


    "What are you talking about?" he managed to ask, his voice hoarse.


    Evelyn''s eyes glowed faintly, and for a brief moment, he swore he saw a shimmer of light around her. "You''re not just a bartender, Damian. You''re something else. Something... more."


    His heart pounded in his chest, the warmth turning into heat. He glanced down at his hands, expecting to see something¡ªanything¡ªbut they looked the same. His muscles tensed, his body feeling heavier and lighter all at once.


    "What the hell...?" he muttered, his mind racing.


    Evelyn''s hand slipped away from his arm, and instantly, the sensation faded, leaving him feeling almost cold in its absence. She stood up straight, her gaze still locked on his, but now there was no smile, no playfulness. Just a calm certainty.


    "You''ll understand soon enough," she said, her voice carrying that same enchanting quality. "But for now... just trust me."


    Damian swallowed, his throat dry. "And if I don''t?"


    Evelyn''s eyes softened again, her expression almost... fond. "You already do."


    Damian couldn''t argue with that. Something had shifted in him the moment she''d touched him, something he couldn''t explain but knew deep down wasn''t going away anytime soon. He wasn''t sure what was happening, but one thing was certain¡ªhis life wasn''t as simple as he''d thought.


    He took a breath, trying to steady himself. "Alright, Evelyn," he said slowly, rubbing the back of his neck. "What the hell is going on? That... feeling. What did you do to me?"


    Evelyn leaned against the bar, her gaze soft but intense. "I didn''t do anything. Not really. All I did was nudge something that was already inside you. Something that''s been dormant for a long time."


    Damian frowned. "Dormant? Inside me? Look, I''m just a bartender. I''ve never¡ª"


    "I will say this once again. You''re not just a bartender, Damian," Evelyn said, her voice calm but firm. "There''s magic in this world¡ªmore than you realize. You''ve just been living in the parts of it that don''t see it. But it''s there. All around you."


    Damian let out a low laugh, shaking his head. "Magic? Really? Come on. You expect me to believe that?"


    "I expect you to feel it," she replied simply, leaning in just a little closer. "You felt it back there, didn''t you? When you fought those men. Something inside you woke up."


    He didn''t want to admit it, but she wasn''t wrong. He had felt it¡ªlike some part of him had come alive in the heat of the moment, guiding him, making him faster, stronger. He''d never been in a fight like that before, but somehow... he hadn''t hesitated. It had all been instinct.


    "Okay," Damian muttered, running a hand through his hair. "Let''s say, for argument''s sake, that I felt something. That doesn''t mean I''m... whatever it is you think I am."


    Evelyn smiled, a knowing glint in her eyes. "You''re a warlock, Damian."


    "A warlock," he repeated, the word sounding absurd in his mouth. "You''re messing with me, right?"


    "I''m serious. The ones you just defeated weren''t ordinary humans. They were combat mages. Still, newbies, but ordinary people shouldn''t be able to defeat them," she said, her tone shifting. "There''s magic in your body. It''s why you were able to react so quickly, why you felt that pull. Warlocks have the ability to form pacts, and those pacts grant them power¡ªreal power. But you need guidance. Without it, you''re vulnerable."


    Damian blinked, trying to process everything she was throwing at him.


    Warlocks? Pacts?


    It sounded like something out of one of those fantasy novels his friends used to read in high school. But the way she was looking at him, so sure, so calm... It was unsettling.


    He opened his mouth to say something, but Evelyn cut him off. "Look, I know this is a lot to take in, but there''s something you need to understand. Your actions tonight¡ªthey''ve drawn attention."


    "Attention?" Damian frowned. "From who?"


    "From others like me," she said, her voice dropping slightly, adding an edge of warning. "And others who are... not like me. You see, when you tap into magic like that, it sends ripples through the magical world. You''re on the radar now, and trust me, there are plenty of people¡ªplenty of beings¡ªwho would love nothing more than to exploit someone with your potential."


    Damian''s pulse quickened. "Exploit me? Why?"


    "Because you''re new to this," Evelyn explained, her eyes locked on his. "You don''t know how to control it yet. That makes you valuable to people who want to use your power for their own purposes. They''ll either try to manipulate you or... take what''s inside you."


    Damian stared at her. He wasn''t sure how much of this he believed yet, but he could feel the tension in her voice. It wasn''t just a casual warning¡ªthis was serious. He wasn''t just in over his head; he was drowning in something he didn''t even know existed until a few minutes ago.


    "Alright," he said slowly, trying to keep his voice steady. "So, what do I do now?"

 Chapter 3: Warlock of Eternal Bonds

    Warlock Ch 3. Warlock of Eternal Bonds


    Evelyn hesitated for the first time, her eyes searching his face. "You have a choice," she said, her voice softer now. "You can walk away from all of this. I can make you forget it, let you go back to your life, back to your bar, and pretend none of this ever happened. But..." She paused, her gaze growing more intense. "If you do, you''ll always wonder. You''ll always feel that pull, that nagging thought that maybe¡ªjust maybe¡ªthere was something more you could''ve been. Also... taking that choice doesn''t mean you''re no longer their target anymore."


    Damian swallowed. She was offering him an out¡ªa chance to walk away. But the way she framed it made it sound like it was a closed door.


    "And the other option?" he asked quietly, already knowing the answer but needing to hear it from her.


    Evelyn straightened, a glimmer of determination returning to her eyes. "You embrace what''s inside you. You become what you were meant to be¡ªa warlock. I can guide you, help you understand your power, and teach you how to control it. But once you take that step, there''s no going back. This world is dangerous. Magic isn''t all spells and enchantments. It''s filled with power struggles, betrayals, and entities that will stop at nothing to claim what isn''t theirs. If you choose this path, you''ll have to be ready for that."


    Damian looked down at his hands, flexing his fingers as if trying to feel something¡ªanything¡ªthat would give him a clue about what to do. His mind was spinning. Part of him wanted to laugh it off, to tell her she was crazy and go back to his life.


    But was he ready for this? Was he ready to leave behind the life he knew and step into a world where danger lurked around every corner? It sounded insane. And yet... the idea of turning his back on it, of going back to pouring drinks and making small talk with customers, felt hollow. How could he go back to normal after knowing all this?


    Damian sighed, rubbing his forehead. "I don''t know. This is a lot. I need to think."


    Evelyn nodded, her expression understanding. "Take your time," she said softly. "This isn''t a decision you should make lightly."


    She turned as if to leave. Damian felt a strange pang of regret, like he was letting something important slip through his fingers. But before he could say anything, a voice cut through the room.


    "Damian."


    It wasn''t Evelyn. The voice was deeper, smoother¡ªalmost like it came from everywhere at once.


    Damian''s head snapped up, his eyes wide as the voice echoed through the air. But it wasn''t coming from anywhere around him. The sound felt like it was inside his head.


    "Damian."


    The pub seemed to blur and fade around him, like someone had dimmed the lights and turned down the volume on reality itself. He blinked, trying to focus, but everything around him dissolved into darkness. His breath hitched in his throat as the world disappeared, leaving him standing in... nothing.


    Just a blank, empty space.


    He spun around, searching for something¡ªanything¡ªto anchor himself, but there was nothing but the endless void. His heart raced, his mind scrambling to make sense of it. "What the hell?" he muttered, turning again, his voice echoing back at him in the emptiness. "Evelyn? Hello?"


    No answer.


    His hands clenched into fists. "Evelyn! Where the hell am I?"


    Nothing. Just the stillness pressing in on him.


    Damian took a few steps forward, but it was hard to tell if he was even moving. It was like walking through a dream, where everything felt distant and unreal. Just as he was about to shout again, the voice called his name once more, this time louder, clearer.


    "Damian."


    He turned sharply, and there it was. In the middle of the blank expanse stood something¡ªa shape, an object. As he stepped closer, it became clearer, an artifact, ancient and weathered, hovering just above the ground. It looked like some kind of twisted, metallic relic, its surface etched with strange symbols and glowing faintly with a light that pulsed like a heartbeat.


    "What the...?" Damian whispered, his feet moving on their own, drawn toward the artifact.


    He stopped a few feet away, staring at it. It was unlike anything he''d ever seen¡ªotherworldly, like it didn''t belong in any world he knew. The closer he got, the more he could feel it, this strange pull tugging at him from deep inside. It was like the artifact was calling to him, beckoning him closer.


    His breath quickened, his hand twitching at his side. Every instinct screamed at him not to touch it, that this thing wasn''t safe. But something else, something deeper, told him he needed to. That this was the reason he was here, wherever "here" was.


    Without thinking, he reached out, his fingers brushing against the cold metal surface of the artifact.


    The second his skin made contact, a surge of energy ripped through him, so strong it nearly knocked him off his feet. His eyes widened as the power shot through his veins, electrifying every nerve in his body. His muscles tightened, his heart pounded in his chest, and his vision blurred as a flood of images, thoughts, and sensations slammed into him all at once.


    [Installing Warlock''s Contract System...]


    [Loading...]


    "Shit!" Damian gasped, stumbling back but unable to pull his hand away. The artifact pulsed again, brighter this time, sending another wave of energy crashing through him. His knees buckled, and he fell to the ground, but the connection to the artifact remained, like an invisible thread tying him to it.


    His mind was spinning. It wasn''t just power¡ªit was knowledge. Ancient, vast knowledge, pouring into him faster than he could process. He could feel it changing him, rewiring his very being. The artifact wasn''t just some relic¡ªit was alive, and it was unlocking something inside him. Something he hadn''t even known was there.


    A sharp pain shot through his chest, and for a moment, he thought he might pass out. But then, as quickly as it had come, the pain faded, replaced by a strange, overwhelming clarity. He felt it, deep inside. A shift. A change. The energy settled into his core, like a fire that had been lit, burning steady and strong.


    [Warlock''s Contract System Successfully Installed.]


    The void around him began to shift again, the darkness peeling away like layers of mist, revealing something new. His vision swam, and before he could make sense of it, a series of words flashed across his mind''s eye.


    [Welcome to Warlock''s Contract System]


    Name: Damian Blackthorn


    Age: 23


    Class: Warlock of Eternal Bonds


    Level: 1


    Stats:


    Mana Power: D


    Stamina: C


    Endurance: C+


    Strength: B


    Agility: B+


    Magic Affinity: E+


    XP: 0/100


    Bond Points: 0


    Skills:


    [Pact Creation Lv. 1: ability to form magical contracts with supernatural beings. Requires deep emotional or intimate connection to succeed. Unlocks new magical abilities based on the strength and nature of the bonded partner. Cooldown: 24 hours. Effect: Establishes a bond that grants both Damian and the contracted being enhanced powers.]


    [Bond Empowerment Lv. 1: Every time a contract''s emotional or physical bond deepens, Damian gains permanent magical strength and new abilities based on the contracted partner''s magic.Current Boost: +10 Magic Power.]


    [Magical Affinity Lv. 1:Increases Damian''s ability to adapt to different types of magic depending on the beings he bonds with.Effect: 10% bonus to any magical abilities gained through contracts.]


    [Dark Bolt Lv. 1 :Fires a basic dark energy projectile, dealing damage to a single enemy.]


    Damian blinked as the words faded from his mind. His heart was still pounding, his body humming with the leftover energy from the artifact, but the information... it was all there, perfectly clear. He knew exactly what he was seeing, even though a few minutes ago, none of this would''ve made any sense.


    ''Mana power? Pact creation? What the hell am I looking at?'' he thought, still trying to catch his breath. But somewhere deep inside, he knew this wasn''t some hallucination. It was real¡ªhe was a warlock now. Whatever that meant, whatever the rules were, they applied to him.


    He stared at his hands, flexing his fingers. They looked the same, but now... he could feel something thrumming. It was faint but undeniable. Magic.


    "Holy shit..." Damian whispered, lifting his hand experimentally. He thought about the word that had appeared in his mind. [Dark Bolt]. A small orb of dark energy crackled to life at his fingertips, hovering there for a moment before vanishing.


    Before he could process what had just happened, the voice called out to him again, softer now. "Damian."

 Chapter 4: Mana Core

    Warlock Ch 4. Mana Core


    He looked up, the artifact still glowing faintly in front of him, its presence now quiet, but there was no mistaking it¡ªit had chosen him. The Warlock''s Contract System had installed itself inside him. The potential it unlocked, the power it promised... it was his now.


    But why?


    "Why me?" Damian muttered, standing up on shaky legs. His body felt stronger, more alive than it ever had before, but his mind was racing with questions. What did it want from him? And more importantly... What was he supposed to do next?


    Just as he was about to reach out to the artifact again, everything around him began to shift. The void collapsed in on itself, the darkness giving way to light. Before he could react, the world snapped back into place, and Damian found himself standing back in the pub, Evelyn staring at him with wide, knowing eyes.


    She didn''t say a word, but the look on her face told him everything he needed to know.


    She knew exactly what had just happened.


    Damian locked eyes with Evelyn, the room still spinning slightly from whatever the hell that artifact had done to him. His heart was racing, his mind still trying to wrap itself around the strange words that had flashed across his vision.


    Warlock. Pact. Magic.


    He had heard those terms before, but they belonged in stories¡ªnot in his life. Not here. Not like this.


    Evelyn''s face was calm, but there was a storm of thoughts behind her eyes. She exhaled slowly, as if she was calculating her next move. Finally, she spoke, her voice steady, but laced with an edge of urgency. "You felt it, didn''t you? The power?"


    Damian swallowed hard, flexing his fingers. He could still feel that strange energy thrumming beneath his skin, like a pulse. "What... What just happened to me?" His voice sounded shaky, even to him.


    "That artifact," Evelyn began, her eyes flickering toward the spot where it had manifested in that strange, blank space. "It''s not just some relic. It''s part of you. It wasn''t an object you found¡ªit''s your own mana core."


    "My what?" Damian stared at her like she''d just started speaking another language, which, for all intents and purposes, she had. "Mana core? What does that even mean? Is this... inside me?"


    Evelyn gave a slow nod, taking a step closer to him. "Not everyone has a mana core. It''s rare, especially in someone who''s lived their entire life without knowing. Your mana core is the source of your magic. It was dormant inside you, hidden, until tonight." She paused, her eyes scanning his face like she was searching for something. "The artifact you saw? That was your core, awakening."


    Damian opened his mouth to say something, but no words came out. Inside him? This power had been inside him the whole time? How was that even possible? He didn''t feel powerful. He was just... him.


    Evelyn seemed to sense his confusion and continued. "Warlocks are different from other magic users. Witches, like me, we learn spells, tap into different sources of magic. But a warlock like you? Your power comes from bonds. Emotional, magical, sometimes even... intimate bonds. The Warlock''s Contract System is tied to that mana core, and now that it''s awakened, you''re going to be drawn into the world you never knew existed."


    Damian''s mind raced. Warlocks. Contracts. Bonds. It sounded... wild. And yet, after everything that had just happened, he couldn''t deny the strange truth of it. He glanced down at his hand, where a faint glow caught his eye. His breath hitched.


    There, etched into the back of his hand, was a mark¡ªfaint, but unmistakable. Dark, intricate lines wove into a pattern that almost looked like an ancient sigil. It pulsed softly with a dim, dark energy, like it was alive.


    "What the hell is this?" Damian asked, holding his hand up to the light. "This... wasn''t here before."


    "It''s the mark of the Warlock''s Contract," Evelyn said quietly, stepping closer to examine it. "It''s proof that your system is active. That mark will grow, change, as you form more pacts. It''s your connection to the supernatural world now."


    Damian''s pulse quickened as he stared at the glowing mark. "So this is it? I''m... a warlock now?"


    Evelyn nodded, her expression serious. "Yes. And that changes everything. You''re going to be a target now."


    "A target?" Damian frowned, trying to piece it all together. "A target for what?"


    "The magical world isn''t some fairytale," Evelyn said, her voice dropping slightly. "There are warlocks, witches, and creatures that exist in secret, hidden from normal people. And Haven City... it''s one of the most dangerous places for someone like you."


    Her words hit him hard. He had lived in Haven City his entire life, oblivious to the world she was talking about. And now, in just a matter of minutes, his life had been flipped upside down.


    "Wait," Damian said, the gravity of her words starting to sink in. "Why would I be a target? I didn''t ask for any of this."


    "You didn''t have to," Evelyn said, her tone grim. "There are factions, rival warlocks, supernatural creatures who will see your awakening as an opportunity. You''re new to this. You don''t know how to control your power yet. That makes you vulnerable. There are those who will try to manipulate you, exploit your abilities for their own gain. And worse¡ªsome might try to take what you have by force."


    Damian took a deep breath, the weight of it all pressing down on him. This wasn''t just some random bit of magic that had been thrown his way. He was in the middle of something much bigger, something he wasn''t prepared for.


    "So... what do I do now?" Damian asked, his voice quieter than before.


    Evelyn''s eyes softened just a little. "You need to come with me. I can help you. But we don''t have time to waste. If your mana core has awakened completely, others will have sensed it. We need to get out of here. Now."

 Chapter 5: Mana Core Hunters

    Warlock Ch 5. Mana Core Hunters


    Damian glanced around the pub, which had returned to its normal bustle, completely unaware of the chaos that had just unfolded for him. His life¡ªhis normal, everyday life¡ªsuddenly felt a million miles away.


    But before he could say anything, Evelyn stiffened. Her eyes flicked toward the windows, her body going rigid with an alertness.


    "Damian," she whispered, her voice urgent. "We''re not alone."


    A chill crept up his spine, and Damian followed her gaze toward the shadows beyond the pub''s glass doors. The night outside looked normal, but there was a shift in the air¡ªsomething dark, lurking just out of sight. He could feel it too now, that same prickling sensation, like he was being watched.


    "What is it?" Damian asked, his voice barely above a whisper.


    Evelyn didn''t answer immediately. Her eyes scanned the darkness, her fingers twitching slightly as though ready to summon some kind of magic at a moment''s notice.


    "A presence," she murmured. "Dark... and strong."


    Damian''s throat tightened. He didn''t need to know the details to understand what that meant. Whatever was out there, it wasn''t friendly.


    "They know," Evelyn said, her voice tense. "They already know about you."


    "Who?" Damian asked, his pulse quickening. "Who knows?"


    Evelyn shot him a look that was equal parts fear and determination. "Evil warlocks. They''re always watching for new blood, especially someone with a core as strong as yours. If they get their hands on you¡ª"


    "I''m not going to let that happen," Damian cut in, his heart pounding in his chest. He didn''t know how he was going to back up that statement, but the thought of being hunted by some dark, magical force wasn''t something he was going to take lying down.


    Evelyn grabbed his arm, pulling him toward the back exit. "We need to go. Now. Before they get any closer."


    Damian stumbled, his feet barely keeping up with her quick pace. His mind was a whirlwind of confusion and adrenaline, but he managed to blurt out, "What about my shift? I can''t just leave."


    Evelyn didn''t stop. She didn''t even slow down. Instead, she muttered something under her breath, and with a flick of her wrist, Damian''s shadow rippled unnaturally against the dim light. It stretched, twisted, and then... it stood up.


    Damian froze, eyes wide as he watched his shadow take shape. It wasn''t just a shadow anymore¡ªit was him. A carbon copy, down to the way it wiped its hands on the bar towel hanging from its waist.


    "What the hell?" Damian whispered, eyes darting between Evelyn and his shadow double.


    She finally stopped, turning to him with an amused but urgent look. "Let him take care of your shift," she said, her tone as if this sort of thing was completely normal. "It''ll hold the fort. Now, come on."


    Damian blinked at his doppelganger, who was already moving behind the bar, pouring drinks and chatting with customers like nothing was out of the ordinary. He pointed at it. "Don''t mess up, okay?"


    The shadow-Damian didn''t respond, but it gave him a nod. The sight of his own face, shadowy and mute, freaked him out more than he cared to admit.


    "C''mon!" Evelyn urged, already halfway out the door.


    Damian took one last look at his shadow, who was now expertly mixing a cocktail for a customer, and muttered, "This is insane," before running to catch up with her.


    The cool night air hit him hard as they stepped out into the alley behind the pub. His heart was still racing, the mark on his hand pulsing faintly as if to remind him that none of this was a dream. Evelyn moved quickly, her eyes constantly scanning the shadows around them, her entire posture alert, like a predator on the hunt¡ªor maybe the hunted.


    Damian caught up, his mind still reeling. "So, just to clarify," he panted, "I''ve got a magical shadow taking my bar shift, I''ve apparently got a mana core inside me, and now we''re running from... what, exactly?"


    Evelyn''s gaze flicked to him briefly before returning to the dark street ahead. "Evil warlock. A powerful one. He has sensed your mana core. You''re new, untrained, and that makes you valuable¡ªand dangerous."


    "Dangerous? I haven''t even done anything yet!"


    "You don''t have to," she said, her voice low and serious. "Just existing with that kind of potential makes you a target."


    Damian''s mind spun. This was way too much for one night. He was just a bartender¡ªat least, he had been an hour ago. Now, suddenly, he was a warlock? He still didn''t fully grasp what that meant, but the way Evelyn was talking, it sounded like his life depended on figuring it out¡ªfast.


    They made their way through the back streets. Evelyn kept moving, her pace relentless, but Damian couldn''t help but notice the tension in her. Every now and then, her eyes darted to the shadows, her body poised for a fight.


    "Can you tell me more specific about what we are running from? I see nothing, no one," Damian asked once again, his voice a little shakier than he wanted it to be.


    "There''s a warlock," she said quietly. "His name is Malthus Ravenwood. He''s... let''s just say he''s not someone you want to cross paths with."


    Damian frowned. "What does he want with me?"


    Evelyn shot him a quick glance. "He wants your power, Damian. Malthus has been hunting new warlocks for years, draining them, absorbing their abilities. He''s ruthless, and now that your core has awakened, he''s going to come for you."


    Damian''s stomach twisted. "Drain them? Like... kill them?"


    "Yes," she said flatly. "He steals their power, and leaves nothing but a husk behind."


    Damian swallowed hard, the reality of his situation crashing down on him. "So, what? This guy''s just gonna show up and try to suck the magic out of me?"


    "He''ll send something first," Evelyn said, her tone grim. "Shadows, maybe. He always sends his servants."


    As if on cue, the hairs on the back of Damian''s neck stood up. A cold shiver ran down his spine, and he suddenly felt like they were being watched. He turned his head slightly, scanning the dark alleys and streets around them, but saw nothing.

 Chapter 6: Run!

    Warlock Ch 6. Run!


    "I don''t see anyone," he muttered, but his hand instinctively clenched, the mark on his palm tingling.


    Evelyn stopped suddenly, her eyes narrowing as she looked ahead. "You won''t see it... until it''s too late."


    The shadows around them shifted, and Damian''s breath caught in his throat. For a moment, it was as if the darkness itself was alive, crawling toward them, swirling and coiling like smoke. Then, from the corner of his eye, he saw it¡ªa figure, barely visible, but unmistakably moving toward them, its shape blending with the night.


    "Is that...?" Damian began, his voice barely above a whisper.


    Evelyn''s hand shot out, gripping his arm. "Run."


    Before Damian could react, she yanked him forward, and they sprinted down the alley. The shadow behind them moved faster, slithering through the darkness like a predator closing in on its prey. Damian could feel it now¡ªa cold, suffocating presence creeping closer, its hunger palpable.


    "What is that thing?" he gasped, his legs burning as he tried to keep pace with Evelyn.


    "One of Malthus''s shadows," she said, her voice tight with urgency. "It''s a piece of him, sent to track you down. If it catches us..."


    She didn''t need to finish the sentence.


    Damian pushed himself harder, his breath coming in ragged gasps as they rounded a corner, slipping deeper into the maze of backstreets. He could feel the shadow gaining on them, its cold tendrils reaching out, brushing his awareness like a warning.


    "Here," Evelyn suddenly veered to the right, dragging him into an abandoned building. The door slammed behind them, and she muttered something under her breath, tracing her fingers across the frame. A faint glow appeared, sealing them inside, if only for a moment.


    Damian leaned against the wall, struggling to catch his breath. "What now? We can''t outrun that thing forever."


    Evelyn turned to face him, her expression serious. "You need to learn how to use your powers, Damian. Your power isn''t just some passive thing you can ignore. If you''re going to survive, you have to fight."


    "I don''t even know where to start," Damian said, his voice raw. "I don''t know anything about magic."


    "That''s why I''m here," Evelyn said firmly. "I can help you learn to use your abilities before it''s too late. But you have to trust me."


    Damian stared at her, his mind racing.


    Trust her? He barely knew her!


    And yet, everything in him was screaming that she was his only shot at making it through this alive. The mark on his hand pulsed again, reminding him of the power lurking inside him.


    "Okay," he said finally, his voice low but steady. "What do I do?"


    Evelyn nodded, her eyes softening just slightly. "First, we need to deal with the shadow outside. Then, I''ll teach you everything you need to know."


    Damian swallowed hard, glancing toward the door where the shadow waited, hungry and relentless. His fingers flexed, the faint tingling of magic sparking on his palm.


    It was time to stop running.


    A loud bang echoed through the abandoned building, the door shaking violently as something¡ªno, a bunch of people¡ªwas trying to break through. It made her seal crack.


    Damian flinched, the sound snapping him back into the present. His pulse quickened, and he shot a look at Evelyn, who was already moving.


    She raised her hand and traced a pattern in the air, her lips murmuring words Damian couldn''t quite make out. This time, another faint shimmer of light appeared over the door, like a thin layer of glass, barely visible but undeniably there. A barrier. Stronger than the previous seal.


    "That''ll buy us some time," she said, her voice tense but steady.


    "Some time?" Damian''s eyes darted from the glowing door back to her. "How much time?"


    "Not enough," she replied, her tone grim. She didn''t even look at him, her focus entirely on the task at hand. "Listen, I don''t have time for a full lesson right now, but you need to learn how to use your magic. And you need to learn fast."


    Damian swallowed hard, his throat dry. "Learn fast? I don''t even know where to start."


    She shot him a quick, sharp glance. "You''ve already got magic inside you. That mark on your hand? That''s proof. Your Warlock''s Contract is active, and that means you can cast spells. You just need to focus."


    "Focus? Evelyn, I don''t even know how to¡ª"


    Another loud bang cut him off, louder this time. The door shuddered as something slammed against it, the barrier flickering slightly under the pressure.


    "Damian!" Evelyn''s voice snapped him back. "You don''t have time to doubt yourself. The spell is already in you¡ªyou just have to feel it. It''s like instinct. Trust it. Don''t think, just act."


    Damian stared at her, his mind spinning.


    Instinct? Feel it? That didn''t help at all!


    He didn''t have years of training or whatever she had. All he had was a faint pulse of magic in his veins and a vague understanding that he could shoot something called [Dark Bolt ].


    The door rattled again, and this time, cracks started to form in the barrier.


    "Damian," Evelyn said, her voice lower now, almost pleading. "We don''t have time for you to second-guess this. The shadows are coming, and if we don''t stop them, they''ll take you to Malthus. And trust me, you do not want that to happen."


    She was right. He didn''t want to end up like the other warlocks she''d mentioned¡ªdrained, empty, a husk of his former self. But even as the fear twisted in his gut, his hands trembled with uncertainty. He wasn''t ready for this. He had no idea what he was supposed to do.


    Another bang sounded, followed by a sharp crack. The barrier flickered and dimmed, its glow fading rapidly.


    "They''re coming through!" Damian''s voice was tight, panic creeping into his words.


    "Then we fight," Evelyn said, stepping toward the door, her hands raised, ready to cast. She glanced back at him one last time. "Don''t die, and whatever you do, don''t let them catch you."


    Before Damian could respond, the barrier shattered with a deafening crash, the door exploding inward.


    A gust of dark, icy wind swept through the room as the shadows poured in¡ªtwisted, slithering figures that barely resembled human shapes. Their bodies flickered like smoke, constantly shifting, and yet their presence was undeniably real, menacing, and deadly.

 Chapter 7: Fight or Die

    Warlock Ch 7. Fight or Die


    There were more than a dozen of them, all closing in at once. Their eyes¡ªif they had eyes¡ªglowed faintly with an eerie light, and Damian''s skin crawled as their cold energy filled the space. Some looked weaker than others, some looked more fierce.


    A glowing line of text appeared above them like a holographic display.


    Spy Shadow <Level 3>


    HP: 150/150


    MP: 50/50


    Hunter Shadow <Level 91>


    HP: 13,300/13,300


    MP: 1400/1400


    Damian blinked. "What the hell? I''m seeing¡ª"


    One of the shadows lunged toward her, but Evelyn was ready. She flicked her wrist, and a sharp arc of light shot from her hand, slicing through and crashing into the shadow''s form. It screeched as it dissolved, its body dissipating like smoke. She just killed a level 91 shadow with one hit!


    "Listen to me," she yelled over the chaos. "Defend yourself! Take care of the low level ones."


    Another shadow was heading straight for him, its form shifting and twisting as it advanced. Damian''s heart raced, his mind screaming at him to run, but he planted his feet, his hand trembling as he raised it, trying to focus.


    [Dark Bolt]. The name of the spell popped into his head, the only spell he knew.


    He focused on the mark on his palm, trying to feel the magic Evelyn had talked about. It was there, faint but growing, like a flicker of heat in his veins. He clenched his fist, eyes locked on the shadow coming at him.


    "Come on, come on," Damian muttered, his hand twitching with energy.


    The weaker shadow lunged at him, and in a panic, Damian thrust his hand forward, his voice hoarse as he shouted, "Dark Bolt!"


    A crackle of dark energy shot from his palm, a small orb of black and purple light zipping toward the shadow. It wasn''t much¡ªbarely bigger than a baseball¡ªbut it hit the shadow dead on. The creature screeched, its form flickering as its HP bar dropped slightly.


    [Spy Shadow] took 30 damage.


    Damian''s breath caught in his throat. It worked! The spell had actually worked!


    But there was no time to celebrate. The shadow, though weakened, wasn''t finished. It surged forward again, faster this time, and Damian barely had time to react. He stumbled back, raising his arms in a weak attempt to shield himself, but the shadow slammed into him, cold and solid, knocking him off his feet.


    Damian hit the ground hard, the air knocked from his lungs. The shadow loomed over him, its body twisting and writhing as it prepared to strike again. Desperation clawed at him as he struggled to get to his feet.


    He needed to cast the spell again. But his mind was a mess, panic clouding his thoughts. He couldn''t focus, couldn''t feel the magic. The shadow lashed out, its form twisting into a sharp blade of darkness.


    In a last-ditch effort, Damian rolled to the side, narrowly avoiding the shadow''s attack. His heart pounded in his chest, the cold sweat of fear covering his skin. He had to get a grip. He had to fight back.


    He scrambled to his feet, his back against the wall as the shadow advanced on him again. This time, Damian didn''t hesitate. He raised his hand, the mark on his palm glowing faintly as he called out the spell again, louder, more desperate.


    "Dark Bolt!"


    The bolt of energy fired from his hand, stronger this time, slamming into the shadow with enough force to make it recoil. Its HP bar dropped again, the numbers flashing in his vision.


    [Spy Shadow] took 20 damage.


    The shadow screeched, its form flickering violently. Damian felt a surge of confidence. He could do this. He could fight.


    The shadow lunged at him again, but this time, Damian was ready. He sidestepped, his movements still clumsy but improving, and fired another Dark Bolt. The orb of energy hit the shadow square in the chest, and with a final screech, its HP dropped to zero.


    The shadow dissolved into nothing, vanishing like smoke in the wind.


    Damian stood there, panting, his heart hammering in his chest as he stared at the empty space where the shadow had been. He''d done it. He''d actually killed one of them.


    But there wasn''t time to dwell on it. There were still more shadows, and Evelyn was locked in a fierce battle with them, her hands glowing with magical energy as she cast spell after spell.


    Damian glanced at the other spy shadows. Their HP bars hovered above them. His stomach twisted.


    But he didn''t have a choice.


    One of the shadows turned toward him, its glowing eyes locking onto him. Damian''s heart skipped a beat. It was coming for him.


    He raised his hand again, his mind racing as he tried to summon the magic. "Dark Bolt!" he shouted, the spell firing from his palm. The bolt hit the shadow, but this one was stronger, barely flinching as its HP dropped slightly.


    Damian cursed under his breath. The spell wasn''t enough and he could feel his Mana getting thinner. He had to do more, something else. His eyes darted around, and he noticed how the shadows were moving¡ªfluid, like smoke, but still with weight and form. They weren''t invincible. Not to mention, he caught the core in their center. If he could land a hit, maybe he could combine his physical strength with the magic he barely knew how to wield.


    He wasn''t a seasoned fighter, but he knew how to defend himself from bar brawls and had picked up some basic moves. What if he could mix that with his magic?


    One of the shadows lunged at him again, its dark form twisting as it aimed for his chest. Damian braced himself, gritting his teeth. This time, he didn''t back away. Instead, he stepped into the attack, using his body''s momentum. He ducked under the shadow''s sweeping strike and slammed his fist into its core with all his strength, just as the [Dark Bolt] charged in his hand.


    "Take this!" Damian shouted, releasing the energy at point-blank range.

 Chapter 8: Point Blank

    Warlock Ch 8. Point Blank


    The impact was explosive. The shadow screeched in pain, its form flickering violently as the [Dark Bolt] discharged right into its center. Damian could feel the feedback of magic and raw force in his arm, like he had just swung a hammer made of pure energy. The shadow''s HP bar dropped drastically.


    [Spy Shadow] took 70 damage.


    The hit had been much more effective this time. Close combat with the spell amplified the damage. Damian''s heart raced, excitement coursing through him. He could do this. He wasn''t helpless.


    He pivoted just in time as another shadow rushed toward him. This time, Damian didn''t hesitate. He sidestepped the shadow''s attack, then spun and slammed his fist, infused with the glowing energy of [Dark Bolt], right into the side of the creature''s head.


    The shadow hissed and flinched back, its HP bar dropping even further. Damian could feel the rush of adrenaline, the thrill of finally taking control of the situation. He wasn''t just casting spells¡ªhe was fighting!


    "Alright," he muttered, grinning despite the danger. "Let''s see how you like this."


    The shadow he had injured tried to reform, its body flickering and twitching, but Damian was already moving. He threw himself into the fray, combining his punches and kicks with bursts of [Dark Bolt] at every opportunity. Each strike seemed to land harder when he was up close, and every spell fired at point-blank range did serious damage.


    The shadow staggered, its form starting to dissipate. He was close to taking it down. Without giving it a chance to recover, Damian rushed forward and hit it with one final [Dark Bolt] to the chest.


    The shadow let out a screeching wail before it dissolved into smoke, vanishing completely. Damian watched as its HP bar blinked out of existence, a wave of triumph washing over him. Two down, three to go.


    Another shadow darted toward him, faster than the others, its movements more fluid and aggressive. Damian barely dodged the first swipe, his body twisting to avoid the sharp claws the shadow had formed.


    This one was more agile, and Damian quickly realized that his close-quarters strategy wasn''t going to work if he couldn''t keep up with its speed. He needed to adapt.


    "Come on, focus," Damian muttered to himself, feeling the pulse of magic under his skin. He gripped his hand tight, the mark on his palm glowing faintly again as he prepared for another [Dark Bolt].


    The shadow lunged at him again, and Damian saw his opening. Instead of stepping back, he darted forward, letting the shadow get too close for its comfort. He swung his fist up, charging the [Dark Bolt] just before impact, slamming it directly into the creature''s core.


    The force of the blow sent the shadow reeling back, its HP bar dropping rapidly.


    He followed up with a quick combination of strikes, infusing each punch and kick with the raw energy of his spell. The close range made his attacks even more powerful, and he could see the shadow struggling to maintain its form.


    Finally, with one last shout, Damian blasted the shadow with another [Dark Bolt], the dark energy crackling through its body. The creature screeched as it dissolved into nothing, its HP bar disappearing in the same way as the others.


    Three down. Two more to go.


    Evelyn was still battling the remaining shadows, her hands weaving intricate spells through the air as she blasted them with waves of arcane energy. But Damian could see the strain in her movements. She was powerful, no doubt, but even she had limits.


    "Damian, behind you!" she shouted, her voice sharp with warning.


    He spun just in time to see one of the last two shadows rushing toward him, its claws extended and ready to strike. Damian barely had time to react, throwing himself to the side and narrowly avoiding the attack.


    "Think, Damian, think!" he muttered, scrambling to his feet. The shadow circled him.


    He couldn''t keep just reacting. He had to control the fight.


    Damian gritted his teeth, his mind racing. He couldn''t rely on just [Dark Bolt]. He needed to push himself, figure out how to use his spells in a way that gave him the upper hand.


    The shadow lunged again, and Damian dodged, but this time, he focused his magic not just on offense but defense. He concentrated on the tingling in his palm, willing the magic to flow faster, stronger. He imagined it wrapping around him, protecting him.


    Suddenly, as if responding to his thoughts, a faint shimmer of dark energy enveloped his body¡ªa barrier of sorts. It wasn''t much, but it was enough to absorb the next hit as the shadow struck him again.


    [New skill unlocked!]


    [Shadow Barrier lv 1]


    [Effect: Creates a barrier around the caster.]


    [You have formed a barrier!]


    Damian stumbled but didn''t fall. The barrier held, though just barely. His heart pounded in his chest as he realized what had happened. He''d done it. He''d instinctively created a magical shield.


    The shadow recoiled, confused by the barrier. Damian seized the opportunity, charging up another [Dark Bolt] in his hand. But this time, he wasn''t just going to hit it from a distance.


    He moved forward, dodging the shadow''s next swipe, and slammed the [Dark Bolt] directly into the creature''s core, following up with a quick elbow strike that sent the shadow reeling.


    The creature hissed, but Damian didn''t give it time to recover. He launched himself at it again, driving another [Dark Bolt] into its form at point-blank range. The impact shattered the creature, and its HP bar dropped to zero.


    Four down. One more.


    Damian turned just as Evelyn blasted the final shadow with a powerful arcane strike, the creature screeching in pain as its HP plummeted.


    The last shadow was weaker now, flickering, barely holding itself together. Evelyn raised her hand for the final blow, but before she could cast, Damian stepped forward, his hand glowing with dark energy.

 Chapter 9: Who Can I Trust?

    Warlock Ch 9. Who Can I Trust?


    "Let me finish it," Damian said, his voice steadier than it had been all night. He could feel the pulse of magic in his veins, stronger now after the fight, his confidence growing.


    Evelyn gave him a quick nod, stepping aside, her hands lowering as she let him take control.


    The final shadow flickered, its form barely holding together. It was weak, desperate, its HP bar hovering above it, just a sliver of red remaining.


    Damian focused, pulling the magic into his palm one last time. The energy gathered quickly, swirling with a dark, purple glow, crackling in the air. With a deep breath, he thrust his hand forward, releasing the [Dark Bolt] straight into the core of the creature. The impact was instant¡ªthe shadow screeched, its form collapsing into smoke as the final hit drained the last of its HP.


    It dissolved into nothing, vanishing from the room as though it had never existed.


    Damian stood there, breathing hard, his heart pounding from the adrenaline and magic coursing through him. His hand lowered slowly, the mark on his palm dimming as the fight came to an end.


    Evelyn stepped up beside him, a small smile tugging at the corner of her lips. "Not bad, rookie," she said, her voice lighter now that the danger had passed.


    Damian let out a breathless laugh. "I can''t believe I actually did that."


    As if in response to his victory, a notification flashed in his vision.


    [Congratulations! You have leveled up to Level 3.]


    Stat increases:


    - Mana Power: D -> D+


    - Stamina: C -> C+


    - Magic Affinity: E+ -> D


    The glowing message hovered in front of him, and Damian blinked at it, trying to process what it meant. He was stronger now. The system had leveled him up. He couldn''t help but grin at the sight, the satisfaction of surviving his first real fight making his heart race.


    "I leveled up!" Damian said, unable to hide the excitement in his voice.


    Evelyn raised an eyebrow, amused at his enthusiasm. "It suits you," she said.


    Damian''s grin faded slightly as a question popped into his mind. He frowned, looking down at his hand where the mark had pulsed during the fight. "Why do I get rankings like E, D, and A, but the shadows had HP bars with numbers? It doesn''t make sense. Why do they have numbers and I get... letters?"


    Evelyn looked at him thoughtfully before responding. "Monsters, servants, creatures like those shadows¡ªthey''re bound by the rules in a more straightforward way. They have limitations, and those limits are measured in numbers. HP, MP, attack power¡ªall that can be quantified. "


    "And warlocks? Witches?" Damian asked, trying to piece it together.


    "We''re not bound by numbers like that," Evelyn explained. "Our magic, our power, it fluctuates based on our connections, our emotions, and our experiences. We''re not creatures of strict limits. Your HP and Mana can''t be boiled down to a number. They evolve, change, grow. That''s why you get ranked by letters. It''s more fluid, more about potential than rigid stats."


    Damian thought about that for a moment. It made sense, in a weird way. Warlocks and witches weren''t just following a set script like monsters. They had more freedom to grow, more possibilities. And that excited him.


    But before he could respond, a voice cut through the air, chilling him to the bone.


    "Well, well... look at you. Leveling up already. Impressive."


    Damian''s head snapped up, his body instantly tense. He scanned the room, but there was no one there. The voice seemed to come from everywhere and nowhere at once, echoing through the space like a cold breeze.


    Evelyn stiffened beside him, her eyes narrowing. "Malthus," she whispered, her voice low and dangerous.


    The voice chuckled, smooth and confident. "Ah, Evelyn. Always so quick to jump to conclusions. I''m not here to fight... at least, not yet."


    Damian''s blood ran cold. This was Malthus? The warlock Evelyn had warned him about? The one who hunted others for their power?


    "Where are you?" Damian demanded, his voice steady despite the fear crawling up his spine. "Show yourself."


    "Oh, but why would I do that?" Malthus''s voice was calm, almost casual. "You''ve just been through a battle. You''re tired, confused. No, I think this is the perfect time for us to have a little chat."


    Damian''s fists clenched at his sides, his heart pounding in his chest. He could feel the magic still coursing through him, but the thought of facing someone like Malthus after everything that had just happened... It made him uneasy.


    "Damian," Malthus said, his voice softening in a way that was almost comforting, almost inviting. "You''ve been through a lot tonight, haven''t you? A normal man, just trying to get through his day, and suddenly you''re thrown into a world of magic and danger. That''s a lot for anyone to handle."


    Damian didn''t respond, his mind racing. There was something unsettling about the way Malthus was speaking, like he was trying to lull him into a false sense of security. He shot a glance at Evelyn, but she was already tense, her jaw clenched in frustration.


    "You''re probably wondering who to trust, aren''t you?" Malthus continued, his tone almost sympathetic. "This world is full of liars, manipulators. People who will say anything to get what they want. People like... Evelyn."


    Damian''s heart skipped a beat, his eyes flicking to Evelyn. She didn''t react to the accusation, but her hands tightened into fists.


    "You''ve only just met her, haven''t you?" Malthus''s voice oozed with charm, like a snake wrapping itself around him. "And already, she''s pulled you into a fight, made you risk your life. Don''t you find that a little suspicious, Damian? That she''s so eager to get her hands on your power?"


    Damian swallowed hard, a seed of doubt taking root in his mind. Malthus had a point. He didn''t really know Evelyn. She''d saved him, sure, but she''d also dragged him into this world without giving him much of a choice. And she clearly knew more than she was telling him.

 Chapter 10: Lies

    Warlock Ch 10. Lies


    "She doesn''t care about you," Malthus continued, his voice dripping with confidence. "She wants your power. She wants to use you for her own ends. She''ll tell you whatever she needs to keep you by her side. But me? I''m offering you something better. I''m offering you the truth."


    Damian''s stomach twisted. He didn''t want to believe Malthus, but the doubt was there now, gnawing at him. What if he was right? What if Evelyn was just using him?


    He turned to her, his voice quiet but full of uncertainty. "Is that true? Are you just trying to use me?"


    Evelyn''s eyes softened for a moment, her expression betraying a hint of pain. "Damian, I''m not using you. I''m trying to protect you. Malthus is dangerous¡ªHe''ll say whatever he has to in order to get inside your head."


    "But why should I trust you?" Damian shot back, his voice rising slightly. "I barely know you. For all I know, you could be after the same thing he is."


    Malthus''s laughter echoed through the room, dark and satisfied. "Exactly, Damian. You''re starting to see it now. She''s just as bad as the rest of us. She wants your power, just like I do. But unlike her, I''m willing to be honest with you about it."


    Damian''s mind was spinning. He didn''t know who to believe. Evelyn had saved him, yes, but she had also pulled him into a fight with no warning. And now Malthus was telling him that she was after his power, just like every other warlock.


    Could he trust her? Or was she just using him?


    But then, something about Malthus''s words didn''t sit right. There was something too smooth, too calculated about the way he spoke, like he was trying too hard to be the voice of reason. And Evelyn¡ªdespite everything¡ªhad put herself between him and those shadows. She had fought for him, protected him. That had to count for something, right?


    Damian clenched his fists, trying to push through the confusion. "Why should I trust you, Malthus?" he asked, his voice steady despite the doubt gnawing at him. "You say Evelyn''s after my power, but you''re no different. What makes you think I''d want anything to do with you?"


    There was a pause, and when Malthus spoke again, his voice was cold, sharp. "Because, Damian, I am different. I don''t lie. I don''t hide behind false promises. I''m giving you a choice¡ªjoin me, and I''ll teach you how to use your power the right way. Or stay with Evelyn, and you''ll end up like the rest of the fools she''s dragged into this mess."


    Damian''s heart pounded in his chest. He was at a crossroads, and he knew it.


    Malthus''s voice echoed in his ears, smooth and manipulative, like a serpent whispering in the dark. "You have a choice, Damian," he said again, his words slithering into Damian''s mind. "Join me, and you''ll become more powerful than you ever imagined. Or stay with Evelyn, and you''ll only know betrayal."


    Damian''s gaze flicked to Evelyn. Her face was set in stone, her jaw clenched, eyes flickering with something he couldn''t quite read. Tension crackled between them, thick enough to cut through, and he could feel the weight of Malthus''s words pulling him in two directions at once.


    "I need to know," Damian said, his voice hoarse, breaking the thick silence. He turned fully to Evelyn, his eyes searching hers. "Why did you come to me? Why the bar? Why now? Was it really just a coincidence? Are you looking for me or are you here for something else?"


    For a moment, Evelyn didn''t respond. Her lips parted slightly as if she was about to say something, but instead, she looked away, muttering something under her breath. Damian couldn''t hear the words, but there was a familiar hum to them, like a low vibration in the air.


    A spell.


    Malthus''s voice burst into laughter, echoing through the space. "Ah, see? She won''t even answer you! She can''t because she knows I''m right. She''s using you, Damian. She always was." His tone turned mocking, sharp like a blade slicing through the tension. "You think she cares about you? About what happens to you? You''re just a pawn to her. She''s just waiting to use your power to her advantage."


    Damian felt his stomach twist. Evelyn still hadn''t said anything. She kept her gaze lowered, her expression unreadable as she whispered whatever incantation was on her lips. He could hear the hum of magic now, faint but growing.


    He should''ve doubted her. Malthus was right about one thing¡ªhe didn''t really know Evelyn. She''d shown up, dragged him into this mess, and now she was muttering spells under her breath while he was being asked to make a life-changing decision. The doubt crept in, cold and sharp, tightening its grip on his mind.


    But then something else stirred inside him, something deeper than the doubt. It wasn''t logic or reason. It was instinct.


    He couldn''t explain it, but something about Evelyn, even in her silence, felt right. She had fought for him, protected him from the shadows, and risked her own life. Even now, she wasn''t defending herself from Malthus''s accusations, but that didn''t feel like guilt. It felt like she was focused on something more important¡ªon keeping him safe.


    And in that moment, he made his choice.


    "I''m not going with you, Malthus," Damian said, his voice firm, cutting through the air. "I don''t trust you."


    The room fell into a tense silence. Damian could feel the air shift.


    Malthus''s voice, once smooth and charming, darkened, dripping with venom. "You fool," he hissed. "Do you even realize what you''ve done? You''ve chosen to side with her¡ªa liar, a thief! You had a chance to become something more, to escape this pointless struggle, and you threw it away!"


    Damian stood his ground, though his heart pounded harder now. "Maybe I don''t know everything, but I know I can''t trust someone who hides in the shadows and plays mind games. I''ve made my choice."

 Chapter 11: The Magic City

    Warlock Ch 11. The Magic City


    Malthus''s laughter died away, replaced by a low, menacing growl. "You''ve made a mistake," he snarled. "And you''ll regret it."


    Suddenly, the room flickered with a strange, violent light. The air crackled with dark energy, like a storm about to break. Damian''s skin tingled, and his instincts screamed that something bad was coming. Malthus wasn''t going to let him walk away from this easily.


    Evelyn''s eyes snapped to his, her expression fierce and determined now. Whatever she had been chanting under her breath, it was done. Her hands glowed with faint light, and Damian saw something shift in the space around them¡ªa magic formation, etched in shimmering lines, glowing beneath their feet.


    "We need to go," Evelyn said, her voice sharp, all hesitation gone. "Now."


    But before Damian could respond, the room exploded with power. A massive surge of dark magic tore through the air. A clear destruction aimed right at them. It was Malthus. His fury was clear, and he was done talking. He was going to destroy them both.


    Damian''s heart leapt into his throat as the magic crashed toward them, raw and destructive. There was no time to move, no time to react.


    But Evelyn was faster.


    Her hand shot out, grabbing Damian''s arm in a tight grip. The magic circle beneath them flared with bright, blinding light, and Damian felt a sudden lurch, like the floor had dropped out from under him.


    "Hold on!" Evelyn shouted, her voice barely audible over the roar of the magic.


    The light consumed them, and everything went white.


    For a moment, Damian felt like he was floating, suspended in nothingness. The world around him spun, disoriented and chaotic, but there was no pain. No destruction. Just the faint, steady hum of magic.


    And then, just as suddenly as it had started, it was over.


    They landed hard, Damian stumbling as his feet hit solid ground again. The air was still, the roar of Malthus''s attack gone. He blinked, his vision slowly clearing as the light faded. They were no longer in the building, no longer in the alley where they had fought the shadows.


    They were somewhere else entirely.


    Damian looked around, his breath coming in sharp gasps as he tried to take in his surroundings. It was dark, the only light coming from a few scattered lanterns hanging on tall iron posts. The streets were cobblestone, slick with rain, and the buildings around them were old, looming over them with ancient stone and wrought-iron balconies. Everything about this place felt strange¡ªunfamiliar, like he had just stepped into a world out of time.


    The air was heavy, thick with an eerie stillness that pressed in on him. Even though the street was deserted, it didn''t feel empty. Shadows moved in the corners of his vision, slithering along the walls of the buildings like living things. The dim light from the lanterns flickered, casting long, shifting shadows that made the place feel alive, almost breathing.


    "What the hell..." Damian muttered under his breath, taking a slow step forward. His shoes echoed against the wet cobblestones, the sound swallowed by the strange, oppressive quiet that hung over the street.


    The buildings themselves were massive, towering over him like giants. Gothic spires jutted into the sky, their dark silhouettes barely visible against the thick clouds that loomed overhead. Ivy crawled up the walls, twisting around the stone like it was choking the life out of it. It all looked ancient, but not in a way that felt comforting or nostalgic. No, this place felt like it had been pulled from a nightmare¡ªa place where time stood still, dark and uninviting.


    "This... this isn''t Haven City," Damian said, turning toward Evelyn, who stood a few feet away, her face illuminated by the faint glow of the lanterns. "Where are we?"


    Evelyn didn''t respond immediately, her eyes scanning their surroundings with a calm, calculated gaze. She didn''t seem fazed by the shift in location, as if she had been here a hundred times before. Finally, she turned to face him, her expression unreadable.


    "This is Haven City," she said simply.


    Damian blinked, confusion flooding his thoughts. He shook his head. "No... no, this isn''t Haven City. Haven City is skyscrapers and busy streets. Neon lights and traffic. Not... this." He gestured to the dark, ominous street around them, the old buildings that looked like they''d been pulled straight from a gothic horror novel.


    Evelyn''s lips curved into a small, knowing smile. "It''s still Haven City, Damian. Just not the part you''re used to."


    Damian frowned. "What do you mean?"


    "This," she said, gesturing around them, "is the secret part of Haven City. The Magic City. It exists alongside the part of Haven you know, hidden from normal people. It''s where beings like me¡ªlike us¡ªlive."


    Damian''s stomach tightened. "Like us?"


    Evelyn''s gaze was steady, and for a moment, there was a softness in her expression that he hadn''t seen before. "Yes, like us. Warlocks, witches, supernatural creatures... we all exist in this part of the city. It''s where we live, where we hide. You couldn''t see it before, but now that your mana core has awakened, you''re a part of this world. You can see it. You belong here."


    Damian''s breath caught in his throat. The words hit him hard, like a punch to the gut. Belong here? He didn''t belong here. He belonged in the normal part of Haven City, where things made sense. Where the world didn''t feel like some dark fairytale came to life. He shook his head again, stepping back instinctively. "No, I... I don''t belong here. This is... this is crazy."


    Evelyn took a step closer, her voice gentle but firm. "It feels that way now. But trust me, this place is your home now. It''s where you''ll learn to survive."


    Damian''s mind raced, trying to make sense of everything. He stared up at the buildings again, the shadows shifting ominously in the corners of his vision. This place¡ªthis Magic City¡ªfelt wrong. Cold. Unforgiving. And yet, there was something... something deep inside him that responded to it. No matter how terrifying, was where he was supposed to be.

 Chapter 12: A Walking Magic Magnet

    Warlock Ch 12. A Walking Magic Magnet


    "This... this is real, isn''t it?" Damian asked quietly, his voice barely above a whisper.


    Evelyn nodded. "Yes. Very real."


    Damian let out a shaky breath, running a hand through his hair. "And I''m supposed to live here now? In this... Magic City?"


    Evelyn''s eyes softened again, and she gave him a small, almost sympathetic smile. "It''s not as bad as it seems. I know it''s overwhelming right now, but you''ll get used to it. This place has its dangers, sure, but it''s also a sanctuary for people like us. A place where we can be ourselves."


    Damian didn''t know what to say. His mind was still spinning, trying to reconcile the normal world he had known with this dark, twisted version of Haven City. But no matter how hard he tried to deny it, the truth was staring him in the face. The eerie streets, the ancient buildings, the thick, pulsing energy in the air¡ªit was all real. Too real. And there was no going back to the life he had before.


    Evelyn watched him closely, reading the confusion, the fear, and the flickers of curiosity crossing his face. "We can still go back to the normal Haven City," she said, breaking the silence. "But we have to be careful. It''s limited now for people like us."


    Damian frowned, his eyes narrowing. "Limited? What do you mean?"


    Evelyn sighed, glancing around at the dark, magical streets. "You''re a warlock now, Damian. That changes things. In the normal city, your magic will attract attention, whether you want it to or not. You''ll get tangled up with people who don''t have magic, and... well, things don''t mix so well when magic is involved."


    Damian blinked, her words sinking in slowly. "So, I''m a walking magic magnet now? Great." He let out a shaky laugh, but it felt forced, the reality still too strange to grasp.


    Evelyn gave him a grim look. "Think about the building we were in before. It should be destroyed by now."


    Damian''s heart skipped a beat. "Destroyed? What do you mean?"


    She nodded, her expression serious. "Malthus''s magic was meant to wipe that place off the map. If it had been full of people¡ªif it had been your pub..."


    Her words trailed off, but Damian didn''t need her to finish. The thought of Malthus''s magic tearing through the pub, his coworkers, the regulars¡ªhe shuddered, it hitting him hard. He couldn''t imagine it. Couldn''t even begin to think about what would have happened if there had been people inside.


    "Luckily, it was abandoned," Evelyn continued, her tone softening. "But that''s why we have to be careful. Magic leaves ripples. If we''re not careful, those ripples will pull innocent people into our world. And they won''t survive it."


    Damian swallowed hard, the gravity of her words sinking in. This wasn''t just about him anymore. The decisions he made, the places he went¡ªthey could have consequences far beyond anything he''d imagined. "So, what now?" he asked, his voice quieter now. "What do we do?"


    Evelyn turned, gesturing for him to follow her. "We go to my house. You need rest¡ªand a lot of explanations."


    Damian raised an eyebrow, following her lead but still full of questions. "Your house? Why?"


    "Because," she said, her voice carrying a mix of amusement and urgency, "you need a safe place to crash, and more importantly, you need to learn about this world¡ªabout what you are."


    "A warlock," Damian said, as if repeating the word would help him wrap his head around it. "You said I''m a warlock."


    Evelyn shot him a knowing glance. "A special warlock."


    Damian frowned, the memory of the notification from his system flashing in his mind. "Warlock of Eternal Bonds?"


    Evelyn smiled faintly, her eyes glinting with amusement. "Don''t you want to know what that means?"


    Damian''s curiosity flared up, pushing past the confusion. He nodded, feeling like he had no other choice but to find out. "Yeah. I do."


    They walked. Damian took in more of the strange world around them. The Magic City¡ªthis hidden part of Haven¡ªfelt like a different universe entirely. The streets were quiet but alive in a way that was hard to describe. It wasn''t like the busy, chaotic energy of the normal city. Instead, it felt... heavy. The air itself seemed to hum with magic, thick and charged, like every building, every shadow held something ancient and powerful just beneath the surface.


    The further they walked, the more Damian noticed how different everything looked. The buildings weren''t just old; they were grand in a dark, gothic way. Towers rose high above them, their windows narrow and glowing faintly from within. Stone gargoyles perched on rooftops, their eyes seeming to follow him as they moved. Vines wrapped around iron gates and fences, blooming with strange, glowing flowers that pulsed with faint blue light. It was beautiful in a way that felt dangerous, like the city itself was watching them, waiting to see what they would do next.


    "This place is unreal," Damian muttered, mostly to himself.


    Evelyn glanced at him with a small smile. "It''s real, alright. It''s been here longer than you can imagine. Longer than the normal Haven City you know. This is where it all started."


    They turned a corner, and suddenly, the street opened up into a small, quiet square. In the center, a stone fountain trickled softly, its waters glowing faintly under the moonlight. Around the square, the buildings were smaller, less imposing, but still radiating that same dark magic.


    Evelyn led him toward one of the buildings¡ªa tall, narrow house with a pointed roof and dark shutters. It didn''t look like the kind of place a witch would live. In fact, it looked oddly normal compared to everything else they had passed.


    Damian half-expected it to be some rickety, haunted-looking shack with potions bubbling in the windows and broomsticks propped against the door. Instead, it was neat, clean, and strangely modern¡ªlike something out of an upscale neighborhood, but with a darker, magical twist.


    "Is this... your house?" Damian asked, glancing at her as they approached the front door.


    Evelyn smirked. "What, expecting cauldrons and broomsticks?"


    "Something like that," Damian admitted. "This... is not what I pictured."


    She chuckled, unlocking the door and pushing it open. "Welcome to my humble home."

 Chapter 13: Witchy *

    Warlock Ch 13. Witchy


    Damian stepped inside, blinking as he took in the sight. The interior was cozy, warm, and definitely not what he imagined a witch''s house to look like. The furniture was modern¡ªsleek couches, dark wood bookshelves filled with neatly arranged tomes, a small dining table near the window. There was a faint glow of magic in the air, but it wasn''t overwhelming. Just... comforting.


    He looked around, still half-expecting to see a cauldron bubbling in the corner or a broomstick leaning against the wall. But what really caught his eye was the vacuum cleaner sitting near the front door.


    "You have... a vacuum?" Damian asked, raising an eyebrow.


    Evelyn laughed, the sound light and genuine. "What, did you think witches are too old-fashioned for modern technology? I don''t fly around on broomsticks, if that''s what you were hoping for."


    Damian shrugged, feeling a bit ridiculous now. "I don''t know what I was expecting. I guess... something a little more ''witchy.''"


    Evelyn smiled as she moved to hang her coat by the door. "Witchy, huh? Well, I hate to disappoint you, but we live pretty normal lives. I mean, as normal as it gets in this world."


    Damian looked around the room again, taking it all in. It felt safe, grounded¡ªlike a refuge from the craziness of the night. For the first time since this whole ordeal started, he felt like he could finally breathe.


    "So," he said, sitting down on one of the couches, "you''re really going to explain all of this, right? What I am, what this ''Warlock of Eternal Bonds'' means... everything?"


    Evelyn sat across from him, her expression serious again. "Yes. You need to understand what you''ve gotten into. What you are now."


    Damian leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees, still trying to process everything. "I get that I''m a warlock, but you keep saying I''m special. What does that even mean? How am I different from any other warlock out there?"


    Evelyn''s eyes locked onto his, unwavering. "Your strength¡ªyour power¡ªcomes from the connections you form. Deep, intimate bonds."


    Damian raised an eyebrow. "Bonds? Like friendships or something?"


    Evelyn shook her head, a faint smile tugging at the corner of her lips. "Not quite. These bonds go much deeper than that. They''re... romantic. Intimate. The closer you get to someone, the stronger the bond becomes. And the stronger the bond, the more powerful you become."


    Damian blinked, trying to wrap his head around what she was saying. "Wait, so... you''re telling me that my power grows through relationships? Like... marriage?"


    Evelyn smiled, but it wasn''t just any smile. There was a hint of something deeper in her eyes, something that made his pulse quicken. "Yes. Marriage, pacts, intimate connections. The bond isn''t just emotional; it''s magical. It ties you and the woman together, making you both stronger. The power flows in both directions. You gain strength from the bond, and so does she."


    Damian leaned back, letting out a breath as he processed that. "So, this whole ''Warlock of Eternal Bonds'' thing... that''s why you came looking for me? That''s why Malthus is after me?"


    Evelyn didn''t hesitate. "Yes. Your potential is enormous. Every supernatural being out there¡ªevery warlock, every witch, every creature that understands what you are¡ªthey all want a piece of that power. Malthus isn''t the only one targeting you. He''s just the beginning."


    Damian''s stomach twisted. The idea of being hunted by one warlock was bad enough, but all supernatural beings? "Wait, you''re telling me everyone is after me? Every... creature? Oh God. Please, have mercy on me."


    Evelyn nodded solemnly. "That''s why you need to get stronger. Fast. You can''t just rely on what little magic you''ve learned tonight. You need to train, learn to control your power, and most importantly, form bonds."


    Damian exhaled sharply, his thoughts racing. "So, I just... start training tomorrow? That''s the plan?"


    Evelyn smiled faintly. "Yes, I''ll teach you. But training is only part of it. You need to understand how important these bonds are, how far the pact goes for you. It''s not just about becoming stronger¡ªit''s about survival."


    Damian frowned, leaning forward again. "And how exactly do I form these bonds?"


    Evelyn stood up slowly, her movements graceful, almost predatory, as she closed the distance between them. Damian watched her warily, unsure of where this was going. She stopped in front of him, looking down with a soft smile that sent a shiver through him. He couldn''t deny how beautiful she was, but the intensity in her gaze unsettled him.


    "What are you¡ª?"


    Before Damian could finish, Evelyn leaned down and kissed him.


    His mind went blank for a moment, his body frozen in place. It wasn''t that he was inexperienced, not by any means. He wasn''t some clueless virgin who had never been kissed before. But this? This was... different. Unexpected. And completely confusing.


    Evelyn''s lips were soft, warm, and for a brief second, Damian found himself kissing her back before his mind caught up with the situation. He pulled back, eyes wide, breath coming in quick, shallow gasps.


    "Wait, what¡ªwhat''s happening?" Damian stammered, wiping his mouth as if to clear his head. "What are you doing?"


    Evelyn''s smile was calm, almost reassuring, as she knelt in front of him, her face close to his. "I''m showing you how to form a bond. It''s the first step."


    Damian blinked, still reeling from the kiss, his brain trying to catch up with the whirlwind of emotions and sensations. "You... you kissed me. That''s part of this?"


    Evelyn''s gaze didn''t waver. "Yes. A bond is intimate. It''s not just about magic¡ªit''s about trust, connection, desire. All of that feeds into your power. The deeper the bond, the stronger you become. And it starts with moments like this."


    Damian''s heart was racing. He knew Evelyn wasn''t lying¡ªeverything about her was serious, focused. But the kiss, the suddenness of it... it threw him off balance. She was beautiful, no doubt, and part of him couldn''t deny the attraction, but this was all so fast.

 Chapter 14: First Bond *

    Warlock Ch 14. First Bond


    "You''re telling me that I get stronger by... by doing this?" Damian asked, his voice a little unsteady as he tried to make sense of what was happening.


    Evelyn nodded slowly, her hand reaching out to rest on his arm. "Yes. The bond isn''t just physical, but this is where it begins. The more intimate we are, the more connected we become. The magic between us grows."


    Damian''s mind raced, caught between logic and instinct. He wasn''t naive¡ªhe knew how relationships worked. But this situation transcended anything he''d encountered before.


    Evelyn''s gaze held him. She leaned closer. Her touch wasn''t just physical; it seemed to resonate with the mana flow within him. Her hand traced a line down Damian''s arm, sending a shiver through his body. Her touch was electric, igniting a heat that ran beneath his skin, and it was hard to think straight.


    Her fingers trailed across his chest, exploring with a confidence that spoke of her familiarity with magic¡ªand with seduction. Damian caught his breath as her hand slipped lower, her intentions clear. His face flushed with a mix of embarrassment and arousal as her fingers brushed against his growing arousal through the fabric of his pants.


    Evelyn looked up at him, her eyes sparkling with something mischievous and knowing. With deliberate slowness, she began to unbutton her own clothes, her movements calculated to keep his gaze riveted. Her skin came into view.


    Evelyn kissed him again, her lips pressing firmly against his, drawing him into a deep, intoxicating connection that made his head spin. She deepened the kiss, her tongue exploring, as she guided his hands to her newly bared skin, encouraging him to explore.


    Once again, she knelt before him, the sound of his zipper being pulled down felt shockingly loud in the quiet room. Her warm breath against his exposed skin sent another jolt through him, and he gasped softly. Evelyn''s lips brushed against his erection, a teasing promise before she took him in her mouth. The sensation was overwhelming, and Damian''s hands found their way into her hair, his fingers threading through softly.


    He moaned. It wasn''t just physical pleasure¡ªit was as if every nerve in his body was being awakened, heightened. He felt connected to Evelyn in a way he couldn''t fully understand, their burgeoning bond pulling them closer on a level that was as much magical as it was physical. It was weird.


    ''I want more...'' he thought.


    Driven by instinct and the surging power within him, Damian gently pulled Evelyn up, his hands guiding her back against him. The shift in dynamic was palpable as he took the initiative, his earlier hesitance replaced by growing confidence. He guided her, positioning her as his hands roamed over her body, exploring every curve.


    With a mix of desire and determination, Damian aligned himself with her. He pushed forward, sheathing himself inside her with a firm thrust that drew a gasp from both of them. He started to move, setting a rhythm that was both needy and primal.


    "Mhh..." Evelyn''s responses drove him further, her moans and the clenching of her body around him. Their movements became more frantic, more desperate, as if they were both chasing something monumental.


    [Pact Creation Lv. 1 Activated]


    The notification flashed in the corner of his vision, barely registered by Damian amid the haze of pleasure.


    ''Is this what she was talking about?'' he thought.


    Evelyn''s small moans filled the room. Damian moved with a rhythm that felt both foreign and instinctual to him. His body acted on its own accord, driven by a blend of desire and the pulsating magic that seemed to flow from Evelyn into him with every touch, every breath she took.


    For a moment, Damian''s mind went blank. He was a bartender, used to seeing things he could explain away by the end of the night, but nothing about this night was normal. Here he was, not just with a woman he''d just met, but engaging in something that felt like it bordered on the mystical.


    ''Am I losing my sanity?'' he questioned internally as he continued, driven by a force he couldn''t fully understand.


    The thought that he might simply wake up in his own bed, imagining all of this as a bizarre dream, crossed his mind. The notion was oddly comforting. Maybe he would laugh about this, alone or with a random woman next to him, wondering if too many late nights had finally caught up to him.


    But due every Evelyn moans, every sensations that coursed through him, reinforced that this was real. They reached the climax together, Damian felt a sensation unlike any other. It wasn''t just physical¡ªit was magical, so intense that it left him gasping for air, his heart pounding not just from the exertion but from the raw power that seemed to flood through him.


    Evelyn''s hand caressed his cheek gently, bringing him back from the sensations he''d just experienced.


    "You did well," she whispered, her voice a soothing balm to the intensity of the moment.


    Damian propped himself up on one elbow, looking down at her. "What just happened?" he asked, his voice hoarse. "Was that the... bond you were talking about?"


    "Yes," Evelyn smiled, her eyes reflecting a spark of magic. "That was the beginning of our bond."


    A notification seemed to flash before Damian''s eyes.


    [Witch''s Arcane Gift Lv. 1]


    [Partners: Evelyn Windward (Witch)]


    [New Spells Unlocked!]


    [Arcane Bolt Lv 1]: A basic offensive spell that fires a bolt of magical energy.


    Damian blinked, still processing the notification that flashed before his eyes. It was strange, like something out of a game, but he knew better now. This wasn''t some fantasy. He had unlocked an actual skill from what had just happened between him and Evelyn. His mind raced as he tried to wrap his head around it.


    "Wait... so I actually got a skill from that?" he asked, his voice tinged with disbelief. He sat up, looking at her, still trying to make sense of everything. "You said I''d get stronger, but I didn''t think... like this."

 Chapter 15: Naked Apron

    Warlock Ch 15. Naked Apron


    Evelyn, still sitting next to him, smiled softly. She reached out, her fingers brushing lightly against his cheek. "Yes, Damian. That''s exactly what I meant. My power becomes part of you, just as yours will become part of me. But..." She paused, her eyes narrowing slightly as she studied him. "It''s still weak. Because our bond is still weak."


    Damian frowned, the confusion he''d been trying to push aside rising again. "Weak? What do you mean?"


    Evelyn''s hand moved to his face, gently tracing the line of his jaw as she spoke. "You don''t fully trust me yet. I can feel it. The bond is real, but it''s not complete. Not yet." Her eyes were soft, but there was an understanding in them that unnerved him. She wasn''t accusing him; she was simply stating a fact. "You''re still holding back."


    Damian couldn''t deny it. His heart pounded as he looked at her. She was right. He was holding back. Everything had moved so quickly¡ªhis life had been turned upside down in the span of a single night, and while his instincts had pushed him to trust her, his mind was still reeling from all the changes.


    "Yeah," he admitted quietly, his voice barely above a whisper. "I guess I am." He rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly, trying to find the right words. "It''s just... this is all happening so fast. I didn''t expect to be in this position¡ªhell, I didn''t even know magic existed until a few hours ago. Now I''m... forming bonds and gaining powers from it? It''s a lot to take in."


    Evelyn nodded, her expression softening as she listened. "I understand," she said gently. "It''s overwhelming. I''ve been living in this world my whole life, but for you, it''s new. And it''s only natural to be confused, to question everything." She leaned in a little closer, her voice lowering. "But you made your choice, Damian. You chose to trust me, even if it''s not fully there yet. That''s enough for now."


    Damian let out a long breath, running a hand through his hair. He couldn''t argue with that. He had made his choice when he rejected Malthus, and now, here he was¡ªbonded to a witch, gaining skills he didn''t fully understand. It was surreal.


    "So, what happens now?" he asked, trying to keep his voice steady. "I''ve got this bond with you, I''ve unlocked some kind of magic... but what''s next?"


    Evelyn smiled, but this time there was something playful in her eyes. "Well, for starters," she said, sitting up and stretching her arms above her head, "you''re probably hungry. All this magic, bonding and running... it takes a toll on you." She laughed lightly. "Let me cook you something."


    Damian''s stomach rumbled as if on cue, and he realized she was right. He hadn''t eaten since earlier in the day, and with everything that had happened, he hadn''t even thought about food. Now that the adrenaline was fading, the hunger hit him all at once.


    "Yeah, I guess I could eat," Damian admitted, the tension in his shoulders easing just a little. "But... you don''t have to do that. I mean, after everything that just happened, I should probably be the one¡ª"


    "Don''t be ridiculous," Evelyn interrupted, her voice firm but teasing. "You''ve had a rough night. Let me take care of you for a bit. Besides, I think we need to talk some more. I know you''re still confused about a lot of things."


    Damian opened his mouth to respond, but the words died on his lips as Evelyn stood up from the seat. She wasn''t wearing anything¡ªexcept for a small apron she had grabbed from a nearby hook. The apron covered the bare minimum, leaving her otherwise exposed. She tied it around her waist, not seeming the least bit self-conscious.


    "Uh..." Damian''s eyes widened, his face flushing as he tried to figure out how to respond. "You''re just... gonna cook like that?"


    Evelyn glanced over her shoulder, smirking as she caught his expression. "Yes," she teased, clearly enjoying his reaction. "Besides, it''s comfortable. I''ll put on something more appropriate later."


    Damian felt his face heat up even more, and he looked away, trying not to stare. "Yeah, sure. Whatever you say," he said.


    Evelyn laughed softly as she headed toward the small kitchen area, her bare feet padding quietly against the floor. "Relax, Damian. I won''t bite... unless you ask me to."


    Damian let out a shaky laugh, rubbing the back of his neck again. "I think I''m good for now, thanks."


    Evelyn busied herself in the kitchen. Damian sat back on the couch, his mind still spinning. He couldn''t believe how different everything was now. A few hours ago, he''d been a bartender, living a normal life, and now... now he was in the home of a witch, forming magical bonds and unlocking arcane powers.


    He glanced over at her as she moved around the kitchen, chopping vegetables and preparing what looked like a stew. But he wasn''t sure. Who knew she would make something else?


    The apron fluttered slightly as she worked, revealing glimpses of her smooth, pale skin. Despite the absurdity of it all, Damian couldn''t help but feel a strange sense of calm watching her. There was something about Evelyn that put him at ease, even though he knew he should be on edge.


    "You''re handling this better than I expected," Evelyn said, breaking the comfortable silence that had settled between them. She set a steaming bowl of stew in front of Damian, the rich aroma filling the air. The kitchen, despite being part of a magical world Damian was still getting used to, had a surprisingly homey feel. It was a small slice of normality in the middle of everything surreal.


    Damian eyed the bowl cautiously, sniffing it as if it might bite back. His eyes narrowed, and he glanced up at her, skeptical. "This is just stew, right? Nothing weird in here?"

 Chapter 16: Trust is a Rare Commodity

    Warlock Ch 16. Trust is a Rare Commodity


    Evelyn raised an eyebrow, a faint smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "It''s stew, Damian. I didn''t put anything weird inside, I promise."


    "Nothing weird at all? Like... I don''t know, lizard''s tail or zombie nails, or something?" His tone was joking, but there was a real edge of suspicion. After the night he''d had, who knew what was considered normal food in this world?


    Evelyn laughed softly, shaking her head. "Just... no. It''s regular stew. I swear. Potatoes, meat, and some herbs¡ªnone of which are magical or cursed."


    Damian glanced at her, then back at the bowl, still not entirely convinced. But hunger gnawed at him, and eventually, he took a cautious spoonful. His eyebrows raised in surprise as the warm, savory flavors hit his tongue. "Okay, not bad. Actually, really good," he admitted, taking another bite. "I was half-expecting to start sprouting wings or something."


    Evelyn sat down across from him, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Not everything in the magical world is strange, you know. Some things are still... normal. Like stew."


    They ate in relative silence for a while, the comfort of the meal providing a much-needed break from the whirlwind of the evening. Damian''s mind was still buzzing with questions, but for a few minutes, the food gave him something simple to focus on. The warmth of the stew settled his nerves, grounding him in a way he hadn''t felt since this entire ordeal began.


    But, of course, the calm couldn''t last long.


    Evelyn set her spoon down, her expression shifting from casual to serious. "Damian, there''s something we need to talk about."


    His stomach tightened, and he set his own spoon down, bracing himself for whatever was coming next. "Yeah? What is it?"


    "This world you''ve stepped into¡ªit''s not just about magic and gaining power," she began, her tone firm. "There are factions that govern Haven City''s supernatural community. Witches, warlocks, vampires... creatures you''ve only ever heard of in stories. They live in secrecy, but they''re real, and they have their own rules, their own politics. You need to be aware of that."


    Damian''s mind raced as he processed her words. "Factions? Like... magical gangs or something?"


    "More like governments," Evelyn explained. "Each faction controls a part of the city, keeping order in their own way. But it''s not as simple as humans versus supernatural beings. Within the magical world, there are alliances, rivalries, and constant power struggles. Witches and warlocks may work together sometimes, but there''s always tension. Vampires... well, they have their own interests, and they''re not always aligned with ours."


    Damian sat back in his chair, letting that sink in. "So, you''re telling me that while I''m trying to figure out how to deal with my own powers, I''ve got to watch my back for a bunch of different supernatural groups too? That''s... great."


    Evelyn nodded, her expression serious. "Yes. And because of who you are¡ªbecause of your potential¡ªsome of those factions will be very interested in you. Not all for good reasons."


    Damian couldn''t help but laugh, though there was no humor in it. "Of course. I''m just a guy trying to get through his life, and now I''m suddenly the target of supernatural politics. Why wouldn''t I be?"


    Evelyn''s gaze softened, but her tone remained firm. "I know it''s a lot to take in, but you need to understand how dangerous this world can be. Malthus isn''t the only one who wants to control you, Damian. And some factions won''t give you the choice¡ªthey''ll try to take what they want by force."


    Damian frowned, his appetite fading as the weight of her words settled in. "And what happens if I refuse? What if I don''t want to be a part of any of this?"


    Evelyn leaned forward, her eyes locking onto his. "You don''t get that choice anymore. Whether you like it or not. Ignoring it won''t make it go away¡ªit''ll just make you vulnerable."


    Damian''s mind raced, thinking about what Evelyn had said, about Malthus, about the factions, and about the fact that his life had changed in ways he couldn''t fully comprehend yet.


    "So, I''m a warlock with a target on my back, huh?" Damian muttered, rubbing his temples. "And these factions¡ªhow do I know who''s on my side?"


    Evelyn sighed. "That''s the thing¡ªyou don''t. Not yet. You have to be careful, Damian. Trust is a rare commodity in this world, and alliances can shift quickly."


    Damian''s mind buzzed with uncertainty. "And you? Where do you fit into all of this? You said you''re helping me, but why? What do you gain from this?"


    Evelyn didn''t look away, her gaze steady. "I''m not like Malthus. I''m not after your power to use it for myself. But I am a part of this world, and I know what''s at stake. I''ve seen what happens to people who don''t take their place in it seriously. I''m helping you because if you don''t survive, this world will consume you."


    "You still haven''t answered my question," Damian said, his voice quieter but filled with determination. "Why are you really helping me? Why did you come to me in the first place?"


    Evelyn fell silent, her eyes softening as she looked at him. For a moment, it seemed like she might finally give him a straight answer, but instead, she sighed, her expression filled with something like regret. "I can''t tell you everything right now," she said softly. "Someday, you''ll understand. What I can tell you is that the bond between us¡ªit''s existed longer than you think."


    Damian''s brows furrowed in confusion. "What do you mean? Longer than I think? I just met you."


    Evelyn smiled, but it was a sad smile, one that didn''t reach her eyes. "Not exactly. The bond we have... it''s deeper than just meeting someone for the first time. There are forces at work here that have been in motion long before tonight. One day, you''ll see the whole picture. But for now, you''ll have to trust that what we''re building is real."

 Chapter 17: It’s Destined in One’s Fate

    Warlock Ch 17. It''s Destined in One''s Fate


    Damian wanted to press further, to demand more answers, but something about the way she said it made him pause. There was a truth in her words, even if it was incomplete, and for the first time, he realized that maybe Evelyn was as caught up in this as he was. She wasn''t some all-knowing figure guiding him; she was navigating this world too, bound by rules he didn''t yet understand.


    He sighed heavily, leaning back in his chair, staring down at the half-eaten bowl of stew in front of him. "Right... So, basically, I''ve got no choice but to play the game," he muttered, a bitter edge to his voice. He hated feeling like a pawn, like his life was no longer his own.


    "Not exactly," Evelyn said gently, leaning forward slightly, her eyes holding his. "You can choose how you play it. But ignoring the rules won''t keep you safe."


    Damian let her words sink in. It wasn''t just about surviving anymore¡ªit was about navigating a world filled with power plays and dangerous alliances. He was part of it now, whether he wanted to be or not.


    He stared at the bowl again. This was his life now. Magic, factions, power struggles¡ªit was all real, and he was right in the middle of it. There was no going back to his old life, no escaping what he had become.


    "Well," Damian said after a long pause, picking up his spoon again and forcing himself to take another bite, "I guess I''d better get used to the fact that nothing in my life is going to be simple anymore."


    Evelyn smiled softly, but there was a trace of sadness in her eyes, as if she understood that all too well. "No, it won''t be. But you''re not alone in this. I''ll help you, Damian. You just need to trust me."


    Damian met her gaze, still uncertain but feeling a flicker of something¡ªmaybe hope, maybe determination¡ªbegin to stir in him. He wanted to believe her, to trust that she had his back in all of this, but doubt still gnawed at the edges of his mind. "I''m trying," he said quietly. "I really am."


    Evelyn nodded, her expression softening further. "That''s all I can ask for."


    They sat in silence for a few moments longer. Damian could feel the weight settling on his shoulders, and while he wasn''t sure what the future held, he knew that his next steps were crucial. He couldn''t afford to hesitate anymore.


    Evelyn stood up, breaking the quiet. "You should get some rest," she said, her voice gentle but firm. "You''ve had enough for one night."


    Damian glanced at her, then at the dishes on the table. "I can help you clean up," he offered, feeling like he needed to do something, anything, to take his mind off everything that had happened.


    But Evelyn shook her head, a small smile on her lips. "It''s fine. I''ve got it. Besides, I need some time to think."


    Damian didn''t push the issue, sensing that she wanted some space. He nodded, standing up slowly, his muscles sore from the tension and magic that had coursed through his body earlier. "Alright. Thanks... for dinner, I guess."


    Evelyn chuckled softly. "You''re welcome. Go rest. Tomorrow, we''ll start figuring out what comes next. The bed is upstairs."


    Damian made his way toward the stairs, pausing for a moment to glance back at her. Evelyn had already begun gathering the dishes, her movements calm and efficient, but there was a distant look in her eyes, like her thoughts were far away.


    He couldn''t shake the feeling that there was more to Evelyn than she was letting on, more to their bond than she had explained. But for now, all he could do was take things one step at a time.


    He climbed the stairs and felt the exhaustion hit him all at once. His mind was buzzing, but his body was begging for sleep. He slipped into the bed, the soft sheets feeling strangely comforting against his chaotic thoughts.


    Staring at the ceiling, Damian let out a long breath. He didn''t know what tomorrow would bring, but he knew one thing for sure¡ªhis life would never be the same.


    Eventually, exhaustion caught up with him, and his eyes grew heavy. He drifted into a deep sleep, hoping for some peace, some escape from the chaos. But his mind had other plans.


    The dream hit him, pulling him under into something unfamiliar and unsettling. He was back in that strange, blank space¡ªthe one from before, when he had first touched the artifact. The air was thick, charged with a kind of magic that felt ancient and powerful, like it had been waiting for him for centuries.


    A voice, low and echoing, called out to him.


    "Damian..."


    He turned, his pulse quickening. The artifact¡ªthe same one from before¡ªhovered in the distance, glowing faintly, like it was alive. The strange, pulsing energy radiated from it, calling to him, pulling him in.


    Damian hesitated, his instincts screaming at him to turn back, to run. But something deeper, something primal, urged him forward. He took a step, then another, until he was standing in front of it. His hand hovered over the artifact.


    "Who are you?" Damian asked, his voice barely above a whisper.


    "I am... what you''ve always known," the voice replied, calm and deep, resonating in his chest. "I am the power you fear. The power you crave."


    Damian''s brows furrowed. "What are you talking about? I didn''t ask for any of this."


    "You did not need to ask," the artifact responded. "It was always meant for you."


    "Meant for me?" Damian''s hand trembled as he reached out to touch the artifact, his fingers inches away. "Why me?"


    The artifact''s glow pulsed. "Because you are the key. The bridge between worlds. Between light and darkness. You cannot escape it."


    Damian''s heart raced. The words felt heavy, like they carried the weight of a destiny he didn''t want. "But I don''t even know what that means. I''m just... I''m just a guy. How am I supposed to handle all of this?"

 Chapter 18: You Only Bring Calamity…

    Warlock Ch 18. You Only Bring Calamity...


    "You have always been more than that," the voice replied, a hint of something ancient in its tone. "And soon, you will remember."


    Damian''s chest tightened, the pressure building as if the air itself was squeezing him. "Remember what? What am I supposed to remember?"


    "Chaos. War. Calamity," the voice answered, its tone shifting, darker now. "It has all happened before, and it will happen again. You are both the cause and the solution. The past cannot be changed, but the future..."


    Before Damian could ask another question, the artifact pulsed violently, and a sharp pain shot through his chest. He gasped, clutching his heart as the world around him twisted, spinning out of control.


    Suddenly, everything around him shifted. The empty space disappeared, replaced by a scene of chaos and destruction. Damian found himself hovering above a battlefield, the sky dark and swirling with clouds. Below him, war raged¡ªan all-out battle between creatures he had only ever heard about in stories.


    Witches, warlocks, vampires, werewolves, dragons, sirens, demons, fae¡ªall of them clashed in a brutal fight, their powers lighting up the sky with violent bursts of magic and fire. The ground was littered with bodies, the air thick with the smell of blood and ash. Damian''s heart pounded as he watched the carnage unfold, his chest tight with fear and confusion.


    "What... what is this?" Damian whispered, his voice shaking.


    "This is the world you will inherit," the voice of the artifact echoed in his mind. "The war you cannot escape. It happened before and will happen again."


    Damian''s breath quickened, panic rising in his chest. He didn''t understand. Why was he seeing this? What did any of it have to do with him? He tried to move, to do something, but his body felt frozen, locked in place as the battle raged on below him.


    And then he saw her.


    In the middle of the battlefield, a figure stood out amidst the chaos. A woman, cloaked in a deep hood, her robe adorned with intricate symbols that glowed faintly in the darkness. She was like a saint. Despite the violence surrounding her, she moved with a calm, deliberate grace, like she was part of the storm and yet separate from it.


    Damian''s eyes locked onto her as she raised her head, her face partially obscured by the hood. But even from a distance, he could see the tears streaming down her face, glistening in the battlefield.


    "You..." she whispered, her voice soft but carrying across the chaos, as if she was speaking directly to him. "You should never have been born."


    Damian''s heart lurched. Her words cut through him like a blade, cold and unforgiving.


    "You only bring calamity," she continued, her voice breaking. "Everything you touch... everything you are... will destroy this world."


    Her words echoed in his mind, filling him with a sense of dread so deep it made his chest tighten painfully. Damian tried to speak, to defend himself, but the words wouldn''t come. He didn''t understand. Why was she saying this? Why did she look at him like he was the cause of all this destruction?


    Before he could make sense of it, the woman''s expression hardened. She raised her hand, magic swirling around her in a violent storm, and without warning, she lunged at him.


    Damian''s heart slammed in his chest as she rushed toward him, her magic crackling through the air. Everything around him blurred, the battlefield disappearing in a swirl of light and sound.


    And then, just as quickly as it had begun, it was over.


    Damian bolted upright in bed, his chest heaving, his body drenched in sweat. His heart pounded in his ears, the remnants of the dream still clinging to him. He could feel the woman''s words pressing down on him, her voice echoing in his mind.


    "You should never have been born."


    The room was still, the soft morning light filtering through the curtains, but Damian couldn''t shake the feeling of unease. He ran a shaky hand through his hair, trying to calm his racing heart.


    It was just a dream, he told himself. Just a dream. But deep down, he knew better. There was something more to it¡ªsomething real. The voice, the artifact, the woman... it all felt too vivid, too powerful to be just a product of his imagination.


    He glanced around the room, half-expecting Evelyn was there. But it was just him.


    Damian let out a long breath, trying to steady himself. Whatever that dream had been, it wasn''t going to leave him easily. It was like the artifact had given him a glimpse into something¡ªsomething dark, something dangerous. And he had a feeling it wasn''t over.


    Not by a long shot.


    He pushed the covers aside and got out of bed, his legs still shaky. He needed to talk to Evelyn, to figure out what the hell was happening to him. But even as he thought about it, the memory of the woman''s voice echoed in his mind.


    "You only bring calamity."


    What the hell was that supposed to mean?


    He tried to shake it off, running his hand through his hair. He needed to clear his head. First stop¡ªthe bathroom. He hadn''t even bothered to freshen up last night after everything that had happened. He''d crashed, exhausted, barely conscious. Now, as he looked at himself in the mirror, the disheveled, tired face staring back at him felt like a stranger.


    He splashed cold water on his face, hoping it would snap him out of the fog, but the chill only did so much. The confusion, the tension, it was all still there.


    After a few minutes, Damian dried his face and headed back to the bedroom, feeling a little more awake but no less unsettled. That''s when he noticed it¡ªthe bedsheet on the other side of the bed, crumpled.


    He stared at it for a second, his mind slowly piecing together the meaning. ''Evelyn must''ve slept here with me.'' He hadn''t even realized. After the night they''d had, everything had blurred together. She must have gotten up before him¡ªearly.


    He made his way downstairs. The house was eerily quiet, only the soft creak of the floorboards beneath his feet breaking the silence. He expected to find Evelyn in the kitchen or maybe the living room, but she wasn''t there. He checked the front door¡ªit was locked.


    "Evelyn?" he called out, his voice echoing in the stillness. Nothing.

 Chapter 19: Dream or Memory?

    Warlock Ch 19. Dream or Memory?


    He walked through the kitchen, expecting to find some sign of her, but the room was empty.


    Then, he noticed it. On the table, there was a steaming cup of coffee and a sandwich, along with a small note neatly placed beside it. Damian picked up the note, the faint scent of lavender clinging to the paper.


    ''Had to step out for a bit. I''ll be back soon. There''s a barrier around the house for your protection¡ªdon''t worry, you''re safe.''


    He raised an eyebrow, staring at the words, unsure how to feel about them.


    A barrier? For his protection?


    This was becoming more complicated by the minute. Sure, he''d seen magic and experienced things no normal guy would, but the idea that the house needed extra protection while she was gone¡ªit made everything feel even more real, and not in a comforting way.


    Damian set the note down and sat at the table. He glanced at the sandwich, feeling his stomach grumble. He hadn''t realized how hungry he was until now, so he took a bite, the simple taste helping ground him in the moment. But as he ate, his thoughts drifted back to the dream.


    The chaos, the war, and that woman... the woman who told him he should never have been born. It had all felt so real, too vivid to just brush off as a nightmare. The way she looked at him, the tears, the accusation in her voice. And then the memory of Evelyn''s words surfaced, how she couldn''t tell him everything yet.


    Damian stared into his coffee, watching the steam rise and swirl in the air. "That wasn''t her... right?" he mumbled to himself, the unsettling feeling gnawing at his gut. "It couldn''t have been."


    But what if it was? He hadn''t seen the woman''s face fully, just a glimpse beneath her hood. The way she spoke to him, the way her words cut so deeply¡ªit felt personal. And who else could it have been?


    He shook his head, trying to push the thought away. ''No, that didn''t make sense.'' Evelyn had been with him the entire time since his life flipped upside down. She had been helping him, not hurting him.


    Moments later, the front door creaked open, and Damian snapped out of his thoughts. He turned to see Evelyn stepping inside, her face slightly flushed as if she''d been rushing. She glanced at him, offering a soft smile, but there was a tightness in her expression.


    "Sorry," she said, setting her bag down on the counter. "I had to meet someone first."


    Damian swallowed the last bite of his sandwich, nodding slowly, but his mind was still stuck on the dream. The need to understand what was happening, to get answers, gnawed at him.


    "Did you know it?" he blurted out before he could stop himself.


    Evelyn froze, turning to face him fully. "Know what?"


    "The dream, maybe a memory," Damian said, his voice steadier now, but laced with the frustration he''d been holding in. "The one I had last night. Did you know about it?"


    For a brief second, something flickered across her face¡ªsurprise, maybe even fear¡ªbut it was gone just as quickly. Evelyn''s eyes widened, her voice soft as she asked, "What did you see in this dream, Damian?"


    Damian leaned back in his chair, exhaling deeply. He hadn''t planned on unloading everything so suddenly, but here they were. "There was this... war. Chaos everywhere. Witches, warlocks, vampires, all of them fighting. And then there was this woman. She¡ª" He hesitated, his throat tightening. "She said I should never have been born. That I bring calamity."


    Evelyn''s expression hardened, but she stayed silent, letting him continue.


    "She... lunged at me, and then I woke up. But something about it felt off. Like... it felt too real, you know?" Damian ran a hand through his hair. "That wasn''t you, was it?"


    Evelyn didn''t answer immediately. She stood there, her eyes locking onto his, and for a long moment, the silence between them stretched. When she finally shook her head, the movement was slow, almost hesitant. "No, Damian. It wasn''t me."


    But something in her eyes¡ªsomething she wasn''t saying¡ªmade his chest tighten with doubt.


    "Then who?" Damian pushed, frowning. "Was it a prophecy or something? A warning? You''re hiding things from me, Evelyn. How am I supposed to trust you when you keep avoiding the truth?"


    Evelyn''s gaze softened, and she took a step closer, her voice lowering, almost pleading. "I don''t want to hide anything from you. I promise. But the time isn''t right yet." She paused, her eyes searching his face for understanding. "There are things about this world, about who you are, that I can''t explain until you''re ready. Until..."


    "Until what?" Damian asked. "Until I''m in over my head? I''m already in over my head. I''ve had my life turned upside down, I''m supposed to form magical bonds, and now I''m dreaming about some woman telling me I''m a curse. I need answers."


    Evelyn flinched, her expression pained, but she didn''t look away. "I know. I know it''s hard, and I don''t blame you for being frustrated. But some things¡ªsome truths¡ªare dangerous if you don''t understand them fully. I''m trying to protect you."


    Damian let out a bitter laugh. "Protect me? How am I supposed to trust that when every time I ask a question, you dodge it? What am I supposed to do with that?"


    Evelyn sighed, looking down at the floor for a moment, before lifting her gaze back to his. "You''re supposed to trust me, even when it''s hard. Even when I can''t give you all the answers you want right away." Her voice softened, and she stepped closer, her hand reaching out to rest gently on his arm. "I''ve been in this world a long time. I know how quickly things can spiral out of control. I know how dangerous it is. And I don''t want that for you."

 Chapter 20: A Goodbye

    Warlock Ch 20. A Goodbye


    Damian stared at her, his frustration slowly ebbing away, replaced by a mix of confusion and something else¡ªsomething like empathy.


    But still, the doubt lingered. How could he trust someone who kept so much from him?


    "I want to trust you," Damian said quietly, his voice calmer now. "I really do. But you have to give me something, Evelyn. I can''t just keep walking blindly through this."


    Evelyn''s fingers tightened around his arm for a brief moment before she let go. Her gaze was steady, though a shadow of guilt flickered in her eyes. "You''re right. I owe you more than just promises. But for now, I need you to trust that I''m on your side."


    Damian sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "Fine. I''ll try. But you need to know... I''m not going to stop asking questions. I need to figure this out."


    Evelyn smiled, though there was still that sadness in her expression. "I wouldn''t expect anything less."


    Damian could feel her words hanging in the air between them. He was still trying to wrap his head around everything¡ªmagic, bonds, a world hidden in plain sight. But he knew that this was only the beginning. There were things he didn''t understand yet, and Evelyn wasn''t going to give him all the answers, not now. Maybe not ever.


    After a long pause, Evelyn spoke again, her voice quieter, more thoughtful. "There''s someone we need to meet. His name is Cassius Thorn."


    Damian blinked, the unfamiliar name pulling him out of his thoughts. "Cassius Thorn? Who''s that?"


    "He''s a warlock," Evelyn explained, her tone careful. "One of the most experienced and strongest in the magical community. He can guide you in ways that I can''t."


    Damian frowned, confused. "Why can''t you guide me? You clearly know your way around magic."


    Evelyn let out a soft laugh, smirking slightly. "I''m a witch, Damian, not a warlock. Our magic comes from different sources, and the way we use it is... different. Warlocks and witches aren''t the same, even though it might seem like we are from the outside."


    Damian raised an eyebrow. "So, you''re saying a witch can''t teach a warlock?"


    "It''s not that simple," Evelyn said, her smirk fading as she grew more serious. "I can teach you some things, yes. But there are aspects of your magic that I don''t have access to. Warlocks draw their power from bonds, from contracts. You''ll need someone like Cassius to help you navigate that."


    Damian hesitated, her words sinking in. He hadn''t really thought about the fact that witches and warlocks might operate differently. Magic was magic, right? But Evelyn was making it clear that he couldn''t rely solely on her for this. If he wanted to survive in this new world, he would need Cassius.


    But before they could meet this mysterious warlock, Damian felt a tug¡ªa pull back to the life he''d left behind. There were things he hadn''t thought about until now, things he still needed to take care of.


    "I need to head back," Damian said, his voice a little strained.


    Evelyn tilted her head, puzzled. "Back? We''re already in Haven City, Damian."


    "No, I mean the real Haven City. The normal part," Damian clarified, running a hand through his hair. "I''ve still got clothes there, my stuff... and I need to, you know, tie up some loose ends."


    Evelyn watched him closely, her expression softening. She didn''t say anything for a moment, as if she could sense the internal struggle he was facing.


    Damian''s thoughts drifted to the pub, the job he''d worked for years. He thought of his friends, the regulars¡ªall the people who had been part of his everyday life, and how they had no idea what was going on with him now.


    He would have to leave it all behind. There was no going back to the life he had before. But the thought of just disappearing, without a word, didn''t sit right with him.


    "I need to resign," Damian said quietly, almost to himself. "I can''t just vanish. I need to say goodbye to my friends... and to the bar."


    Evelyn''s gaze softened even more, a flicker of understanding in her eyes. She crossed her arms and leaned against the counter. "You''re attached to that life," she said gently. "I get it. But you know things are different now."


    "I know," Damian muttered, his voice laced with frustration. "But I can''t just walk away without at least closing that chapter. They deserve an explanation... or something. I need to go back, just for a bit."


    Evelyn didn''t argue. She knew what he was feeling¡ªknew that cutting ties with his old life wouldn''t be easy. But she also knew that once he stepped deeper into the magical world, there would be no turning back. The normalcy he craved would be out of reach, replaced by the constant struggle to survive in a world filled with danger and power.


    "Alright," she said, her voice soft. "We can go back to the normal city. But you should be quick. Things are already in motion, and you don''t want to get caught in the middle of it unprepared."


    Damian nodded, appreciating that she wasn''t trying to rush him. His decision pressed down harder now. He was standing on the edge of something¡ªsomething big, something irreversible¡ªand once he crossed that line, there would be no going back. But he needed this, just one last trip to the life he''d known, to say goodbye.


    With a deep breath, he straightened up, determination hardening his features. "Let''s go. I need to stop by the pub, grab my stuff, and... figure things out."


    Evelyn nodded, pushing off the counter. "I''ll come with you."


    They made their way out of the house, the barrier Evelyn had mentioned earlier dissipating as they stepped through the door.


    The morning air hit Damian''s face, cool and fresh, but there was an undeniable charge in the atmosphere. The streets of the Magic City, which had been eerily quiet the night before, were now alive with movement.

 Chapter 21: Haven City’s Gate

    Warlock Ch 21. Haven City''s Gate


    Damian''s eyes widened as he took it all in. The city felt more real now, the energy buzzing like a live wire. People¡ªor, rather, supernatural beings¡ªmoved about in groups, laughing, talking, going about their business. What struck him most was how... normal it all looked. They were all wearing modern clothes¡ªjeans, jackets, sneakers¡ªnothing like the medieval robes or cloaks he had imagined when Evelyn first mentioned the Magic City.


    But despite the familiar fashion, they still looked different. There was a man across the street with pointed ears and skin that shimmered like the surface of a lake. His features were sharp, too perfect to be human¡ªDamian guessed he was some kind of fae.


    Nearby, a woman with pale skin and crimson lips was walking with a slow, elegant movement. She used an umbrella. Her eyes were a deep red that made it clear she wasn''t human either. A vampire, probably.


    Damian''s gaze drifted further down the street, and he blinked in disbelief. A man was standing near a market stall, casually chatting with the vendor, but protruding from the back of his jeans was a wolf tail, lazily swaying from side to side.


    ''A werewolf?'' Damian guessed, though the sight of it still threw him.


    Nothing about this place felt like what he had imagined. And then there were the creatures. Damian looked up, his mouth dropping open slightly. Instead of cars zipping by in the streets, he saw people flying overhead. But they weren''t sitting on brooms like in some old witch movie¡ªthey were seated on staffs, hovering above the ground.


    "Okay, this is... a lot," Damian muttered, still trying to process what he was seeing.


    Evelyn glanced at him, an amused smile tugging at the corner of her lips. "Yeah, I figured you''d say that."


    "Everyone looks so... normal," Damian said, his voice edged with disbelief. "But they''re not. I mean, they''re obviously not human, but they''re walking around like this is just another day for them."


    Evelyn chuckled softly. "That''s because it is. This is their normal."


    Damian shook his head. "I don''t know what I expected. Like, I knew this place existed, but... seeing it like this? It''s not what I imagined."


    "What did you expect?" Evelyn asked, raising an eyebrow.


    "I don''t know," Damian said, gesturing vaguely at the bustling street. "I thought it''d be more... I don''t know, medieval? Witches in robes, werewolves in leather armor or something. And maybe more brooms?"


    Evelyn laughed. "We''ve evolved past the point of wearing robes and flying around on brooms. Magic isn''t stuck in the Middle Ages, Damian. It grows and changes, just like everything else."


    "Yeah, but... that guy has a wolf tail sticking out of his jeans," Damian pointed out, his voice rising slightly as he gestured to the werewolf across the street. "How is that normal?"


    Evelyn smiled, glancing at the man. "That''s Garth. He doesn''t bother hiding it unless he''s going into the human part of the city. Here, nobody cares."


    Damian blinked, trying to wrap his head around it. "So, all these people¡ªor, I guess, creatures¡ªjust walk around like this? Like, there''s no problem with vampires and werewolves and fae all mingling together?"


    Evelyn''s smile faded a bit, and she glanced at Damian, her expression turning more serious. "It''s not as simple as it looks. Sure, everyone''s going about their day, but there are still tensions. The factions keep things in check, but there''s always an undercurrent of competition. Power struggles, rivalries. Just because they coexist doesn''t mean they get along."


    Damian looked around again, his gaze lingering on the fae with the shimmering skin, then the vampire, then the werewolf. "So, it''s like... what? Some kind of cold war between all these groups?"


    Evelyn nodded slightly. "That''s a good way to think about it. The factions have agreements in place to avoid outright war, but that doesn''t mean there isn''t conflict. It''s more subtle¡ªpolitical, magical. Sometimes, it''s about control. Other times, it''s about survival."


    "And now I''m a part of that."


    "You''ve always been a part of it," Evelyn said gently. "You just didn''t know it until now."


    Damian stared at her, then back at the street. "I guess I didn''t expect it to look so... normal." He paused, glancing back at the creatures flying overhead. "Well, except for the people flying around on staff. "


    Evelyn laughed again, shaking her head. "Yeah, that one''s a bit harder to explain. But you''ll get used to it. This City isn''t as chaotic as it seems once you understand the flow of things."


    Damian raised an eyebrow. "I''m not sure ''getting used to it'' is as easy as you make it sound. I''ve spent my whole life thinking I was just a normal guy, and now I''m supposed to be okay with werewolves shopping for groceries and fae casually walking down the street like it''s nothing."


    Evelyn''s expression softened, and she glanced at him, her tone becoming more serious. "I get it, Damian. It''s overwhelming. Trust me, when I first came into this world, I felt the same way. It takes time to adjust."


    Damian nodded slowly, processing her words. "So, all this¡ª" he gestured around them at the bustling streets, the magical creatures walking past, "¡ªis just the tip of the iceberg?"


    Evelyn''s eyes darkened slightly, a flicker of something unspoken in her gaze. "Yeah. There''s a lot more to this world than you''ve seen so far. The factions, the politics, the magic... it''s deeper than you can imagine."


    "I guess there''s no turning back, huh?" he said quietly, more to himself than to Evelyn.


    "No," she replied softly. "But you''re not alone in this. I''m here to help you, and so will others once you meet them. You just have to trust the process."


    Damian gave her a sideways glance. "You keep asking me to trust you. It''s not that easy, you know."


    Evelyn smiled gently, her eyes softening. "I know. And I''m not asking you to blindly trust me. But trust that I want to help. Trust that you have a purpose in this world, even if you don''t see it yet."


    They walked in silence for a moment. Damian''s mind raced with questions, but he knew pushing for answers right now wasn''t going to solve anything. He needed time to process, to figure out where he stood in all of this.


    They rounded the corner. Damian noticed something different. The street ahead shimmered slightly, a faint line dividing it from the rest of the city. He stopped, his heart picking up speed as he realized what it was.


    Evelyn paused beside him, her gaze following his. "That''s the gate," she said quietly. "The border between the Magic City and the normal part of Haven City."

 Chapter 22: A Bad Liar

    Warlock Ch 22. A Bad Liar


    Damian took a step closer, staring at the invisible line separating the two worlds. He frowned.


    This was it? The "gate" between the Magic City and the normal part of Haven City was just... a line?


    He had imagined something grand, maybe looming towers or a monument, or even a swirling portal. But this? This was a faint shimmer, like the heat rising off asphalt on a hot day. Barely noticeable unless he was looking for it.


    "This is the gate?" Damian asked, incredulous. "I thought there''d be... more."


    Evelyn smirked slightly, sensing his disappointment. "You expected something more dramatic?"


    "Yeah," Damian admitted, still frowning. "I mean, we''re crossing between worlds, right? Shouldn''t there be some kind of, I don''t know, magic portal? A big archway? Something?"


    Evelyn chuckled softly. "Sometimes, the most powerful things are the ones that don''t need to show off. This line keeps the two worlds separate. Cross it, and everything changes. You don''t need towers for that."


    Damian sighed, stepping over the line. Instantly, the world around them shifted. The vibrant, strange sights of the Magic City melted away, replaced by the familiar urban sprawl of the normal Haven City. They were standing in an alley now, the hum of traffic and the distant sounds of people filling the air. This was the city he knew, the one he had grown up in.


    He glanced around, trying to orient himself. "So... that alley was the way in?" he asked, raising an eyebrow. It seemed so simple, too simple.


    Evelyn shook her head. "Not exactly. The line teleported us to an empty place in the city. It''s random, so we don''t appear in the middle of a crowd. That''s why normal people don''t even know the Magic City exists."


    Damian nodded, rubbing the back of his neck. "Okay, so how do I get back?"


    "You''ll need a spell to cross back into the Magic City," she explained. "It''s not like you can just walk over whenever you want. Only people like us¡ªpeople with magic¡ªcan go in and out."


    Damian thought about it for a second. "Yeah, that makes sense. Keep the regular folks out of the weird stuff."


    "Exactly," Evelyn said, giving him a small smile. "Ready to go?"


    He nodded, his mind still spinning from everything he had seen, but there was something else tugging at him now¡ªsomething more grounded. "First stop''s my apartment. I need to grab my stuff."


    The walk to his apartment felt surreal. Even though the normal city looked the same as always¡ªcars rushing by, people walking with their heads buried in their phones¡ªDamian couldn''t help but feel detached from it all. It was like he had one foot in this world and the other in the one Evelyn had shown him.


    When they finally reached his building, Damian hesitated before going inside. It felt strange, stepping back into the life he had known, as if everything had changed but the world around him hadn''t noticed.


    He climbed the stairs to his apartment and couldn''t help but think about what he was leaving behind. His life here had been simple¡ªnormal. He worked at the bar, hung out with friends, lived with Kai, his roommate. It was routine.


    When he unlocked the door and stepped inside, he was greeted by Kai, who looked up from the couch, confusion written all over his face.


    "Dude?" Kai asked, blinking in surprise. "I thought you were in your room. You came home, like, an hour ago and went straight in."


    Damian froze for a second. ''Oh right!'' he thought. The shadow, the double that Evelyn had left to cover for him. He had completely forgotten about it.


    "Uh, yeah," Damian said, trying to keep his voice casual. "I was... out, but I need to talk to you about something."


    Kai raised an eyebrow, standing up and crossing his arms. "Okay, what''s up? Why are you acting so weird?"


    Damian took a deep breath, bracing himself for the conversation he didn''t really want to have. "I need to move out."


    Kai''s confusion deepened, his expression shifting from surprise to suspicion. "Move out? Why? You just paid rent, man. What''s going on?"


    Without saying anything, Damian searched for his phone from his room. He found it in his work bag. Good thing the shadow Damian brought that home. He transferred the next month''s rent to Kai''s account. He could see the notification pop up on Kai''s phone, but Kai didn''t look reassured. If anything, he seemed more confused.


    "You''re moving out and paying me rent?" Kai asked, narrowing his eyes. "What the hell, Damian? This doesn''t make any sense."


    Damian sighed, beginning to collect his things. "It''s... complicated. My relatives¡ªthey need me. Something came up."


    Kai followed him, watching as Damian shoved clothes into a duffel bag. "Your relatives?" Kai''s voice was skeptical. "Dude, you''re a bad liar. You don''t have relatives. You''re an orphan. I''ve known you for years, man."


    Damian pressed his lips together, avoiding Kai''s gaze as he continued packing. He had forgotten how well Kai knew him, how there were no easy excuses in a situation like this.


    Kai''s voice softened, concern creeping in. "Damian, what''s really going on? Are you in trouble? Did you get involved with something... dangerous? Are you running from someone?"


    Damian stopped packing, his hands still for a moment as the weight of Kai''s words hung in the air. He turned to face him, meeting his friend''s eyes. "Let''s just say... yeah, it''s dangerous. But I can''t explain. Not right now."


    Kai''s face twisted with frustration, but there was an underlying worry in his eyes. "Man, if you''re mixed up in something bad, you can talk to me. I''m serious. You don''t have to run off like this."


    Damian sighed, slinging the duffel bag over his shoulder. "I wish I could tell you everything, Kai. But you wouldn''t believe me if I did."


    Kai scoffed, throwing his hands up. "Try me."


    Damian paused, considering it for a split second, before shaking his head. "I can''t. Not yet. But I need you to trust me on this. I''ll be fine."


    Kai watched him for a long moment. Finally, he sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Fine. But if you need anything¡ªanything¡ªyou know where I am."


    "Thanks, man," Damian said, his voice softer now. "I''ll be in touch."


    Kai gave him a tight nod, watching as Damian walked toward the door.

 Chapter 23: Life Gets Messy Sometimes

    Warlock Ch 23. Life Gets Messy Sometimes


    When he stepped outside, Evelyn was waiting for him, leaning casually against a lamppost. She looked up as he approached, her expression calm but curious.


    "All set?" she asked.


    Damian nodded, adjusting the duffel bag slung over his shoulder. "Yeah, mostly. Next stop is the bar. I need to resign."


    Evelyn fell into step beside him as they started walking down the street. "You could''ve just sent an email, you know. Seems easier."


    Damian glanced at her, his phone in hand as he texted the owner. "I know. But it''s not that simple. The owner''s a good guy. He gave me the job when I really needed it, helped me out when I had nothing. I owe him more than just a quick email."


    Evelyn didn''t say anything at first, just nodded, understanding. She could see how much this place¡ªand the people in Damian''s life¡ªmeant to him. She knew he was walking away from a life that had been comfortable, safe, and familiar. And yet, he was still stepping into the unknown because he didn''t have a choice.


    Damian''s phone buzzed, and he glanced down at the message. "He''s in his office at the bar. Guess I''ll get to do this face to face."


    They walked in silence for a few blocks, the familiar sights of Haven City feeling strangely distant now. The bar was just a few streets away, but it felt like he was walking toward the end of something, not just another errand.


    When they arrived at the bar, it was quiet. It wasn''t surprising¡ªhe knew this time of day was slow. The usual rush wouldn''t hit until later in the evening. Damian pushed open the door, the familiar scent of wood and spilled beer filling the air. The place felt different now, though. Like it wasn''t his anymore.


    Evelyn stayed by the door, giving him space, while Damian made his way toward the back. The office door was slightly ajar, and he knocked softly before stepping inside.


    The owner, a friendly middle-aged man named Frank, looked up from his desk, his brow furrowing slightly when he saw Damian. "Damian, what''s going on? You never come this early."


    Damian shifted uncomfortably, running a hand through his hair. "Hey, Frank. I, uh... I need to talk to you about something."


    Frank leaned back in his chair, his expression concerned. "Is this about last night? I heard there was a bit of trouble outside. If those thugs are giving you a hard time, you know I''ve got your back. I can make some calls."


    Damian shook his head quickly. "No, no, it''s not that. Well, kind of, but it''s more complicated than that."


    Frank''s confusion deepened, but he stayed silent, waiting for Damian to continue.


    Damian took a deep breath, the words heavy on his tongue. "I need to resign, Frank. I... I can''t work here anymore."


    Frank stared at him for a long moment, his brow furrowed even deeper now. "Resign? Damian, what are you talking about? Is this because of those guys last night? Because if they''re threatening you¡ª"


    "It''s not just about that," Damian interrupted, shaking his head. "It''s... complicated. There''s a lot going on right now, and I just can''t keep working here. I''ve got some things I need to take care of."


    Frank studied him for a few more seconds, his expression softening with concern. "You''ve never been the kind of guy to just walk away from a problem. Are you sure this is what you want to do? I don''t want you to leave because you''re scared or being pushed into something."


    Damian smiled faintly, but he couldn''t explain the truth. Not in a way that Frank would understand. "It''s not like that. Trust me. I''ve just... got stuff I need to deal with. Big stuff. And I can''t do it while working here."


    Frank let out a heavy sigh, rubbing the back of his neck. "Alright. If you''re sure, then I won''t try to talk you out of it. But if you ever need anything¡ªanything at all¡ªyou know where to find me."


    Damian felt a lump rise in his throat, the weight of Frank''s words hitting harder than he expected. "Thanks, Frank. For everything. You''ve been more than just a boss to me. You''ve helped me out more times than I can count."


    Frank stood up, walking over and clapping a hand on Damian''s shoulder. "You''re like a son to me, Damian. I hate to see you go, but I get it. Life gets messy sometimes. Just don''t forget that you''ve always got a place here if you need it."


    Damian nodded, his throat tight. He hadn''t realized how hard this would be, saying goodbye to the place that had been his second home. "Thanks, Frank. I''ll miss this place."


    Frank reached into his desk drawer and pulled out an envelope, handing it to Damian. "Here. This is your paycheck for the month."


    Damian shook his head, pushing the envelope back. "You don''t have to do that. I didn''t even finish the month."


    "I insist," Frank said firmly, pressing the envelope into Damian''s hand. "I don''t know what kind of trouble you''re in, but you''ve never acted like this before. You''re a good kid. I know you''ll get through whatever''s going on."


    Damian swallowed hard, nodding as he pocketed the envelope. "Thanks. I''ll... I''ll figure it out."


    As he turned to leave, Frank called out after him. "Take care of yourself. And don''t be a stranger."


    Damian looked back, giving Frank a tight smile. "I''ll try."


    He walked out of the office and back into the quiet bar, his heart heavier than before. Evelyn was waiting for him by the door, watching him.


    "How''d it go?" she asked quietly.


    Damian exhaled slowly, running a hand through his hair. "It''s done. He took it better than I expected."


    Evelyn nodded, her expression soft. "It''s hard, saying goodbye to people who care about you."


    "Yeah," Damian muttered, glancing around the bar one last time. "I didn''t realize how much I was leaving behind."


    Evelyn stepped closer, her voice gentle. "You''re not leaving everything behind. You''re stepping into something new. But that doesn''t mean you forget where you came from."


    Damian stared at her for a moment, taking in her words. She was right, but it didn''t make it any easier. He was saying goodbye to a life he could never get back.


    With one last look at the bar, Damian turned and walked out the door, knowing that everything was about to change. The familiar creak of the door closing behind him felt final, like the last page of a chapter in his life.

 Chapter 24: Destructive

    Warlock Ch 24. Destructive


    He walked down the street with Evelyn beside him. They made their way back toward the alley, the one they had used earlier to enter the Magic City. But as they approached, Damian slowed down, his brow furrowing. There were people in the alley¡ªtwo guys smoking, chatting casually.


    Evelyn sighed softly, her eyes scanning the scene. "We''ll have to find another empty place," she said quietly, her voice laced with mild frustration.


    Damian glanced at her. "Is this why people with magic prefer doing this stuff at night?"


    She gave him a small, amused smile. "Exactly. It''s easier to slip in and out without anyone noticing when there are fewer eyes on you. Most people with magic avoid moving between worlds during the day unless absolutely necessary."


    "Great," Damian muttered under his breath, his gaze shifting to the crowded street around them.


    They walked again, searching for a quieter place to cross back into the Magic City. A few seconds later, Damian''s eyes caught something up ahead. His heart skipped a beat. It was the building from last night¡ªor rather, what was left of it. The place was now a pile of rubble, debris scattered across the ground, police tape crisscrossing the area to keep people out.


    Damian stopped dead in his tracks, his stomach twisting. "That''s..."


    Evelyn followed his gaze, her expression grim. "The place from last night," she said softly, finishing his thought.


    It didn''t even look like the same building. It was completely destroyed. The damage had done more damage than Damian had realized. He stared at the ruins, his mind racing as he tried to process it.


    "I never thought it would be this bad," he admitted, his voice quieter now. "It was a crazy fight, but... I don''t know. Seeing it like this makes it real. People could''ve been inside. If that was my bar..."


    Evelyn nodded, her eyes never leaving the wreckage. "Magic can be destructive, Damian. Especially when it''s uncontrolled or used in a way that tears through reality. This is the kind of danger you''re stepping into. And you know the bad news is? That''s not even his full power."


    Damian swallowed hard. He didn''t want to leave his old life behind. He didn''t want to give up the simple, predictable world he''d known. But seeing the destruction in front of him made it clear... he didn''t have a choice. If he stayed in the normal world, if he tried to hold on to what was, he''d be putting people¡ªinnocent people¡ªat risk.


    "I get it," he said softly, his gaze lingering on the ruins. "Ya know... I may be an orphan, but I have a good life. I have good friends, a nice boss, a fun job, and a roof over my head. I even don''t have debt. It was a good life. I don''t want to leave everything behind, but I know I have to. "


    Evelyn turned to him, her expression softening. "You''re not losing everything, Damian. You''re gaining something, too. You just can''t see it yet."


    He didn''t reply, just nodded. The truth was, he wasn''t sure if he believed her. The losses felt more immediate, more real, than whatever gains might come in the future. But he knew he had to move forward.


    They walked a little further, managing to find a quiet alley away from prying eyes. This one was empty, just a narrow space between two tall buildings, perfect for slipping out unnoticed. Evelyn stepped forward, muttering a few words under her breath, her hand glowing faintly with magic. A shimmer spread through the air, and Damian felt the familiar pull as the world shifted around them.


    One moment they were standing in the alley, the next they were back in the Magic City. The streets were quieter here, more subdued than the chaotic morning bustle of Haven City. Damian let out a breath, the transition always feeling a bit disorienting, like stepping from one dimension into another.


    "We''re back," Evelyn said simply.


    "Yeah," Damian muttered. He followed her back to the house, his mind still lingering on the wreckage they''d seen earlier.


    When they got back to the house, Damian dropped his duffel bag on the bed and made a beeline for the bathroom.


    "Where are you going?" she asked.


    "I''m going to shower first. I smell like a dumpster," he announced. He needed a moment to breathe, to clear his head. Everything was happening so fast, and it felt like his life was spiraling out of control.


    He stepped into the bathroom and turned on the water, letting it run for a moment before stripping off his clothes and stepping into the shower. The hot water hit his skin, and for a brief second, it felt like he could wash away everything. But even as he stood there, eyes closed, the thoughts kept coming.


    After a few minutes, Damian stepped out of the shower and wrapped a towel around his waist. His phone was sitting on the sink, and out of habit, he reached for it. But when he checked, there was no signal. Not even a single bar.


    He stared at the blank screen for a moment, a bitter smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. "I really did get cut off, didn''t I?" he muttered to himself.


    He tossed the phone aside, running a hand through his damp hair. This was it. With a deep breath, Damian stepped out of the bathroom, the steam swirling around him. He dressed quickly, opting for something casual¡ªa plain T-shirt and sweatpants. Evelyn had mentioned training, and while he didn''t know if it was going to be physical or not, he figured it was better to be prepared. If this warlock, Cassius Thorn, turned out to be the kind of guy who made him sprint laps or do drills, Damian didn''t want to be caught off guard.


    Once he finished getting ready, he heard a soft knock on the door. Evelyn stepped in, holding a small wooden box in her hands. It was plain, almost rustic-looking, with no visible hinges or locks. She held it out toward him.

 Chapter 25: Legendary Amulet

    Warlock Ch 25. Legendary Amulet


    "Here," she said, her voice calm but carrying an undercurrent of something more serious. "I want you to open this."


    Damian raised an eyebrow, staring at the box with suspicion. It didn''t have a latch or any visible way to open it. He hesitated, eyeing it warily. "How am I supposed to open it? There''s no opener."


    Evelyn''s lips curled into a faint smile, the kind that told him she knew something he didn''t. "You''re the only one who can open it."


    Damian frowned, more confused than ever. "What do you mean? You can''t open it?"


    She shook her head. "No. Only you can."


    He let out a small huff of frustration. Of course, it had to be another mystery. That seemed to be the theme of his life now¡ªone puzzle after another, and barely any answers. He stared at the box again, trying to figure out what she meant. "Okay... and how exactly am I supposed to do that?"


    Evelyn just shrugged, clearly enjoying watching him try to figure it out. "You''ll know when you''re ready."


    Damian sighed, running a hand through his hair again as he studied the box. There was something about it, something faintly glowing on the surface of the wood. He wrecked his brain, trying to think of anything that might help him unlock it, but nothing came to mind. After a few moments of staring and hesitating, he reached out and touched the surface of the box.


    The wood beneath his fingertips shimmered, almost like it had come to life. Damian jerked his hand back, startled, but the box continued to glow softly. Then, as if reacting to his presence, it slowly opened on its own.


    Inside, nestled on a small velvet cushion, was an ancient-looking necklace. The chain was made of brass, dull and worn with age, and the pendant was simple¡ªno jewels, no intricate designs¡ªjust a plain, circular piece of metal. Damian stared at it, feeling an odd connection to the object, even though he couldn''t explain why.


    Evelyn stepped closer, her expression serious. "Wear it," she said quietly. "It will hide your identity from those you shouldn''t meet. At least not before you''re ready."


    Damian frowned, lifting the necklace from the box and holding it up to the light. "What does that even mean? Hide my identity from who?"


    Evelyn''s lips twitched into a small, mysterious smile. "You''ll find out in time."


    He let out a frustrated breath, shaking his head. "Of course. Another mystery. Great."


    Evelyn didn''t respond, just watched him with that same calm expression as if she knew he was going to wear it whether he wanted to or not. Damian sighed, then slipped the necklace over his head. As soon as it settled against his chest, a strange warmth spread through him, not unpleasant, but definitely noticeable.


    [You have equipped the Amulet of Silent Might!]


    The moment the necklace touched his skin, Damian felt a shift. It was subtle, but real. The air around him seemed to grow quieter, more still, like the world had somehow taken a step back from him. It wasn''t invisibility¡ªhe could still see himself in the reflection of the mirror¡ªbut it was as if something about him had changed. Like he was... less noticeable. Less there.


    [Amulet of Silent Might]


    Type: Accessory (Necklace)


    Rarity: Legendary


    Requirements: None


    Durability: Infinite


    Effect:


    [Veil of Power: Conceals the wearer''s true strength, masking all stats and abilities from detection. (Cannot be pierced by standard detection spells or skills.) ]


    [Silent Aura: Suppresses any magical or aura-based emissions, rendering the wearer undetectable to perception skills below Legendary rank.]


    Damian stared down at the amulet hanging around his neck.


    ''Legendary?!''


    He had barely touched the magical world and already he was equipped with something so rare it was beyond his comprehension. He ran a finger over the smooth brass, the ancient metal feeling oddly warm against his skin. It looked so simple, and yet it was supposed to keep him hidden from those who might want to target him.


    "Legendary?" he muttered, half to himself. "How rare is this thing, exactly?"


    Evelyn, walking beside him, glanced over, her expression calm but knowing. "Only one in this world."


    "So... they''ll target me less now, right?" Damian asked, hope threading through his voice as he tried to process everything.


    Evelyn nodded, though her expression held a flicker of uncertainty. "Hopefully. But in this world, nothing is guaranteed."


    Damian frowned, rubbing the back of his neck in frustration. "Great, so I''m just... what, less of a target but still a target?"


    A small smile tugged at the corners of Evelyn''s lips. Her tone remained light, but there was an edge of seriousness beneath it. "You''re still new to all this, Damian. But yes, that''s the idea. You''re not completely off the hook yet."


    "Fantastic," Damian muttered under his breath, sighing as he glanced around. The weight of his situation seemed to press down on him harder with each passing minute. "Why me, though? Why am I the one being targeted? What makes me so special?"


    Evelyn''s smile faded, replaced by a thoughtful look. "You will figure it out soon." She motioned for him to follow her. "We need to meet Cassius now."


    They stepped outside into the bustling street, and despite the tension building inside him, Damian couldn''t help but notice how normal everything still seemed. People walked past them, chatting, hurrying along like it was any other day. No one gave him a second glance, and it felt surreal. He had just crossed over from a world of magic, and yet, here he was¡ªjust another face in the crowd.


    "They can still see me, though," Damian said, frowning. "I thought I''d be... I don''t know, invisible or something."


    Evelyn chuckled softly, shaking her head. "Magic doesn''t always work like that. You''re hidden from the ones who matter. The rest? They have no clue who or what you are."


    "Comforting," Damian muttered sarcastically, though he felt a small sense of relief that at least he wasn''t being actively hunted¡ªyet. Still, his mind raced with questions.

 Chapter 26: Cassius Thorn

    Warlock Ch 26. Cassius Thorn


    Why was he suddenly a target? Why did he have to hide? What was so special about him that required this level of protection?


    His thoughts twisted into knots. He didn''t have any answers, and the uncertainty gnawed at him like a persistent itch he couldn''t scratch. Would Cassius tell him if he asked about it? Could he even trust this mysterious warlock? Damian had already learned that trust was a rare commodity in this world, and he wasn''t sure if this meeting would bring clarity or just more confusion.


    After what felt like forever, they arrived at a large, imposing building. The structure was grand, towering over them with a mix of gothic architecture and modern design.


    Damian stared up at it, surprised. "This is the place?" he asked, glancing at Evelyn. "It looks more like a fancy office than a training ground or... whatever I was expecting."


    Evelyn smiled knowingly, eyeing the intricate stonework and towering spires. "Cassius likes to keep things formal. Don''t be fooled by the exterior¡ªit''s more than just an office."


    Damian squinted, trying to imagine what lay inside. "Great," he muttered, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "Another mystery."


    Evelyn''s smile widened just a bit, but she didn''t say anything. She gestured for him to follow her inside, her expression growing more serious as they approached the large, ornate doors.


    Damian hesitated for a brief second. He couldn''t shake the feeling that whatever happened inside this building would change things even more.


    "Well, here goes nothing," he muttered, more to himself than to Evelyn, and followed her inside.


    The interior was even more striking than the outside. The walls were lined with shelves filled with ancient tomes, strange artifacts, and glowing crystals that cast an ethereal light across the room. There was an almost overwhelming sense of power in the air, like the very walls were pulsing with magic.


    A tall, imposing figure stood at the far end of the room, his back to them, studying a large map laid out on a table. Damian didn''t need an introduction to know this was Cassius Thorn. There was something about the way he carried himself¡ªcalm, deliberate, yet undeniably powerful. His presence alone seemed to command the room.


    Evelyn stepped forward, her voice formal and respectful. "Cassius, I''ve brought him."


    Cassius turned slowly, his piercing gaze locking onto Damian. His face was sharp, framed by silver hair that gleamed under the soft light, and his eyes held a depth that made Damian feel like he was being examined on a level beyond the physical. The warlock looked younger than Damian had expected¡ªaround his 30s¡ªbut there was something ancient in his demeanor.


    Cassius approached slowly, each step deliberate, as if he were taking in every detail of Damian. His eyes scanned him, not in a suspicious way, but like an artist admiring a long-lost masterpiece. There was something odd in his expression¡ªwas it happiness? Nostalgia? Maybe both? Damian could feel the air shift between them, a strange connection he couldn''t place.


    Evelyn stood off to the side, watching quietly, her usual calm replaced by something more guarded.


    "Evelyn," Cassius said, his voice smooth and low, "how did you find him?"


    Evelyn glanced at Damian before speaking, her tone measured. "It wasn''t luck. He found me, in a way. And, there was a... situation at the bar where he works. I stepped in, and things escalated quickly from there."


    "I found you? It''s the other way around. You found me," Damian confused.


    But they ignored him, Cassius raised an eyebrow, his lips curling into a faint smile. "Of course. He knew how to give the clue and it always starts with a bit of chaos, doesn''t it?"


    Damian''s confusion worsened. "What clue? I just worked like usual last night. And it wasn''t me who started the fight."


    Cassius'' eyes flicked back to Damian. Again, he ignored his words. Yet he didn''t surprise as if he had expected Damian''s confusion. "You''ve been here longer than you think."


    Damian huffed. He had no idea what they were talking about, and the way Cassius looked at him¡ªlike he knew something Damian didn''t¡ªonly added to the confusion. "Right..." Damian said tiredly, unsure of what else to say.


    Cassius smiled, an amused glint in his eyes. "It''s been a long time."


    Damian blinked, taken aback. "A long time? I''ve never even met you."


    Cassius didn''t answer, at least not directly. Instead, he stepped closer, his smile widening. "I''ve been expecting you."


    Before Damian could process what that meant, Cassius pulled him into a hug. It wasn''t a casual greeting¡ªit was the kind of embrace he''d give an old friend, someone he hadn''t seen in years. Damian stood there, frozen in surprise, but after a few awkward seconds, he tentatively patted Cassius on the back, still thoroughly confused.


    When Cassius finally pulled back, he placed a firm hand on Damian''s shoulder, his expression serious again. "I''ll teach you what it means to be a warlock," he said, his voice full of certainty. "It won''t be easy. I''ll be harsh, even cruel at times. But believe me, you can do this."


    Damian blinked, still trying to catch up with everything that was happening. "I can trust him?" he asked, glancing over at Evelyn.


    Evelyn nodded, her expression calm but reassuring. "Yes. Cassius is the best there is. If anyone can help you figure out your power, it''s him."


    Damian hesitated, looking back at Cassius. There was something about the man¡ªsomething that made him feel both comforted and uneasy at the same time. Cassius seemed to know more about him than he did, and that kind of knowledge was unsettling. But Damian didn''t have a choice. If this was his new reality, he needed someone to guide him, and it looked like Cassius was that person.


    Cassius stepped back, still studying Damian as if he were a puzzle to be solved. "Tell me," he said, crossing his arms. "What skills do you have so far?"

 Chapter 27: First Training Session

    Warlock Ch 27. First Training Session


    Damian scratched the back of his neck, feeling slightly embarrassed by the question. He wasn''t exactly sure how to explain it. "Uh, well... I''ve got [Dark Bolt] and [Shadow Barrier], I think... and [Arcane Bolt]."


    Cassius nodded slowly, though his expression remained unreadable. "Basic skills. Good for a start." He looked at Evelyn, a hint of a smirk playing on his lips. "You''ve done well in getting him this far."


    Evelyn shrugged, her expression nonchalant. "He figured most of it out on his own. I just helped him not die."


    Damian shot her a look, raising an eyebrow. "Helped me not die? That''s reassuring."


    Cassius chuckled softly. "She''s not wrong. You''ve been thrown into this world with very little warning, and yet you''ve adapted quickly. But those skills are just the beginning. You''ll need more if you''re going to survive what''s coming."


    Damian frowned, feeling that familiar knot form in his chest again. "What exactly is coming?"


    Cassius''s smile faded slightly, and he glanced at Evelyn before turning back to Damian. "There are forces moving against you. Beings who will sense your power and want to use it¡ªor destroy it¡ªbefore you even understand what you''re capable of."


    Damian swallowed hard, his mind racing. "And this... amulet," he said, touching the pendant around his neck. "It''ll keep me hidden from them?"


    "For now," Cassius said. "The amulet will cloak your true strength, but it''s not foolproof. Eventually, someone will notice, and when that happens, you need to be ready."


    "Great," Damian muttered. "So, I''m on borrowed time."


    Cassius''s expression grew more serious. "Time is never guaranteed in our world. But you have an advantage now. You know what you''re up against."


    Damian glanced at Evelyn, who nodded subtly in agreement.


    "So, what now?" Damian asked, his voice quieter but resolute. "What''s the next step?"


    Cassius smiled again, but this time, it was more like a challenge than comfort. "Now, we train. You''re going to learn what it means to be a warlock¡ªnot just in name, but in power."


    Damian felt a surge of apprehension mixed with a strange sense of excitement. He had no idea what was coming next, but for the first time since all of this had started, he felt a flicker of hope. Maybe¡ªjust maybe¡ªhe could handle this.


    "All right," Damian said, nodding. "Let''s do this."


    Cassius''s eyes gleamed with approval as he clapped Damian on the shoulder once more. "Good. We start now."


    Damian barely had a moment to brace himself before Cassius led him through a heavy wooden door that groaned under its own weight. On the other side was a large, empty space¡ªbare walls and floors with no furniture, just eerily quiet.


    Damian glanced around, confused. "What is this place? Doesn''t exactly scream ''training ground,''" he said, his voice echoing slightly off the blank walls.


    Cassius stepped forward, raising his hand. "It''s not what it seems." His voice was calm, almost too calm for what Damian felt was about to happen. Cassius muttered something under his breath, an incantation in a language Damian didn''t recognize. A shimmering barrier suddenly formed around the room.


    The change was immediate. The air felt denser, thicker, charged with magic.


    "This barrier will nullify any impact," Cassius said, turning back to Damian, his expression unreadable but firm. "You''re free to let loose without destroying anything¡ªor yourself."


    Damian raised an eyebrow, cautiously intrigued. He reached out toward the barrier, but Cassius held up a hand, stopping him.


    "Trust me," Cassius added with a slight smirk. "It''s best you don''t touch it."


    Damian nodded, pulling his hand back and taking a breath. He watched as Cassius snapped his fingers, the sound sharp and sudden in the quiet room. From thin air, two shadowy creatures emerged, twisting and forming into monstrous shapes. Their bodies were dark and massive, their forms barely solid¡ªalmost like living shadows. They looked far worse than the ones Malthus had sent after him.


    Damian''s pulse quickened. These things didn''t just look dangerous; they felt like they could rip him apart without a second thought.


    "Meet my servants, Obsidar and Vrex," Cassius said, gesturing casually to the two shadowy monsters as if they were pets. "Both are here to assist¡ªand test you."


    Obsidar < Level 12>


    HP: 341 / 341


    MP: 30 / 30


    Vrex <Level 20>


    HP: 432 / 432


    MP: 100 /100


    Damian''s eyes widened as he instinctively took a step back. His heart raced. "This is... next level. They look like they could tear me apart."


    Cassius chuckled softly, his tone calm yet commanding. "They won''t¡ªat least, not if you''re careful. Now, focus. Let''s begin with the basics."


    Damian swallowed hard, his nerves buzzing as he tried to steady his breathing. He wasn''t ready for this. Not even close. He thought Cassius would give him something basic. Magical targets, perhaps? Or maybe just punching bags. Not as dangerous as the creatures that had tried to kill him the night before.


    Under Cassius''s watchful eye, Damian took a deep breath and raised his hand, summoning the first spell that came to mind¡ª[Arcane Bolt]. He could feel the familiar flicker of blue energy sparking from his fingers. The bolt shot toward the creatures, straight for Obsidar.


    The bolt hit with a crackling snap, but Obsidar barely flinched. His shadowy form absorbed the hit like it was nothing more than a gust of wind.


    [Obsidar] took 10 damage.


    Damian gritted his teeth. "That... didn''t do much."


    Cassius stepped closer, his arms crossed as he observed. "It''s a basic spell. Enough to get a feel for your magic, but it won''t take these creatures down. Not yet, anyway."


    Damian felt a bead of sweat trickle down his forehead. "Okay, so what now?"


    Cassius raised a brow. "Try something stronger. Use your [Dark Bolt] next. Focus the energy and aim carefully. These creatures are resistant to most magic, but dark spells should have a greater effect."


    Damian nodded, his mind racing as he shifted his focus. He closed his eyes briefly, summoning the darkness within him. He could feel it, cold and heavy, swirling around his fingertips. When he opened his eyes, the bolt formed quickly¡ªdarker and more potent than the [Arcane Bolt]. Without hesitation, he launched it toward Vrex, who had been watching him with glowing, hollow eyes.

 Chapter 28: Shadow Servants

    Warlock Ch 28. Shadow Servants


    The [Dark Bolt] hit harder, causing Vrex to let out a low, guttural growl as the shadows surrounding him rippled.


    [Vrex] took 25 damage.


    "Better," Cassius commented, his voice laced with approval. "Now, let''s see if you can defend yourself."


    With a flick of his wrist, Cassius sent Obsidar charging forward. The creature moved fast¡ªfaster than Damian expected¡ªits form shifting like smoke as it lunged toward him, claws extended.


    "Shadow Barrier!" Damian yelled, thrusting his hand forward just as Obsidar closed in.


    [A barrier has formed!]


    A shimmering shield of darkness appeared before him, absorbing the brunt of Obsidar''s attack. The impact rattled Damian''s bones, but the barrier held.


    [Obsidar] dealt 20 damage. Barrier absorbed 10 damage.


    Damian stumbled back, his chest heaving as the adrenaline surged through him. "Holy¡ª! This is insane!"


    Cassius smiled slightly. "You''re holding your own. But don''t get comfortable. There''s more to learn."


    He waved his hand, and Obsidar retreated, giving Damian a moment to catch his breath. Before Damian could fully relax, Cassius began explaining the next spell.


    "This one''s more advanced," he said. "Dark Chains. It''s a binding spell¡ªdifficult to master, but crucial in controlling enemies stronger than you. It requires focus and precision."


    Damian wiped the sweat from his brow, nodding. "Got it. How do I use it?"


    Cassius stepped closer, his tone low but firm. "Visualize the chains. Imagine them wrapping around your target, constricting their movement. You''ll need to channel your magic, but don''t rush it. The stronger the enemy, the tighter your hold needs to be."


    Damian took a deep breath, his hands trembling slightly as he raised them again. He closed his eyes, picturing the chains forming, coiling around Vrex''s massive shadowy form. At first, nothing happened. The magic flickered, unstable, refusing to take shape.


    "Focus," Cassius urged, his voice a calm anchor in the chaos of Damian''s mind.


    Gritting his teeth, Damian concentrated harder, pouring more of his energy into the spell. Slowly, the chains began to appear¡ªdark tendrils of magic wrapping around Vrex, tightening with every passing second. Vrex let out a low growl, struggling against the bindings.


    [New skill unlocked!]


    [Dark Chains lv 1]


    [Effect: Binds target for 10 seconds. ]


    [Vrex] is bound for 10 seconds.


    Damian exhaled sharply, but he couldn''t help the thrill that surged through him.


    Cassius gave a small nod of approval. "Good. You''re learning quickly."


    Damian grinned, his confidence starting to grow. "I''m getting the hang of this."


    But just as he felt a flicker of pride, the chains around Vrex began to strain, and the creature snarled, breaking free with a powerful surge. The chains shattered like glass, and Vrex lunged forward, forcing Damian to summon his [Shadow Barrier] again.


    The barrier barely held as Vrex''s claws raked across it. Damian staggered, his muscles aching from the effort of maintaining the magic. Every part of him was exhausted.


    But despite the fatigue, Damian couldn''t help but feel exhilarated. This was real. He was actually getting stronger, learning to control his magic in ways he never thought possible.


    The training session progressed. Cassius continued pushing him¡ªspell after spell, attack after attack. Damian''s muscles screamed in protest, and his head throbbed from the sheer amount of concentration each spell required. But he kept going, refusing to back down. He had come too far to quit now.


    Finally, after what felt like hours, Cassius raised a hand, signaling the end of the session. The shadowy creatures dissipated into the air, and the barrier around the room flickered out of existence.


    Damian collapsed onto the floor, panting heavily, his entire body drenched in sweat. He could barely move, his muscles aching and his magic reserves completely drained. But despite the exhaustion, a satisfied grin spread across his face.


    "I did it," Damian whispered, more to himself than anyone else. His gaze was on the system in front of him.


    Name: Damian Blackthorn


    Age: 23


    Class: Warlock of Eternal Bonds


    Level: 16


    [Partners: Evelyn Windward (Witch)]


    Stats:


    Mana Power: C+


    Stamina: B


    Endurance: B


    Strength: B


    Agility: B+


    Magic Affinity: C+


    XP: 500/1600


    Bond Points: 1


    Skills:


    [Pact Creation Lv. 3 : Ability to form magical contracts with supernatural beings. Requires a deep emotional or intimate connection to succeed. Unlocks more potent magical abilities based on the strength and nature of the bonded partner.]


    [Bond Empowerment Lv. 3: Each time a contract''s emotional or physical bond deepens, the caster gains a permanent increase in magical strength and new abilities tied to his partner''s magic. Current Boost: +30 Magic Power, +5 Agility, +10 Endurance]


    [Magical Affinity Lv. 3: Increases the caster''s ability to adapt to and master different types of magic through his bonds. He now gains greater flexibility with the magical abilities of his contracted partners. 25% bonus to any magical abilities gained through contracts, with a chance to learn partner-exclusive spells.]


    [Dark Bolt Lv. 3 : Fires a concentrated blast of dark energy that deals heavy damage to enemies. +40% damage compared to Lv. 1, now has a chance to inflict Fear status on enemies for 3 seconds.]


    [Shadow Barrier Lv. 3: Summons a shadowy shield that absorbs incoming attacks. The barrier''s strength increases based on the caster''s bond with his partners. Absorbs up to 60% of incoming damage for 10 seconds. Shield strength boosted by an additional 20% for each nearby bonded partner.


    [Arcane Bolt Lv. 3: Fires a bolt of pure arcane energy. Deals significant magical damage and can now chain between multiple enemies. Chain lightning effect: can now hit up to 3 targets.]


    [Dark Chains Lv. 3: Summons ethereal chains of darkness that bind and immobilize enemies, restricting movement and reducing their power. Binds up to 5 enemies within a 20-meter radius. Enemies are immobilized for 10 seconds and suffer a 30% reduction in physical and magical power while bound.]


    ''13 level in one training?!'' he thought in shock.


    Cassius approached him, his expression approving. "Yes, you did. But this is only the beginning. You have much more to learn."


    Damian nodded weakly, his chest still heaving. "I''m ready."


    Cassius smiled. "Good. Because the real challenge is yet to come."

 Chapter 29: Three Headed Wolf

    Warlock Ch 29. Three Headed Wolf


    Damian, still catching his breath from the intense training session, wiped the sweat from his brow and shot Cassius a confused look. "What does that mean?"


    Before Cassius could respond, Evelyn stepped forward, pulling a small vial from her cloak and handing it to Damian. "Here, drink this," she said, her voice calm but firm.


    Damian took the vial, noticing the shimmering blue liquid inside. "What is this?" he asked, his voice a little hoarse from the battle.


    "Mana potion. You''re running on empty. This''ll top you up," she explained.


    He uncorked the vial and downed the potion in one gulp. The liquid was cool, almost icy as it slid down his throat, and within seconds, he felt a surge of energy flood through him.


    [All your Mana has been restored!]


    Damian let out a relieved breath as his mana refilled, the fatigue lifting from his body. "Alright, that''s better," he muttered, glancing back at Cassius. "So... what does that mean?"


    Cassius''s smile faded, replaced by a serious expression. "Warlocks are all about pacts, Damian. The spells you''ve learned so far¡ªthose are just the basics for fighting."


    Damian furrowed his brows, sensing the weight of Cassius''s words. The gravity in his voice was unmistakable, and Damian could tell there was more to this than just casting a few spells. "So, what''s next then?"


    Cassius''s eyes narrowed, his voice steady but filled with intensity. "You need more pacts. Not just for power, but for survival."


    "Pacts?" Damian repeated, still trying to wrap his head around it. "You mean more... partners?"


    Cassius gave a sharp, humorless laugh. "No," he said bluntly. "Not partners. Servants. Things that will do your dirty work. And no, it won''t be like what you did with Evelyn. This is different. You''ll need to dominate them, make them submit to your will."


    Damian blinked, his mind racing to catch up. "Servants?" he muttered, his eyes narrowing in suspicion. "And how exactly am I supposed to get these... servants?"


    Cassius reached into his cloak, pulling out a small flask that shimmered with an otherworldly glow. He held it up, the liquid inside swirling like molten silver. "This is what you''ll need," Cassius said, his voice calm but filled with purpose.


    Damian eyed the flask with a mix of curiosity and uncertainty. "What''s that?" he asked, taking a small step closer.


    Cassius didn''t answer immediately. Instead, he uncorked the flask and, with a practiced motion, poured its contents onto the floor. The liquid hit the ground and immediately began to spread, forming intricate patterns that glowed with magic. The patterns twisted and turned, creating a magical formation that pulsed with energy. The air around them grew heavy, and Damian felt the ground beneath his feet vibrate with power.


    "What the hell...?" Damian whispered, watching in awe as the magic circle expanded across the floor.


    Suddenly, the room shook as a low rumble filled the air. Damian took a step back, eyes wide as the formation came to life. A portal tore open in the middle of the floor, crackling with dark energy. From the swirling vortex, a massive figure emerged¡ªa three-headed black wolf, its fur bristling and red eyes glowing with a sinister light.


    Due to his level, he could see more status.


    Fenrith <Level 31>


    HP: 1,200/1,200


    MP: 200/200


    Skills: [Savage Bite], [Triple Roar], [Void Howl]


    Weakness: Unknown


    "Oh, a Fenrith," Cassius said casually, as if the giant beast wasn''t a terrifying sight. "What a good start."


    Damian''s heart nearly stopped. He stared at the monstrous creature, its three heads growling in unison, each one snapping its jaws as if eager for a fight. "Holy shit... that thing''s huge," he said, his voice barely above a whisper.


    Cassius raised his hand, summoning a barrier around himself and Evelyn. The shimmering wall of magic separated them from the battlefield. "Don''t worry," Cassius said calmly. "You''re on your own with this."


    Damian shot him a bewildered look. "Wait, what? You''re not going to help?"


    Cassius''s tone remained calm, but there was an edge to his voice. "That beast isn''t my servant. It''s something summoned at random. I can''t control it, and neither can you¡ªuntil you defeat it."


    "Defeat it? Are you serious?" Damian''s pulse quickened as what Cassius was asking him to do sank in. He could barely handle the shadow creatures earlier, and now he was supposed to take down a level 31 monster? Alone?


    Cassius''s eyes were cold, unwavering. "Defeat it, tame it, and make a pact with it. Show it who''s in charge. That''s the only way."


    Damian swallowed hard, feeling the pressure mount. His eyes darted between the snarling wolf and Cassius. "Isn''t this moving a little fast? I mean, just yesterday I was shaking up cocktails."


    "No," Cassius replied flatly, his voice cutting through Damian''s rising panic. "You either do this now, or you''ll never be ready. This is what it means to be a warlock."


    Damian muttered under his breath, shaking his head. "How did my life go from serving drinks to fighting monsters in magical basements?"


    But there was no time to dwell on it. Fenrith, sensing Damian''s hesitation, let out a deep, menacing growl. One of its heads lunged forward, jaws snapping inches from Damian''s face. He barely dodged in time, his heart pounding in his chest as he scrambled to regain his footing.


    "Shit, shit, shit!" Damian cursed, raising his hand instinctively to summon [Arcane Bolt]. The familiar blue energy crackled around his fingers, and he fired the spell directly at Fenrith''s middle head.


    [Fenrith] took 15 damage.


    The bolt hit, but Fenrith barely reacted. The massive beast snarled, shaking off the attack like it was nothing more than a mosquito bite. All three heads turned toward Damian, their red eyes glowing with fury.


    "Great," Damian muttered. "That barely scratched it."


    Cassius''s voice echoed from behind the barrier. "You''ll need more than that, Damian. Use your surroundings. Don''t rely on brute force."


    Damian swallowed hard, glancing at Cassius for reassurance. But the warlock wasn''t offering any more help than that. Damian was alone with this monster, and if he didn''t figure something out fast, he''d end up as dog food.


    Fenrith snarled, its middle head lowering as it prepared to charge. Damian felt a spike of panic, but he forced himself to focus. He raised his hand again, summoning [Dark Bolt]. With a flick of his wrist, the bolt of black energy shot toward Fenrith''s massive body.


    The bolt hit, and this time, Fenrith staggered back, one of its heads snarling in pain. But the beast recovered quickly, shaking off the attack as if it were nothing more than a bee sting. Its eyes flared with rage, and all three heads lunged forward at once, jaws wide open, ready to tear Damian apart.


    Instinct kicked in. Damian dove to the side, hitting the ground hard as Fenrith''s teeth snapped shut where he''d just been standing. The beast''s massive paw swung at him, and Damian barely managed to roll out of the way, feeling the air whoosh past him as the claws missed by inches.

 Chapter 30: Old Friend…

    Warlock Ch 30. Old Friend...


    "Shit!" he cursed, scrambling to his feet, his mind racing. He couldn''t keep dodging forever. Fenrith was too fast, too strong. He needed a plan, and fast.


    He glanced around the room. The space was empty, save for the magical barrier protecting Cassius and Evelyn. There was nothing he could use as cover, no way to outmaneuver Fenrith in such a confined space. But then something clicked in his mind. ''Use your surroundings. Don''t rely on brute force!'' Cassius''s words from earlier echoed in his head.


    The beast was bigger, stronger, but Damian was faster. He could use that. He just needed to keep moving, stay one step ahead, and find an opening.


    "Okay, think," Damian muttered under his breath, circling Fenrith as the wolf tracked his every move. He needed to wear the beast down, create an opportunity to strike.


    Fenrith growled, its middle head lunging forward again. This time, Damian was ready. He ducked low, using his momentum to slide under the beast''s snapping jaws. As he slid, he summoned another [Dark Bolt], firing it directly into Fenrith''s exposed underbelly.


    [Fenrith] took 45 damage.


    The hit connected, and Fenrith roared in pain, stumbling slightly. Damian''s heart leapt with hope. He could hurt it. He just needed to keep up the pressure. But Fenrith wasn''t done yet. The beast spun around, one of its heads snapping at Damian''s leg. He barely had time to jump back, the teeth grazing his skin as he narrowly avoided being bitten.


    The near miss sent a surge of adrenaline through him. Damian gritted his teeth, pushing through the fear. He couldn''t afford to hesitate. Every second he hesitated was a second closer to getting killed.


    Fenrith growled again, more furious this time. Its three heads fanned out, each one ready to attack from a different angle. Damian could feel the tension in the air, the sheer power radiating from the creature. It lunged again, this time with all three heads snapping in unison, trying to corner him.


    Damian dodged left, then right, barely avoiding the strikes. His muscles screamed in protest, his body already exhausted from the earlier training, but he couldn''t stop. He couldn''t let up.


    "Keep moving, Damian!" Cassius shouted from behind the barrier. "You''ve got this!"


    ''Easy for you to say,'' Damian thought bitterly. But he kept moving, dodging and weaving, waiting for another opening.


    Then, it came. Fenrith lunged again, but this time, one of its heads misjudged the distance, its massive jaws slamming into the ground. For a brief moment, the beast was off balance, its middle head low to the ground.


    ''Now!''


    Damian summoned his magic again, but instead of firing another bolt, he focused on something more powerful. He raised both hands. "Dark Chains!" he shouted, releasing the spell.


    The shadowy tendrils shot out from his hands, wrapping around Fenrith''s legs and middle head, binding the beast in place. The chains tightened, pulling the creature to the ground with a heavy thud.


    [Fenrith] is bound for 10 seconds.


    Fenrith thrashed, all three heads snarling and snapping at the air, but the chains held tight. Damian didn''t waste a second. He summoned another [Dark Bolt], firing it directly into the beast''s exposed side.


    The bolt hit hard, and Fenrith let out a pained roar, its health bar dipping lower.


    [Fenrith] took 60 damage.


    But the chains wouldn''t hold forever. Damian could feel them weakening as Fenrith struggled harder, its sheer strength threatening to break free. He needed to act fast.


    "Damian!" Cassius''s voice cut through the chaos. "You''ve weakened it. Finish it off!"


    Damian''s heart pounded in his chest. He was exhausted, every muscle in his body screaming in protest, but he couldn''t stop now. He had to finish this.


    Fenrith roared, finally breaking free from the chains. One of its heads lunged at Damian, snapping its jaws inches from his face. He ducked low, rolling to the side as the beast''s massive paw slammed into the ground where he''d been standing.


    This was it. His window was closing. He had one shot to take Fenrith down for good.


    His hands crackled with dark energy as he prepared his attack. "Dark Bolt!" he shouted, unleashing the most powerful blast he could muster.


    The bolt hit Fenrith square in the chest, sending a shockwave through the room. The beast let out one final, deafening roar as its health bar dipped.


    [Fenrith] took 100 damage.


    But Fenrith wasn''t done. It lunged again, this time with more desperation, its middle head snapping at Damian''s throat. He barely managed to throw up a [Shadow Barrier], the dark shield absorbing the brunt of the attack.


    [A barrier has formed!]


    The impact rattled him, nearly knocking him off his feet, but he held firm. Fenrith''s health was low. He could feel the creature weakening, its movements growing more sluggish.


    Now was his chance.


    Damian raised his hand once more, summoning the last bit of energy he had left. His fingers tingled with raw power as he formed another [Dark Bolt]. This time, he aimed for Fenrith''s heart. The bolt flew from his hand, crackling through the air and slamming into the beast with a thunderous impact.


    [Fenrith] took 120 damage.


    Fenrith roared, its body trembling as the last of its strength faded. The beast staggered, its three heads lowering in defeat. Damian could feel the shift¡ªthe creature was finally giving in.


    "Now, Damian!" Cassius shouted. "Seal the pact!"


    Damian''s heart raced as he stepped forward, his hand still crackling with dark energy. He raised his arm. "Be my servant..." he said.


    Fenrith''s heads lowered in submission. A sign that it agreed.


    "Pact Creation."


    The beast bowed before Damian as the pact took hold.


    [Pact Creation]


    Target: Fenrith


    Success Rate: 85%


    A swirling magic formation appeared beneath Fenrith, intricate runes glowing as they carved themselves into the floor. Energy crackled through the room, binding Damian and the beast in a thread of magic. For a moment, everything went perfectly still.


    [Pact Successful: Fenrith is now your servant.]


    Damian panted heavily as the battle finally caught up with him. His muscles ached, his magic reserves were completely drained, but he had done it. He had tamed Fenrith.


    Cassius approached him, his expression one of approval mixed with a hint of pride. "Well done, Damian. You''ve taken your first step toward becoming a true warlock."


    Damian nodded weakly, still catching his breath. "I... I thought I was done for."


    Cassius smiled faintly. "You were never out of the fight. You just needed to realize your own strength."


    Damian looked up at Fenrith, the massive wolf now standing calmly beside him. The adrenaline in his veins was fading, replaced by the deep ache of exhaustion. His legs wobbled beneath him, and his vision blurred as if the world was slipping away. He had actually done it¡ªhe had tamed the beast. But his body couldn''t keep up with the rush of magic that had surged through him during the fight.


    His gaze flickered back to Cassius, who was watching him closely. Damian''s knees buckled, the last of his strength giving out. The world tilted as he collapsed, the ground rushing up to meet him. But before he could hit the cold, hard floor, Cassius appeared in a blur of movement, teleporting in front of him and catching him effortlessly. The warlock''s grip was firm, steadying Damian''s limp body just before everything went black.


    "Welcome back to the real world of warlocks, old friend," Cassius said softly, his voice filled with a sense of finality and... familiarity.


    ''Old friend?'' Damian''s thoughts struggled to piece together what Cassius had said. ''I''m not your friend... we''ve never even met...'' But the exhaustion was too much, pulling him under. Before he could question it, before he could ask what Cassius meant, darkness consumed him, and he passed out.

 Chapter 31: You Have No Right To Judge Me!

    Warlock Ch 31. You Have No Right To Judge Me!


    Damian found himself drifting in that dream again. He stood in front of that artifact¡ªthe same one that had haunted his dream last night. But that thing looked different. But tonight, it changed even more dramatically.


    Now, there was a carving on its surface, something new¡ªa three-headed wolf. Damian''s stomach tightened as he recognized the symbol. It looked eerily similar to Fenrith. The carving was detailed, precise, almost too perfect, like it was meant to be there all along, waiting for him to notice.


    "What the hell..." Damian muttered to himself, his voice echoing back at him in the empty space around him.


    But that wasn''t the only thing that had caught his eye. Just below the wolf, there was another symbol, one that looked frustratingly familiar. His brow furrowed as he tried to place it, but it wasn''t until he thought back to Evelyn''s place that it hit him. He assumed it was some sort of witch''s mark. He had seen it plastered on the walls of her house, almost casually, like it was nothing.


    Staring at the artifact, his gut twisted, but before he could process what any of it meant, a voice echoed in his mind.


    "You cannot escape your fate, Damian. You were never meant to run."


    He instinctively took a step back. But no matter how far he moved, the voice seemed to follow.


    "What do you mean?!" he shouted into the emptiness, his voice shaking.


    The only response he got was silence. That, and the sensation of something invading his thoughts again. Another memory, or maybe a vision, was forcefully shoved into his mind. But like all the other times, it was a mess¡ªhazy, chaotic, like someone had thrown a bucket of paint at a canvas and called it art.


    Then it hit.


    The same one from his earlier dreams. Damian was back in the middle of it¡ªmagic swirling around him, destruction crashing through the air, everything burning. He could feel the power thrumming in his veins, terrifying and intoxicating at the same time. And then, there she was. The woman. Her face was still blurred, covered with a hood, but her intent? Oh, that was crystal clear. She was out for his blood.


    She lunged at him. Without thinking, Damian''s body reacted, his hand snapping up in front of him, moving as if it had a mind of its own. He didn''t even know what spell he had cast, but the power that surged from him was wild, untamed, and honestly, it scared the hell out of him.


    The magic exploded from his palm, a violent shockwave that sent the woman flying backward. She slammed into a barrier she barely managed to throw up in time, and even then, the force of the blast cracked it like fragile glass. The destruction around her was fatal. All turned to ruins in a snap as if an invisible power slammed it flat.


    For a second, Damian thought he might have killed her. But no. She was tougher than that. She staggered to her feet, her voice ringing out, furious and sharp. "You''ve taken the dark path!" she yelled, her words dripping with accusation.


    Damian froze, his heart pounding in his chest. What the hell did she mean by that? His mind raced, but he couldn''t make sense of her words. Nothing made sense in these dreams.


    "Dark path?" he muttered to himself, trying to grasp onto something solid in this whirlwind of madness. But there was no time for that. Before he could question her, something else rose up inside him¡ªa bitterness, sharp and painful, that he hadn''t known was there.


    "You have no right to judge me," he snarled, his voice raw. It came out before he even knew what he was saying, but once the words were out, he couldn''t take them back. There was a weight to them, a depth of emotion that surprised even him. It wasn''t just anger. No, this was something deeper, something that had been festering for far too long.


    The woman, still obscured, faltered for a moment, her posture shifting as if his words had hit harder than his magic. But the pause was brief. The fury returned.


    He felt it all¡ªanger, disappointment, sadness, and something else... something he couldn''t quite name. But it was familiar. Too familiar.


    Suddenly, a sharp pain tore through his chest. It wasn''t physical, but it hurt like hell. It was the kind of pain that felt like it was trying to rip him apart from the inside out, like his heart had been shattered and he had no idea why.


    "What the¡ª" Damian clutched his chest, staggering backward. It wasn''t from the fight. This pain was something else. Something deeper. He couldn''t explain it, but he could feel it. Whatever it was, it had been with him for a long, long time.


    His breathing came in ragged gasps as he tried to steady himself, but nothing made sense. Nothing felt right. The emotions swirled inside him, confusing and overwhelming, like he was drowning in feelings that weren''t even his own.


    And then, as if to mock him, the artifact''s voice returned, softer this time, almost pitying.


    "You know the truth, Damian. You''ve always known."


    His knees buckled, and for a moment, he thought he might fall. But before he could, the dream¡ªor whatever the hell this was¡ªstarted to fade. He could feel himself being pulled back, the chaotic scene melting away around him like smoke. But the pain... the pain lingered, like a bruise that wouldn''t heal.


    The last thing he saw before the vision fully dissolved was the woman''s face. It was still blurred, but now, her expression cut through the haze. She looked torn¡ªcaught between anger and something else.


    Was it regret? Sorrow?


    He couldn''t tell. But there was something there, something that made his heart ache even more.


    With a gasp, Damian woke up, drenched in sweat. His heart was still racing, the ache in his chest so real it made him wince. He pressed his hand against his chest, but the pain wasn''t physical. It was something much worse.

 Chapter 32: Curiosity is Your Downfall

    Warlock Ch 32. Curiosity is Your Downfall


    "Shit," Damian muttered under his breath, running a hand through his hair as he blinked awake. His body felt heavy, like he''d been asleep for hours. He swept his gaze around, realizing quickly this wasn''t Evelyn''s place. Nope, still Cassius'' house.


    He wasn''t on a bed either, just an old, worn-out leather sofa. The kind that looked cool in a gothic kind of way but creaked with every slight movement. Damian shifted, trying not to wake the entire house with the sound, but the sofa had other plans. The light pouring through the window told him it was already evening. How long had he been out?


    His stomach growled in protest, a harsh reminder that he''d completely skipped lunch.


    ''Great!'' Now he had hunger gnawing at him, on top of the mental rollercoaster that dream had dragged him through. He rubbed a hand over his face, trying to shake off the drowsiness as he got to his feet.


    The place was quiet. Almost too quiet. He decided to explore, though he moved slowly. Something about this place always felt... off. Not in a creepy way, but in a way that made the hairs on the back of his neck stand up.


    Sure, from the outside, it gave off an office vibe, nothing too crazy. But the inside? It felt more like a mansion straight out of some gothic horror story. The antique furniture, the heavy atmosphere¡ªit was like time itself had slowed down in here.


    Damian glanced around, noticing the lack of servants or any staff. No butlers, no maids. It didn''t sit right. A house this size, this elaborate, should''ve had people bustling around. But there was no one, and that only added to the eerie vibe.


    He wandered deeper. Damian eventually stumbled upon Cassius and Evelyn. They were sitting at a dining table near an open kitchen, talking quietly. He stopped short, deciding not to make his presence known just yet. Curiosity piqued, he lingered by the doorway, listening in. He couldn''t help it¡ªsomething about the way they were speaking felt... personal. Intense.


    In the kitchen, a bizarre creature with several writhing tentacles moved about, busy with what looked like cooking. Damian had seen Cassius summon plenty of things before, but this one looked particularly weird. It didn''t seem to care about anything but the food it was preparing, so Damian stayed focused on the conversation happening at the table.


    "I miss him," Cassius said softly. "I really hope he can come back like he was before."


    Evelyn replied in her measured tone. "About that... we can''t force him. It has to be his choice. It all depends on his decision."


    Damian furrowed his brow. ''Who the hell are they talking about?'' His mind started racing. Was it someone they both knew? Someone important? The way Cassius'' voice wavered slightly¡ªit was strange, hearing him like that. Cassius, who seemed so in control, so sure of himself. There was something deeper here, something Damian needed to understand.


    He leaned in closer, trying to pick up more of the conversation, piecing together whatever fragments he could catch. His heart started beating faster. There were answers here, he was sure of it. Answers to questions he hadn''t even known he needed to ask.


    And then, without warning, Cassius appeared beside him, as if he''d just materialized out of thin air. Damian''s heart nearly leaped out of his chest.


    "Damian, you''re awake," Cassius said with a smirk.


    Damian swallowed hard, his pulse still racing. He hadn''t expected to be caught eavesdropping, and Cassius seemed to be enjoying his discomfort. "Uh, yeah... I guess I am," he muttered, trying to play it off like he hadn''t just been standing there like an idiot, listening in on their private conversation.


    Cassius'' smirk widened. "I take it you heard a bit of what we were talking about?"


    Damian scratched the back of his head, avoiding Cassius'' gaze. "Maybe... a little."


    Cassius'' smirk didn''t falter. If anything, it grew wider, almost predatory. "You always were a curious one," he said, his voice dripping with amusement. "But no harm done. Come on, join us. The food''s almost ready."


    Damian wasn''t sure if he was being offered a meal or if Cassius was just setting him up for some kind of test, remembering his training. He glanced over at the kitchen, where the tentacled creature was still hard at work, stirring something that smelled... surprisingly delicious, given its grotesque appearance. The smell alone was enough to remind Damian how hungry he was. His stomach growled again, louder this time, making his decision for him.


    "Yeah, sure. I could eat," he mumbled, trying to act casual as he walked over to the dining table.


    Evelyn gave him a small, knowing smile as she took her seat again. "I hope you''re ready for something different," she said, nodding toward the kitchen. "Cassius''... chef has a unique style."


    Damian raised an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued. "Yeah, I''ve noticed." He pulled out a chair and sat down, glancing between the two of them. It was hard to tell what kind of vibe was going on here. Evelyn was as composed as always, but Cassius¡ªhe didn''t know him. For sure, Cassius seemed a bit restless than before. And that whole conversation from before? It was still gnawing at the back of his mind. Who the hell were they talking about?


    Before he could ask any questions, the creature in the kitchen slithered over to the table, carrying a tray of food with its tentacles. The dishes looked like a strange mix of high-end gourmet and something he''d expect to see in a dark fantasy movie. One plate had what appeared to be roasted meat, but it shimmered with an odd, purple sheen. Another held a salad of blackened leaves and glowing fruit.


    Cassius didn''t seem fazed at all, and Evelyn, of course, was unbothered. Damian, on the other hand, stared at the food for a moment before shrugging. At this point, he was too hungry to care if the food looked like it came from another dimension.


    "So," Damian said, picking up his fork and eyeing the strange meat on his plate, "what were you two talking about before I... you know, woke up?"


    Cassius shot him a glance, his smirk fading slightly. "Curiosity really is your downfall, you know that?"


    Damian shrugged, cutting into the meat. "Can''t help it. You guys were talking about someone¡ªsomeone important, I''m guessing."

 Chapter 33: Let The Past Stay in The Past (Review Bonus)

    Warlock Ch 33. Let The Past Stay in The Past


    Evelyn exchanged a glance with Cassius before turning her attention back to Damian. "It''s... complicated," she said slowly, like she was carefully picking each word. "But yes, it''s someone important. Someone from our past."


    Damian leaned forward, his curiosity piqued. "Who is he?" His tone was more eager than he intended, but he couldn''t shake the feeling that whatever they were talking about had something to do with the strange dreams he''d been having.


    Cassius waved a hand dismissively, not even looking up from his plate. "Let the past stay in the past, Damian," he said, his voice casual, but with a sharp edge to it. "Bringing it up just makes the food taste bad. Besides, there''s no point in mentioning it now."


    Damian wasn''t sure if Cassius was trying to dodge the question or if it really was something that didn''t matter anymore. But the way Evelyn had looked at him? The way Cassius had shifted the conversation so quickly? It didn''t feel like it was something as simple as ''the past.''


    Before Damian could press further, Evelyn changed the subject, smirking a little. "So, is the food good, or are you just that hungry?" she teased.


    Damian blinked, glancing down at his plate. He hadn''t even realized it, but he''d already eaten half the meal in record time. He let out an awkward laugh. "Uh, yeah... I guess I was pretty hungry. And, uh, the food''s weird, but surprisingly good."


    He glanced over at the creature in the kitchen. Its tentacles writhed and moved with a kind of eerie grace as it prepared another dish. "And, uh, that thing''s got some serious skills in the kitchen."


    Cassius chuckled, finally looking up. "His name is Zevrik. One of my more reliable servants. He usually handles the cooking around here."


    Damian stared at Zevrik for a second longer, still kind of mesmerized by the way it worked, then turned back to Cassius. "Can I summon something like that one day?" he asked curiously.


    Cassius leaned back in his chair, his expression thoughtful. "That depends on how far you push yourself. How many servants you can summon and who you form pacts with. Your potential is limitless, Damian, but it''s all about the choices you make."


    Damian nodded slowly, considering that. He hadn''t really thought much about how far he could go with his abilities. Everything still felt so new, so chaotic. But Cassius had a point¡ªhe was just scratching the surface.


    As he took another bite, something clicked in his mind. He looked around the room, then at Evelyn. "Wait... where''s Fenrith?"


    Evelyn glanced at him, amused. "Fenrith''s been back with you since you fainted. Didn''t you notice? When a caster loses consciousness, all their summons disappear."


    Damian let out a sigh of relief, rubbing the back of his neck. "Oh, right. That makes sense. So, uh... how do I feed Fenrith?"


    The moment the words left his mouth, both Cassius and Evelyn burst out laughing.


    The sound echoed through the room, and Damian instantly regretted asking. He shot them a flat look, muttering under his breath, "Yeah, okay, stupid question," he regretted it.


    Cassius, still chuckling, shook his head. "Not stupid, just... inexperienced." He leaned forward, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "You don''t need to feed him. Fenrith''s a supernatural creature. They sustain themselves on Mana, not food."


    Evelyn nodded, finally managing to suppress her laughter. "Think of them more like magical constructs than pets. They''re not bound by the same rules as living creatures."


    "Right." Damian sighed, feeling a little foolish, but he was still learning the ropes. Everything about this world felt so foreign, and sometimes it was hard to remember what was ''normal'' here.


    The laughter died down, and the mood shifted as Cassius turned serious again. He leaned back, folding his arms. "Speaking of Mana and constructs, you should know more about this world. There are three main factions: Good, Neutral, and what most people refer to as Dark or Evil."


    Damian raised an eyebrow. "Factions, huh? What''s the difference between them?"


    Evelyn took over the explanation. "Good represents those who live by strict moral codes, usually protecting the human world from supernatural threats. They see themselves as the guardians of balance."


    Cassius picked up where she left off. "Neutral beings walk the line between power and responsibility. They don''t get involved unless they have to. Think of them as observers, keeping to their own agendas but not tipping the scales one way or the other."


    Damian frowned, his thoughts wandering to the dream, the artifact, and everything Cassius had hinted at. "And the Dark faction?"


    Evelyn''s face hardened. "The Dark faction is where those who crave power at any cost reside. They''ll use anything¡ªspells, souls, Mana cores¡ªto achieve their goals. They''re ruthless, and they don''t care about the consequences."


    Something clicked in Damian''s mind. "So... where does Malthus Ravenwood fit into all this?"


    At the mention of the name, Evelyn''s expression darkened. She exchanged a glance with Cassius before answering, her voice low and serious. "Malthus? Definitely Dark. Evil, to be exact. He''s notorious for stealing power from others, taking their Mana cores and claiming them as his own. He doesn''t just crave power¡ªhe feeds on it."


    Damian''s stomach twisted at the thought. Malthus wasn''t just dangerous; he was a predator, someone who would stop at nothing to get what he wanted. And somehow, Damian knew he was going to cross paths with him sooner or later.


    Cassius leaned forward, his eyes locking onto Damian''s. "Be careful, Damian. The Dark faction isn''t just a bunch of rogues playing with dangerous magic. They have leaders, followers, and an agenda. And Malthus... he''s not someone you want to underestimate."


    Damian swallowed hard, nodding slowly. He could feel the weight of their words settling over him. Whatever he was getting into, it wasn''t going to be simple. There were layers to this world¡ªdangerous, intricate layers. And he was just starting to peel them back.

 Chapter 34: No Shortcuts

    Warlock Ch 34. No Shortcuts


    Damian, still buzzing with questions about the magical world, leaned forward, curiosity lighting up his eyes. "So, what about the government? I mean, is there a magical version of it? Like, someone keeping all this chaos in check?"


    Cassius nodded, leaning back in his chair, the shadows playing across his face. "There is. The magical world has its own governing body. It''s more behind the scenes, of course. You won''t hear about it on the news, but they''re there. They control things like law enforcement, settle disputes, and create magical laws. It''s not as glamorous as you''d think. More politics than magic most days."


    Damian raised an eyebrow, surprised. He hadn''t expected the magical world to have something so... bureaucratic. "And money? Do we have, like, magical gold coins or something?" He half-expected some sort of ancient treasure system, like in all the fantasy stories he''d read growing up.


    Evelyn laughed softly, shaking her head as if she''d heard the question a million times before. "Nope, sorry to disappoint. Same currency as the normal world. We''ve just adapted over time. Magic''s integrated with everything. No need for a magical banking system when you can manipulate things quietly."


    Damian grinned, leaning back in his chair. "Well, that''s convenient." He could only imagine how weird it would be to try and pay rent with some enchanted coins.


    The mood lightened as the conversation drifted into more casual territory. "There are definitely some perks to living in this world," Cassius said with a smirk. "Like being able to teleport or fly instead of dealing with traffic. You''ve got no idea how much that saves time."


    Damian''s eyes widened at the thought. "Teleport? Seriously?"


    Cassius nodded. "Not everyone can do it, but yeah, it''s a handy trick if you know how. Beats sitting in rush hour, that''s for sure."


    "And food," Evelyn added, gesturing toward the creature still busy in the kitchen. Zevrik''s tentacles danced over the stove like a master chef. "You don''t always have to rely on magic for everything, but it definitely makes life easier when you''ve got things like him around."


    Damian glanced back at the creature, still marveling at how normal this had become in just a few hours. Yesterday, his biggest problem was dealing with angry customers at the bar. Now, he was sitting in a house with a warlock, a witch, and a magical creature whipping up dinner. It was surreal, but somehow, it already felt... right.


    The conversation carried on for a while longer, and eventually, Damian and Evelyn stood up, stretching as they prepared to leave. The sun was almost set, and though he was still trying to process everything, Damian felt a weird sense of calm.


    "Well, I guess it''s time to head back," he said, glancing at Evelyn.


    "Wait." Before they could make it to the door, Cassius stood up and walked over to a nearby bookshelf, pulling down a small stack of books. He handed them to Damian, who looked down at them in surprise.


    "You''re going to need these," Cassius said, his tone serious.


    Damian blinked, staring at the pile in his hands. "Books? I thought warlocks were more... I don''t know, self-taught or something. "


    Cassius raised an eyebrow, giving him a pointed look. "This is a modern world, Damian. Education is important. You''ve barely scratched the surface of what you need to know, and right now, you''re way behind."


    Damian let out a nervous chuckle, feeling the books grow heavier in his arms. "Right... so no shortcuts, huh?"


    Cassius shook his head, his expression stern. "If you want to learn from experience alone, go ahead. But you''ll lose to those who were born and raised in this world. Don''t make that mistake. Knowledge is power¡ªmore than any spell you can cast."


    Evelyn smirked, patting Damian on the shoulder as she headed for the door. "Welcome to school, Damian."


    He chuckled nervously. "Right..."


    They made their way out, but something weighed heavily on Damian''s mind. He hesitated for a moment before turning back to Cassius, the question slipping out before he could stop himself. "Hey, before we go... earlier, before I fainted, you said something about me being your old friend. Why?"


    Cassius''s eyes flashed with something¡ªregret, or maybe something else¡ªbut his face remained calm. "You must''ve heard me wrong," he said smoothly, but there was a tension in his voice that Damian didn''t miss.


    Damian frowned, not entirely convinced, but he was too tired to push it. Between the weird dreams, the magic lessons, and whatever mysteries were hiding in this world, his brain felt like it was on overload. "Right... I guess I was out of it."


    Cassius watched them leave, his expression unreadable, as if there was something more he wanted to say but chose not to. The silence was heavy, but Damian didn''t have the energy to dig any deeper. Not tonight, anyway.


    Outside, the evening night air hit Damian''s face, and he glanced down at the books again, feeling their weight¡ªboth physically and metaphorically. "So... guess I''m back to studying, huh?"


    Evelyn smiled, her eyes glinting in the moonlight. "Looks like it. But hey, could be worse. At least you don''t have to sit in an actual classroom."


    Damian laughed, feeling a bit more relaxed. "Yeah, I guess that''s true. Magic textbooks beat algebra any day."


    They walked down the path, the street quieter than it had been that morning. The soft glow of streetlights flickered on as the sun dipped below the horizon. It should''ve felt peaceful, almost serene, but in the back of Damian''s mind, the lingering mystery of Cassius''s words gnawed at him.


    There was something there¡ªsomething about his past, about whatever connection Cassius seemed reluctant to talk about. And somehow, Damian knew it was tied to the strange dreams, the artifact, and maybe even to his future in this unpredictable, magical world.


    The cool evening breeze brushed against his face, carrying with it the faint scent of rain from the distant clouds hanging over the city. The streets were mostly empty now. Only a few scattered pedestrians walked by. The silence felt heavy, but it wasn''t unpleasant¡ªjust... different.


    Evelyn broke the silence. "I''ve got to make a few stops at the market before we head back. You mind?"


    Damian shrugged, still deep in thought. "Yeah, sure. No rush."

 Chapter 35: Strolling Around the Market

    Warlock Ch 35. Strolling Around the Market


    Evelyn led him toward a cozy, dimly lit shop tucked away at the corner of the market. The sign above the door read "Faye''s Potions & Herbs", and the smell of strange, magical ingredients hit Damian as soon as they stepped inside.


    The shop was a blend of the mystical and the familiar, filled with shelves lined with bottles of glowing liquids, jars of dried herbs, and enchanted trinkets that shimmered under the soft, amber light. Damian glanced around, feeling a bit out of place in this world where even groceries felt like something out of a fantasy novel. He''d been getting used to the magical side of things, but places like this reminded him just how much he didn''t know.


    Evelyn, on the other hand, moved through the shop like she''d been there a hundred times before, completely at ease. She casually browsed the shelves, picking up small bags of herbs and inspecting the odd potion bottle as if it were no different from a regular trip to the supermarket. Damian admired how she navigated this world so confidently, while he still felt like a tourist.


    A few seconds later, a figure appeared from the back of the shop¡ªa fae with bright, mischievous eyes and shimmering wings that caught the light. The fae greeted them with a warm, knowing smile. "Evelyn! Back again so soon?"


    Evelyn smiled back, waving a hand in greeting. "You know me, always running out of something. How''ve you been, Faye?"


    The fae¡ªFaye, apparently¡ªglanced at Damian, her eyes twinkling with curiosity. "And who''s this?" she asked, her gaze flicking between them. It was clear she found Damian''s presence alongside Evelyn intriguing.


    Evelyn, with her friendly tone, introduced him casually. "Oh, this is Damian. He''s Cassius'' new apprentice."


    Faye''s eyebrows shot up, her wings fluttering slightly as she tilted her head in surprise. "Cassius'' apprentice? Well, that''s something you don''t see every day. Cassius doesn''t like people staying at his place. This one must be special."


    Damian shifted awkwardly under the attention, feeling a bit exposed. He wasn''t used to being the center of conversation, especially in a world where people like Cassius were apparently not too keen on company. The way Faye looked at him made him realize just how rare it was for someone to get close to Cassius¡ªand here he was.


    "Uh, I guess you could say that," Damian said, rubbing the back of his neck, unsure of how to respond. He glanced at Evelyn, hoping she''d steer the conversation in a less awkward direction.


    Evelyn laughed softly, noticing his discomfort. "He''s still new to all this, but he''s learning fast."


    Faye grinned, her eyes gleaming with amusement. "Oh, is he now?" She reached behind the counter and pulled out a small vial filled with a softly glowing blue liquid. "Here, try this one on for size. Careful, though¡ªit''s for beginners!" Her tone was playful, but the twinkle in her eyes made Damian question whether she was joking or not.


    Damian chuckled nervously, staring at the glowing potion. "Uh, yeah... thanks, but I think I''ll pass on that for now." He shot a glance at Evelyn, who was stifling a laugh behind her hand. That didn''t help his nerves much.


    Evelyn patted his arm, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Don''t worry, she''s just messing with you. Mostly."


    "Mostly?" Damian muttered under his breath, shaking his head with a grin. He was starting to get used to the constant teasing in this world, but it still threw him off balance sometimes.


    They continued to browse the shop. Damian watched how easily Evelyn interacted with Faye, their banter flowing naturally. He realized how well-connected she was in the magical world¡ªeveryone seemed to know her, and not just as a casual acquaintance. There was respect there, a kind of familiarity. Just like how he chatted with his regulars at the bar.


    "You come here often?" Damian asked, half-joking as they passed by a shelf filled with strange, glowing crystals.


    "All the time," Evelyn said, smiling as she examined a jar of dried herbs. "Faye''s shop has a lot of the rare stuff I need for potions. Plus, she''s always up for a chat." She glanced at the fae, who winked at her from across the shop. "It''s good to stay connected. You never know when you''ll need a favor or a rare ingredient."


    Faye, overhearing, laughed softly. "Evelyn''s a regular here. Always helping someone or working on her next potion masterpiece." She reached over the counter and handed Evelyn a small, tightly sealed bag. "Here''s that rare root you wanted, by the way."


    Damian watched the exchange, feeling more comfortable now that the focus wasn''t on him. He was starting to see why Evelyn was so respected¡ªshe wasn''t just a part of this world, she was an active participant, always lending a hand or sharing her knowledge. It was impressive, and he felt a sense of admiration for her growing inside him.


    They moved toward the counter to check out. Damian leaned in closer to Evelyn and whispered, "Do you know everyone in the magical world?"


    Evelyn smirked, not missing a beat. "Not everyone, but I try to stay connected. It helps when you''re dealing with all kinds of magic." She handed the coins to Faye, who quickly wrapped up their purchases.


    Damian couldn''t help but laugh. "Yeah, I can see that. It''s like you''ve got a whole network going." He remembered they mentioned a lot of names in their conversation.


    Evelyn shrugged with a grin. "It pays to know people."


    With their shopping done, Faye handed Evelyn a small bag filled with herbs and potions, giving her a knowing look. "Don''t be a stranger, Evelyn. And bring this one back sometime," she added, nodding toward Damian with a wink. "I''ve got a feeling he''s going to need a lot of help."


    Damian smiled, feeling a little more at ease now. "Thanks. I''ll take you up on that," he said, half-seriously. There was a lot he didn''t know, and he had a feeling he''d be leaning on people like Evelyn¡ªand Faye¡ªmore than he cared to admit.


    "Okay, next. I need to buy some groceries," Evelyn announced with that same chipper tone that somehow made everything sound like it wasn''t going to turn into a marathon

 Chapter 36: I Hate Being A Gentleman

    Warlock Ch 36. I Hate Being A Gentleman


    Damian let out a quiet groan, but he didn''t argue. He was way too tired to put up a fight. Besides, he''d gotten used to following her lead by now, but that didn''t make it any easier. His arms were already loaded with books, groceries, and potions from their last stop, and his muscles felt like they were one bag away from giving up entirely. He mentally counted how many bags he was holding and then realized he didn''t even care anymore.


    ''Kill me... please,'' he thought as they trudged along the dimly lit street. His feet dragged behind him, barely lifting off the pavement, and every muscle in his body screamed in protest. He was walking more like a zombie than a warlock-in-training, his body weighed down not just by the endless bags but by the strain of the day.


    Training had already drained him, and now this? It felt like some cruel, magical workout plan designed to break his spirit.


    ''I hate being a gentleman,'' he mentally complained as they rounded another corner, ''This is worse than a long session at the gym after an all-night shift.'' He couldn''t remember the last time his body felt this exhausted, and the irony wasn''t lost on him.


    By the time they finally reached the front door of the house, Damian barely had the energy to make it up the last few steps. He didn''t feel victorious at all¡ªjust relieved to be done with the trek. The moment they crossed the threshold, he dropped the bags onto the floor with a loud thud and leaned against the wall, panting like he''d just run a marathon.


    Evelyn, of course, didn''t seem bothered in the slightest. She turned to him with that bright smile, her eyes sparkling as she cheerfully said, "Thank you, Damian! You''re so strong."


    Damian shot her a tired look, not even trying to hide his exhaustion. "I don''t want to do that anymore," he said bluntly, still catching his breath. "My muscles are screaming. This is worse than hitting the gym after a long night shift."


    Evelyn laughed softly, her tone playful. "Oh, if you''re that tired, you could always summon Fenrith to help you."


    Damian paused mid-step, blinking in confusion. "Wait... summoning a servant to carry things? Is that allowed?" He''d been operating under the assumption that Fenrith was strictly for battle, not for mundane tasks like grocery duty.


    Evelyn shrugged casually, as if the idea was the most obvious thing in the world. "Why not? They can help with other tasks, too."


    Damian frowned slightly, still processing this new information. "I thought Fenrith was only useful for fighting. I mean... He is a wolf," he said, his brain slowly catching up to the idea that maybe he didn''t have to do all this manual labor himself.


    Evelyn shook her head, her smile still in place. "Yes, he''s great in battle, but that doesn''t mean he can''t handle less exciting tasks, like carrying bags. Summons are bound to you¡ªthey''ll do whatever you need."


    Damian stared at her for a long moment, realization dawning on him. "Could''ve used that information earlier," he muttered, though his voice lacked any real heat. He was too tired to be mad, but there was a certain level of exasperation in his tone as he followed her into the house and started unpacking the bags.


    They both worked to put away the groceries and potions. He glanced at Evelyn, who was effortlessly organizing the shelves.


    Stretching out his sore muscles, Damian couldn''t resist asking, "You really do this every time? Carrying all this stuff?"


    Evelyn grinned, not even looking up from the potion she was carefully placing on a shelf. "Not always," she admitted with a playful glint in her eye. "Sometimes I have my own ways of handling it. But today, I just thought you''d like the workout."


    Damian let out a long, tired sigh, his shoulders slumping in resignation. Of course, he''d been roped into helping without knowing there were easier options.


    They finished putting everything away. Damian took a moment to glance at her again, something flashed across his head. After a few moments of silence, he finally broke the quiet, his voice thoughtful. "You''re really nice to everyone, always helping out and being friendly... so why were those combat mages after you?"


    Evelyn''s smile faltered slightly, her usually light expression darkening for a brief moment. She tried to shrug it off, but Damian didn''t miss the way her posture stiffened. "Let''s just say... not everyone likes me," she said, her voice softer now, a little more guarded.


    Damian raised an eyebrow, not buying the vague response. "Yeah, I remember them mentioning something about ''giving their people trouble.'' What did they mean by that?"


    Evelyn sighed, running a hand through her hair as if the question weighed heavier than she wanted to admit. "Because I did give them trouble," she said simply, her eyes briefly meeting Damian''s before darting away. "A long time ago. It''s not something I''m proud of, but... well, I''ve got a history with those people."


    Damian frowned, trying to piece it together. "Wait, so are they from the Evil faction or something? Is that why they''re so pissed off at you?"


    She shook her head, a bitter laugh escaping her lips. "No, they''re not Evil. They''re Neutral. They like to stay in the middle, keep things balanced. The problem is, balance means something different to everyone. And to them, I''m the one who threw everything off."


    "So, they hate you... because you messed with their idea of balance?" Damian asked, still trying to wrap his head around the situation. "That seems... extreme."


    Evelyn glanced at him, her face unreadable for a moment. Then she spoke, her voice quieter, almost hesitant. "Let''s just say... I also have a past. And it''s not a good one."


    Damian felt the air between them grow heavier. Evelyn had always been this calm, confident person, always smiling, always in control. But now, seeing her hesitate, it was like seeing a crack in that perfect exterior.

 Chapter 37: Innocent

    Warlock Ch 37. Innocent


    "So... have you ever joined the Evil faction?" Damian asked, his voice cautious but direct.


    Evelyn''s response was quick, almost reflexive. "No," she said sharply, then paused, her tone shifting. "But there was a misunderstanding... or maybe slander." Her voice carried a mix of frustration and resignation.


    "Slandered? You?" Damian raised an eyebrow, genuinely surprised. The idea that someone could have turned against her didn''t seem to fit the picture he had of her. He leaned in, waiting for her to explain.


    Evelyn''s expression softened, her usual confidence dimming for a moment. "Not just me," she began, her voice quieter. "There were others. Him... and a few others." Damian noticed the flicker of sadness and regret in her eyes as she mentioned someone. "One of them was my mentor."


    That caught Damian off guard. Evelyn wasn''t the kind of person who let emotions slip easily, but there was something in the way she said mentor that struck him.


    "What happened to him?" Damian asked gently, not wanting to push but needing to understand.


    Evelyn''s gaze lingered on him, and for a moment, it felt like she was debating how much to tell him. Finally, she spoke, her words heavy with memory. "We were all innocent," she said softly. "But it didn''t matter. Our reputations were ruined. Someone had to take the fall." Her eyes were distant, as if she were reliving the events in her mind, and Damian could tell this wasn''t just some small mistake. This was something that had haunted her for a long time.


    Damian''s voice sharpened, the injustice of it clear in his tone. "So, they threw it all on you?"


    Evelyn shook her head slowly, her expression tight. "No," she said, her voice quieter now. "My mentor took the fall. He said he manipulated us, used us... just so the society could accept us again." The way she said it, with that mix of bitterness and sorrow, told Damian everything he needed to know. Her mentor had sacrificed himself for her, for the others, but the cost of that sacrifice was written all over her face.


    Damian frowned, confusion creasing his brow. "And what happened to him?"


    Evelyn''s silence spoke volumes. She didn''t answer right away, her lips pressing into a thin line, her eyes shadowed with old pain. When she finally spoke, her smile was dry and sad, a hollow expression that made Damian''s stomach twist. "He''s gone," she said, leaving it at that, and Damian couldn''t tell if she was refusing to answer or if she just couldn''t bear to relive it.


    She glanced away. "You''ve got a lot to learn," she said, her voice shifting, as if she was done with the topic. "How about I make you some snacks? You need extra energy after all that happened, right?"


    Damian hesitated. He wanted to ask more, wanted to understand what really happened, but he could see that she wasn''t ready to open up any further. Maybe later, when the time was right. "Alright," he said, forcing a small smile. "Sure. I''ll help you make them."


    They moved into the kitchen, and the mood lightened a little as they started making sandwiches. The sounds of slicing and spreading filled the space, and for a while, it was nice to focus on something simple. But Damian''s mind kept drifting back to the conversation, replaying her words, trying to make sense of it all. Her mentor had taken the fall... but why? And what exactly had happened?


    To break the silence, Damian decided to tease her a little, trying to shift the mood. "So," he said, smirking as he spread some mustard on the bread, "you''ve had partners before, right? I mean, yesterday wasn''t your first time, was it?" His tone was playful, but he couldn''t help being curious.


    Evelyn chuckled softly, though her eyes still held that hint of sadness from earlier. "Yes... I had a husband once," she said, her voice calm but laced with something deeper. "Or, well, a partner."


    Damian looked up, surprised. "Where is he now?"


    Without missing a beat, Evelyn responded, "He''s dead."


    The simple, blunt statement hit Damian like a punch. He froze for a second, his hand still holding the knife, unsure of how to respond. "I''m... I''m sorry," he said quietly, his usual cockiness replaced by genuine sympathy.


    Evelyn waved it off, though her voice still carried that trace of sorrow. "Don''t worry. It''s been fifty years."


    Damian''s eyes widened, and he almost dropped the knife. "Wait... fifty years?"


    "Yes," she said, her tone matter-of-fact. "It happened fifty years ago."


    He blinked, his mind struggling to catch up. ''Fifty years?'' How was that even possible? He stared at her, his jaw practically on the floor. "How old are you?" he asked, barely able to keep the disbelief out of his voice.


    Evelyn smirked slightly, the familiar spark of mischief returning to her eyes. "Two hundred and three."


    Damian''s brain short-circuited for a second, and all he could do was stammer, "But... you look like you''re in your twenties!"


    Evelyn laughed softly. "Magic has its perks, Damian."


    Damian blinked, still trying to wrap his head around everything she''d just said. Two hundred and three years old? It didn''t even make sense. He had thought he was dealing with someone just a little older than him, maybe a few years of magical experience ahead. But centuries? That was something else entirely.


    "So... magic really can make you look younger?" Damian asked, still in disbelief.


    Evelyn nodded, her expression lightening, but there was something deeper in her eyes. "Yeah. Mana, the life force we use for magic, can do more than just power spells. It keeps us young, healthy. The more skilled you are at controlling it, the longer you can live. It slows down aging. That''s why I still look like I''m in my twenties."


    Damian shook his head, trying to absorb the information. "So... you''re telling me anyone with enough magic can basically live forever?"


    "Not forever," Evelyn corrected, leaning against the counter. "But a lot longer than normal. Cassius, for example¡ªhe''s over five hundred years old, and he looks like he''s in his thirties."


    "Five hundred?" Damian almost choked. "Cassius is five hundred years old?"


    "Yep," Evelyn said with a smirk. "He''s been around for a long time. Seen a lot of things. That''s why he''s so... well, him."


    Damian''s mind raced. He thought he knew the people around him, but this was next-level. "Who''s the oldest person you know then?" he asked, half-dreading the answer.


    Evelyn''s eyes glimmered with amusement. "The oldest? That would be one of the Fae. She''s about a thousand years old, give or take a decade."


    Damian''s jaw dropped. "A thousand?"


    "Yep," Evelyn said casually. "Fae and elves usually live the longest. It''s kind of their thing."

 Chapter 38: The Stronger, The Higher

    Warlock Ch 38. The Stronger, The Higher


    Damian leaned against the counter, his mind still spinning. "So... if I keep growing my power, does that mean I''ll live longer too?"


    Evelyn nodded, her expression serious now. "That''s right. That''s why we need a separate place for the magical world. We age differently. People in the normal world wouldn''t understand."


    Damian fell silent, processing her words. Living longer, mastering magic... it was everything he could have imagined, and yet it felt overwhelming. He wasn''t sure what to feel¡ªexcitement, fear, or maybe a bit of both.


    Evelyn glanced at him and smirked. "You look like you''re about to implode. You okay?"


    "Kinda," Damian admitted with a half-smile. "I mean, it''s exciting and all, but it''s a lot to take in, you know?"


    She laughed softly, and then, with a quick motion, she reached out and took the knife from his hand. "Why don''t you take a bath, Damian? Let me finish the sandwiches for you. You''re tired, and don''t forget you still have that assignment from Cassius. Those books are waiting for you."


    Damian shuddered, the mention of the books snapping him out of his daze. "Ugh, don''t remind me," he groaned, running a hand through his hair. "Are those books really necessary?"


    Evelyn raised an eyebrow, a playful yet knowing look on her face. "Yes, absolutely necessary. Being a warlock isn''t just about throwing fireballs and summoning creatures, you know. You have to understand the world you''re stepping into¡ªmagic formations, potions, crystals. And knowing your enemy is half the battle."


    Damian frowned, still not thrilled about the idea of spending hours reading. "Okay, but... like, really necessary?"


    Evelyn chuckled, shaking her head. "Yes, really necessary. Plus, there''s a section on magic staff in there. You know, the ones you see in the sky? Aren''t you even a little interested in learning how to ride one?"


    Damian''s eyes lit up for a moment, the image of him soaring through the sky on a staff flashing through his mind. "I mean, yeah... I guess that''s pretty cool."


    Evelyn smiled, sensing she had him hooked. "Then you''ve got a lot to learn. Some magicians can even fly without a staff."


    His eyes widened. "Wait, really? Like, just flying? No staff or anything?"


    Evelyn nodded, leaning against the counter as she finished the sandwiches. "Yep. It''s rare, but it''s possible. Takes a lot of control and power, though. You''d need to master a lot of things before you could even attempt something like that."


    Damian could feel a flicker of excitement growing inside him, despite the exhaustion. It was like all his childhood fantasies were right there within his reach. "Okay, you''ve got my attention. I didn''t think this whole magic thing could get more awesome, but flying without a staff? That''s like... next-level stuff."


    Evelyn grinned, seeing his enthusiasm. "You''ll get there, Damian. But it''s not just about power. It''s about understanding the magic itself¡ªhow it flows, how to control it. That''s why Cassius gave you those books. Trust me, it''ll all make sense once you start learning."


    He sighed, knowing she was right. "Yeah, yeah. I guess I can''t skip to the cool stuff without putting in the work."


    "Exactly," she said, finishing up the sandwiches. "And once you''ve got the basics down, everything else will come easier. It''s like building a foundation. The stronger it is, the higher you can go."


    Damian smirked. "You''re starting to sound like Cassius now. He''s always going on about foundations and structure, yelling at me this and that at the side of the battle."


    "Well, he''s not wrong," Evelyn replied with a laugh. "But seriously, once you get past the initial reading, you''ll start to see how it all connects. It''s not just random facts¡ªit''s the framework for everything you''ll do."


    He nodded, though part of him still dreaded the thought of diving into those heavy books. "I just wish I could learn it faster, you know? Like, download it all into my brain and skip the boring parts."


    Evelyn rolled her eyes playfully. "You and every other apprentice who''s ever walked this path. But learning magic doesn''t work like that. It''s not about speed¡ªit''s about mastery. And mastery takes time."


    Damian groaned. "Time... I don''t feel like I have right now."


    "Trust me, you''ve got more time than you think. You have the talent for it," Evelyn said, her tone light but her words carrying weight. "Especially if you keep growing your magic. The years will stretch out before you, Damian. And one day, you''ll look back on this and realize it wasn''t that long after all."


    He paused, the reality of what she was saying settled over him. The idea of living for centuries... It was both thrilling and terrifying. "I guess that''s one way to look at it."


    "Exactly," Evelyn said, handing him a plate with a sandwich.


    Damian took the plate, his muscles protesting as he straightened up. "Yeah, alright. You''re not wrong." He hesitated for a second, then asked, "Hey, about those books... there''s stuff in there about magic crystals and staffs, right? How hard is it to learn that stuff?"


    Evelyn smiled, seeing his curiosity spark again. "It''s not as hard as you think. Once you understand the basics, it''ll come naturally. Crystals are all about channeling energy, and staffs are just another way to focus your power. You''ve already got the potential, Damian. You just need to unlock it."


    He nodded slowly, feeling the excitement building again. "Okay, fine. I''ll give the books a shot. But if I get bored halfway through, I''m blaming you."


    Evelyn laughed. "Fair enough. But I doubt you''ll get bored once you start seeing how powerful you can become."


    Damian smirked, taking a bite of the sandwich. "We''ll see."


    "I will take a bath first. I smell worse than yesterday." He turned to head upstairs for that much-needed bath with his sandwich plate in his hand, but after a few steps, Evelyn called after him, her tone teasing. "Oh, and Damian?"


    He paused at the bottom of the staircase, looking back. "Yeah?"


    "You forget the books," she said, pointing at the items still on the table with her gaze. "Those books can''t walk by themselves."


    Damian groaned dramatically, but couldn''t help smiling. "Yeah, yeah. I''m on it."

 Chapter 39: You Cannot Escape Your Fate

    Warlock Ch 39. You Cannot Escape Your Fate


    He trudged upstairs, sandwich plate in one hand and the stack of books in the other. His muscles still ached from the day''s training and errand-running, but the thought of finally relaxing¡ªat least for a moment¡ªpushed him forward. He dumped the books onto the small desk in the room, carefully balancing the plate next to them before glancing longingly at the bathroom door.


    ''First things first.''


    He kicked off his shoes, peeled off his shirt, and stepped into the bathroom, twisting the shower handle until the water roared to life. The sound was oddly soothing. The hot water streamed over him, washing away the grime and fatigue. He felt the tension in his muscles start to ease, but his mind was still spinning, running over everything Evelyn had told him.


    Centuries of life? Flying without a staff? Living on Mana?


    It was like everything he''d ever dreamed about magic as a kid was actually real, but the reality was somehow heavier. There were consequences, dangers, and responsibilities he hadn''t even considered.


    As the water splashed across his skin, Damian glanced down at the back of his hand¡ªand froze.


    His warlock mark.


    It had changed!


    He blinked, staring at it for a moment, then raised his hand closer to his face, inspecting it under the bathroom''s dim light. The mark, which had been fairly simple before, had expanded. It was more intricate now, more detailed, with strange symbols creeping up his skin. And right there, in the middle of it, was the unmistakable image of the three-headed wolf he''d seen on the artifact in his dreams. Alongside it was a strange symbol¡ªsomething that looked like it could be a witch''s mark, though Damian wasn''t sure.


    He traced the edges of the mark with his finger.


    ''What the hell...''


    His thoughts immediately jumped back to the dream¡ªthe artifact''s voice, the chaotic memories, the feeling of something ancient and powerful lurking inside of him. He shuddered, the bitter taste of dread rising in his throat. "That artifact thing... is really inside of me, isn''t it?" he muttered under his breath. It wasn''t a real question, but a confirmation for himself.


    The mark wasn''t just a coincidence. Whatever this was, it was tied to him now. The thought made his chest tighten. The dreams hadn''t exactly been pleasant, and there was a part of him that didn''t want to know what it all meant. Didn''t want to dig any deeper into whatever was happening inside him.


    But there was another part of him, the part that couldn''t stop wondering, that was morbidly curious. Like the dream was only the beginning, a clue to something much bigger¡ªsomething that would change everything. Something that hadn''t been finished.


    He clenched his jaw, memories of the dream creeping back into his mind. The artifact''s voice, deep and ancient, echoing inside his skull.


    "You cannot escape your fate, Damian. You were never meant to run."


    He shook his head, trying to push the thought away. He couldn''t get caught up in this¡ªnot now. He had training to focus on. He needed to get stronger, faster. There was no time to lose himself in speculation or fear. That Malthus guy was far more immediate. And if Damian didn''t get stronger soon, the next time Malthus targeted him, he wouldn''t just be flattening buildings¡ªhe''d flatten Damian too. And this time, Evelyn might not be there to save his ass.


    Damian let out a slow breath, pushing his hands through his wet hair, trying to ground himself. ''Focus. You need to focus.''


    He turned back toward the stream of water, letting it pour over him. But even as the warmth spread through his muscles, his thoughts kept circling back to the mark on his hand. He couldn''t shake the feeling that it was tied to something important¡ªsomething he wasn''t ready to face. But there was no use obsessing over it now. He had to stay sharp, get through his training, and figure it out when the time came.


    Still, a shiver of unease ran down his spine. ''What if I never figure it out?''


    After what felt like an eternity under the water, Damian finally turned off the shower, grabbing a towel and drying off as he walked back to the room. He caught a glimpse of the books stacked on his desk and groaned again.


    Cassius and his damn books!


    He had no doubt they were filled with crucial knowledge, but that didn''t make the prospect of reading through them any more appealing. As much as he wanted to learn, the idea of sitting down and pouring over ancient texts felt like the least exciting part of becoming a warlock.


    He threw on some clean clothes and sat down at the desk, flipping open the first book in the stack. "Alright," Damian muttered to himself, "Here goes nothing."


    The moment he looked at the page, ancient text filled his vision¡ªtwisting symbols and arcane runes that didn''t look like any language he''d ever seen. He blinked, his brow furrowing. ''What the hell is this?!''


    He closed the book, glancing at the cover, half-hoping that Cassius had made a mistake and handed him some advanced-level warlock textbook meant for someone way more experienced. But nope, there was nothing there except the plain title. No "beginner''s guide" or "advanced manual," just a simple title in a language that felt as old as time.


    Damian groaned, slumping back in his chair. "I''m so dead..." he muttered under his breath. This was worse than studying math lessons in high school¡ªthe ones he''d barely passed and always hated. At least with math, there were formulas, steps he could follow. But this? This was like trying to read hieroglyphs.


    He sighed, running a hand through his damp hair. ''Okay, okay, just give it a try. It can''t be that bad, right?'' He told himself that if he could survive carrying a month''s worth of groceries, he could survive reading a book. Besides, Evelyn and Cassius had both been clear¡ªthis was important. So, Damian gritted his teeth and opened the book again, determined to give it a real shot.


    To his surprise, as soon as he focused on the words, something strange happened. The symbols¡ªthe runes¡ªstarted to make sense. It wasn''t like he understood them right away, but somehow, it felt familiar. Like his brain was unlocking a language he didn''t even know he had in there.

 Chapter 40: Fast Learner

    Warlock Ch 40. Fast Learner


    "What the...?" he whispered, his confusion giving way to fascination. ''Why do I understand this?''


    The more he read, the clearer it became. The ancient symbols that had looked so impossible now seemed almost easy to decipher.


    Damian blinked, realizing he was actually catching on to what was written. His eyes scanned the page quickly, absorbing the information like he''d done this a hundred times before.


    It was bizarre¡ªhe''d never been much of a reader, and textbooks had always been a pain to get through.


    But this? This felt natural. Like the knowledge was already in his head, and all he had to do was remember.


    His expression shifted, his face growing serious as he flipped through the pages, barely noticing when his half-eaten sandwich slipped to the side, forgotten. Each line of text flowed into his mind like water, the concepts sticking with him almost effortlessly. It was faster than anything he''d ever studied before¡ªfaster than when he was memorizing cocktail recipes back when he worked behind the bar.


    He turned another page, and Damian paused. A series of illustrations caught his eye¡ªmarks, symbols that represented different classes and races within the magical world. One of them immediately stood out to him.


    The witch''s mark.


    He stared at the image, his breath catching for a moment. It was almost identical to the mark on his hand¡ªthe one that had been slowly expanding since the dreams started. He traced the edges of the page with his fingers, his mind racing.


    ''So, it''s real. The mark is real.''


    Damian kept flipping through the book, trying to piece together what it all meant. The more he read, the more it felt like he''d seen this before¡ªlike these were memories being unlocked, not new information being learned. It was unsettling, but at the same time, he felt a strange connection to it all. It was like everything was falling into place, though he still didn''t know what the full picture looked like.


    He finally reached the last page and closed the book with a thud¡ªlike he''d just finished reading a dictionary. He leaned back in his chair, staring at the cover for a moment.


    ''This is insane,'' he thought, rubbing the back of his neck. ''I actually get this stuff.''


    But instead of feeling exhausted like he normally would, Damian felt... energized. There was a strange sense of attachment to these books, like they were calling to him in a way no other textbook ever had. He reached for the next one, not even hesitating this time.


    ''Who the hell am I right now?'' Damian thought, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. He wasn''t exactly known for being studious. In school, the library had been the last place anyone would find him. But now? He felt like he couldn''t stop himself. The books, the knowledge¡ªthey were drawing him in.


    He cracked open the second book, his eyes immediately scanning the text. This one was about magic formations and their uses in battle, rituals, and defense. He couldn''t help but feel a sense of familiarity again like he already knew how these formations worked¡ªhe just needed a reminder. The diagrams of circles, lines, and runes felt almost second nature to him now.


    Page after page flew by, and Damian barely noticed how much time was passing. He was too engrossed in the words, the images. Every formation had its own purpose, its own intricacies, and for the first time in his life, Damian found himself genuinely interested in how it all worked. This wasn''t just about memorizing facts for the sake of it¡ªthis was about power, real power, and how to harness it.


    He finally put down the second book. The pile of books on his desk had grown smaller, but he still had a few left to get through. ''No way I''m stopping now,'' he thought, grabbing the next book. This one was thicker than the others, and as soon as he opened it, he realized it was about magical crystals¡ªtheir properties, their uses in spellcasting, and how they could amplify a warlock''s abilities.


    Damian''s heart raced as he flipped through the pages. He''d seen magic crystals before, but he''d never really understood how they worked. Now, as he read through the detailed descriptions, he realized just how powerful they could be. Certain crystals could enhance spells, boost Mana, or even store magic for later use. And if used correctly, they could turn an average warlock into a force to be reckoned with.


    The thought sent a thrill through him. ''This is the key!'' He knew that if he could master the use of crystals, he''d be able to level up fast¡ªmaybe even fast enough to take on Malthus next time. He could almost picture it: standing against Malthus, not as some scared apprentice, but as a warlock who knew how to hold his own.


    ''Yeah... I will kick his ass next time!''


    Once again, Damian was absorbed in the book. The sound of footsteps behind him made him jump slightly. He turned to see Evelyn standing in the doorway, a mug of steaming liquid in her hand. "Oh," she said, her voice amused. "You''re actually reading the books."


    Damian laughed lightly, rubbing the back of his neck. "Yeah, I''m surprised too," he admitted, glancing down at the stack of books in front of him. "Turns out, this stuff''s more interesting than I imagined."


    Evelyn stepped forward, placing the mug on the table in front of him. The steam curled up lazily from the cup, filling the air with a sweet, calming scent. Damian inhaled deeply, recognizing the aroma instantly¡ªit smelled like a mixture of honey and milk, but the color was definitely not what he''d expect from a regular drink.


    "For you," Evelyn said, gesturing to the mug. "This is¡ª"


    "Dawn''s Vitality," Damian interrupted, a small smile tugging at his lips. "Right? It''s an energizing drink that smells like honey and tastes like mild sweet milk. Good for concentration and relaxing tired muscles."


    Evelyn froze, her eyes widening in surprise. "Yeah... how do you know that?"


    Damian grinned, picking up the mug and taking a sip. The warmth spread through his body instantly, soothing his aching muscles and sharpening his focus at the same time. "From the book," he said simply, setting the mug down and licking the sweet taste off his lips. "Apparently, I''ve been soaking up more than I thought."

 Chapter 41: With Power Came Fear

    Warlock Ch 41. With Power Came Fear


    Evelyn raised an eyebrow, still a bit surprised, and crossed her arms, leaning against the edge of his desk. "The drinks and food are in the far chapters, though," she said, a hint of confusion in her voice. "Didn''t you just start reading?"


    Damian chuckled, unable to hide the pride bubbling up inside him. "Yeah, I thought the same thing. But honestly, I learned all this stuff pretty fast." He pointed to the stack of books beside him, the ones he had already finished. "Look, that''s the book I just read. Can you believe that?"


    Evelyn blinked and glanced at the stack, her eyes narrowing slightly in disbelief. She reached out and held the books, thumbing through the pages, checking for herself. "Wait," she said, her voice skeptical. "You didn''t lie to me, right?"


    Damian snorted, shaking his head as he took another bite of his long-forgotten sandwich. "No. Why would I lie? I''ve been reading for hours." He chewed slowly, savoring the food, before noticing Evelyn''s silence.


    She stood there, still holding the books, her eyes darting back and forth between the stack and Damian. After a moment, she frowned, her expression shifting from disbelief to something more serious. "Damian," she said carefully, "you''ve only been reading for two hours."


    Damian nearly choked on his sandwich. He coughed violently, grabbing for his drink and taking a huge gulp to wash it down. "Wait¡ªwhat? Two hours? That''s impossible."


    Evelyn simply pointed at the clock on the wall, her gaze steady. Damian followed her finger and stared at the time.


    It was true. Only two hours had passed since he had sat down to start reading. He glanced back at the stack of books he had finished, each one thicker than a dictionary, if not thicker. The realization hit him.


    "That doesn''t make sense," he muttered, his mind spinning. He looked at the books, flipping through a few pages just to reassure himself he wasn''t imagining things. "I swear, I''m not lying," he said, his voice shaky with disbelief. "I read all of that. And I understand everything."


    His mind raced. How could he have absorbed so much in such a short amount of time? It wasn''t like he skimmed through the pages or half-read them. Every word made sense. The knowledge had settled into his brain like pieces of a puzzle fitting together perfectly. But two hours? That was insane.


    "I''m reading about crystals now," he added, his voice quieter, almost as if he was trying to convince himself more than Evelyn. He lifted the book on magical crystals and stared at the open page, wondering if this was some sort of trick. Something he wasn''t seeing.


    Evelyn, who had been silent for a moment, set the books down and turned her gaze to Damian. Her expression softened, her eyes filled with something like understanding. "It''s okay," she said, her tone gentle. "I believe you."


    Damian looked at her, surprised by the calmness in her voice. "You do?"


    She nodded, her gaze steady. "I do. It''s not just about how much time has passed or how many books you''ve read. It''s more than that. You''re different, Damian. More capable than you realize."


    He stared at her, still processing everything. "But... how? How did I do all this in two hours? It doesn''t make any sense."


    Evelyn leaned in slightly, her voice soft but filled with meaning. "You''ve been connected to magic in ways most people aren''t. Your warlock mark, the artifact in your dreams... they''re influencing you, pushing you faster than you realize." She paused, her gaze locked on him, but there was something deeper there¡ªsomething Damian couldn''t quite figure out. Nostalgia? Love? Longing? He couldn''t put a name to it.


    For a moment, the air between them felt heavier, charged with unspoken words. The usual lightness in Evelyn''s eyes was gone, replaced by something far more serious, something almost... vulnerable.


    Damian frowned, his voice quiet as he asked, "Evelyn? You okay?"


    She didn''t respond immediately, her eyes lingering on him, like she was lost in a memory or a thought that had resurfaced after being buried for a long time. The silence stretched out, thick and uneasy, and Damian couldn''t shake the feeling that there was more going on here than she was letting on.


    Finally, she blinked, snapping out of whatever trance she had fallen into, and forced a small smile. "I''m fine," she said, but her voice wasn''t as steady as usual. "It''s just... seeing how fast you''re learning, how quickly you''re connecting with the magic¡ªit reminds me of someone."


    "Who?" Damian asked, leaning forward slightly. He could tell this wasn''t just about him learning magic¡ªit was about something much bigger, something personal for Evelyn.


    She hesitated, her fingers tracing the edge of his desk absentmindedly. "My mentor," she said finally, her voice barely above a whisper. "He was... like you. Exceptionally gifted, but it came with a cost."


    Damian''s heart thudded in his chest, the weight of her words settling over him. "What do you mean, a cost?"


    Evelyn glanced away, her eyes clouded with an emotion Damian couldn''t quite identify. It was like she was staring at something far beyond the room, something distant in her mind. He could feel the tension in the air, the heaviness of whatever memory had surfaced.


    "He... he was too powerful," Evelyn said quietly, her voice barely more than a whisper. "His magic came naturally, just like yours." She trailed off, her fingers tightening against the edge of the desk.


    Damian felt a shiver run down his spine. "What happened to him?" he asked, not sure if he really wanted to know the answer.


    Evelyn took a deep breath, her gaze distant, her voice heavy with memory. "Everyone started to see him as a danger. At first, they admired him¡ªhis power, his control, his potential. But then, as he grew stronger, they grew more afraid. They saw him as something they couldn''t control, something that needed to be dealt with." Her eyes flicked toward Damian, as if weighing whether to continue. "They wanted him dead, Damian. Or worse¡ªthey wanted to steal his power, to use him as a tool, a weapon. He became too powerful, and with that power came fear."

 Chapter 42: Brokenhearted And Dangerous

    Warlock Ch 42. Brokenhearted And Dangerous


    Damian''s throat tightened. "So... what happened?" he asked, his voice low. He had a sinking feeling he already knew the answer, but part of him hoped he was wrong.


    "They tried to kill him," Evelyn said, her tone sharp, bitter. "But they couldn''t. He was too strong for them, and that only made them more desperate. They hunted him, made him a target. Some wanted him dead, others wanted to capture him, to drain his power and use it for themselves. He was hunted like an animal."


    Damian leaned back in his chair, the weight of her words pressing down on him. "Did they get him?" he asked, almost afraid of what she''d say next.


    Evelyn''s gaze softened, but there was a deep sadness in her eyes. "No," she said, shaking her head. "He fled. Disappeared before they could catch him. But the man I knew¡ªmy mentor¡ªhe wasn''t the same anymore. He was... brokenhearted and thought that the world would never accept him for what he was, and that the only way to survive was to become something greater than any of them."


    "Greater?" Damian echoed, his voice hollow.


    "Yeah," Evelyn whispered, her fingers tracing invisible patterns on the desk as she lost herself in the memories. "He thought if he could just unlock more power, become more than what the world feared, then maybe he could control it. He became obsessed with mastering everything, every kind of magic. He thought it would save him. But all it did was push him further away from the person he used to be. He became isolated, paranoid... dangerous."


    Damian felt a chill crawl up his spine. "Dangerous how?"


    Evelyn sighed deeply, her gaze drifting toward the window as if looking for an escape from the story she was telling. "He started experimenting with magic that no one should touch¡ªdark, forbidden spells that could twist reality itself. He thought he could handle it, that he was strong enough. But magic like that... it changes you. It feeds on your ambition, your fears. And soon, he wasn''t just trying to protect himself from the world; he was trying to control it. He wanted to reshape it in his image."


    Damian swallowed hard, her words sinking in. "And that''s why they wanted him dead."


    Evelyn nodded slowly. "By the time they realized what he was becoming, it was too late. He was already too powerful, too far gone. And they were terrified. So they sent hunters after him, mages trained specifically to take down threats like him. But even they couldn''t stop him. He was... unstoppable." Her voice wavered slightly, but she kept going. "He disappeared after that, completely off the grid. No one''s seen him in years, but the stories still circulate."


    Damian leaned forward, his brow furrowed. "Do you think he''s dead?"


    Evelyn let out a slow breath, her fingers still absently tracing the wood grain of the desk. "I don''t know," she admitted, her voice heavy with uncertainty. "If he were alive, his power would be impossible to hide. He was too strong, too connected to magic. Someone would have felt it, sensed his presence. But at the same time... magic like his doesn''t just vanish."


    Damian''s thoughts swirled, trying to make sense of it all. A mage who became too powerful, hunted for what he''d become... and disappeared without a trace. But something about this story, about the way Evelyn spoke, struck a chord with him.


    "What if he''s still out there?" Damian asked, his voice quiet but insistent. "What if he''s just hiding, waiting for the right moment to resurface?"


    Evelyn didn''t answer right away. She seemed lost in thought, her expression distant. "If he''s alive," she said finally, her voice almost a whisper, "I wouldn''t mind being his student again. Following him like I used to." She paused, her eyes filled with a mixture of longing and sadness. "He did so much for me. His power didn''t make him lose himself completely. Dangerous? Yes, because he was that powerful. But he wasn''t evil, Damian. He wasn''t trying to destroy the world. He just wanted to make a world where someone like him¡ªsomeone like us¡ªcould be accepted."


    Damian stared at her, the weight of her words hitting him hard. "So, he was trying to create something... better?"


    Evelyn nodded slowly. "In his own way, yes. He believed that the magical world and the non-magical world couldn''t coexist as they were, and that the only solution was to reshape everything. It wasn''t about power for power''s sake, but about control. About making a place where people like him, like us, wouldn''t have to hide or be hunted."


    Damian''s mind raced as he tried to piece it all together. The way Evelyn spoke about her mentor¡ªit wasn''t just respect. There was something deeper there, almost like admiration. She didn''t see him as a villain or a monster, even though everyone else did. To her, he was someone who had tried to change a world that was broken.


    "But if that''s true," Damian said, his voice quieter now, "then why did everyone turn on him?"


    Evelyn''s gaze dropped again, her fingers tracing the edge of his desk. "Because fear is stronger than understanding," she said bitterly. "People didn''t care what his intentions were. They only saw his power, how unstoppable he was becoming. And when someone has that much power, the world tends to see them as a threat¡ªno matter what their goals are."


    Damian leaned back in his chair, feeling a mix of emotions churn inside him. He wasn''t sure how to feel about it all. On one hand, he understood the fear¡ªsomeone that powerful could do unimaginable damage. But on the other hand, if Evelyn was right, then her mentor had been trying to create something better, not destroy it.


    He glanced at her, seeing the conflict in her eyes. "Do you think he was right?"


    Evelyn hesitated, her jaw tightening. "I don''t know," she admitted softly. "I believed in him, in what he was trying to do. But the world wasn''t ready for him, and maybe... maybe he wasn''t ready for the world either. He tried to take on too much, too fast. And in the end, it broke him."

 Chapter 43: Once You Know Them, You Can’t Un-know

    Warlock Ch 43. Once You Know Them, You Can''t Un-know


    Damian felt her words settle over him, a deep unease spreading through his chest. "Do you think the same thing could happen to me?"


    Evelyn''s eyes snapped up to meet his, her expression sharp. "No," she said firmly. "I won''t let that happen to you."


    Damian was quiet for a moment, unsure of what to say. He could see the fear in Evelyn''s eyes, the fear that he might become like her mentor. But there was also something else¡ªsomething that told him.


    "If he''s dead," Damian said, his voice barely above a murmur, "then there''s no more threat, right?"


    Evelyn hesitated, her gaze dropping to the floor. "Maybe," she said softly. "But magic like that doesn''t always die with its wielder. Sometimes it lingers, waiting for someone else to take it up."


    Damian''s throat tightened, and his mind flashed back to his dreams¡ªthe artifact, the voice, the cryptic warnings. His hands curled into fists on his lap as he remembered the woman''s words.


    "You only bring calamity!"


    The memory sent a chill through him, and he looked up at Evelyn, his eyes sharp.


    "The dream," he started, his voice trembling slightly. "Is that connected to this? To your mentor?"


    Evelyn''s head snapped up, her eyes widening slightly. "What?"


    "My dream," Damian repeated, his voice firmer now. "I remember the woman in my dream¡ªshe said something about ''you only bring calamity.'' And the artifact, my mana core... it keeps showing up. Is this all connected? To your mentor? To whatever he became?"


    Evelyn pressed her lips together. Her hesitation was clear. For a moment, she looked like she wanted to say something, to confess some hidden truth, but then she shook her head. "No," she said quietly, her voice too calm. "It''s just a dream, Damian. Dreams can be strange, but they don''t always mean anything."


    Damian narrowed his eyes. He could tell by the way she was avoiding his gaze, the way her tone shifted, that she wasn''t telling him everything. "You''re lying," he said, his voice low but steady. "There''s more to it, isn''t there?"


    Evelyn looked away, her expression tight. "It''s not that simple," she said, her voice strained. "There are things you don''t understand yet. Things you''re not ready to know."


    "Not ready to know?" Damian''s frustration bubbled to the surface. "You''re the one who said I''m learning fast. You''ve seen what''s happening to me¡ªthis mark, the dreams... whatever''s inside me is connected to something, and you know more than you''re letting on." His voice was edged with impatience.


    Evelyn flinched, just for a moment, but then her expression hardened. "It''s not that simple, Damian. You think just because you''re learning fast, you''re ready for everything? There''s a difference between absorbing knowledge and being able to handle the consequences of that knowledge." She stepped closer, her eyes dark and serious. "You''re not just dealing with spells or magic theory. You''re dealing with forces, things that change you, things that don''t care if you''re ready or not."


    Damian''s fists clenched, his mind racing with questions and confusion. "But how am I supposed to get stronger if you keep holding things back? You and Cassius keep talking about potential and power, but no one''s telling me what''s really going on! You can''t expect me to just accept that."


    Evelyn let out a frustrated sigh, running a hand through her hair. "I''m not trying to keep you in the dark. But there are things that... once you know them, you can''t un-know. And once you''re tied to certain forces, there''s no going back."


    Damian stared at her, his frustration simmering beneath the surface. "What aren''t you telling me? You talk about your mentor, how he became dangerous, and now I''m dreaming about some artifact that feels like it''s trying to take control of me. Is this the same thing? Am I heading down the same path he did?"


    Evelyn looked at him, her gaze softening, but there was still something guarded in her expression. "No," she said quietly, though her voice lacked the confidence it usually had. "You''re not going to end up like he did."


    "Then why does it feel like I''m already being pulled in that direction?" Damian pressed, stepping closer to her. "Every time I dream about that artifact, it''s like it''s trying to tell me something, trying to push me toward... something I don''t understand. And you''re standing here telling me it''s just a dream? I don''t believe that."


    Evelyn''s jaw tightened, and for a moment, she didn''t respond. The silence between them stretched. Finally, she exhaled slowly, her shoulders slumping just a little.


    Without a word, she suddenly stepped forward and wrapped her arms around Damian, pulling him into an unexpected embrace.


    Damian froze, completely taken off guard. His heart pounded in his chest as he stood there, confused but not pushing her away. He could feel the tension in her body, everything she wasn''t saying. They stayed like that for a few moments.


    After what felt like an eternity, Damian broke the silence, his voice quiet and hesitant. "Evelyn... Do you ever hate your mentor? For the path he took?"


    She pulled back slightly, just enough to look up at him. Her face was serious, her eyes clouded with a mixture of sorrow and something deeper¡ªsomething that Damian couldn''t quite read. She shook her head slowly, her lips pressing into a thin line before she spoke. "No," she said softly, her voice steady but laced with sadness. "I never hated him. He did what he thought he had to do. He was a peaceful person at heart. But the world didn''t see him that way. They feared his power, not the person he was."


    Damian furrowed his brow, trying to reconcile the image of this dangerous, unstoppable figure with the man Evelyn was describing. "But you said he became dangerous."


    Evelyn sighed, letting her arms drop as she stepped back, giving them both some space. "He was dangerous," she said, her voice firm but not accusatory. "But not because he wanted to be. People feared him because of what he could do, not what he did. They saw the potential for destruction, for chaos. And in their fear, they pushed him further down a path he never wanted to take."

 Chapter 44: Survive

    Warlock Ch 44. Survive


    She paused, her eyes softening as she continued. "He could have destroyed this world. Easily. But he didn''t. He chose to run, to hide, rather than become the monster they thought he was. That''s why I could never hate him. He was a bright person¡ªso full of hope and light before everything turned against him. He wasn''t a villain, no matter what the world believed."


    Damian absorbed her words in silence. It was clear now that her mentor hadn''t been the evil figure he''d imagined. He wasn''t power-hungry or cruel. He was just... pitiful. A man who had been hunted, feared, and forced into a corner by society.


    Damian frowned, the nagging question still burning in his mind. "Then why did he choose that path?" he asked quietly. "If he didn''t want to be dangerous, why didn''t he stop before things got out of hand?"


    Evelyn''s eyes glistened with an emotion Damian couldn''t quite name. "Because they didn''t give him a choice," she whispered, her voice trembling slightly. "Once people decide you''re a threat, they don''t stop to listen. They didn''t care about his intentions anymore. All they saw was his power, and they couldn''t stand the idea of someone that strong being free. So they hunted him, cornered him. He ran, but there''s only so much running you can do before you have to fight back. And when he did, it only proved their fears right."


    Damian felt his stomach twist at the thought. "He fought back?"


    Evelyn nodded, her gaze distant. "He had to. They left him no choice. But even then... even with all his power, he didn''t want to hurt anyone. He just wanted to survive." She paused, her voice growing softer. "But after a while, survival became the only thing he could focus on. It consumed him, changed him. He wasn''t the same man I knew. He was lost, afraid, and alone. His smile was gone. He looked brokenhearted and lonely."


    Damian swallowed, the knot in his throat tightening. "And that''s why you don''t want me to end up like him."


    "Exactly," Evelyn said, her voice barely above a whisper. "I don''t want you to be consumed by power or fear. You have a chance to control this, to stay yourself. But I''m scared, because I''ve seen how fast it can change someone. How quickly the world turns on you when you have something they can''t control."


    Damian felt a chill run through him. He didn''t want to admit it, but he was scared too. Scared of what the mark on his hand meant, scared of the dreams, of the power that seemed to be growing inside him faster than he could handle. He didn''t want to end up like Evelyn''s mentor¡ªfeared, hunted, and forced into a corner where the only option was destruction or hiding.


    "I won''t let that happen," Damian said, his voice stronger than he felt. "I refuse to live such a pitiful life."


    Evelyn''s eyes softened at his words, her gaze steady as she studied his face. There was a quiet intensity in the way she looked at him, like she was searching for something beneath the surface. For a moment, she didn''t respond.


    Finally, she nodded, her voice gentle but firm. "I know you won''t. You''re different. You don''t have the same bitterness or desperation that he did. You still have hope, and that''s what makes you stronger than you think."


    Damian let out a breath he didn''t realize he''d been holding, his chest feeling a little lighter at her words. "I''m trying. I really am. But sometimes... I don''t know if I''m strong enough to handle all of this. It feels like everything''s moving too fast."


    She stepped closer, her presence calming in the dim light of the room. "You don''t have to handle it all right now," she said softly. "One step at a time. You''re already doing more than anyone could''ve expected. But you don''t have to rush. You''re not alone in this."


    He met her eyes, a flicker of doubt still lingering in his chest. "What if I mess up?"


    Evelyn''s hand gently rested on his arm, her touch grounding him. "You won''t," she said, her voice full of certainty. "You people who care about you. You have me, Cassius... even Fenrith." She smiled softly, her fingers squeezing his arm reassuringly.


    Damian chuckled, though it came out a little shaky. "Fenrith, huh? So my terrifying three-headed wolf is gonna keep me in check?"


    Evelyn laughed lightly. "He might. But you don''t need a guardian, Damian. You''re more than capable of guiding yourself. You just have to trust that you''ll know when something''s wrong. Trust your instincts. You know the path you want to take."


    Damian looked down at his hand, at the warlock mark that had been growing. The doubts still swirled in his mind, but Evelyn''s confidence in him... It made him feel like maybe, just maybe, he could keep himself grounded. He wasn''t alone in this. He didn''t have to carry it all by himself.


    "Thanks, Evelyn," he said quietly, his voice more sincere than he expected. "I mean it. I don''t know what I''d be doing right now if you weren''t around."


    She brushed a lock of hair from his face, her touch gentle, and for a moment, her gaze lingered on him. "You''d figure it out," she said with a soft smile. "But I''m glad I''m here anyway."


    Damian smiled back. Somehow... His heart felt lighter. The heaviness faded a little, replaced by something that felt more like hope.


    Without warning, Evelyn leaned in, her hand still resting on his arm, and brushed her lips softly against his. It wasn''t rushed or intense, just a soft, lingering kiss that left Damian momentarily stunned, his heart racing in his chest.


    When she pulled back, there was a gentle smile on her lips, and she gave him a playful nudge. "Now, get back to those books," she teased lightly. "You''ve still got a lot to learn."

 Chapter 45: I Won’t Run Or Hide…

    Warlock Ch 45. I Won''t Run Or Hide...


    Damian blinked, his mind still trying to catch up with what had just happened. He touched his lips briefly, feeling the ghost of her kiss still there, and a grin slowly spread across his face. "Yeah, yeah," he muttered, trying to play it cool, but there was no hiding the way his heart was pounding in his chest.


    Evelyn laughed softly, her eyes warm and bright. "I''m serious," she said, nudging him again. "You''ve got a lot of catching up to do. And if you keep at this pace, you might even surpass me one day or soon."


    Damian shook his head, a chuckle escaping his lips. "Now that''s a bold claim," he teased. "But hey, I''m up for the challenge."


    Evelyn smirked, stepping back. "We''ll see about that," she said, her tone playful but with an edge of confidence. "But for now, focus on the basics. The rest will come in time."


    Damian nodded. He glanced at the stack of books, and for the first time, he didn''t feel overwhelmed. He felt... ready.


    "Alright," he said, picking up the next book in the pile. "I guess I''ve got some work to do."


    Evelyn gave him one last smile before turning to leave, her footsteps light. But just before she stepped out, she paused, glancing back at him. "Remember, Damian," she said, her voice soft but strong. "You''re in control of this. Not the magic, not the mark, and not the dreams. You. Don''t forget that."


    He met her gaze. "I won''t," he promised, his voice steady.


    With a final nod, Evelyn slipped out of the room, leaving Damian alone with his thoughts¡ªand his books. He stared at the pages in front of him but did not really read it. "This fate... is mine and I will be the one who controls it. I won''t run or hide..." he whispered to himself. The words came out just like that before he could stop it. He wasn''t sure why he said it. But he knew it was the voice that came from his heart. It was what he wanted.


    Damian once again immersed himself in the books. Nothing was different from before¡ªhe could absorb the information effortlessly like he was just going over something he''d already known.


    Before he knew it, he''d finished another book. And then another. The stack beside him, which had looked daunting at first, disappeared in what felt like no time at all. But one book caught his eye. It was the one about crystals, and for some reason, it drew him in more than the others. Out of everything he''d read, the section on magical crystals had stayed with him the most. There was something about it¡ªsomething that made his pulse quicken and his focus sharpen.


    Without thinking, he reached for the book again, flipping it open to the chapters on crystal magic.


    He could feel it, deep in his chest¡ªa pull, like an instinct driving him to know more. Maybe it was because crystals were a key to unlocking more power, more control. And after everything with Malthus, with the dreams, Damian knew he needed to get stronger, fast. He couldn''t afford to be weak, to rely on anyone else to save him again.


    ''This is not enough...'' Damian thought as he stared at the last page of the book about the crystals.


    It was good¡ªreally good, actually¡ªbut somehow he knew it was just the basics. The knowledge in this book wasn''t detailed enough. It wasn''t giving him what he needed. He could feel it in his gut¡ªa hunger for more, for something deeper, something that would actually help him handle the growing power inside him.


    He exhaled, running a hand through his hair, frustration creeping into his chest. "I guess I''ll ask Cassius for more books tomorrow," he muttered under his breath. The words felt strange coming out of his mouth.


    Asking for more books? It didn''t sound like him at all. A few weeks ago, he would''ve laughed at the idea of voluntarily diving into more study. But now? Now he felt like he couldn''t get enough.


    It wasn''t just curiosity driving him¡ªit was necessity. The more he learned, the more he realized how little he knew. And that scared him. There was no way he could keep up with everything happening around him, not at this pace. He needed to be better, faster, stronger. He couldn''t afford to lag behind while everyone else seemed to be one step ahead¡ªespecially not when people like Malthus were out there, throwing around their power like it was nothing.


    Damian finished the last sip of his drink. It had cooled off by now, no longer warm but still lukewarm enough to be comforting. He set the empty mug down on the table and glanced at the clock.


    He blinked, staring at the time in disbelief. "Half an hour," he said, shaking his head slowly. There was no way. He''d finished a whole stack of books¡ªbooks thicker than dictionaries¡ªin just thirty minutes? That couldn''t be right.


    But it was. He knew it was. And the fact that it had happened so easily, so naturally, only confirmed what Evelyn had said. He wasn''t normal. Something was different about him, something beyond just talent or intelligence. His connection to magic was growing, intensifying in ways that didn''t make sense.


    A part of him wanted to be proud of that. He should''ve felt powerful, like he was on the verge of becoming something greater. But after hearing Evelyn''s story about her mentor, he knew it was a bad idea.


    He didn''t want to end up like that. He didn''t want to become someone everyone feared, someone who was hunted down because they couldn''t control the power he''d unlocked. He wasn''t interested in flexing his abilities, in showing off how fast he could learn or how quickly he could absorb knowledge. Because right now, it didn''t feel like something to brag about. It felt like... something dangerous that could tip the wrong way at any moment.

 Chapter 46: Living in Fear

    Warlock Ch 46. Living in Fear


    Damian tried to shake the thought from his head. He couldn''t keep living in fear of what might happen in the future. He''d promised himself he would take control of his fate, no matter what came his way. Letting fear dictate his choices would only lead him down a path he didn''t want to take.


    He gathered the books he''d finished reading in one hand, balancing the empty plate and mug in the other. Tomorrow, he''d return the books to Cassius and ask for more¡ªthough the idea of asking for more books still felt odd to him. But better to bring them downstairs now so he wouldn''t forget in the morning. With that thought in mind, he headed down the stairs.


    Once downstairs, he noticed Evelyn standing by the sink, lost in thought. She was holding a dish, her hands absentmindedly moving a sponge over the surface, though it was clear the plate was already clean. Her gaze was distant, her expression troubled, and Damian had a feeling he knew exactly what¡ªor rather who¡ªwas on her mind.


    ''Is she still thinking about her mentor?'' he wondered, watching her for a moment. It made sense. Her mentor''s story wasn''t just tragic; it was a warning. A reminder of what could happen when someone like him¡ªsomeone with immense power¡ªwas pushed too far. Damian couldn''t help but feel sympathy for the guy. It wasn''t like he wanted to become a threat to the world.


    ''Living in fear... hiding from everyone because they think you could end the world if you felt like it¡ªthat''s no way to live,'' Damian thought. He imagined waking up one day with that kind of power, the kind where people whispered behind his back, wondering if he''d snap and bring about the apocalypse. That''s what her mentor had to deal with. Every day. No wonder the guy had cracked.


    Damian set the books down on the table, glancing back at Evelyn. Her hand was still moving over the plate, even though it was spotless by now. He sighed softly and took a step toward her, his footsteps breaking the quiet stillness of the room.


    Evelyn blinked, startled out of her thoughts by the sound. She turned to look at him, her expression softening slightly when she realized it was just him. "Oh, Damian," she said, her voice sounding a bit distant. "I didn''t hear you come in."


    "Yeah, well, I didn''t want to interrupt your dishwashing marathon," he teased lightly, giving her a small smile and putting his dishes in the sink. He gestured to the plate in her hand. "Pretty sure that one''s clean by now."


    Evelyn looked down at the plate, as if just now realizing what she''d been doing. A faint, embarrassed smile tugged at the corner of her lips as she set it down in the drying rack. "Guess I got lost in thought," she admitted, running a hand through her hair.


    Damian stepped closer, leaning against the counter beside her. "Thinking about your mentor?" he asked, keeping his tone gentle.


    Evelyn hesitated, her gaze dropping to the floor. "Yeah," she said after a moment. "I can''t stop thinking about him. About everything he went through."


    Damian stayed quiet, giving her space to speak. He could feel her emotions, the burden she carried from the past. It wasn''t just about her mentor¡ªit was about everything she''d learned, everything she''d witnessed.


    "Sorry," she said suddenly, shaking her head as if to clear the thoughts away.


    Damian frowned, confused. "Sorry for what?"


    Evelyn looked up, a small, almost embarrassed smile tugging at her lips. "I shouldn''t be thinking about another man when I''m around you," she said softly. "We''re partners after all."


    Damian chuckled. "Come on, Evelyn. I know we''re partners, but I''m not some possessive freak who gets jealous of a guy who''s been gone for ages. Besides, I get it. You respected him. If I were in your shoes, I''d probably feel the same way."


    Evelyn looked at him, her expression softening. "You think so?"


    "Yeah," Damian nodded. "Honestly, if I were in his situation, I probably would''ve handled things differently. I mean, if people were coming after me, trying to corner me, I wouldn''t keep running. I''d take them out. Why keep hiding when they already think you''re the villain, even if you''ve done nothing wrong? Might as well give them what they''re expecting, right?"


    Evelyn raised an eyebrow at him, a teasing smile forming on her lips. "Now you don''t sound like him."


    Damian grinned, leaning a little closer. "Is that a good thing?"


    "That''s a good thing," she said, nodding. "I used to think the same way. Part of me wanted him to fight back, to show them he wasn''t someone they could chase down. But..." She sighed, her smile fading. "Even he was afraid of what he could do. He wasn''t just hiding from them¡ªhe was hiding from himself. He was afraid of losing control."


    Damian tilted his head, curiosity sparking in his chest. "Is that why he kept running? Because he was afraid of what he''d do if he stopped?"


    Evelyn nodded slowly, her eyes clouded with memories. "Yeah. Pathetic, right?" She let out a bitter laugh. "He had all this power, but he was terrified of it. And in the end, that fear kept him trapped. He couldn''t face what he had become, so he just... ran."


    Damian leaned against the counter beside her, his gaze thoughtful. "Yeah, that does sound kind of pathetic." He reached out and gently took the dish from her hands, stepping in front of the sink. "Here, let me take care of this."


    Evelyn blinked, surprised by the sudden gesture, but she didn''t stop him. She watched as Damian started washing the dishes. For a moment, her mind drifted, lost in the simplicity of the moment. But then, something clicked.


    She frowned, her eyes narrowing slightly as she looked at the empty plate and mug in his hands. "Wait... are you done?"


    Damian smirked, glancing at her from the corner of his eye. "You mean with the books?"


    "Yeah," she said, her tone incredulous. "You finished reading all of them?"

 Chapter 47: More Than Desire *

    Warlock Ch 47. More Than Desire


    "Yep," he replied, turning off the faucet and setting the dish aside. "All the content is already in my head. I''m ready to go."


    Evelyn crossed her arms, a teasing smile tugging at her lips. "Alright, prove it. Let''s see how much you really know."


    Damian turned to face her fully, a playful glint in his eyes. "Try me."


    Evelyn paused for a moment, her expression shifting as she thought of a question. "Okay," she said, her tone taking on a mock-seriousness. "What''s the most common type of crystal used for amplifying defensive spells?"


    Damian didn''t even blink. "Sapphire. Its natural resonance with defensive magic makes it perfect for reinforcing barriers and shields. It''s also highly durable, which helps it withstand high-pressure environments."


    Evelyn raised an eyebrow, clearly impressed. "Not bad. How about this¡ªwhat''s the difference between a mana crystal and a soul crystal?"


    "Mana crystals store raw magical energy and can be used by warlocks to fuel spells when they''re running low on power," Damian explained, folding his arms across his chest. "Soul crystals, on the other hand, are the rarest and can trap the essence of a being. They''re used for more dangerous rituals¡ªlike summoning or binding¡ªand they have a darker reputation for obvious reasons."


    Evelyn chuckled, shaking her head in disbelief. "Okay, I get it. You''ve been paying attention."


    Damian grinned, leaning against the counter. "Told you. I''m a quick learner."


    "Apparently," she said, her tone softening. She stepped closer to him, her gaze lingering on his face for a moment longer than usual. "You''re really something, Damian."


    He felt his chest tighten slightly, caught off guard by the sincerity in her voice. "I''m just trying to keep up," he said, shrugging it off. "There''s a lot to learn, and I don''t want to fall behind."


    "You''re not falling behind," Evelyn said quietly. "If anything, you''re moving faster than anyone I''ve ever seen. You should be proud of that."


    Damian looked down at his hands, the faint glow of the warlock mark catching his eye. "Maybe," he muttered. "But it doesn''t feel like something I can be proud of. Not yet."


    Evelyn reached out, brushing a lock of hair from his face. Her touch was light, but it made him feel warm. "You don''t have to be proud of it yet," she said softly. "But don''t be afraid of it either. You''re doing fine."


    Damian met her gaze, feeling a strange warmth settle between them. There was something comforting about the way Evelyn looked at him, like she genuinely believed in him, even when he wasn''t sure he fully believed in himself yet. It wasn''t just the words she said; it was the way her eyes softened, the way her touch lingered as if reassuring him that, despite everything, he was on the right path.


    ''Partners, huh?'' he thought to himself. The term felt strange now, especially after everything that had happened between them. Yesterday had been a blur of emotions and sensations, and he still wasn''t sure he''d fully processed it all. When they had their first intimate moment, it had been almost overwhelming for him. The pleasure had been there, no doubt, but he hadn''t fully understood what he was feeling. He had just gone with the flow, acting on instinct more than anything else, confused but not wanting to question it in the moment.


    But now, standing here with her in the quiet of the kitchen, something had shifted inside him. Even though he knew she was still holding back, keeping things from him¡ªthings he wasn''t ready to know¡ªhe couldn''t deny that their bond was growing. It was more than attraction now. It was like a spark had ignited between them, something deeper, something warmer. It wasn''t the kind of spark that had caught his attention the first time he saw her walk into the bar. No, this was different. It wasn''t just physical.


    This was a connection.


    Without really thinking about it, Damian reached for her, his hand gently brushing her cheek. Evelyn''s breath hitched slightly at the touch, and before he could second-guess himself, he leaned in and kissed her. But this kiss wasn''t like the ones from before. It wasn''t hesitant or unsure. This was something deeper. He pulled her into his arms, feeling her body against his, and kissed her with an intensity he hadn''t realized he was holding back.


    He used his tongue, tasting her, feeling every inch of her lips against his. It was a hunger he hadn''t expected, something raw and primal, but also tender. It was as if he wanted to consume her, to feel her completely, not just in his arms but in his soul. The way his hands gripped her waist, pulling her closer, said everything that words couldn''t.


    Evelyn responded almost immediately, her hands finding their way to his hair, her fingers threading through it as she leaned into him. The kiss deepened, and Damian felt her body melt against his, like she was giving in to the same pull that had drawn him to her. Her lips parted more, allowing him to explore, to taste, and he did¡ªhungrily, like he couldn''t get enough.


    It wasn''t just about desire. It was more than that. Damian wanted to understand her, to connect with her in a way that went beyond the magic they shared or the danger they faced. He wanted to know the real Evelyn, the person behind the secrets and the walls she kept up. He wanted to feel everything she was hiding, every part of her she hadn''t yet revealed.


    His hand slipped to the back of her neck, pulling her even closer, and the kiss deepened until it was all-consuming. There was a quiet urgency to it, a need that had been building for longer than he realized. And in that moment, everything else fell away¡ªthe fear, the doubt, the unanswered questions. All that mattered was her.


    Damian''s lips moved from hers, trailing down her jaw to her neck, where he could feel her pulse beneath his mouth. He kissed her there, his breath hot against her skin, and the soft sound that escaped her lips¡ªa low, breathy moan¡ªmade something snap inside him. That sound drove him crazy, sent a shock of desire racing through his veins, and he couldn''t stop himself. His lips pressed harder against her neck, and before he knew it, he was giving her a hickey, marking her with a kind of primal need he hadn''t expected.

 Chapter 48: Screw The Bed! *

    Warlock Ch 48. Screw The Bed!


    "Ngh..." Evelyn moaned softly, her fingers tightening in his hair as she tilted her head to give him more access. It was a quiet sound, but it was enough to push Damian further, to make him want more. The way her body responded to his touch, the way she seemed to melt into him¡ªit was overwhelming.


    Evelyn pulled back slightly, her breath ragged, but she didn''t move far. Her forehead rested against his, her eyes half-lidded, as if she was trying to catch her breath, trying to steady herself in the intense emotions that had swept them both up.


    Damian let out a shaky breath, his heart pounding so hard he thought it might burst out of his chest. "Evelyn..." he started, his voice rough, almost hoarse. He didn''t even know what he was trying to say. His thoughts were tangled, but he knew one thing for certain¡ªthis was real. Whatever this thing between them was, it was real. It was intense. And it wasn''t going away.


    She looked up at him, her eyes soft but filled with something intense, something raw that mirrored what he was feeling.


    "The bed," Damian blurted out, his voice rough, his thoughts tangled. "We should go to the bed."


    He hesitated, realizing how awkward and rushed it sounded. ''What the hell am I saying?'' he thought, mentally kicking himself. He wasn''t trying to rush her, but his words had come out all wrong. He meant that he wanted to be with her, to share something more intimate, but somehow it sounded like he was just ready to crash and sleep. He rubbed the back of his neck, embarrassment creeping up his spine.


    "I-I mean..." he stammered, trying to recover. He wasn''t used to this¡ªdespite his previous job as a bartender, despite his easygoing, friendly nature, he''d never been the type to hit on girls or act like some suave player.


    Truth be told, he wasn''t experienced with this kind of intimacy. His ex had left him because she didn''t see a future with him, and whatever they had shared wasn''t exactly what he''d call romantic. Sure, they''d slept together a few times, but it never felt like this.


    With Evelyn, though, everything felt different. The connection between them wasn''t just physical. It was emotional. And that scared him a little. He wasn''t sure how to handle it. He didn''t want to mess it up, but at the same time, he didn''t want to overthink it. He just wanted to be with her, in the moment, feeling everything.


    Evelyn seemed to catch on to his awkwardness. She smiled slightly, touching her lips with her fingers, a knowing look crossing her face. "You... want to do it, don''t you?"


    Damian felt his throat tighten, but he nodded. He couldn''t hide it, and he didn''t want to. "Yeah," he admitted, his voice low and honest. "I do."


    Evelyn tilted her head slightly, her gaze soft but curious. "Aren''t you tired?" she asked, her tone playful yet concerned. "After all the training and all those books?"


    He shook his head, a small smile tugging at his lips. "No. I''m not tired. Not at all."


    She looked at him for a moment, her expression shifting from teasing to something more serious. "Okay," she said softly, her voice barely above a whisper. She reached for his hand, ready to pull him toward the bedroom, but then Damian didn''t move.


    She stopped, turning back to him with a questioning look. "Damian?" she asked, her brow furrowed in confusion. "What''s wrong?"


    He met her gaze, his heart racing in his chest. For a moment, he wasn''t sure what to say, but then it hit him. He didn''t want to overthink this, didn''t want to plan every little detail. He just wanted to be with her¡ªright here, right now.


    "You know..." he said, his voice soft but firm. "Screw the bed. We''ll do it here."


    Evelyn blinked, her eyes widening slightly as she registered his words. For a moment, there was a flicker of surprise, but then a smile crept onto her lips, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Here?" she echoed, her voice teasing. "In the kitchen?"


    Damian grinned, his confidence returning. "Yup." His hands found their way to her waist, pulling her closer, his body pressed firmly against hers. "Here," he stated.


    There was something different now¡ªa quiet certainty, a need that wasn''t driven by hesitation or doubt anymore. His fingers gripped her hips as if they had been there a hundred times before, but this time it wasn''t about exploring. It was about claiming the moment, making it theirs.


    Evelyn''s breath hitched as she felt his touch, her body responding instinctively, leaning into him. Her teasing expression faded, replaced by something more serious, something more raw. She could feel it in the way Damian''s hands roamed her waist, up her sides, as if he couldn''t get close enough.


    He leaned in and kissed her again, this time with more intensity, more hunger. His lips pressed against hers, parting them as he deepened the kiss, his tongue tasting her with a kind of fierce determination. He wasn''t holding back anymore, and neither was she.


    Evelyn melted into him, her hands gripping the back of his neck, pulling him even closer as the kiss grew more heated.


    Damian''s hands moved quickly, almost instinctively, as they tugged at the fabric of her clothes. He wasn''t thinking anymore; he was just acting. His fingers found the hem of her dress, pulling it up and over her head in one swift motion. He barely gave it a second thought before his hands were back on her, his lips trailing down her neck, tasting her skin, breathing her in.


    Evelyn gasped softly, her head tilting back as his lips moved along her throat, her pulse racing beneath his mouth. She wasn''t used to this version of Damian¡ªthe one who took charge so confidently, who knew exactly what he wanted and wasn''t afraid to take it. And the more he touched her, the more she felt that spark between them grow into a full-blown fire.

 Chapter 49: Kitchen Play **

    Warlock Ch 49. Kitchen Play


    "Damian..." she whispered, her voice breathless, but she didn''t stop him. If anything, she encouraged him, her fingers sliding under his shirt, feeling the warmth of his skin, the hard muscle beneath her hands. She pulled the fabric over his head, tossing it aside without a second thought, her body pressed against his bare chest now.


    The cool air hit Damian''s skin, but all he could feel was the heat between them, the way her body seemed to fit perfectly against his. He kissed her again, deeper this time, his hands roaming over her back, feeling the curves of her body. He didn''t care about anything else in that moment¡ªjust her. Just the way she made him feel like he was right where he was supposed to be.


    His fingers fumbled with the clasp of her bra for a moment, but he quickly got the hang of it, tossing it aside as his lips found her collarbone, then lower. He kissed her skin like it was the most natural thing in the world, like he''d been doing this forever, but it still felt new.


    Evelyn let out a soft moan, her fingers threading through his hair as she pressed her body even closer to his. Her skin felt like fire under his touch, and the way he was kissing her¡ªlike he couldn''t get enough.


    She didn''t say anything, but the way her hands roamed over him, the way she pulled him closer, spoke louder than words. She wanted this¡ªwanted him¡ªjust as much as he wanted her.


    Damian''s hands moved lower, tracing the waistband of her panties before pulling them down, his breath hot against her skin as he kissed his way down her stomach. Evelyn shivered at the sensation, her fingers gripping the edge of the counter for support as Damian''s hands explored her.


    He pulled her panties off completely, his eyes darkening with desire as he took her in, standing there in front of him, completely exposed but completely willing. There was something almost reverent in the way he looked at her, like he couldn''t believe she was here with him, like this.


    He leaned in, his breath warm on her skin as he kissed her hip bone, his lips slowly moving lower. His hands roamed her thighs, gently spreading them apart, his fingertips caressing the smooth skin there, sending a wave of goosebumps over her body.


    Evelyn bit her lip, her breath catching in her throat as Damian continued his slow exploration.


    Damian continued his trail of kisses down her inner thigh, his hands spreading her legs wider, until he finally reached her center. His tongue flicked against her most sensitive spot, and Evelyn let out a soft gasp, her fingers gripping the edge of the counter even tighter.


    "Oh..." she breathed, her voice trembling slightly, as Damian continued his gentle assault.


    Damian took his time, tasting her, his tongue exploring every inch of her. He savored every gasp, every shudder, every breathless moan that escaped her lips. He could feel her getting closer, her body tensing beneath his touch, and he knew she was almost there.


    He pulled back slightly, kissing his way back up her inner thigh, his hands trailing along her skin. When he finally reached her lips again, he kissed her hungrily, tasting her on his tongue, a low growl escaping his throat.


    Evelyn melted into him, her lips parting more, letting him deepen the kiss, her body still tingling from the sensation of his tongue against her. She wrapped her arms around him, her hands running over the hard planes of his chest, feeling the strength there, the way his muscles rippled beneath her fingertips.


    "Damian..." she moaned, her voice heavy with need, as his lips moved along her jawline, nipping at her earlobe, his breath hot against her skin.


    "Mmh..." he groaned, his voice thick with desire, his hands exploring her body, tracing every curve. He kissed his way down her neck, his tongue grazing her collarbone, his teeth gently nipping at her flesh.


    Damian was driving her crazy, and she didn''t even know how she was still standing. Her legs felt like jelly, her body tingling from the sensations of his touch.


    "Ah..." she whispered, her nails digging into his skin, her head thrown back as his lips found their way to her breast. He sucked her nipple into his mouth, his tongue circling the sensitive bud, his hand caressing her other breast.


    "Ngh..." Evelyn moaned, her body arching into him, desperate for more. "I need you..."


    Damian let out a low groan, his mouth moving to her other breast, his tongue teasing her nipple.


    "I want you," she panted, her fingers tugging at his pants, urging him on. "Please..."


    He didn''t need any further encouragement. In one fluid motion, he unfastened his pants, shoving them down and kicking them off. He pressed himself against her, his erection throbbing.


    Evelyn bit her lip, the sensation of his naked body against hers sending a thrill through her veins. She could feel him hard and ready, and she wanted him¡ªneeded him¡ªmore than ever.


    Damian''s hand cupped her cheek, tilting her head up, his lips capturing hers once again, as he positioned himself between her legs. His other hand rested on her thigh, gently lifting her leg and hooking it around his waist.


    The tip of his erection teased her entrance, and Evelyn gasped, her breath hot against his mouth. She could feel him, so close, yet so far. Her body ached for him, her heart racing in anticipation.


    And then, without warning, Damian thrust into her.


    Evelyn let out a strangled moan, her eyes fluttering shut, her nails digging into his back, as he filled her completely.


    Damian didn''t waste any time. He moved in and out of her, his strokes deep and intense, his hands gripping her hips tightly.


    "Ahh..." Evelyn cried, her body shuddering, her muscles clenching around him.


    It was a deep, primal pleasure that seemed to course through her veins, her blood pumping wildly, her heart hammering against her ribs. It was like a drug, a powerful high that left her breathless and dizzy.

 Chapter 50: Unspoken Truth

    Warlock Ch 50. Unspoken Truth


    "Mmmh... " Damian growled, his lips brushing her neck, his breath hot against her skin. The urge to dominate her was overwhelming, and his fingers gripped her hips even harder, his movements growing faster, more urgent.


    Evelyn wrapped her legs around his waist, pulling him deeper, her fingers clawing at his back.


    "D-Damian..." she whispered, her voice shaky, her whole body trembling from the sheer intensity of their connection.


    Damian let out a low growl, his teeth grazing her earlobe, his hand tangling in her hair, pulling her head back. He was so close to the edge, his entire body tense, his muscles straining with every thrust.


    And then, with one final stroke, Evelyn came undone.


    "Ah!" she cried out, her whole body convulsing, her muscles contracting around him, the release so intense she thought she might black out.


    "F-F*ck," Damian groaned, his breath hot against her ear, as he buried himself deep inside her. His body tensed, his fingers digging into her flesh, and then he shuddered, his release spilling into her.


    They both stood there for a moment, breathing heavily, their bodies slick with sweat, the silence only broken by their ragged breathing.


    A notification seemed to flash before Damian''s eyes.


    [New Spells Unlocked!]


    [Curse of Agony Lv. 1: Inflicts a painful curse on the target, dealing damage over time.]


    "Damian..." Evelyn murmured, her voice barely audible, her head still resting against his chest.


    "Mmh," Damian murmured, his hands roaming her body, his fingers tracing patterns on her skin. "Evelyn," he whispered, his voice thick with emotion.


    "That was..." Evelyn started, her voice trailing off, as she tried to find the right words.


    Damian smiled softly, his heart still pounding but his mind beginning to settle. He felt the satisfaction in his bones. "Good?" he whispered, his lips brushing against her temple as he spoke.


    Evelyn lifted her head slightly, meeting his gaze with eyes. "More than that," she breathed, her arms tightening around him as if she never wanted to let go. She buried her face into his chest, listening to the steady rhythm of his heartbeat.


    But beneath the closeness, Evelyn felt something else¡ªsomething heavier. Nostalgia washed over her, accompanied by the familiar sting of longing, of love. Her heart swelled with feelings she had kept locked away for far too long, emotions she hadn''t dared to revisit until now.


    ''Damian...'' She thought, not just as he was now, but of everything she knew about him¡ªeverything she hadn''t yet told him. There was so much more to his past, so many things that he hadn''t uncovered yet. Part of her wanted to tell him, to reveal the truth she had held back. She wanted him to know everything.


    But she stopped herself.


    No. This wasn''t the time. It wasn''t her place to shape his destiny...


    Damian had to choose his own path. If she interfered, if she told him the truth now, it might change everything¡ªhis choices, his future, the man he was becoming. What she needed to do was love him, as she always had, whether he knew it or not.


    And maybe, just maybe, she loved him even more now than she ever had before. Because this time, she wasn''t just seeing Damian through the lens of what she knew. She was seeing him for who he truly was.


    She held him tighter, her mind racing with thoughts she couldn''t yet voice. ''I can''t lose him again,'' she thought, her heart aching at the mere idea of it. Not again. Not after everything.


    "Evelyn," Damian whispered, breaking through the haze of her thoughts. He could feel the shift in her, the way her body tensed slightly as if she was holding something back. "What''s on your mind?"


    For a moment, Evelyn hesitated. She wanted to tell him, to open her heart and let the truth spill out, but she couldn''t bring herself to do it. Not yet.


    "I just..." Evelyn started, her voice soft but thick with emotion. She wanted to say it¡ªto tell him she was afraid of losing him. The words hovered on the tip of her tongue, so close to spilling out, but something inside her pulled them back. It wasn''t time. Not yet. She swallowed hard, shifting slightly in his arms before whispering, "I''m just so happy that you''re with me."


    Damian''s arms tightened around her, his brow furrowing slightly as he picked up on the weight behind her words. He could sense there was more she wasn''t saying, but he didn''t push. Instead, he smiled softly, brushing a strand of her hair behind her ear. "I''m happy too," he murmured, his voice low and genuine. "More than you know."


    Evelyn leaned into him, resting her head on his chest, listening to the steady rhythm of his heartbeat. It calmed her, but it also made her heart ache with a bittersweet nostalgia. She felt everything she hadn''t told him piling up, the secrets she kept hidden pulling at her. She wanted to share them with him, to let him in completely. But she also knew that Damian was still finding his way, and some truths might push him too far, too fast.


    So, she held back. For now.


    They stayed like that for a while, wrapped up in each other. Damian''s fingers gently traced circles on Evelyn''s back, soothing and grounding her, while his mind wandered. The warmth of her skin, the way she melted into him¡ªit felt so natural, like they''d done this a thousand times before. Yet, there was a strange sense of familiarity creeping in, something that didn''t quite make sense.


    ''Why do I feel like I''ve felt this before?'' he thought, a small frown forming on his face. It wasn''t just the physical connection or the intimacy they''d shared moments ago. It was deeper than that. A sense of nostalgia that shouldn''t have been there¡ªit didn''t belong in this moment. He couldn''t shake the feeling that he''d been here before, done something similar, but he knew this was the first time he''d been with her like this.


    This was the first time they''d had this kind of moment¡ªespecially here, at the kitchen counter, of all places. Yet, the sensation of deja vu washed over him, strong and unyielding.

 Chapter 51: Deja Vu

    Warlock Ch 51. Deja Vu


    He pulled back slightly, just enough to look down at Evelyn''s face, his brows knitted in confusion. "Do you ever... feel like you''ve done something before, even when you know it''s your first time?"


    Evelyn''s eyes fluttered open, her expression soft and drowsy from the closeness they''d shared. She tilted her head up to meet his gaze, her eyes narrowing slightly at the question. "What do you mean?"


    Damian hesitated for a moment, trying to find the right words. "I don''t know... It''s just that... being here with you, like this, it feels familiar. Like I''ve been here before. But I know I haven''t." He ran a hand through his hair. "It''s weird. It''s like... I''ve done this before. But I don''t know why."


    Evelyn''s gaze softened as she listened to him, her fingers brushing gently against his arm. She knew what he meant.


    She bit her lip, debating whether to say more, but held back. This was his journey, and he had to uncover these things on his own, at his own pace. "Maybe it''s just the magic," she said softly, giving him a reassuring smile. "The way it connects us. Sometimes it makes things feel... familiar, even if they''re new."


    Damian nodded slowly, though he couldn''t shake the feeling that there was more to it. "Maybe," he murmured, his thoughts still turning over the strange sensation. But deep down, he knew it wasn''t just magic. There was something else at play, something he hadn''t uncovered yet. It wasn''t just about their bond or the power he was beginning to unlock¡ªthis was something that felt ancient, almost like it had been written into his fate long before he even knew who Evelyn was.


    He leaned down and kissed her forehead, the gesture more tender than before. It wasn''t driven by desire or urgency; it was an expression of comfort, of quiet understanding. "Whatever it is," he said, his voice a little lighter, "I''m glad it''s with you."


    Evelyn smiled. She leaned into his chest, closing her eyes. "Me too," she whispered, letting the moment linger. They stood there for a while longer.


    After a few more moments, Evelyn looked up at him, her eyes soft but a little playful. "Come on," she said, her voice gentle. "You''ve had a long day. Let''s get some sleep. You''ll need to be ready for Cassius'' training again tomorrow."


    Damian let out a soft chuckle, nodding in agreement. "Yeah, you''re right. Tomorrow''s probably going to be brutal," he said, though the thought of sleep didn''t excite him as much as it should have. He felt the exhaustion in his bones, but at the same time, a knot of anxiety twisted in his chest. He didn''t know if he could handle another dream¡ªanother nightmare like the ones he had been having.


    Still, he followed her upstairs. They slipped into bed together and cuddled beneath the blankets. Evelyn rested her head on his chest, her breathing slow and steady as she quickly began to drift off. But Damian... he lay there wide awake, his eyes staring at the ceiling as his mind refused to shut off.


    He was tired, and exhausted, but his thoughts wouldn''t stop racing. He was afraid¡ªafraid of falling asleep, of slipping back into that strange dreamscape where nothing made sense and yet everything felt terrifyingly real. He didn''t want to face the woman again, didn''t want to feel the weight of her accusations, the pain that came with every word she hurled at him.


    He closed his eyes, willing sleep to come without the nightmares. ''Just one night without it,'' he thought. ''That''s all I''m asking for.''


    But as soon as his eyelids grew heavy, the darkness pulled him under.


    Damian found himself standing in the middle of a vast, empty sky, hovering above the ground as if weightless. It was like being dropped straight into the middle of a movie series, the dream picking up right where it had left off before. Only this time, there was no artifact. No voice whispering cryptic warnings. Just go straight to the last scene.


    Below him, the woman lay sprawled on the ground, dust and debris swirling around her. She was hurt, thrown back by some unseen force, his force. But she wasn''t defeated. Damian could see it in the way she pushed herself up, her movements slow, her face twisted in pain and anger.


    "No right to judge you?" she spat, her voice dripping with venom as she glared up at him. "Really?"


    Damian''s heart raced as he hovered in the sky, watching her struggle to her feet. He didn''t know what to say¡ªhis mind was foggy, confused. He didn''t understand what it was about, but her words cut through him like a knife, accusing him of things he didn''t understand.


    Before he could respond, she attacked.


    Her hands moved in intricate patterns as she summoned the elements to her will. The atmosphere around them crackled with raw energy, and in an instant, flames erupted from her fingertips. The fire surged toward Damian in a blazing wave, the heat so intense he could feel it burning the air around him.


    Damian''s instincts kicked in. His body reacted before his mind could catch up, his hands moving in response to the attack. Without thinking, he summoned water¡ªa surge of cool, rushing liquid that materialized from nowhere. It met the flames head-on, hissing as the two elements collided, steam rising in thick clouds. The force of it nearly knocked him off balance, but Damian held his ground, his heart racing as he realized what he''d just done.


    ''Water?! I''m a warlock! I shouldn''t be able to control water like this!''


    But there was no time to dwell on it. The woman didn''t stop.


    With a furious shout, she raised her arms, and the ground beneath Damian trembled. The earth cracked and split open, sharp jagged rocks shooting up toward him like spears. Damian''s breath caught in his throat as he saw the attack coming¡ªthere was no way to dodge it.

 Chapter 52: Element Master

    Warlock Ch 52. Element Master


    But then, without hesitation, his hands moved again. This time, a gust of wind burst from his palms, swirling in a violent cyclone around him. The wind caught the jagged rocks, deflecting them away from him with brutal force. They shattered as they hit the spinning air, crumbling into dust.


    ''Wind?''


    Another element. Another spell he shouldn''t know.


    The woman''s eyes blazed with fury as she saw him counter her attack. She wasn''t done yet. With a guttural scream, she summoned the sky itself. Lightning crackled in the dark clouds that formed above them, the air buzzing with electricity. She thrust her hands forward, and a bolt of lightning shot toward Damian, its blinding light cutting through the stormy sky.


    Panic surged through Damian''s veins. He had no time to think, no time to react¡ªbut something inside him knew what to do. His hands shot up, and instead of summoning a counter-element, the ground beneath him responded. A shield of stone and earth erupted in front of him, absorbing the impact of the lightning. The sound of thunder echoed in his ears, and the force of the strike shook the ground beneath his feet, but the stone shield held strong.


    The woman''s eyes widened, her fury now mixed with shock. "How...?" she muttered, her voice barely audible.


    But she wasn''t finished. Her movements grew more frantic, more desperate as she summoned the next element¡ªwind. She whipped her arms in a wide arc, and a gust of powerful air slammed into Damian, lifting him off his feet, but he cast his Barrier. It was a powerful barrier, unlike his current one.


    He landed as if the attack was nothing. The wind tried to knock him down. The air continued to swirl around him, threatening to pin him down. But Damian''s barrier held back.


    Damian fought back. His hands moved again, and this time, the ground answered him. Vines shot up from the earth, thick and twisted, wrapping around him like a fortress. Soon, the wind dissipated, and Damian stood, his breath heavy, his body aching but still capable of fighting.


    The woman glared at him, her face twisted in rage and disbelief. She raised her hands once more, and this time, she summoned ice. Shards of sharp, deadly ice formed in the air around her. She flung them toward him with a furious cry, each shard aimed directly at his heart.


    Damian''s heart raced as he saw the attack coming, but something inside him¡ªsomething deep and instinctive¡ªknew what to do. He thrust his hands forward, and flames erupted from his palms, hotter and more ferocious than anything he''d ever felt before. The fire met the ice midair, melting the shards instantly and sending a shower of water raining down around them.


    The woman recoiled, her eyes wide with disbelief and sadness. "So, it''s all true..." she muttered under her breath.


    Damian didn''t know the answer. He didn''t know how he was doing any of this. But what he did know was that he had to keep fighting. His body moved on its own, reacting to every spell she threw at him, countering each attack with an opposing element. Fire to water. Earth to wind. Light to darkness. Every time she attacked, he responded with something more powerful, something stronger.


    It was like he wasn''t just using the elements¡ªhe was mastering them.


    The battle raged on, the sky flashing with lightning, the earth shaking beneath their feet as the elements clashed in a violent storm of power. But with every attack, Damian could feel something inside him growing¡ªsomething dark, something powerful. It was like a well of magic deep within him, and with each spell, he was drawing more and more from it.


    And with it came the pain.


    Every time he cast a spell, every time he countered one of her attacks, the pain in his chest grew sharper, more intense. It wasn''t just physical¡ªit was emotional, like something was breaking inside him with each moment that passed.


    Damian gritted his teeth, his heart pounding as he hurled another spell at her¡ªthis time, a blast of pure energy that sent her flying backward. But even as he fought, even as he pushed himself harder, he couldn''t shake the feeling that she was right. That no matter what he did, no matter how hard he fought, he would always bring destruction in his wake.


    The woman stumbled as she landed, her body battered and bruised, but she wasn''t done. She raised her arms one last time, her voice shaking with fury. "You don''t even know what you are," she shouted, her voice echoing through the storm. "And never will!"


    She thrust her hands forward, and the sky itself seemed to tear open. A vortex of wind, lightning, and darkness swirled around her, growing larger and larger until it threatened to consume everything in its path. Damian''s eyes widened in horror as he saw the spell building¡ªthis was it. This was the final blow.


    But then, something snapped inside him.


    Without thinking, without hesitating, Damian raised his hands. But this time, it wasn''t just an element he summoned. It was everything. Fire, water, earth, wind, light, and darkness¡ªall of it surged from him in a wave of raw power, crashing into the vortex with a force that shook the very ground beneath them.


    For a moment, the world stood still. The swirling vortex of wind, lightning, and darkness loomed before Damian, pulsating with raw, destructive power. Everything was on the verge of collapse¡ªhe could feel it. The pressure in the air was so intense it was suffocating, crushing. He knew if this continued, it would be the end. Of everything.


    "Stop!" Damian shouted, his voice hoarse, his throat raw. His hands stretched forward, his body trembling with exhaustion and fear. "If we keep going, everything will perish! The people here, the city, you and me¡ªit''ll all be gone!"


    The woman stood in the center of the chaos. She looked almost... peaceful in the middle of the storm, as if she had already accepted her fate.

 Chapter 53: Chaos

    Warlock Ch 53. Chaos


    "I can''t..." she whispered, her voice soft, barely audible over the roaring winds. But he could see her lips move, see the tears that streamed down her face, glistening in the harsh light of the vortex. "I can''t stop. This is how it ends. It''s too late."


    "It doesn''t have to end like this!" he stated.


    But the woman shook her head, a small, bittersweet smile tugging at the corner of her lips. Her tears fell freely now, mixing with the dust and debris swirling around them. "We''re all ready to die. Me, the people who fought beside me... we knew this day would come."


    Her voice cracked as she spoke, and Damian felt something inside him break. He could see her resolve crumbling, but still, she stood tall. She wasn''t fighting for herself anymore. She was fighting for something greater, something she believed in with all her heart. But Damian couldn''t understand why she was so willing to let it all go.


    The woman''s eyes softened as she looked at him, her tears glistening like silver in the storm. "Goodbye---" she whispered, her voice full of sorrow. He saw her mouth move, calling a name¡ªa name he couldn''t hear.


    And then, with a deafening roar, both powers exploded.


    Damian was thrown backward, the sheer force of the blast ripping him from the ground. The impact knocked the air from his lungs, his vision blurring as pain shot through his entire body. He tried to move, tried to breathe, but it felt like the world had collapsed on top of him. The sky above him twisted, dark and chaotic, the wind and debris swirling in every direction, tearing apart everything in its path.


    In the middle of the destruction, just before everything went black, he saw her one last time. The woman, the sorcerer, her figure blurry and fading. Her hair, long and flowing, shimmered like silver in the chaos, and for a brief second, Damian could''ve sworn she looked right at him with tearful eyes. But it was too late.


    Everything went dark.


    When Damian opened his eyes, it was morning. Sunlight filtered through the curtains. He blinked, disoriented, his heart still pounding from the dream, his body drenched in sweat. For a moment, he lay there, trying to catch his breath.


    Beside him, Evelyn slept soundly, her face calm, her breathing soft and steady.


    Damian stared at her for a long moment, his heart still racing, his mind replaying the dream over and over again.


    ''Not her...'' he thought, relief washing over him. ''At least it wasn''t her...''


    He wasn''t sure why the dream had affected him so deeply, why the sight of that silver-haired woman had shaken him. But one thing was clear, this dream wasn''t just a dream. It was something more. The pain, the fear, the strange magic he had wielded¡ªit had all felt too real. And that woman, whoever she was, had left a mark on his heart.


    Damian sat up slowly, careful not to wake Evelyn. His body ached from the dream, his muscles stiff and sore as if he had been fighting for real. He rubbed his eyes.


    ''Who was she?'' He couldn''t stop thinking about her, about the way she had looked at him, the sadness in her eyes as she accepted her fate. And that name¡ªwhat had she been trying to say? Why couldn''t he hear it?


    It was clear she was calling him, but it wasn''t his name. If it wasn''t his... then who?


    He shook his thought as he knew he couldn''t get the answer right away. He glanced at the clock. It wasn''t even 6 AM yet¡ªstill too early by most standards, but the dream had left him too rattled to go back to sleep. He ran a hand through his hair, feeling the sweat that still clung to his skin, and made his way to the bathroom to wash his face.


    The cold water did little to calm the racing thoughts in his mind, but at least it jolted him awake. As the droplets ran down his face, he stared at his reflection in the mirror. His eyes were tired, and there was a heaviness to his expression that hadn''t been there before.


    ''Focus, Damian,'' he told himself. There were too many unknowns right now. He needed something to clear his mind.


    After drying his face, he left the bathroom and padded down to the kitchen. Cooking. Maybe that would help settle his thoughts. He wasn''t a chef by any means, but years working as a bartender and kitchen helper had made him pretty handy in the kitchen. Besides, he''d been flipping through those books earlier and had come across a few recipes. He''d picked up some ingredients when he and Evelyn went to the market. Maybe he could try one of those.


    Damian opened the fridge, scanning the contents inside. His eyes flicked over the ingredients they''d picked up at the market the day before. The glowing moonberries caught his eye, their faint glow reminding him of something out of a fairytale. He hadn''t paid much attention to them before, but now, they seemed almost inviting.


    ''Moonberry pancakes,'' he thought. That was one of the recipes he''d come across while reading the magic books. Soft, fluffy pancakes topped with rare moonberries, said to enhance clarity of mind and sharpen focus for the day ahead. It sounded simple, but after the night he''d had, clarity was exactly what he needed.


    He reached into the fridge, grabbing the berries and a few other ingredients¡ªmilk, eggs, flour¡ªsetting them down on the counter. He cracked the eggs into a bowl, his mind tried to wander back to the dream. But he refused it.


    Damian sighed, mixing the batter, trying to push the thoughts away. ''Focus on the pancakes,'' he told himself. ''Just focus on this for now.''


    Once the batter was ready, he heated the pan, the sizzle of the first pancake hitting the surface immediately filling the kitchen with a comforting warmth. The aroma of the moonberries was subtle but sweet, a faint glow emanating from them as they sat in a small bowl next to him, ready to be used as a topping. It was strange, watching them glow like that.

 Chapter 54: Moonberries

    Warlock Ch 54. Moonberries


    He flipped the pancakes, the only sounds were the soft hiss of the batter and the occasional crackle of the stove. The calmness of it helped to soothe the tension in his chest. He placed the pancakes onto a plate, their golden, fluffy surfaces indicating his cooking was a success. He carefully spooned the moonberries on top, watching as their faint glow spread across the stack, making the dish look almost otherworldly.


    Just as he was finishing up, he heard soft footsteps behind him. He turned to see Evelyn, still sleepy-eyed, her hair slightly tousled as she padded into the kitchen. She rubbed her eyes, giving him a curious look as she took in the sight of him standing there, holding a plate of glowing pancakes.


    "You''re up early," she said, her voice thick with sleep. She stretched slightly, glancing at the plate in his hands. "And cooking. That''s new."


    Damian shrugged, offering her a small smile as he set the plate on the table. "Couldn''t sleep," he admitted, not wanting to dive into the details of his nightmare just yet. "Thought I''d make breakfast."


    Evelyn blinked, still trying to shake off the last remnants of sleep as she moved closer. She peered at the pancakes, her eyebrows raising in mild surprise. "Are those... moonberries?"


    "Yeah," Damian replied, gesturing to the plate. "Moonberry pancakes. I found the recipe in one of the books. Supposed to help with concentration and focus. Figured we could both use some of that."


    Evelyn smiled softly, sitting down at the table as Damian placed the plate in front of her. "You''re not wrong," she said, picking up a fork and taking a bite. Her eyes widened slightly as she chewed, clearly surprised by the taste. "Wow... these are actually really good."


    Damian chuckled, taking a seat across from Evelyn. "Glad to hear it," he said, watching as she took another bite of the moonberry pancakes. The soft glow of the berries made the dish look almost magical¡ªwell, more magical than everything else around him already was. The kitchen was quiet except for the occasional scrape of a fork against the plate.


    Once he finished his plate, a soft ''ding'' echoed in his head, followed by the familiar blue text of his system.


    [Your concentration has increased by 10%.]


    Damian froze, staring at the notification. His fork hovered mid-air as his brain processed what just happened. ''10%?'' That was... a significant boost. But what struck him most was why now?


    Yesterday, when Evelyn cooked and gave him the drink¡ªnothing. No notification. The same thing at Cassius'' place when they''d eaten together. His system didn''t even acknowledge it. But now?


    "Why is it different?" Damian muttered, almost to himself.


    Evelyn glanced up, noticing his sudden pause. "What''s up?" she asked, her tone curious but casual as she set her fork down.


    "Did you feel anything when you ate?" Damian asked suddenly, his eyes locked on Evelyn.


    She paused mid-bite, glancing at him with a bit of confusion. "What do you mean?"


    "Like... I don''t know. Did you feel different? Sharper, maybe?"


    Evelyn put her fork down, considering the question. "Actually, yeah," she said after a moment. "I do feel sharper. My concentration is better than usual, now that you mention it. Why?"


    He hesitated, unsure how to explain. "Uh... I just got a notification. My concentration increased by 10%," he said slowly, his eyes still flickering between the now-faded system message and his empty plate. "It didn''t happen before. And it didn''t happen with your cooking yesterday."


    Evelyn raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "A 10% increase? That''s... a big boost. Way more than a normal mage would get from just food."


    Damian blinked. "Wait, what do you mean?"


    Evelyn gave a small smile, as if she was holding back something, but she continued anyway. "Usually, these kinds of magical foods or drinks will give you, at most, a small boost. Maybe 1%, 2% if it''s something really rare or high-quality. But 10%?" She leaned back in her chair, crossing her arms. "That''s not normal."


    Damian frowned, trying to make sense of it. "So... you''re saying I made something better than a mage chef would?"


    Evelyn didn''t answer right away. Instead, she just smiled, a knowing look in her eyes that said more than her words would have. "You could say that," she replied, picking up her fork again and taking another bite, her expression far too casual for the conversation they were having.


    Damian narrowed his eyes at her. "Yup, you''re not gonna tell me, are you?"


    Evelyn laughed softly, shaking her head. "There are some things you''ll figure out on your own, Damian."


    He sighed, leaning back in his chair. It wasn''t the first time she''d left him in the dark about something important. But 10%? That was... well, game-changing, quite literally. In the system''s terms, even small percentage increases could mean the difference between winning or losing a fight. If he kept cooking like this¡ªor learning whatever skill allowed him to cook with these kinds of boosts¡ªit could change everything about his progression.


    ''Why now?'' He thought, staring down at his empty plate. Why was his system activating only now? What was it about this moment, this food, that triggered the notification?


    Something inside him told him he''d figure it out. His system had been evolving rapidly, and every day, he was learning something new. The speed at which he had devoured Cassius'' books, the way he absorbed knowledge like it was second nature, the dreams that felt more like memories¡ªit was all connected. He just had to keep pushing, keep learning.


    Evelyn stood up, taking his plate with her and placing it in the sink. "You''ll figure it out," she said, as if reading his thoughts. "It''s just a matter of time. You''re growing faster than most warlocks ever do. That kind of speed comes with its own set of... discoveries."


    Damian raised an eyebrow. "That sounds ominous."


    She turned back to him, her expression softening. "I mean it in a good way," Evelyn said, her voice gentle but filled with a knowing warmth.


    Damian met her eyes, still unsure of the weight behind her words, but there was no denying the truth in them. He was growing, changing in ways he hadn''t fully understood yet, but it wasn''t something he could run from. Not anymore.

 Chapter 55: No Praise?

    Warlock Ch 55. No Praise?


    After breakfast, Damian headed to the bathroom to wash up and change his clothes. Cassius would be waiting for him, and he didn''t want to show up late, especially with all the new questions swirling around in his head. He needed answers, and Cassius was the best shot at getting them.


    When Damian was ready, he found Evelyn already prepared to head out. She looked at him, that familiar smirk playing on her lips as she glanced at the stack of books in his arms. "You look like a nerd heading to school," she teased lightly.


    Damian rolled his eyes but smiled back, putting the books in the bag. "Yeah, well, someone''s gotta be the top student, right?" He hefted the books in his arms with exaggerated effort, making a show of it.


    Evelyn laughed softly but then grew more serious as they approached the door. "I won''t be joining you at Cassius'' today," she said, pausing at the entrance. "I''ve got some things I need to take care of."


    Damian raised an eyebrow, surprised. "You''re not coming with me?"


    She shook her head. "Nope. You''ll be fine on your own. Besides, you know the way back, and you''ve got the amulet." She pointed at the small, unassuming pendant around his neck. "As long as you''re wearing that, it''ll cover up your awakening powers. To everyone else, you''ll look like a regular mage with a weak Mana Core."


    Damian stopped in his tracks, processing her words. "Wait... does that mean I have a strong Mana Core from the start?"


    Evelyn smirked, her eyes glinting with amusement. "Kinda," she said cryptically before turning to leave.


    Damian watched her go, shaking his head with a sigh. "Yup, figures," he muttered to himself. ''She''s not gonna tell me everything, is she?'' he thought.


    With Evelyn off on her own, Damian made his way to Cassius'' place, books in hand, feeling a bit like an eager student heading to class. The thought amused him, especially considering how little he''d cared about studying back in his old life. But now? Now it felt different.


    By the time he arrived at Cassius'' grand, gothic estate, Damian had run over all the questions he wanted to ask at least ten times in his head. He knocked on the door, and moments later, it swung open to reveal Cassius himself, looking as calm and collected as ever.


    "Ah, Damian," Cassius greeted him, his sharp eyes glancing down at the bag Damian held. "I see you''ve come prepared."


    Damian grinned, lifting the bag slightly. "Finished these," he said, trying to keep the tone casual. "Pretty quick, too."


    Cassius didn''t seem impressed. He simply nodded and stepped aside, gesturing for Damian to enter. "Good. Let''s get started."


    Damian blinked, slightly taken aback.


    No praise? No surprise?


    He had devoured those books in record time¡ªbooks that should''ve taken weeks to fully absorb. Yet, Cassius didn''t seem phased in the slightest. The lack of reaction left Damian feeling oddly deflated, though he tried not to show it.


    "So... what''s next?" Damian asked, following Cassius deeper into the house.


    Cassius led him to the familiar training room. "We''ll be testing your abilities today," Cassius said, his tone as calm and methodical as ever. "I want to see how much you''ve absorbed."


    Damian set the books down on a nearby table, trying to shake off the odd feeling of disappointment. He guessed Cassius wasn''t the type to heap on praise, but still... he thought reading all those books in two days would at least get some kind of acknowledgment.


    "So... about the books," Damian started, hoping to break the tension. "I finished them pretty fast. Like... faster than I thought possible. And I understood everything."


    Cassius turned to face him, his gaze steady. "That doesn''t surprise me."


    Damian blinked. "It doesn''t?"


    Cassius shook his head. "Your system is evolving. You''re unlocking more of your potential, faster than most warlocks ever do. It''s natural for you to absorb knowledge at an accelerated rate."


    Damian frowned, the words hitting him harder than expected. "So... this is normal? For me, I mean?"


    Cassius studied him for a moment, as if weighing how much to reveal. "In your case, yes. Most warlocks take years to unlock the kind of abilities you''re developing in days. But you''re not most warlocks."


    Damian opened his mouth to ask more, but Cassius cut him off with a raised hand. "Before you ask," Cassius said, his voice firm, "there are things about your power that even I don''t fully understand. Your progress is... unique."


    ''Unique?'' Damian wasn''t sure how to feel about that. It was clear he was growing stronger, faster than expected, but the lack of concrete answers was starting to weigh on him. He wanted to know why¡ªwhy his system was evolving, why his powers were coming so quickly, and what it all meant.


    Cassius gestured toward the center of the room. "Let''s begin."


    "Now?" Damian asked, glancing around the room. "I still have a few things I want to ask."


    Cassius crossed his arms, his expression unwavering. "Train first. Ask later."


    "But¡ª" Damian started to protest, only to notice Cassius already raising a barrier around the room. The shimmering wall of magic enclosed the space, just like it had yesterday. The sight made Damian''s stomach drop. ''Great,'' he thought. No way out.


    "Okay, fine. One question then?" Damian tried to negotiate, but Cassius didn''t even acknowledge him this time.


    "After the training," Cassius said firmly, his voice brooking no argument.


    Without another word, Cassius raised his hand, and with a simple flick of his wrist, three shadowy figures materialized in the center of the room. He realized these weren''t the same weak servants from yesterday. No, these ones were more powerful.


    Peril <Level 31>


    HP: 820/820


    MP: 100/100


    Skills: [Phantom Strike], [Nightmare Shroud]


    Weakness: Unknown


    Onyx <Level 32>


    HP: 910/910


    MP: 120/120


    Skills: [Shadow Slash], [Corrosive Fang], [Abyssal Charge]


    Weakness: Unknown


    Riven <Level 30>


    HP: 870/870


    MP: 110/110


    Skills: [Stone Skin], [Earthen Grasp], [Tremor Stomp]


    Weakness: Unknown


    Damian''s eyes widened as he read their stats. Each one was at least double his level. "You''ve got to be kidding me," he muttered under his breath. "I''m only level 16! How the hell am I supposed to beat them? I even almost died when I fought Fenrith yesterday!"


    Cassius smirked slightly, his expression almost amused. "Figures," he said, his tone as cool as ever. It was as if Damian''s struggle was entirely expected.

 Chapter 56: Use All Your Tools!

    Warlock Ch 56. Use All Your Tools!


    Damian''s heart pounded in his chest as the three servants advanced, each one towering over him with an intimidating presence. They were monstrous, easily twice his size, and each step they took shook the ground beneath them.


    Peril was a sleek, shadowy figure with a massive, muscular frame. Its black fur seemed to ripple with darkness, and its three glowing eyes fixed on Damian with a menacing hunger. Sharp claws gleamed under the dim light , and a faint aura of terror hung around it, like a nightmare given form.


    Onyx was even larger, covered in jagged, obsidian-like armor that glinted ominously. Its body was built for destruction, with thick, clawed limbs and a mouth filled with razor-sharp fangs that dripped with corrosive venom. Black mist seeped from its nostrils, giving it an even more terrifying appearance as it stalked toward Damian.


    Riven was the most imposing of the three, a hulking figure with skin made of rough, rocky plates. It moved with the deliberate power of a landslide, its massive hands covered in hardened stone. The ground cracked and trembled beneath its feet with every step, and its eyes glowed like molten lava, hinting at the earth-shaking power it wielded.


    ''This is insane,'' Damian thought.


    The three servants moved in unison, surrounding him with deadly precision. He barely had time to react before Peril lunged at him, its claws swiping through the air with blinding speed.


    [Phantom Strike]


    The blow came out of nowhere, and Damian had to throw himself backward, narrowly dodging the attack. His heart raced as he scrambled to his feet, casting [Shadow Barrier] just in time to block the next hit.


    The barrier shimmered around him, absorbing the brunt of the attack as Riven slammed its massive fists down on him.


    [Tremor Stomp]


    The ground shook violently, and cracks spiderwebbed out from under Riven''s feet, sending shockwaves through the room. Damian staggered, the force nearly knocking him off balance, but his barrier held, absorbing most of the damage.


    "Cassius, this is impossible!" Damian shouted, struggling to hold his ground as the servants closed in. He fired off [Arcane Bolt], the bolt of pure arcane energy zipping through the air and chaining between all three servants. The impact was powerful, but the damage was minimal.


    [Onyx] took only 10 damage.


    "I''m just level 16! How am I supposed to beat them? I even almost died when I fought Fenrith yesterday!" Damian yelled, dodging another vicious swipe from Peril.


    Cassius watched calmly from the edge of the room, his arms crossed. "Figures," he said, clearly expecting Damian''s struggle. "You''re not using all your tools."


    Damian gritted his teeth, frustrated. "What are you talking about?"


    "Summon your servant," Cassius said simply, as if it was the most obvious solution in the world.


    Damian blinked, dodging another attack. "Right... summon my servant..." He muttered, trying to concentrate on the fight and the vague instructions from Cassius. But then, the panic hit him. ''How do I summon Fenrith?!''


    "Cassius!" Damian shouted, leaping out of the way as Riven smashed the ground where he''d been standing. "How do I summon him?"


    Cassius sighed, clearly unimpressed. "Isn''t it in the books I lent you yesterday?"


    Damian''s heart skipped a beat. "There is no such explanation in those books!"


    Cassius clicked his tongue, his patience thinning. "Just concentrate on your Mana and call his name."


    Damian dodged another attack from Onyx, sweat pouring down his face as he struggled to keep up with their relentless assault. He had no choice but to trust Cassius'' words. He closed his eyes for a split second, focusing on the swirling Mana inside him.


    "Fenrith!" he shouted, his voice echoing through the room.


    A powerful surge of magic erupted from within. A dark portal appeared in front of him, swirling with shadow and flame, and from it, Fenrith emerged¡ªhis three-headed wolf, massive and terrifying, each head snarling as it stepped forward.


    Fenrith <Level 31>


    HP: 1,200/1,200


    MP: 200/200


    Skills: [Savage Bite], [Triple Roar], [Void Howl]


    Fenrith''s three heads growled in unison, their eyes glowing. The wolf was nearly as large as the servants.


    "Alright, Fenrith," Damian breathed, adrenaline surging through him. "Let''s take these guys down."


    The battle intensified as Fenrith lunged at Peril, its fangs bared as it unleashed [Savage Bite]. The wolf''s jaws clamped down on Peril''s shoulder, the impact sending a shockwave around them.


    [Peril] took 80 damage.


    Peril howled in pain, its shadowy form flickering as it staggered backward, but it quickly retaliated with [Nightmare Shroud], cloaking itself in darkness and becoming almost invisible.


    Damian cursed under his breath¡ªhe could barely see Peril now, but he couldn''t stop. He had to keep moving.


    Onyx charged next, its body covered in corrosive mist as it activated [Abyssal Charge], barreling toward Fenrith at terrifying speed. Damian''s heart raced as he saw the attack coming. If Fenrith took a hit like that, it would be bad.


    "Fenrith, dodge!" Damian shouted, but Onyx was too fast.


    [Abyssal Charge] hit Fenrith. 120 damage dealt.


    Fenrith yelped in pain as the charge slammed into him, but the wolf quickly recovered, shaking off the blow. Damian gritted his teeth, casting [Dark Chains] in an attempt to immobilize Onyx before it could strike again.


    The chains of darkness erupted from the ground, wrapping around Onyx''s legs and binding it in place.


    [Onyx] is immobilized.


    "Gotcha," Damian muttered, his hands still glowing with dark magic. "Now, Fenrith!"


    Fenrith roared, its three heads glowing as it unleashed [Triple Roar], a powerful shockwave of sound that hit all three servants.


    [Peril], [Onyx], and [Riven] took 50 damage each.


    The roar sent the servants staggering, but they were far from defeated. Riven stomped its foot, activating [Stone Skin], its rocky exterior hardening and making it nearly impervious to physical attacks.


    Damian knew he had to switch tactics. Physical attacks weren''t going to work against Riven anymore.


    "Arcane Bolt!" he shouted, firing off a chain of magic at Riven. The bolt crackled through the air, striking the stone giant and chaining between the other two servants.


    [Riven] took 30 damage.

 Chapter 57: Brutal Training [Part 1]

    Warlock Ch 57. Brutal Training [Part 1]


    It wasn''t enough. He could feel his body starting to wear down. The servants were relentless, and even with Fenrith by his side, they were overwhelming. It was three versus two after all.


    "Cassius, are you sure I can take them all?!" Damian shouted, dodging another attack from Peril.


    Cassius raised an eyebrow, watching from the sidelines with cool detachment. "Yeah, you''re doing fine."


    "Fine?!" Damian growled, barely avoiding Riven''s [Earthen Grasp] as it tried to trap him in place.


    But there was no time for complaints. Damian had to focus. His mind raced, trying to come up with a plan, trying to figure out how to bring these things down.


    "Fenrith, stay on Peril!" Damian shouted, casting [Dark Bolt] and firing it directly at Onyx, who was still immobilized by the dark chains. The bolt hit Onyx square in the chest, dealing heavy damage.


    [Onyx] took 100 damage.


    But it wasn''t enough. Onyx broke free from the chains, snarling as it charged again.


    This was it. Do or die.


    Damian sprinted forward, adrenaline surging through his veins. If he couldn''t beat them with raw power, he''d have to fight smarter. He leaped onto Riven''s back, climbing the rocky giant with desperation fueling him.


    "Fenrith, now!" he shouted as he reached the top, his hands glowing with energy.


    Fenrith lunged, biting down on Peril again as Damian unleashed [Curse of Agony].


    The curse latched onto Riven, and Damian watched as the stone giant shuddered under the weight of it. The agony spread through its body, weakening it, slowing it down.


    [Riven] took 150 damage over time.


    It was working. The tide was turning.


    Damian gritted his teeth, his hands still glowing with power as he prepared for the final blow. Fenrith howled, its three heads snapping at Peril, who was now struggling to keep up with the relentless assault.


    Peril staggered, its HP dangerously low, and Damian knew this was his chance.


    "Arcane Bolt!" Damian shouted, firing the spell directly into Peril''s chest.


    The bolt hit with devastating force, and Peril let out one final, piercing howl before it collapsed to the ground.


    [Peril has been defeated.]


    Damian didn''t have time to celebrate as Onyx and Riven closed in again. But now, it was two against two. And Damian wasn''t backing down.


    "Fenrith, stay close!" Damian shouted, his voice strained with exhaustion. His body ached from the constant dodging and spell-casting, but he couldn''t afford to stop. Not now. Not when the odds were still stacked against him.


    Onyx snarled, its obsidian armor shimmering with dark energy as it prepared another charge. Damian watched, eyes wide, as the creature''s body seemed to melt into the shadows again. He barely had time to react before Onyx disappeared from sight.


    "Shit!" Damian cursed under his breath, spinning around in a frantic search for the creature. The shadows in the room felt heavier, darker, as if Onyx was manipulating the very light around them.


    [Shadow Slash]


    The attack came out of nowhere. A blade of darkness sliced through the air toward Damian''s back, but at the last second, Fenrith lunged forward, intercepting the attack with one of his massive heads. The force of the blow sent the wolf staggering, but he shook it off, snarling as he faced down Onyx.


    "Fenrith!" Damian shouted, his chest tightening with panic. Fenrith''s HP bar had taken a hit, but he was still standing. Damian gritted his teeth, firing off an [Arcane Bolt] in retaliation. The bolt crackled with energy, striking Onyx square in the chest and chaining to Riven.


    [Onyx] took 50 damage.


    [Riven] took 30 damage.


    The blow staggered Onyx for a moment, but it wasn''t enough to stop its relentless assault. It charged again, its body shrouded in corrosive mist as it activated [Abyssal Charge], barreling toward Fenrith with terrifying speed.


    "Dodge it, Fenrith!" Damian yelled, his voice hoarse. But the wolf wasn''t fast enough this time. Onyx slammed into him with full force, the impact sending Fenrith skidding across the ground.


    [Fenrith] took 150 damage.


    "Damn it!" Damian growled, frustration bubbling up inside him. He could feel his Mana running low, the constant spell-casting draining his energy faster than he could recover. But he had no choice. He couldn''t let Fenrith take all the hits.


    Just as Damian prepared to cast [Dark Chains] again to try and bind Onyx, Riven made its move. The ground beneath Damian''s feet began to shake violently as Riven activated [Tremor Stomp], sending massive shockwaves through the room. Damian stumbled, barely keeping his balance as cracks spread across the floor, threatening to swallow him whole.


    "This is getting out of control..." Damian muttered, his pulse racing. He couldn''t keep dodging forever. He needed a plan, and he needed it fast.


    "Fenrith, get ready!" Damian called out, his eyes narrowing as he focused on Riven. The hulking stone giant was the key. If he could take it down, Onyx would be easier to handle. But with Riven''s [Stone Skin] active, physical attacks were useless.


    He needed magic¡ªpure, concentrated power.


    Damian gritted his teeth, raising his hands as dark energy swirled around him. "Alright, let''s do this."


    [Dark Chains]


    Ethereal chains of shadow shot out from the ground, wrapping around Riven''s legs and binding it in place. The giant struggled against the restraints, but the chains held strong, immobilizing it completely.


    [Riven is immobilized for 10 seconds.]


    "Now, Fenrith!" Damian shouted, his heart pounding as he prepared his next move. "We''re taking this thing down together."


    Fenrith, regaining his footing after the blow from Onyx, growled fiercely, his three heads snapping at the air in unison. With a powerful leap, Fenrith launched himself at Riven, his jaws glowing with energy as he unleashed [Savage Bite] directly into the stone giant''s neck.


    [Riven] took 80 damage.


    The bite left deep cracks in Riven''s rocky exterior, but the giant was still standing. Damian clenched his fists, gathering his remaining Mana as he prepared to strike. He couldn''t let this opportunity slip away.


    [Arcane Bolt]

 Chapter 58: Brutal Training [Part 2]

    Warlock Ch 58. Brutal Training [Part 2]


    Damian fired off the bolt of pure magic, the energy surging through the air and slamming into Riven''s chest. The bolt chained from Riven to Onyx, hitting both servants with a burst of power.


    [Riven took 100 damage.]


    [Onyx took 40 damage.]


    The force of the blow sent Riven stumbling, its massive form swaying as the cracks in its stone skin deepened. Damian''s breath hitched. He was close¡ªso close.


    But Onyx wasn''t going to let him finish the job that easily.


    With a roar, Onyx lunged forward, activating [Corrosive Fang]. Its teeth dripped with venomous mist as it targeted Fenrith, aiming for a crippling blow.


    "Not today!" Damian growled, casting [Shadow Barrier] just in time. The shadowy shield shimmered around Fenrith, absorbing the brunt of Onyx''s attack. The barrier flickered but held, sparing Fenrith from taking the full impact.


    Damian''s Mana was running dangerously low, and his body felt like it was on fire from the constant spell-casting. But he couldn''t stop. Not yet.


    "Fenrith, go for the legs!" Damian commanded, knowing that bringing Riven down was their best shot. Fenrith snarled in response, darting forward with surprising speed for his size, his claws digging into the stone giant''s legs.


    [Fenrith used Savage Bite.]


    [Riven took 90 damage.]


    The bite landed hard, and this time, it was enough. The cracks in Riven''s body spread rapidly, and with a deafening roar, the stone giant crumbled to the ground, its massive body collapsing into a pile of rubble.


    [Riven has been defeated.]


    Damian gasped for breath, sweat dripping down his face as he turned his attention to Onyx¡ªthe last remaining servant. His heart raced as Onyx''s glowing eyes locked onto him, fury burning in their depths. The creature was still strong, and Damian was running on fumes.


    "Fenrith, let''s finish this," Damian muttered, his voice laced with determination. He raised his hand, channeling the last of his Mana into one final spell.


    [Arcane Bolt]


    The bolt shot from his palm, crackling with raw power as it streaked through the air. It slammed into Onyx, chaining through its body with devastating force.


    [Onyx] took 120 damage.


    The blow staggered Onyx, and for the first time, Damian saw the creature falter. Its HP bar was low¡ªdangerously low. He had a chance.


    "Now, Fenrith! [Triple Roar]!"


    Fenrith''s three heads threw back in unison, and a deafening roar erupted from his throats, the sound waves crashing into Onyx like a physical force.


    [Onyx] took 50 damage.


    Onyx swayed, its legs buckling under the pressure. Its glowing eyes flickered, its body trembling as it tried to stay on its feet. But it was too late.


    With one final, desperate surge of energy, Damian charged forward, leaping onto Onyx''s back just like he had with Riven. He climbed the creature''s massive form, his hands glowing with the last of his power as he prepared the finishing blow.


    "[Curse of Agony]!" Damian shouted, slamming his hands down onto Onyx''s armored hide. The curse latched onto the creature, and Onyx let out a bone-chilling howl as the agony spread through its body, sapping its remaining strength.


    [Onyx took 150 damage over time.]


    With a final, shuddering breath, Onyx collapsed to the ground, its body disintegrating into shadow as the curse consumed it.


    [Onyx has been defeated.]


    Damian fell to the ground beside the fading shadow, his chest heaving as he gasped for breath. His body felt like it had been through a meat grinder, every muscle aching, every bone screaming for relief. But he''d done it. He''d won. The weight of the battle finally lifted as the last of the servants dissolved into the ether, leaving only silence and the overwhelming exhaustion that clung to his bones.


    The room, now devoid of the crushing power of the three servants, felt eerily calm. The barrier that Cassius had raised around them flickered and vanished, leaving Damian lying on the cold stone floor, staring up at the ceiling.


    And then, a notification popped up in his vision.


    [Congratulations! You have leveled up to Level 20.]


    Stat increases:


    Strength: B+


    Agility: A


    Magic Affinity: B+


    [Curse of Agony has leveled up to Level 3.]


    Damian blinked, barely able to process the words as they floated in front of him. He had leveled up¡ªagain. But this time, it felt different. His stats had jumped significantly, especially his agility, which had hit an A rating. That was huge. It meant he was getting faster, stronger, more capable of dealing with the kind of enemies Cassius kept throwing at him.


    But the notifications didn''t stop there.


    [Fenrith has leveled up to Level 32.]


    Damian''s eyes widened as he sat up, ignoring the screaming protests from his muscles. He quickly pulled up Fenrith''s status screen, curiosity overtaking his exhaustion.


    Fenrith <Level 32>


    HP: 1,400/1,400


    MP: 250/250


    Skills: [Savage Bite], [Triple Roar], [Void Howl], [Lunar Blessing]


    Weakness: Unknown


    Damian let out a low whistle. Fenrith had grown stronger, too¡ªhis HP and MP were higher, and not to mention, they were full again. He had even unlocked a new skill. He didn''t know exactly what it did yet, but from the name alone, it sounded like it would be a game-changer. Maybe something that could enhance their synergy or provide a buff in battle.


    He closed the status screens with a swipe of his hand.


    Cassius stepped forward, his expression calm and unreadable as always. "Not bad," he said, his voice as nonchalant as ever.


    Damian lay back down on the ground, too exhausted to even roll his eyes. "Not bad?" he muttered, his voice weak and hoarse. "I just fought three overpowered monsters, and that''s all you''ve got?"


    Cassius shrugged, a slight smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. "You survived. That''s what matters."


    Damian let out a long, exasperated sigh, his chest still heaving from the strain of the battle. "I''m never gonna catch a break, am I?"


    Cassius smirked, his eyes glinting with a hint of amusement. "Not if you want to keep getting stronger."

 Chapter 59: Brutal Training [Part 3]

    Warlock Ch 59. Brutal Training [Part 3]


    Damian groaned, pushing himself up into a sitting position. His muscles screamed in protest, but he ignored the pain. The battle had been brutal, but there was a strange sense of accomplishment settling in his chest. He had faced an impossible task¡ªand somehow, against all odds, he had come out on top.


    Damian pulled up his status screen again, his eyes lingering on the stats that had jumped since his level-up.


    Mana Power: B


    Stamina: B


    Endurance: B


    Strength: B+


    Agility: A


    Magic Affinity: B+


    His stat growth was impressive¡ªfar beyond what he had expected for someone at his level.


    Damian frowned, tilting his head as he studied the screen. "I''m confused," he admitted, glancing at Cassius. "Why are most of my stats at B or higher when I''m still just a low-level warlock?"


    Cassius met his gaze, his arms crossed. "Status is different from level," he explained, his voice as calm and patient as ever. "Status reflects your potential¡ªthe raw ability within you and how far you can expand your skills and power. Your level, on the other hand, reflects your current strength."


    Damian blinked, trying to wrap his mind around the distinction. "So... status is like my ceiling, and my level is where I''m at now?"


    Cassius nodded. "Exactly. Your stats show your potential to grow, but your level indicates your current strength and experience. Think of it as the difference between someone who''s naturally gifted and someone who has trained for years. The gifted person might have higher potential, but they still need to put in the work to reach it."


    Damian scratched his head, still feeling a bit confused. "But... if my status shows potential, why doesn''t my system show any ranks?"


    Cassius raised an eyebrow. "Your system doesn''t display rank?"


    Damian shook his head. "Nope. I''ve got levels, stats, skills¡ªbut no rank."


    Cassius sighed, looking almost disappointed. "Then you''re currently ranked worse than F."


    Damian flinched. "Wait, what? Worse than F? That''s... like, garbage tier!"


    Cassius''s expression remained neutral. "If your system doesn''t show rank, it means you haven''t reached the point where your abilities are stable enough to be ranked. Your potential might be high, but your control and mastery are still lacking."


    Damian groaned again, rubbing his temples. "Great. So, I''m basically a powerhouse with no control."


    "Essentially. That''s what makes you a nice target for evil warlocks," Cassius said with a small shrug. "Which is why you''re here. You need to learn how to harness that potential, or you''ll never be able to reach the heights your stats suggest."


    Damian leaned back, staring at the ceiling. He had power¡ªmore than most warlocks at his level¡ªbut it felt like there was always something missing. Something he couldn''t quite grasp.


    After a moment of silence, Damian sat up again and looked at Cassius, curiosity getting the better of him. "Do other people have systems like mine?" he asked.


    Cassius''s eyes narrowed slightly, and for a moment, there was a flicker of something¡ªsomething Damian couldn''t quite place¡ªbehind his gaze. But when he spoke, his tone was as even as ever. "No," he said simply. "Your system is unique."


    Damian blinked, surprised. "Unique? Why?"


    Cassius crossed his arms, his expression unreadable. "Your Mana Core is special. That''s all I can say."


    ''Special?'' Damian opened his mouth to press for more information, but Cassius''s expression made it clear that was all he was going to get for now.


    "Great," Damian muttered, running a hand through his hair. "So, I''ve got a special Mana Core, a system no one else has, and I''m ranked worse than F. Perfect."


    Cassius ignored his sarcasm, turning toward the center of the room. "You''ve made progress today," he said, his tone matter-of-fact. "But you''re still far from ready."


    Damian couldn''t help but roll his eyes. "Yeah, I figured that much. What''s next? You gonna throw me against a level 50 boss now?"


    Cassius''s lips twitched into the faintest hint of a smirk. "Not yet. You''re not ready for that."


    Damian snorted. "Gee, thanks for the vote of confidence."


    Cassius ignored the jab, his gaze shifting to Fenrith, who was still standing tall beside Damian, his three heads growling softly as they surveyed the room. "Fenrith has also grown stronger," Cassius noted, his eyes glinting with interest. "You two are forming a great bond."


    Damian glanced at Fenrith, who gave him a look that almost seemed... proud. "Yeah," Damian muttered, a small smile tugging at his lips. "We''re getting there."


    Cassius turned back to Damian, his expression serious once more. "Remember, Damian," he said, his voice low and firm. "Power is useless without control. You''ve unlocked a great deal of potential, but without mastery, that potential is meaningless. The more you grow, the more dangerous your power becomes¡ªnot just to others, but to yourself."


    Damian swallowed, feeling Cassius''s words settle heavily on his shoulders. He knew the man was right. His power¡ªhis system¡ªwas a gift, but it was also a burden. And if he didn''t learn how to control it, it could destroy him. The weight of it pressed down on his chest, a constant reminder that every step forward meant another step closer to either greatness or disaster.


    He glanced at Cassius. The man seemed unaffected by everything, as though he''d seen this kind of power struggle a thousand times before. And maybe he had. Still, Damian couldn''t shake the feeling that he was standing at the edge of something monumental¡ªsomething dangerous.


    "Oh right, how about my HP and Mana points?" Damian asked, breaking the silence. "I mean, I have Mana Power, sure, but I''m not sure what that is."


    Cassius frowned, clearly unimpressed with the question. "Your Mana Power is your Mana points," he replied with a hint of annoyance. "Mages can regenerate Mana, but there''s no ''exact number'' for it. Didn''t Evelyn already explain this to you?"


    Damian scratched the back of his head, feeling a little stupid for asking. "A bit, but... I''m used to seeing exact numbers. Like in the game. It''s like... a resource I manage."

 Chapter 60: Think Like a Mage, Not a Gamer

    Warlock Ch 60. Think Like a Mage, Not a Gamer


    Cassius raised an eyebrow, his frown deepening. "Your system translates what we call Mana into a rank because that''s how it categorizes things for you. But it''s the same concept. Mages can''t have exact numbers for their Mana anyway."


    Damian nodded, still wrapping his head around the idea. It was weird, thinking about it that way¡ªhe''d gotten so used to the digital readouts and percentages. But Cassius was right. At the end of the day, it was all just energy, whether he saw it as a bar on a screen or felt it depleting in his body.


    "Okay, that makes sense," Damian said, though his voice lacked confidence. "But what about HP? How do I know when I''m close to... you know... dying?"


    Cassius sighed, as if the question physically pained him. "Let me ask you this," he said, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "If I hit you in the head with a lightning bolt, would you die or would you just scream ''ouch''?"


    Damian blinked, caught off guard by the bluntness of the question. "Uh... I''d die, probably."


    Cassius nodded, his point made. "Exactly. There''s no magical HP bar floating over your head in reality. If you take enough damage, you''ll know. You don''t need a system to tell you that you''re bleeding out or that your bones are broken."


    "Right," Damian muttered, feeling more than a little stupid now. "I get it. It''s just... easier when you can see it."


    "You''re relying too much on your system to tell you how you''re doing," Cassius said, his tone harsh but not without reason. "You need to feel your limits, not just watch them. That''s the difference between someone who lives by their instincts and someone who dies by their ignorance. The difference between us, mages, and monsters or servants."


    Damian swallowed hard, Cassius''s words hitting him harder than he expected. He knew he had been leaning on his system for everything, but hearing it put that way made it sound... dangerous. He needed to start thinking like a mage, not a gamer. His system was a tool, sure, but it wasn''t his only one.


    "Got it," Damian said quietly, nodding. "I''ll work on it."


    He stood up, wincing as the soreness in his muscles flared up again. Every part of his body ached from the battle, and his Mana reserves were dangerously low. He felt like he''d been put through a blender, but there was something oddly satisfying about surviving the impossible.


    He glanced at Cassius again, a thought crossed his mind, and despite his exhaustion, he couldn''t help himself. "You know," Damian said, his tone lighter, "you could at least pretend to be impressed with how fast I''m growing."


    Cassius raised an eyebrow, his lips curving into the faintest hint of a smirk. "I''ll be impressed when you can defeat me."


    Damian chuckled, shaking his head. "Yeah, don''t hold your breath."


    Cassius''s smirk faded, his expression turning serious once more. "I''m not joking. When you can defeat me, then I''ll consider you ready."


    Damian''s smile faltered, the weight of those words sinking in. "You think I can?"


    "Eventually," Cassius said with a shrug. "If you survive long enough."


    There it was again¡ªthe brutal honesty that came with being trained by someone like Cassius. He didn''t sugarcoat things, didn''t offer false hope or encouragement. Everything was a cold, hard truth, and Damian had to either accept it or fail. That was the reality of being in this world.


    But at least now, Damian had a better understanding of what he was dealing with. His system wasn''t just some crutch¡ªit was a tool, and he needed to use it wisely. The stats, the skills, the notifications¡ªthey were all part of the puzzle, but the real power came from him. His instincts. His ability to adapt.


    "Oh, right. One more question. How about this Mana Core thing?" Damian asked, his curiosity piqued. "You said it''s special. What does that mean?"


    Cassius glanced at him, his expression unreadable for a moment. There was something deeper behind his eyes, something cautious. He crossed his arms and took a slow breath. "Mana cores are usually formless, just pure energy floating in the middle of a mage''s body. They don''t have a consciousness, they don''t talk, and they definitely don''t drag their owners into dreams."


    Damian raised an eyebrow, feeling that familiar chill crawl up his spine. "But mine... it does. It feels like it''s alive."


    Cassius nodded slowly. "I know. According to Evelyn, yours even can communicate. It''s called you, pulled you into dreams, even shown you things. Am I correct?"


    Damian hesitated, then nodded. "Yeah. It''s... weird. I keep seeing this ancient artifact in my dreams, and I swear it feels like it''s trying to tell me something. It''s not just random images or memories. It''s like... it has a purpose."


    Cassius was silent for a moment, his face serious. He seemed to be weighing something, as if trying to decide how much to tell Damian. Finally, he spoke, his voice low. "That''s what makes you special."


    Damian blinked, caught off guard by the bluntness of the statement. "Special? Because my Mana Core acts like an ancient artifact in my dreams?"


    Cassius nodded again, but there was a heaviness to it, as though that information was more than Damian could grasp at that moment. Before Damian could even begin to process what that meant, Cassius stepped forward, his tone suddenly more urgent.


    "Listen carefully," Cassius said, his voice dropping into a hushed, almost warning tone. "You can''t tell anyone about this. The artifact, the dreams, or even your system. Keep it to yourself."


    Damian frowned, confused. "Why?"


    Cassius''s eyes flicked to the amulet hanging around Damian''s neck, the one Evelyn had given him. His expression hardened. "That amulet might be protecting you right now, masking your true power, but if you start talking about the artifact inside you¡ªif anyone gets even a hint of what you''re carrying¡ªnot even that amulet will be able to hide you."

 Chapter 61: Not a Boss

    Warlock Ch 61. Not a Boss


    Damian''s stomach dropped. "What do you mean?"


    Cassius''s face darkened, his eyes narrowing slightly. "Anyone who craves power. There are forces in the magical world¡ªpeople, creatures, organizations¡ªthat would do anything to control something as powerful as what''s inside you. The moment they realize you have something they can use, you''ll be hunted. And I don''t mean by just typical bounty hunters. I''m talking about people who can wipe you off the map without breaking a sweat."


    Damian gulped, his throat tight with anxiety. He didn''t expect it to be that bad. He knew Malthus was after him and he was a target in this world. But it was the words ''People who can wipe you off the map without breaking a sweat'' that made him shudder. That meant there was someone greater than Malthus out there and they were also targeting him.


    Without warning, Cassius tossed a small vial toward him. Instinctively, Damian caught it. The glass was cool against his palm, and when he glanced down, he realized it was a Mana potion. Cassius was already turning away, heading back to his usual position.


    "Q&A session is over," Cassius called over his shoulder. "Drink that. We''ll continue your training."


    Damian grimaced, his body still aching from the last battle. "Wait, again?" he said, his voice tinged with exhaustion. "I thought our training was over!"


    Cassius kept walking, completely ignoring Damian''s complaints. "Do you think your training ends after fighting a couple of low-level servants?" he asked, his voice sharp. "You have a lot to learn, Damian. You don''t even know the basics of your own system."


    Damian bit back a cringe. ''Hey,'' he thought, ''those books didn''t explain my system at all.'' He could feel the frustration building in his chest. ''Besides, weren''t you the one who said my system is unique?''


    "Can we just¡ª" Damian started, but before he could finish, Cassius turned, his glare shutting him down instantly.


    "No buts," Cassius said, his tone leaving no room for argument.


    Damian huffed, muttering under his breath, "Yeah, no buts. Got it."


    He uncorked the Mana potion and drank it in one gulp, the cool liquid sliding down his throat, instantly restoring some of his depleted energy. He could feel the Mana flowing back into his body, but his muscles still protested. His entire body ached, and the thought of going through another round of training made him want to curl up and sleep for a week.


    ''I hope I can get through this... ''Damian thought as he finished the potion.


    But before he could mentally prepare himself, Cassius flicked his wrist, summoning another servant.


    This time, Damian''s eyes widened in shock.


    The servant that appeared wasn''t just another shadowy figure or mid-level creature like the ones he had fought earlier. No, this one was massive. Its form seemed to ripple with dark energy, towering over Damian and Fenrith like a colossus.


    Havok, the Dread Reaver <Level 50>


    HP: 6,000/6,000


    MP: 500/500


    Skills: [Soul Rend], [Chaos Wave], [Void Eruption]


    Weakness: Light-based attacks


    Havok was a hulking mass of shifting shadows and dark, metallic armor. Its body was a blend of twisted metal and raw pulsating energy. Two enormous axes hung at its sides, each blade crackling with dark lightning. Its helmet was forged from a material that seemed to absorb the light around it, making its glowing red eyes all the more menacing as they locked onto Damian.


    Damian''s jaw dropped. His heart raced as he took in the sheer size of the thing, its aura suffocating in its intensity.


    "You said I''m not ready for a level 50 boss!" Damian blurted out, panic creeping into his voice. He glanced at Cassius, who folded his arms and smirked, clearly enjoying Damian''s reaction.


    Cassius''s voice was calm but smug. "This isn''t a boss."


    Damian''s mind reeled. ''Not a boss?'' He stared at the creature before him, trying to process how this wasn''t the final boss of some impossible dungeon. The thing was more than a monster. What''s it doing here, then?


    Before Damian could even wrap his head around it, Havok moved. Its speed was terrifying for something so large. The axes it wielded sliced through the air with a sound that made Damian''s stomach churn.


    "Fenrith!" Damian shouted, his voice tight with urgency.


    Fenrith reacted instantly, darting to the side, narrowly avoiding Havok''s first strike. Damian dove in the opposite direction, rolling across the ground as the massive axe slammed into the stone floor where he had just been standing. The impact left a crater, shards of rock flying everywhere.


    ''This is insane!'' he screamed internally.


    Cassius''s voice cut through the chaos, firm and unyielding. "Focus, Damian! You''re in a battle. Put your concentration where it belongs."


    Damian gritted his teeth, his body still reeling from the close call. Havok turned toward him, its red eyes glowing with malice. Damian forced himself to stand, his hands glowing with dark energy as he prepared to cast a spell.


    [Dark Chains]


    Shadowy chains erupted from the ground, snaking toward Havok in an attempt to bind its movements. But the second the chains touched its armor, they shattered, disintegrating into nothingness under the sheer power radiating from the creature.


    [Void Eruption]


    The air around Havok crackled with dark energy as its hulking form began to glow with an ominous purple light. Damian''s instincts kicked in just in time¡ªhe dove to the side, barely avoiding the blast of raw void energy that exploded outward from Havok''s body. The shockwave ripped through the room, sending debris flying in all directions.


    ''That was too close,'' Damian thought, his heart pounding in his chest as he scrambled to his feet. His body ached from the sudden movements. But there was no time to rest.


    Havok turned, its glowing red eyes locking onto him with deadly precision. The creature''s massive axes dragged along the floor, sparking against the stone as it moved with terrifying speed.


    "Fenrith!" Damian called out, his voice hoarse from the strain of the battle. His three-headed wolf lunged at Havok, its jaws glowing as it unleashed [Triple Roar], the sound waves crashing into Havok like a physical force.


    [Havok took 50 damage.]

 Chapter 62: Muscle Memory?

    Warlock Ch 62. Muscle Memory?


    It wasn''t much, but it was something. Damian didn''t have time to hesitate. He had to keep moving, keep attacking, or this thing would tear him apart.


    He dodged to the right, narrowly avoiding one of Havok''s massive swings. The air was thick with tension, each second feeling like a fight for survival. Damian''s muscles screamed with every movement, but somehow¡ªagainst all odds¡ªhe knew what to do. His body moved on its own, as if it had done this a thousand times before. He ducked, rolled, sidestepped¡ªeverything felt instinctive, like muscle memory, but deeper.


    No... muscle memory wasn''t the right word for it. It was like... he knew what to do, even when he thought he was backed into a corner. Every time Havok came close to landing a devastating blow, Damian would react just in time, maneuvering out of the way with a precision that surprised even him.


    ''What the hell is this?'' Damian thought as he dodged yet another crushing attack from Havok. The massive axe whizzed past his head, so close he could feel the air shift as it passed. ''How am I doing this?''


    But there was no time to question it. He had to keep going. Keep fighting.


    "[Dark Bolt]!" Damian shouted, thrusting his hand forward as a concentrated blast of dark energy shot toward Havok. The bolt slammed into the creature''s chest, the impact sending a ripple through its armor.


    [Havok] took 100 damage.


    It was a decent hit, but nowhere near enough. Havok didn''t even flinch. The creature''s eyes flared with anger as it swung both axes down toward Damian with deadly force.


    ''I''m dead.''


    Damian''s body reacted before his mind could fully register the attack. He dove forward, rolling under Havok''s legs and coming up on the other side just as the axes crashed into the ground where he''d been standing.


    "Focus, Damian!" Cassius''s voice cut through the chaos like a blade, sharp and commanding. He hadn''t moved from his spot, his arms still folded across his chest, watching with an intensity that unsettled Damian. Cassius wasn''t just watching the fight¡ªhe was analyzing him. Every move, every spell, every reaction.


    Damian gritted his teeth. He didn''t have time to think about what Cassius was doing. Havok was coming at him again, faster than before. The creature''s axes blurred as they swung through the air, each strike aimed to kill.


    Damian had no choice. He had to combine his movements with his magic if he wanted to survive.


    "Fenrith, flank him!" Damian shouted, his mind racing. He needed a plan, something that would deal real damage. He couldn''t just keep dodging forever. He had to go on the offensive.


    Fenrith darted to Havok''s side, its three heads snapping at the creature''s legs, trying to distract it. At the same time, Damian rushed forward, closing the distance between him and Havok. He gathered what little Mana he had left, channeling it into his hands.


    [Arcane Bolt]


    The bolt of pure energy shot from his hands, zipping through the air and chaining between Havok''s legs and chest, crackling with power as it surged through the creature.


    [Havok] took 150 damage.


    Havok roared in anger, its body shaking from the impact. But it wasn''t enough to slow the beast down.


    "Damn it!" Damian growled, frustration building inside him. He needed more. He needed a bigger hit.


    Then it hit him¡ªhe could use [Dark Chains] to immobilize Havok, even if it was only for a few seconds. That would give him the window he needed to land a massive blow.


    "Fenrith, now!" Damian shouted, his voice filled with urgency.


    Fenrith leaped toward Havok''s back, its jaws glowing with energy as it unleashed [Savage Bite] directly into the creature''s exposed side.


    [Havok] took 200 damage.


    Havok staggered, its movements slowing just enough for Damian to make his move. He raised his hand, calling on the shadows around him.


    [Dark Chains]


    The ethereal chains erupted from the ground once more, wrapping around Havok''s legs and arms, holding the creature in place. It wouldn''t last long¡ªHavok was too powerful¡ªbut it gave Damian the opening he needed.


    "Alright, let''s end this," Damian muttered, his hands glowing with dark energy as he prepared his final attack.


    He sprinted toward Havok, leaping into the air.


    [Curse of Agony]


    The curse latched onto Havok''s body, sinking deep into its armor and flesh. The creature howled in agony as the dark magic tore through it, dealing massive damage over time.


    [Havok] took 400 damage.


    The pain was evident in Havok''s movements¡ªits attacks grew slower, more erratic. Damian could feel the shift in the battle. He had the upper hand now.


    With a final roar, Fenrith launched himself at Havok once more, biting down with all his strength.


    [Fenrith used Savage Bite.]


    [Havok] took 250 damage.


    Havok staggered, its HP dangerously low. The creature''s glowing red eyes flickered as its massive body trembled under the weight of the curse and Fenrith''s relentless assault.


    Damian saw his chance. He didn''t hesitate.


    [Arcane Bolt]


    The bolt shot from Damian''s hand, slamming into Havok''s chest with devastating force. The impact sent a shockwave through the room, and for a moment, everything went still.


    Havok let out one final, pained roar before collapsing to the ground, its massive form disintegrating into shadows as it faded away.


    [Havok has been defeated.]


    Damian stood there, panting, his body drenched in sweat. His chest heaved as he struggled to catch his breath. His muscles screamed in protest, but there was a strange satisfaction bubbling up inside him.


    He had done it. He had actually done it.


    Damian stood in the middle of the training room, panting heavily, his chest rising and falling as he struggled to catch his breath. His muscles screamed in protest, his Mana reserves dangerously low, but he had survived. He had defeated Havok¡ªa level 50 monster¡ªand lived to tell the tale.


    A familiar notification window flashed before his eyes.


    [Congratulations! You have leveled up to Level 23.]

 Chapter 63: Uninvited Guest

    Warlock Ch 63. Uninvited Guest


    [Magical Affinity Lv. 4: Increases the caster''s ability to adapt to and master different types of magic through his bonds. 25% bonus to any magical abilities gained through contracts, with a chance to learn partner-exclusive spells.]


    [Dark Bolt Lv. 4: Fires a concentrated blast of dark energy that deals heavy damage to enemies. +50% damage compared to Lv. 1, now has a chance to inflict Fear status on enemies for 4 seconds.]


    Mana Power: B+


    Cassius, still standing in the same spot, finally unfolded his arms and stepped forward. His expression was calm, but there was a flicker of something behind his eyes¡ªsomething Damian couldn''t quite place.


    "You''re improving," Cassius said, his voice as neutral as ever.


    Damian let out a weak laugh, his legs barely holding him up. "Improving? I nearly died, like, a dozen times just now!"


    Cassius shrugged, his lips curving into the faintest smirk. "Yet you didn''t."


    Damian groaned, rolling his eyes. "Great. I''m still alive. Awesome."


    But even as he complained, there was a part of him that felt proud. He had survived. He had fought a creature that was way above his level and won. And more than that¡ªhe had learned something about himself. Something about the way he fought, the way he moved. It was almost like his body knew what to do before he did.


    Cassius''s eyes lingered on Damian for a moment longer, as if analyzing every movement, every reaction. He was studying him¡ªjust like before.


    Damian''s breath finally began to steady, and he turned to face Cassius fully, his brow furrowed. "What''s going on with me? Why does my body... react like this? It''s not just instincts. It''s something else."


    Cassius''s eyes didn''t betray much, his expression calm, almost too calm. "React like what?"


    Damian hesitated, unsure how to put it into words. "Like I knew exactly what I was doing. Like... I''ve done this a thousand times before. My body just moved, and I knew what to do, even when it felt like I was at a dead end." His voice trailed off, the confusion weighing heavy on him. It wasn''t natural. It couldn''t be.


    Cassius remained silent for a long moment, his piercing gaze locked on Damian. He was studying him, just like before, but there was something else there¡ªsomething Damian couldn''t quite figure out. Finally, Cassius spoke, his voice low and measured, as if he was choosing each word carefully. "That''s something you''ll need to figure out on your own, Damian. But you''re right¡ªthere''s more to this than just instincts."


    Damian clenched his fists, frustration bubbling up inside him. "Then what is it? Why can''t you just tell me?"


    Cassius didn''t flinch. "Is it in the books I gave you?"


    Damian blinked, taken aback by the question. "No, but¡ª"


    "Then why are you asking me?" Cassius cut him off, his tone sharp.


    Damian resisted the urge to groan. Cassius was like some irresponsible teacher who threw books at him and expected him to figure it all out on his own. Sure, he was learning, but half the time it felt like he was stumbling in the dark, with Cassius offering just enough guidance to keep him alive. Barely.


    Cassius crossed his arms. "If it''s not in the books, then it''s something you''ll have to learn through experience. You can''t expect to be spoon-fed every answer."


    Damian huffed, wanting to argue but knowing it would get him nowhere. Cassius wasn''t the type to coddle anyone. He taught by pushing¡ªhard¡ªand if he didn''t figure it out, that was his problem. It was frustrating, but Damian had to admit, it was working. Slowly.


    Cassius tilted his head slightly. "Ready to continue?"


    Damian''s eyes widened in disbelief. "Wait, what? I just fought a level 50 monster! At least let me catch my breath."


    Cassius''s expression didn''t change. "You don''t get breaks in the real world, Damian. Do you think your enemies will wait for you to rest?"


    Damian wanted to scream. "Yeah, but we''re training, not in the middle of a life-or-death battle!"


    Cassius raised an eyebrow, clearly unimpressed by the protest. "No breaks."


    Just as Damian was about to argue further, a knock echoed from the heavy wooden door at the far side of the room. Both he and Cassius turned toward it.


    Cassius flicked his wrist, and the door swung open, revealing a shadowy figure standing in the doorway. It wasn''t one of the powerful, terrifying servants that had filled the room earlier. This one was smaller, weaker. Its voice was low and ethereal. "Master Cassius, you have a guest."


    Cassius didn''t even hesitate. "Reject them."


    The shadow wavered slightly, then spoke again. "It is Mrs. Bloodrose."


    For the first time, Damian saw Cassius''s calm facade crack. His lips tightened into a thin line, and he clicked his tongue in clear annoyance. "We''ll take a break," he said, his tone begrudging.


    Damian almost collapsed from relief, a sense of euphoria washing over him. ''A break. Finally!'' He could feel his body sagging with exhaustion, and even Fenrith seemed to let out a satisfied huff, his massive wolf form visibly relaxing.


    Cassius glanced at Damian. "Tell your servant to rest."


    "Right," Damian said quickly, extending his hand toward Fenrith. "Return."


    Fenrith''s three heads dipped in unison before the massive wolf vanished into a swirl of dark energy, returning to the space inside Damian.


    Cassius watched the interaction with an unreadable expression, but something about the way he looked at Damian made him uneasy. It wasn''t judgmental, but it wasn''t approving either. Just... observing.


    Damian frowned. "What?"


    Cassius didn''t respond, turning on his heel and heading toward the door without another word. Damian stood there for a moment, staring after him, feeling like there was something unsaid lingering in the air. But as usual, Cassius wasn''t going to offer any explanations.


    ''Of course not.''


    Sighing, Damian followed, his legs heavy with fatigue. His mind raced, thinking about what had just happened. His reaction time, the way he''d known how to fight, how to dodge, even how to land a proper hit¡ªit all felt like muscle memory, but that couldn''t be right. He was still new to all of this, still figuring it out. But during that fight, it had felt natural, like he''d been fighting for years.

 Chapter 64: The Vampire Queen

    Warlock Ch 64. The Vampire Queen


    ''What''s happening to me?'' Damian thought, his mind still reeling from everything that had happened. He shouldn''t have known how to make Fenrith return to him like that. Cassius had given him a simple order, and his body just... responded. It was as if his body knew what to do, even though he was still a novice. That realization sent a shiver through him.


    He flicked his gaze to Cassius, wanting to ask more, to get some answers, but the stoic look on Cassius''s face told him this wasn''t the time. Whatever questions Damian had, Cassius wasn''t in the mood to answer them. At least not right now. ''Typical,'' Damian thought. If he asked, Cassius would probably just tell him to figure it out on his own.


    They walked in silence as the shadow servant led them toward the entrance hall. The name "Mrs. Bloodrose" kept echoing in Damian''s mind. He''d never heard of her before, but Cassius''s reaction to her arrival told him everything he needed to know. This woman was important, and probably not someone Cassius wanted to deal with right now.


    Once they reached the hall, Damian saw her¡ªthe woman who could only be Mrs. Bloodrose.


    She was tall, her posture graceful and commanding. Her long, deep red hair cascaded down her back like a waterfall of blood, and her eyes¡ªcrimson, sharp, predatory¡ªwere locked onto Cassius the moment he stepped into view. She wore a sleek, crimson dress that seemed to shimmer in the dim light, with intricate black lace running along the sleeves, adding a dangerous elegance to her appearance.


    Damian''s breath caught in his throat. ''She''s a vampire!''


    There was no mistaking it. Her aura screamed power. His instincts screamed at him to stay on guard.


    Cassius, however, didn''t seem fazed at all. He didn''t break stride as he approached her, his voice devoid of warmth. "Mrs. Bloodrose," he greeted curtly, his tone flat and business-like.


    Her lips curled into a slow, almost mocking smile, but her eyes remained cold, calculating. "Cassius," she said smoothly, her voice carrying a seductive undertone, though there was an edge to it that Damian didn''t like. "You should stop calling me that. My husband died long ago."


    She turned her attention to Damian, her gaze lingering on him in a way that made his skin crawl. "And who are you, human?"


    Damian glanced at Cassius, unsure if he was supposed to speak. Cassius gave him a small nod, indicating it was okay for him to introduce himself.


    Damian extended his hand toward her, doing his best to appear confident, though his stomach was tied in knots. "Damian. I''m Cassius''s apprentice."


    "Apprentice, huh," she said, her eyes narrowing slightly as she stared at his outstretched hand. For a moment, it looked like she wasn''t going to take it. Then, with a slow, deliberate movement, she grasped his hand, her fingers cold and firm. "Interesting... I thought Cassius had no interest in taking on apprentices."


    Damian tried not to shudder at her touch. Her grip was deceptively strong, and the way her eyes flickered as their hands touched made him uneasy. There was something... off about her, something dangerous.


    "Victoria Bloodrose," she said, introducing herself with a smirk that faded slightly once she touched his hand. Damian quickly withdrew his own hand, unsure of what he had just felt in that brief moment of contact.


    "What brings you here?" Cassius asked, his tone clearly indicating he wasn''t in the mood for pleasantries.


    Her smile widened, though her eyes remained cold. "That''s not a very polite way to greet a lady, Cassius. At least offer me a seat and a cup of blood tea before we get down to business."


    Blood tea was a common drink for vampires, but despite the name, there wasn''t any actual blood in it.


    Cassius, however, was not amused. He sighed, his expression flat, clearly not in the mood for games. "We''re not here to play host, Victoria. If you have a business, say it. Otherwise, leave."


    Victoria''s eyes flashed with amusement as she sauntered further into the room, completely ignoring Cassius''s irritation. Her movements were slow and deliberate. There was a quiet menace in the way she carried herself, like a predator calmly stalking its prey.


    "Oh, but I do have business," she said, her voice smooth as silk. She glanced at Damian, her crimson eyes narrowing ever so slightly as she studied him. "It''s about the vampire faction."


    Damian''s heart skipped a beat. ''Vampire faction?'' He had always thought the world was divided into three factions¡ªGood, Evil, and Neutral. That''s what Evelyn and Cassius had explained to him. It was simple, easy to understand. But now, with Victoria standing before them, talking about the vampire faction, it became clear there was more to this world than he had ever imagined.


    Cassius remained silent for a moment, his gaze unreadable as he looked at Victoria. The tension in the room thickened as Damian''s mind raced, trying to piece together what this all meant.


    "The vampire faction?" Cassius finally said, his tone calm but sharp. "Why would that concern me?"


    Victoria''s smile widened, her crimson eyes gleaming with an unsettling mixture of amusement and something else Damian couldn''t quite place. "Because things are changing. The balance of power is shifting, and certain factions are becoming... restless."


    Cassius narrowed his eyes slightly. "I don''t care about your internal politics, Victoria. Whatever is happening in the vampire faction is your problem, not mine."


    Victoria chuckled softly, her voice like silk, but there was a dark undertone to it that made Damian uneasy. "Oh, Cassius, you''re as cold as ever. But this time, you can''t just brush it off. The vampire faction is looking for allies... or enemies."


    Damian''s pulse quickened.


    "Some of the higher-ups in the vampire faction detected something recently. A powerful force, something awakening. It came from Haven City." She let the name hang for a moment before adding, "But not from here... but from the Nullis'' world." Nullis¡ªthat was what the supernatural community called humans with no connection to magic or the supernatural. It was derived from "null," meaning devoid of magic or connection.

 Chapter 65: Where is He?

    Warlock Ch 65. Where is He?


    Cassius stood still, his face unreadable. Damian knew exactly what she meant. So did Cassius.


    Damian was certain¡ªVictoria was talking about him. The power she was describing, the one awakening in Haven City, had to be him. But somehow, despite the realization, he managed to keep his expression neutral. Inside, his mind raced, but on the outside, he did his best to remain calm.


    Cassius, however, kept his usual cool. His face betrayed nothing as he stared at Victoria, his tone casual. "Really?" he said, almost as if he were bored. "Why don''t I feel anything?"


    Victoria''s eyes sparkled with amusement, and a smirk tugged at her lips. She took a step closer, her movements slow and deliberate. "Oh, Cassius, don''t lie to me," she purred, her voice dripping with playful malice.


    To Damian''s shock, Victoria closed the distance between her and Cassius, leaning in so close they were nearly face-to-face. Her crimson eyes locked onto Cassius''s, searching his expression with an intensity that made Damian''s stomach tighten. He had never seen anyone dare to get so close to that grumpy warlock. But this powerful vampire seemed to enjoy pushing boundaries. It was like watching a lioness toy with a predator of equal stature.


    Cassius didn''t flinch. His expression remained as neutral as ever. Yet... It was like a coiled spring, ready to snap at any moment.


    Victoria''s smirk deepened, her fangs flashing for a brief moment as she whispered, "I''m sure you can feel it. That power... it''s unmistakable. Of all people, you should have sensed it first. Now, tell me¡ª" Her voice lowered to a seductive drawl, but there was an unmistakable edge to it. "¡ªwhere is he?"


    Damian''s heart pounded in his chest. He swallowed hard, his throat suddenly dry. This was bad. If she figured it out¡ªif she knew it was him¡ªthings would go south fast. But he couldn''t run. If he so much as moved or gave anything away, Victoria would know instantly.


    ''Stay calm. Don''t give her anything,'' Damian thought to himself, though every muscle in his body screamed for him to bolt.


    Cassius, to Damian''s relief, simply smirked, leaning back slightly as if unfazed by Victoria''s bold approach. "Don''t talk nonsense, Victoria. There''s no one here worth your attention."


    Victoria''s expression didn''t falter, but her eyes narrowed slightly. "You better tell me," she pressed, her tone hardening. "He''s better off with me than with any other vampires. If he falls into the wrong hands..." She trailed off, the unspoken threat hanging in the air like a dark cloud.


    Damian felt his stomach drop. He could practically see himself in her clutches, drained of his magic¡ªor worse his blood, used as some sort of twisted magical battery. His mind conjured images of Victoria feeding off him night after night until he was nothing but a hollowed-out shell.


    ''How about not with anyone?'' Damian thought, his heart racing.


    Cassius didn''t budge. He crossed his arms, his gaze locked onto Victoria''s, his voice cold. "I told you, there''s no one here of interest to you. Now, if that''s all, you can leave."


    Victoria''s smile faltered for the first time, a flicker of frustration crossing her face. She glanced back at Damian, her crimson eyes narrowing as if she were sizing him up once more. Damian felt a cold sweat break out across his skin, but he held her gaze, doing his best not to flinch under her scrutiny.


    For what felt like an eternity, the room was filled with tension. It was so thick and suffocating. Victoria''s eyes darted back and forth between Cassius and Damian, as if she were trying to piece together a puzzle that wasn''t quite fitting. Finally, she stepped back, her smirk returning, though it didn''t reach her eyes.


    "Very well," she said, her voice silky once more. "But don''t think this is the end. The vampire faction is keeping a close watch on things. If there''s any sign of that power, we''ll know." She gave Damian one last lingering glance before turning on her heel. "And when we do, I''ll be back."


    With that, she sauntered toward the door.


    Damian let out a breath he hadn''t realized he''d been holding. His legs felt weak, and he had to steady himself against the nearby wall. "That was... intense."


    Cassius turned to Damian and pressed a finger to his lips, a clear command for silence. Damian clamped his mouth shut, not daring to utter a word. Cassius was clearly on high alert.


    Without saying another word, Cassius opened his palm, summoning something. A dark, gelatinous blob began to form, bubbling and twisting until it solidified into a creature¡ªa slime-like monster. Its shape was ever-shifting, rippling as if made of liquid shadow, with faint red glows pulsing from within its core.


    Cleaner <Level 91>


    HP: 5,000/5,000


    MP: 300/300


    Skills: [Divide], [Corrosive Gel], [Mana Absorb]


    Weakness: Ice-based magic


    The creature looked deceptively harmless, but Damian knew better. Anything at that level was far beyond his current strength, and the fact that Cassius had summoned it without a second thought spoke volumes.


    "Clean the room," Cassius muttered under his breath, giving the creature its command.


    The slime-like monster immediately responded, its dark form splitting rapidly into smaller versions of itself, each one no larger than a fist. In a matter of seconds, the cleaner had divided into over a dozen tiny slimes, scattering around the room like liquid shadows.


    Damian watched, his frown deepening, unsure of what Cassius was searching for. The little slimes slithered along the walls, the floor, the ceiling¡ªcovering every corner of the room as if they were scanning for something hidden.


    A few seconds later, Damian got his answer.


    The cleaner suddenly surged toward the chandelier, its slimy form crawling up the chains that held the light fixture in place. Two small, shadowy figures darted out from behind it¡ªtiny baby bats, barely visible against the dark ceiling. They flapped their wings frantically, trying to escape, but the cleaner was faster.


    Baby Bat <Level 5>


    HP: 10/10


    MP: 5/5


    Weakness: None

 Chapter 66: Sooner or Later

    Warlock Ch 66. Sooner or Later


    Damian let out a breath he didn''t realize he was holding, his mind racing as he replayed the brief interaction with Victoria. He remembered how her smirk had faded when they shook hands. Something had changed in her expression¡ªsomething subtle but noticeable.


    "Did she know I was the one she was looking for?" Damian asked in a hushed tone, his voice low enough that it wouldn''t carry. He didn''t want to risk anyone¡ªor anything¡ªhearing. "I mean, I thought she figured it out when we shook hands."


    Cassius glanced at him, his sharp eyes studying Damian for a moment. "No," he said calmly, "she didn''t know."


    Damian let out a sigh of relief. The tension in his shoulders eased just a little, but only for a second.


    "Yet," Cassius continued, his voice dropping with a warning edge, "Sooner or later, she''ll find out. Not just her¡ªeveryone who craves power, anyone afraid of what you could become. They''ll all come for you."


    Damian''s heart skipped a beat, the relief he''d felt moments before vanishing. "What do you mean, ''sooner or later?''" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper. "Why did she pause when we shook hands?"


    Cassius''s expression darkened slightly as he explained. "Victoria is a blood mage. She can sense things through blood¡ªfeel traces of power, emotions, even a person''s potential. When she touched you, she detected something... off. That''s why she hesitated."


    Damian''s stomach churned. "So shaking hands with her was a bad idea, then? I shouldn''t have¡ª"


    "No," Cassius cut him off, his voice firm. "It''s fine. I''m the one who gave you permission. As long as it wasn''t related to your Mana Core, it doesn''t matter. Your blood didn''t reveal anything crucial. But... it did make her curious. That''s all."


    Damian nodded, though he still felt uneasy. "So... I''m safe for now, but she''s suspicious?"


    Cassius gave a curt nod. "Exactly. She is just curious. It was better than if someone like Malthus found you in Nullis world before you knew what magic is. Be thankful to Evelyn for bringing you here in time. You dodged a bullet."


    "Yeah, well, that doesn''t make me feel any better," Damian muttered, his lips twisting into a grimace. "I still feel like I''ve got a ''Magic Creature''s Food'' label stamped on me."


    Cassius didn''t offer any comforting words or false reassurance. He just nodded, his face serious. "You''re not wrong."


    Damian couldn''t help but shake his head. He''d been hoping for at least some sort of pep talk, but of course, Cassius wasn''t the type for that. ''Typical.''


    "And that," Cassius continued, "is why I keep pushing you to train. You need to get stronger because we don''t know how quickly things could turn bad."


    Damian swallowed hard and nodded, knowing Cassius was right. There was no point in arguing. He just had to push forward.


    They walked in silence toward the training room again, Damian trying to clear his mind of the overwhelming thoughts swirling inside him. After a moment, he spoke up, trying to shift the conversation. "Back there, Victoria mentioned factions. You and Evelyn always told me there were three factions: Good, Evil, and Neutral. But it sounds like there''s a lot more than that."


    Cassius didn''t break stride. "Those are just the general divisions. Good, Evil, and Neutral are classifications based on overall purpose, not specific factions. The actual factions are based on race, class, and even individual interests."


    Damian frowned, processing what Cassius said. "So... what? Vampires, elves, fae, werewolves¡ªthey all have their own factions? And then there are classes like Warlocks, Sorceresses, Mages? It''s way more complicated than I thought."


    "Of course," Cassius replied bluntly. "The world isn''t as simple as ''good versus evil.'' Even within the so-called good and evil factions, there are sub-factions¡ªraces, classes, organizations, all with their own goals. Sometimes, they spy on each other, infiltrate opposing factions, and even betray their own for power."


    Damian let out a long breath, rubbing the back of his neck. "So... it''s not just black and white. There are shades of gray."


    Cassius smirked, his eyes glinting with something close to amusement. "Exactly. Good, evil¡ªthose are just labels. In the end, it''s all about power, control, and survival. Some factions pretend to be good just to gain an advantage. Some evil ones do the same. The lines are blurred, and no one''s truly clean."


    Damian''s frown deepened. "Then where do you and Evelyn fall in all of this?"


    "Neutral," Cassius said without hesitation. "I have no interest in politics. Just like in the Nullis world¡ªhuman politics¡ªthis world''s politics is just as rotten. Everyone has their own agenda, their own way of manipulating others. I stay out of it."


    Damian raised an eyebrow, surprised by the straightforward answer. "Even the good factions?"


    Cassius scoffed, the sound filled with disdain. "Especially the good ones. They''re no different from the evil factions. They just hide behind righteousness to justify their actions. In the end, they''re all after the same thing¡ªpower."


    Damian nodded slowly, feeling the weight of Cassius''s words. "So... I''ve got to deal with all of that while figuring out my own power and trying not to get killed by whatever''s coming for me?"


    Cassius looked at him, his eyes hard but not unkind. "That''s why you need to be prepared. The world won''t give you a break, Damian. And neither will I."


    Damian swallowed hard. He had to face this head-on, even if it felt like he was drowning in a sea of unknown dangers.


    He and Cassius stepped into the training room. Once the heavy door closed behind them, Cassius wasted no time. He cast his barrier spell.


    Cassius''s voice was calm, almost too calm. "This time, I don''t want you to summon Fenrith. I want you to create another type of magic skill. Something purely yours, fueled by your Mana. And the most important thing," Cassius paused, his eyes narrowing, "is to survive."


    Damian opened his mouth to protest, but before he could say anything, Cassius flicked his wrist, summoning another creature. This one was a towering beast, almost bear-like but with unnatural, glowing red eyes and massive claws that looked like they could tear through solid steel.


    Grimclaw <Level 50>


    HP: 2,500/2,500


    MP: 300/300


    Skills: [Savage Swipe], [Earthquake Stomp], [Roaring Frenzy]


    Weakness: Lightning-based attacks

 Chapter 67: Push Forward

    Warlock Ch 67. Push Forward


    ''Grimclaw.'' The name itself felt menacing, but the creature''s appearance was enough to make Damian shudder. It was massive, muscles rippling under thick fur, each movement slow but powerful. The creature''s claws glinted ominously, its breath coming out in thick clouds of mist.


    ''How am I supposed to beat that?'' Damian thought, his mind racing. He wanted to shout, to complain, to tell Cassius that this was insane. But deep down, he knew it was useless. Complaining wouldn''t help, and Cassius wasn''t the type to take mercy. Damian knew exactly why Cassius was pushing him this hard¡ªbecause in the real world, his enemies wouldn''t hold back. He''d be left to face whatever came at him, no matter how terrifying or impossible it seemed.


    ''Alright then. No Fenrith, just me.''


    Damian gritted his teeth, steeling himself as he focused on his Mana. He''d tried creating a new spell on the fly, but while facing a towering beast ready to rip him apart... That was another story. But he didn''t have a choice. He had to push forward, to find his limits and break through them. Because if he didn''t, this creature would destroy him.


    The Grimclaw let out a deafening roar, its claws digging into the ground as it prepared to charge. Damian could feel the vibrations in the floor, the sheer force of its energy making the air hum.


    ''Think, Damian, think!'' His mind raced, sifting through everything he knew about magic. He needed something strong, something powerful enough to at least hold the creature back. Lightning was the beast''s weakness, and while he had [Arcane Bolt] and [Dark Bolt] in his arsenal, he knew they wouldn''t be enough on their own.


    The Grimclaw charged, its massive form barreling toward him with terrifying speed. Damian''s instincts kicked in, and he dove to the side just as the beast''s claws swiped past him, barely missing his shoulder. ''It''s fast... way too fast.'' He needed a moment to focus, to gather his Mana and maybe forge a new spell, but the Grimclaw wasn''t giving him that time.


    Without hesitation, Damian cast [Dark Chains], summoning shadowy tendrils that erupted from the floor, wrapping themselves around the beast''s legs. The Grimclaw struggled, its muscles bulging as it fought against the bindings. But his chains only slowed it momentarily. With a furious roar, the Grimclaw flexed, shattering the chains and charging at him once again.


    Damian''s pulse raced as he leapt back, barely avoiding the beast''s next swipe. ''It''s relentless! If I don''t do something, this thing''s going to tear me apart.''


    He dodged another swipe, his heart pounding as he struggled to keep up. Each movement felt... familiar. Just like before, his body already knew how to react, like some buried instinct was guiding him. It was more than just muscle memory¡ªit was almost like he''d fought creatures like this a hundred times before. The realization was eerie but also gave him a strange sense of confidence. His body seemed to know what to do, even if his mind was still catching up.


    But the Grimclaw wasn''t backing down. It kept charging, forcing him to stay on the defensive. Damian gritted his teeth as he narrowly avoided another swipe, the creature''s claws grazing his arm. A surge of pain shot through him, and he clenched his jaw, determined not to let it slow him down. ''This level gap is brutal,'' he thought, glancing at the creature''s stats again. Every move he made felt like it barely kept him a step ahead.


    Out of the corner of his eye, he caught a glimpse of Cassius, who seemed... tense. For a moment, it looked like Cassius might step in, but he restrained himself, watching Damian with a focused intensity. Damian knew Cassius was testing him, waiting to see if he could pull this off on his own.


    ''Alright, Damian. Time to focus. You need something bigger¡ªsomething that can bind it and attack at the same time.''


    The Grimclaw roared, charging forward once again. Damian''s mind raced as he pulled his Mana, drawing on every ounce of energy he could muster. He thought back to the fight with Malthus''s shadows, to the way he had instinctively crafted the [Shadow Barrier]. Maybe he could do something similar now, combining elements of both his attack and binding spells.


    The idea took form in his mind, and he could feel the Mana responding, coiling and building like a storm. The Grimclaw was almost upon him, its claws glinting as it lunged forward. But Damian was ready.


    "Dark Dominion!" he shouted, unleashing the spell with all the Mana he could pour into it.


    Shadowy chains erupted from the ground in a wide radius around him, each one infused with a dark, crackling energy that pulsed and flickered like lightning. They snaked toward the Grimclaw, latching onto its legs, arms, and torso, binding it in place. But this wasn''t like [Dark Chains]. These bindings pulsed with a continuous, draining energy, siphoning the Grimclaw''s strength and dealing damage over time.


    [New Skill Unlocked!]


    [Dark Dominion Lv. 1 : Creates an area of dark energy that binds all enemies within range and deals continuous damage over time.]


    [Damage: +15% dark damage per second.]


    [Range: 10-meter radius. ]


    [Duration: 10 seconds.]


    The Grimclaw roared in fury, struggling against the chains that held it in place. Each time it tried to break free, the dark energy surged, tightening around it and sending pulses of pain through its massive form. The creature''s HP bar began to drop steadily, the damage accumulating as it fought against the bindings.


    A series notification popped in front of him.


    [Critical elemental hits!]


    [Grimclaw] took 250 damage!


    [Grimclaw] took 134 damage!


    [Grimclaw] took 245 damage!


    Damian could feel the strain of the spell, the Mana drain pulling at him, but he held firm. ''This is working. I just need to hold it a little longer.''


    The Grimclaw thrashed, its claws swiping at the chains, but each strike only seemed to fuel the dark energy further. It was trapped, and Damian wasn''t about to let it go. He poured more Mana into the spell, focusing on keeping the creature locked in place.

 Chapter 68: Voices in My Head

    Warlock Ch 68. Voices in My Head


    Cassius watched, his gaze sharp and calculating as he observed the new spell in action. Damian could feel his mentor''s scrutiny, the weight of his expectations pressing down on him, but he ignored it. All that mattered was keeping the Grimclaw contained.


    The creature''s HP continued to drop, each second bringing it closer to defeat. Damian''s body screamed in protest, the strain of maintaining the spell almost overwhelming, but he pushed through the pain. ''Come on... just a little more.''


    The Grimclaw''s struggles grew weaker, its movements slowing as the dark energy sapped its strength. Finally, with a final, shuddering roar, the creature collapsed, its HP dropping to zero as the last of its life drained away.


    Damian staggered, the spell fading as he released his hold. He couldn''t believe it. He''d actually managed to take down a level 50 creature on his own!


    [Congratulations! You have leveled up to Level 25!]


    [Shadow Barrier Lv. 4: Increases shield strength by 70% and absorbs up to 75% of incoming damage.]


    [Dark Dominion Lv. 2: Increases range to 15 meters and duration to 15 seconds. Damage increased by +25% per second.]


    Cassius approached, his expression unreadable. For a moment, Damian wondered if he''d done enough to impress his mentor, if this victory would finally earn him a word of praise. But Cassius just gave a slight nod, his eyes glinting with approval but no sign of the satisfaction Damian had hoped for.


    "Not bad," Cassius said, his tone as stoic as ever.


    Damian let out a shaky laugh, still trying to catch his breath. "Yeah, not bad," he muttered, resigning himself to Cassius''s version of "praise." ''Yeah, I should stop hoping for the impossible,'' he thought, shaking his head. Cassius was as much a statue as he was a mentor¡ªsolid, unyielding, and with zero sense of sympathy.


    But even as he groaned, he felt a strange sort of pride welling up. He had just survived another level 50 creature without Fenrith''s help. It was grueling, but he''d done it. He''d actually done it.


    Damian wiped the sweat from his brow, pushing himself up slowly. Every muscle screamed in protest, but he ignored it, squaring his shoulders and standing straight. "Alright," he said with a heavy huff, "let''s continue." He braced himself, knowing full well Cassius would push him further. ''Might as well get it over with,'' he reasoned.


    Cassius raised an eyebrow, smirking slightly. "Oh, you''re starting to understand how this works." His voice held a touch of satisfaction, a rare reaction from the usually stone-faced warlock.


    "After several rounds of training with you?" Damian laughed dryly, shaking his head. "Yeah, I''ve come to understand that begging you for mercy or a break is useless. I just have to make it quick, don''t I?"


    "Good," Cassius replied, crossing his arms as he observed Damian with a glint of approval. His tone remained as flat and unyielding as ever, but Damian didn''t miss the faint trace of satisfaction in his mentor''s eyes.


    "But you know what?" Damian groaned, rolling his shoulders and cracking his neck to shake off the lingering aches. "One day, Cassius, you''re going to be impressed by me. And when that day comes, I''ll make you actually praise me."


    Cassius smirked, his eyes gleaming with amusement. "We''ll see."


    Damian scoffed but took it as fuel. He wanted to prove to Cassius¡ªand maybe even himself¡ªthat he wasn''t just some apprentice learning the basics. He wanted to be more, to push past the expectations Cassius seemed to have.


    Cassius lifted his hand again, and for a moment, Damian braced himself, expecting another brutal summon, maybe even something nastier than the Grimclaw. But instead, Cassius merely flicked his wrist, sending a pulse of Mana rippling through the air. In seconds, a faint, translucent barrier shimmered to life, surrounding Damian like a glass cage¡ªan unmistakable prison.


    Cassius'' eyes narrowed, a slight smirk pulling at the corners of his mouth. "This time, Damian," he said, his tone smooth yet laced with that quiet authority he always had, "I want you to use what you''ve learned. Craft something new. An offensive skill, something that can break through a barrier in a single strike. No tricks, no repetition¡ªjust pure, controlled force. Shape your Mana like it''s part of you."


    He closed his eyes, breathing deeply, feeling the Mana flowing around him, waiting, like an ocean of potential just beyond his fingertips.


    But then, a voice echoed in his head, catching him off guard.


    "I just learned a new spell!" A voice¡ªcheerful, proud¡ªrang through his mind like a distant memory, catching him so off-guard he almost broke his focus.


    Damian frowned. ''Wait... was that in my head?'' he thought, trying to shake the strange feeling off. The tone of the voice seemed familiar, but... it wasn''t Cassius. And it definitely wasn''t the ancient artifact''s voice. Yet it felt so vivid, like he''d heard it before.


    Then another voice, low and a little skeptical, echoed through his mind. "More spells? How could you learn a new one so quickly?"


    "Because I''m a genius!" The cheerful voice responded. "This one''s special, trust me. I call it... Hellfire Spear. It''s got enough heat to shatter even the strongest barriers with a single hit! Here, let me teach you, Cassius."


    Damian''s breath caught. He opened his eyes. ''Cassius?'' He knew that name, of course, but that wasn''t the Cassius he knew. No, this felt like someone younger, livelier¡ªa far cry from the calm, imposing figure standing right in front of him. ''What''s going on? ''He couldn''t explain how these voices were filling his head, but something about them felt so... real, so connected. Almost like they were fragments of a forgotten past.


    Shaking his head, Damian took a deep breath and tried to refocus. But as he concentrated, something strange happened. His Mana began to shift, instinctively shaping itself, almost as if his body remembered how to cast this Hellfire Spear without him fully understanding why.


    ''Cassius... yesterday wasn''t our first meeting, was it?'' he thought, feeling his heartbeat quicken. The memory... if that''s what it was, had stirred something deeper, a feeling that went beyond today''s training.

 Chapter 69: Unfair

    Warlock Ch 69. Unfair


    He needed to test this, needed to know for sure.


    With a sense of determination, Damian raised his hand, feeling the Mana coil around his palm, gathering like a living flame just waiting to be unleashed. He pointed toward Cassius, who stood behind a barrier, watching with a cool expression as Damian''s power surged.


    A notification blinked in his vision.


    [New Skill Unlocked!]


    [Hellfire Spear lv. 1: A concentrated spear of dark flame, capable of breaking through even the most fortified barriers with immense heat and corrosive energy.]


    Damian''s eyes widened as he felt the power solidify in his hand¡ªa spear of raw, chaotic energy, swirling with dark flames. The Hellfire Spear pulsed, almost alive, as if feeding off his own excitement and determination.


    Without hesitating, he launched it straight toward, destroying the barrier and kept launching toward Cassius, the spear cutting through the air like a comet of black fire. The heat was intense, a swirling mass of flame and chaotic Mana that seemed to warp the very air around it.


    Cassius'' eyes widened ever so slightly, his calm demeanor briefly flickering.


    But Cassius wasn''t just going to stand there and take it. With a sharp movement, he raised his hand, summoning a spear of his own¡ªa twisted, dark flame that mirrored Damian''s spell almost perfectly. The two Hellfire Spears collided in mid-air, an explosion erupting between them as their energies clashed.


    The impact shook the ground beneath them, sending shockwaves that rippled out in every direction. The sheer force of the collision rattled Damian''s bones. He raised his [Shadow Barrier], bracing himself. His protective field shimmered to life, an inky black barrier that pulsed like a living shadow around him. But the moment Cassius'' attack hit, he knew he''d need more than that.


    "Damn..." he muttered under his breath, feeling the raw power pressing against him.


    The blast was no joke. The impact slammed into his barrier like a meteor, cracks spider-webbing across it, thin at first but quickly spreading. Every nerve in his body screamed that this was too much. The [Shadow Barrier] groaned, an eerie sound that seemed to echo back into his mind, the cracks widening as it buckled. He could feel it¡ªany second now, his shield would give out, and he''d be done.


    Just as the barrier was about to collapse, a second one flared to life in front of him, powerful and steady, a translucent shield with a faint glow to it. Damian''s heart skipped a beat. Cassius'' work, for sure.


    The impact finally finished, the shockwaves settling down, and Damian''s [Shadow Barrier] dissipated, leaving him staring at Cassius'' intervention. He could hear his mentor''s footsteps behind him, calm and steady, like none of this was surprising. Just part of some grand lesson only Cassius understood.


    "What are you trying to pull, Damian?" Cassius'' voice rang out, low and smooth but with that sharp edge of challenge.


    Damian whipped around to face him, his chest still heaving from the adrenaline. "You... What are you playing at?" he shot back, unable to keep the frustration from his voice. Cassius just tilted his head, eyes glinting with a strange light.


    "Just who are you to me, Cassius?" Damian asked, his voice low but intense, barely hiding the frustration bubbling up inside him. "How do I know what you know?"


    Cassius looked back at him, perfectly calm, almost annoyingly so. He raised an eyebrow, crossing his arms in that signature way of his. "Oh?" he echoed with a hint of sarcasm. "How do I know what you know?"


    The tone made Damian''s fists clench even harder. Cassius was playing coy again, deflecting, hiding whatever truth he clearly knew. It was always like this, these endless little mind games that left Damian feeling like he was chasing shadows. Still, he forced himself to stay grounded, to push forward.


    "Don''t just turn my question back at me," Damian said, his voice tight with irritation. "You''re the one who''s always pushing me, challenging me. But you don''t give me answers. Why?"


    Cassius let out a soft chuckle, a calm, almost detached sound that grated on Damian''s nerves. "Why?" Cassius repeated, as if tasting the word. "Now that''s a good question. Yet, I don''t have an answer for you."


    Damian''s brow furrowed, his patience thinning. "What the hell does that even mean?"


    "It means exactly what I said, Damian," Cassius replied, his eyes unreadable. "This is your path, not mine. It''s you who needs to choose your destiny, not me. I can''t step in and make those decisions for you. That would be... unfair."


    "Unfair?" Damian repeated, almost incredulous. "Unfair how?"


    Cassius''s gaze didn''t waver. "If I were to intervene, if I handed you every answer, you''d only end up blaming me when things went wrong. Or maybe worse, you''d lean on me so much that you''d never really learn to stand on your own."


    Damian grit his teeth. The words made sense on some level, but they also felt like Cassius was sidestepping, like he was using logic as a shield to keep his secrets buried. He forced himself to take a breath, to calm down, and then pressed on, his voice steady but filled with determination.


    "I heard your voice," Damian said, looking Cassius dead in the eye. "Inside my head. And another voice, too. He was talking about... teaching you the Hellfire Spear. It sounded like¡ª" He hesitated, remembering the tone of that conversation. "Like best friends," he said again in a much softer tone.


    Cassius''s expression remained cool, almost as if Damian had said something as casual as the weather. "Is that so?" he said, as if it was just mildly interesting, no more than a passing thought.


    That did it. Damian''s fists clenched at his sides, his frustration boiling over. "Stop playing coy, Cassius. These... these abilities, these spells¡ªthey don''t just come out of nowhere. You know more than you''re letting on, and I''m sick of being kept in the dark."

 Chapter 70: The Life You’ve Always Wanted

    Warlock Ch 70. The Life You''ve Always Wanted


    Cassius regarded him in silence, his expression calm and unreadable as ever, but there was something... something like a shadow lurking in his gaze. Damian couldn''t place it¡ªwas it hesitation? Regret? Or maybe something even deeper, a piece of a truth Cassius didn''t want to share. For a split second, Damian thought maybe, just maybe, he''d finally get some real answers.


    But then Cassius sighed, breaking the tension. "I''m sick of keeping you in the dark too, Damian," he said softly, his voice oddly resigned. "But... I have to. This might be the best way to give you the life you''ve always wanted. What I do, what I teach you, it''s all to help you protect yourself. That''s it."


    Damian''s jaw clenched as he took in Cassius''s words. It sounded noble, but to him, it just felt like another excuse. He stayed quiet, letting his anger settle into something sharper, more controlled, his mouth twisting into a sarcastic smirk.


    "So, you do know me from before all this," Damian said, the accusation thick in his voice.


    "Yes and no," Cassius replied with maddening calm.


    Damian let out a bitter laugh, cutting through the silence. "Liar."


    "I''m not lying," Cassius shot back, his gaze steady. "I know you, Damian. But I also don''t know you. If I had all the answers, I''d give them to you. We wouldn''t be having this conversation."


    Damian frowned, his frustration deepening. Cassius''s words only made things murkier, like he was dangling pieces of a puzzle Damian could barely see. "So, what? You''re saying there''s some part of me you don''t know, or some part of you I''m missing?"


    Cassius nodded, his expression unreadable. "Maybe both. Or maybe it''s something neither of us understands yet."


    Damian gritted his teeth, his anger bubbling up, but Cassius didn''t seem fazed. He just looked at Damian with that same unreadable gaze.


    "Enough talk," Cassius said firmly. "We''ve wasted enough time on questions without answers. Let''s get back to training. We''re not stopping until lunchtime, and even then, we''ll pick right back up after. I''ve stocked enough Mana Potions to keep you going until sundown, so be prepared to push yourself."


    Damian scoffed, crossing his arms defiantly. "Right... And just how hard do you plan on pushing me? Until I collapse?"


    Cassius''s eyes glinted, his mouth quirking up in the faintest of smiles. "If that''s what it takes. I''m here to make sure you learn to squeeze every ounce of potential from that Mana of yours."


    The challenge was obvious, and Damian felt a thrill of defiance rise up in him. Fine, if Cassius wanted to push him to his limits, then he''d see just how far Damian could go.


    "Alright then," Damian said with a smirk, rolling his shoulders. "Let''s see if I can survive this."


    And so it began. For hours on end, Damian pushed himself to the brink, training relentlessly in that secluded place under Cassius''s watchful eye. Every ounce of energy he had, he poured into each movement, every strike, every skill. The intensity was grueling, pushing him past what he thought were his limits and then even further. There were moments¡ªfar too many¡ªwhen he was sure he''d collapse, maybe even pass out from the strain, his vision blurring as he gave everything he had.


    But after one Mana Potion, he always managed to back on his feet to face yet another wave of attacks. And while his muscles ached, his heart hammered, and his head spun with fatigue, something strange was happening, something he couldn''t quite explain.


    At first, it was subtle. Damian noticed his reactions were getting faster, sharper. His mind didn''t have to think so much; instead, his body seemed to know what to do. It was as if each movement, each strike, was burned into his muscle memory, guiding him in ways that felt instinctive. Every time Cassius switched tactics, Damian was quicker to adapt, his body flowing almost on its own.


    Somehow, he was remembering things before he even consciously realized it. He knew exactly which spells to cast, what kind of energy to harness, and how to pull his Mana through himself, channeling it with precision. And the weirdest part? It wasn''t just his own moves; he somehow knew what Fenrith should be doing too. It felt strange, almost like... like he was pulling from memories that weren''t really his. But it didn''t matter. What mattered was that it was working.


    Despite the relentless pace, he never fainted. Oh, he came close more than once, but each time he felt himself reaching that point, Cassius handed him another Mana Potion, letting its energy surge through him, his body jolting back to life. The fatigue was there, but the potions kept him going, pushing through exhaustion into something else¡ªsomething more.


    Cassius wasn''t one for words, but Damian could tell he was watching, measuring every ounce of progress, every improvement Damian managed. And the more Damian trained, the more he felt something stirring in him, something that felt like a skill, a power just out of reach.


    The training kept going, but now Damian''s opponent wasn''t one of Cassius''s servants¡ªit was Cassius himself. This wasn''t a duel; Cassius wanted to see how Damian could handle fighting someone way stronger than him. Honestly, it sounded ridiculous to Damian, but he knew it was necessary if he wanted to survive.


    Cassius threw a brutal combination at him¡ªthree quick bursts of flame, followed by a vicious wave of dark energy that twisted through the air like a whip. Damian''s instincts kicked in. Instead of dodging normally, he stood his ground, pulling from the strange new energy that had been building within him all day.


    Without thinking, he activated it.


    A rush of power exploded from within him, flooding his body, making his movements sharp and lightning-fast. His whole body seemed to hum with spectral energy, his vision sharpening as his surroundings blurred. Damian felt like he was moving in two worlds at once, every motion leaving a ghostly trail that he could see but couldn''t quite explain.


    Cassius'' attack missed, swiping right through one of those ghostly trails, and for a moment, Damian almost laughed. He felt invincible, his movements fluid and precise as he dodged, countered, and re-positioned with impossible speed.


    [New Skill Unlocked!]


    [Spectral Surge Lv. 1: Harnesses spectral energy to boost speed, strength, and reflexes by 15%. Movements leave a ghostly trail, confusing enemies and allowing for quick repositioning. Duration: 10 minutes. Cooldown: 30 seconds.]

 Chapter 71: Concentration Lesson

    Warlock Ch 71. Concentration Lesson


    A grin stretched across Damian''s face as the notification flashed before him. He could feel the power pulsing through him. The skill was incredible, amplifying his every move, allowing him to weave through attacks with ease, his body feeling lighter, faster, stronger. It was as if he was fighting with an entirely new set of abilities.


    The next wave came quickly, Cassius testing him without a hint of hesitation, summoning multiple dark spears and hurling them straight at Damian. But with [Spectral Surge] active, Damian moved like a phantom, sidestepping each spear with ease, watching as they zipped past him, tearing into the ground behind with bone-shaking explosions. The impact rattled through him, scattering debris in all directions. The ground shook as each spear exploded on impact, showering him with fragments of rock and dust. The air smelled of charred earth and burning energy, making his skin prickle with adrenaline.


    If he were the Damian from a few days ago, he''d be rooted to the spot, legs shaking like jelly. The noise, the heat, the sheer force would''ve overwhelmed him. But now... now he was different. He didn''t know how to explain it, but he felt stronger. There was something new in him, something that craved the challenge, that thrived in this intense, pulse-pounding environment.


    Despite only having a couple of days in this new, magic-infused world, Damian was adapting¡ªfast. He could feel it in the way he fought, the way he moved. His body reacted as if it had been built for this, and his mind had settled into a razor-sharp focus he hadn''t known he was capable of. He didn''t just dodge; he flowed, each step feeding into the next as he twisted, ducked, and weaved through the onslaught.


    There was a part of him that felt like a warrior, strong and resilient, while his powers, the magic he was learning to wield, marked him unmistakably as a warlock. He wasn''t just fighting; he was strategizing, blending his physical movements with his skills in a way that made him unpredictable, dynamic.


    Cassius''s gaze narrowed, watching him with intensity. And for a brief moment, Damian caught it¡ªa flicker of approval, a glint in his eyes that told him he was finally breaking through the barriers Cassius had set for him. But just because he''d earned a sliver of acknowledgment didn''t mean the training would get easier.


    With a wave of his hand, Cassius summoned even more dark spears. Hundreds of them now floated around him, ready to strike.


    Damian''s grin faded the moment he took in the sheer number of them, his heart sinking. ''You''ve got to be kidding...''


    "Lesson number six," Cassius announced, his voice cool and unyielding. "Concentration."


    Damian wanted to groan, maybe even throw in a snarky comment, but he knew better. Cassius didn''t do mercy. Complaining would just earn him a look of disappointment, maybe a quick, "Are you sure you''re up for this?" that would make him feel about two inches tall. So, with a resigned sigh, he steadied himself, bracing for the oncoming storm.


    Cassius didn''t launch all the spears at once. He wasn''t making this easy, but he also wasn''t just trying to crush him outright. No, he was testing Damian''s ability to focus and endure, throwing the spears in waves, one after another. Damian had to stay sharp, to think on his feet, dodging and moving as the relentless onslaught continued.


    The spears came at him in a deadly, rhythmic barrage, each wave forcing him to sidestep, duck, or leap out of the way, all while maintaining his balance and focus. Even with [Spectral Surge] active, the attack was insane. Cassius was relentless, testing his limits, his endurance, his focus, and his speed. And Damian had to give it everything he had just to keep up.


    It wasn''t just about dodging. He had to dodge in the right direction, or he''d risk running headfirst into another spear. His movements had to be precise, quick, and perfectly timed. The ground was a minefield of smoldering craters and scattered debris from previous impacts, and the spears kept coming, forcing him to keep moving, to stay light on his feet and sharp in his focus.


    Damian didn''t know how long he''d been dodging. The minutes felt like hours, the pressure grinding away at his stamina. His breath was coming in quick, shallow bursts, his muscles burning with fatigue, and his heartbeat pounded in his ears. But he kept going, driven by sheer willpower. ''Just a little longer,'' he told himself, his mind laser-focused on survival.


    And then a notification flashed in his vision.


    [Spectral Surge activation: 00:05]


    His heart sank. Five seconds left on his skill. Five seconds before he''d lose the boost to his speed and reflexes, and then he''d be down to his normal, human limitations. He stole a quick glance at Cassius, hoping he might be winding down, but his mentor still stood there, calm and composed, with a massive cloud of spears still hovering around him, ready to strike.


    ''No way,'' Damian thought, his mind racing. ''I won''t make it through the rest of this without [Spectral Surge].''


    He had two options. Either he waited out the cooldown, relying purely on his instincts and reflexes, or he could try to buy himself a breather, to find some cover. But cover was hard to come by in this open field, and Cassius wasn''t the type to let up just because his student needed a break.


    The timer counted down, every second feeling like an eternity.


    [00:03]


    He dodged another spear, then another, narrowly avoiding a blast of energy as it erupted behind him, sending up a shower of debris that grazed his arms. He was running on fumes, each movement getting slower, each dodge more labored.


    [00:02]


    The exhaustion was hitting hard now. His vision blurred, his muscles screamed, but he grit his teeth, his mind zeroed in on the spears, dodging with a desperation born from pure survival.


    [00:01]


    Another spear shot past him, missing him by inches, and he stumbled, nearly losing his footing as he threw himself out of the way. But then, just as his skill faded, another notification appeared.


    [Spectral Surge activation: 00:00]

 Chapter 72: Dodge and Counter

    Warlock Ch 72. Dodge and Counter


    The familiar rush of energy from [Spectral Surge] faded, leaving Damian feeling exposed and alarmingly mortal. His movements and speed returned to normal, every dodge and sidestep suddenly becoming twice as difficult without the boost. He flicked his gaze toward Cassius, a silent plea for him to ease up, to give him a second to catch his breath. But Cassius''s expression held steady, that infuriatingly calm, unyielding look that seemed to say, ''You''re on your own.''


    "Shit," Damian muttered under his breath. Without [Spectral Surge], this was a whole different fight.


    Spears continued to rain down, each one faster than the last. Damian scrambled to dodge, his body moving on sheer instinct as he twisted, ducked, and threw himself out of the path of each oncoming strike. But without the added speed, every movement felt like it was just a second too slow. Twice, he barely managed to avoid getting skewered, the spears whistling past him close enough to feel the cold burn of dark energy against his skin.


    His breaths came fast and shallow, his muscles protesting with every leap and sidestep. And then he saw them¡ªthree spears hurtling toward him in unison, forming a wall of dark energy that he knew he couldn''t escape. His gut twisted as he realized he had no way out.


    Without thinking, he summoned his [Hellfire Spear], the weapon materializing in his hand in a burst of dark flame. He could feel its power surging through him, its heat prickling his skin, but he knew even as he held it that he''d only be able to block one of the incoming spears. The others would break through, and he''d be done.


    Just as that realization hit, a voice echoed in his mind, light and casual, almost like someone sharing a friendly tip. It was his own voice, but it was different somehow, relaxed, as if talking to a close friend.


    "Well, in case you need a weapon for close combat or to fight a combat mage, just grab it! And voila! You''ve got a nice weapon in a snap! It''s temporary, but it works. Easy, right, Cas?"


    The words stirred something deep within him. His heart pounded as he gripped the [Hellfire Spear] tighter, feeling the energy pulsing within it, waiting to be shaped. Then, almost on instinct, he pulled it close, flipping the spear in his grip to wield it as a close-combat weapon.


    It felt natural, like it belonged in his hand. Without hesitation, Damian swung the spear in a wide arc, flames trailing behind it like a comet''s tail. The dark energy collided with Cassius''s incoming spears, each one dissolving into nothing against the hellfire''s intense heat. One by one, the projectiles vanished, the inferno eating through them like paper in a blaze.


    He''d done it. His heart thundered as he realized the Hellfire Spear could be wielded as a weapon, not just a projectile. He hadn''t just dodged¡ªhe''d countered!


    Breathless, Damian planted the spear into the ground, using it to steady himself as his legs threatened to buckle. His chest heaved, his vision blurring at the edges as he dropped to one knee, desperately trying to catch his breath. The training had pushed him to his absolute limits, and he wasn''t sure how much more he had left to give.


    But he couldn''t help it¡ªa small, triumphant smile crept onto his face. He''d managed to keep up, to fight on, even without his skills at full power. Maybe he wasn''t just surviving; maybe he was actually learning.


    Slowly, Damian looked up, expecting to see Cassius preparing another wave, ready to push him even harder. But what he saw was far from the cold, stern gaze he''d come to expect from his mentor.


    Cassius''s eyes were wide, his expression uncharacteristically shocked. There was something there, something that Damian had never seen in him before¡ªwas it a surprise? A flicker of disbelief? And, just barely, a hint of sadness that seemed to cloud his gaze.


    Damian''s smirk faded as he took in Cassius''s expression. For a brief moment, they just stared at each other. It was as if Cassius had seen something in Damian that he hadn''t anticipated, something that stirred a reaction he couldn''t entirely suppress.


    But then, as quickly as it had appeared, the look was gone. Cassius''s face smoothed back into its usual mask of calm, his posture straightening as if nothing had happened.


    Damian swallowed, his mind racing. What had he seen? Why had Cassius looked at him like that? The questions bubbled up inside him, but he held his tongue, knowing that pressing for answers now would only lead to more of Cassius''s frustrating evasions.


    After a moment, Cassius took a deep breath, his gaze steady but softer than before. "Well done," he said quietly, almost as if the words were difficult for him to say. "You''ve... made more progress than I expected."


    It was the closest thing to praise Damian had ever received from Cassius, and a swell of pride bubbled up in his chest, tempered only by the mentor''s strange reaction. Something about this training, about him, had caught Cassius off guard, and Damian could feel he was standing on the edge of something big, something that was just starting to make sense.


    Panting heavily, Damian tried to push through his exhaustion, to finally voice the questions clawing at him. "Your... hah¡ªreaction," he managed between breaths, feeling the words come out uneven and strained. "Voice... inside my head..."


    But before he could get the words out properly, Cassius dismissed the remaining spears with a casual flick of his wrist. Without looking back, he started to walk away. "We''ll take a break," he announced, his tone as flat as ever, but the word ''break'' echoed in Damian''s mind like a gift from the heavens.


    In that instant, every question, every frustration faded. The word ''break'' was all he needed to hear. Damian''s body slumped with relief, and he straightened himself, loosening his grip on the [Hellfire Spear] as he prepared to follow Cassius. The moment he released it, the spear disappeared in a puff of dark smoke. But when he tried to move, his legs¡ªexhausted beyond their limit¡ªbetrayed him. They felt like jelly, completely drained from the intense training.

 Chapter 73: Behemoth Steak Slabs?

    Warlock Ch 73. Behemoth Steak Slabs?


    Damian''s knees buckled, and he began to fall, his body already resigning to a face-plant on the floor But just as his balance gave out, Cassius snapped his fingers. Two shadowy figures materialized beside him in an instant, catching him mid-fall. Damian blinked, stunned by the shadows'' presence. They were dense but soft, almost like they were made of something between smoke and cushion. It was surreal.


    The shadows shifted beneath him, and with a swift, graceful motion, they threw him gently up and transformed into a makeshift beanbag, letting him land with a soft poof. "Whoa!" Damian gasped, wide-eyed as he sank into the comfort. It was softer than anything he''d felt in a long time, like the world''s comfiest chair mixed with a cloud.


    Without a word, the shadows lifted him again, now gliding along behind Cassius, carrying him like a levitating bean bag with a shadow hoverboard. Damian let himself lean back, exhaustion making him appreciate every bit of comfort he could get.


    "Thanks," he mumbled to Cassius, his voice laced with gratitude as he relaxed into the strange, comfortable shadows.


    Cassius, as always, didn''t answer. He kept walking at a steady pace, his expression perfectly controlled. But Damian had seen it¡ªa flicker, barely a hint, like a crack in the armor. For a split second, Cassius''s composed mask had faltered, something unspoken surfacing in his eyes. It was the only confirmation Damian needed.


    He took a deep breath, repeating the strange words he''d heard echo in his mind.


    "Well, in case you need a weapon for close combat or to fight a combat mage, just grab it! And voila! You''ve got a nice weapon in a snap! It''s temporary, but it works. Easy, right, Cas?"


    For a moment, Damian thought he''d finally struck a nerve. He watched Cassius closely, waiting for some kind of response, hoping to pry an answer out of his mentor. But Cassius didn''t stop, didn''t turn around. He just kept moving toward the kitchen with that smooth, purposeful stride, his face unreadable once again.


    But Damian didn''t miss the way his shoulders tensed ever so slightly.


    "I heard it inside my head," Damian continued, his voice a mix of curiosity and something heavier, something closer to accusation. "And whoever it was... he called you by name. Can you tell me something about it? About this voice?"


    Cassius finally glanced over his shoulder, but his expression was as impassive as ever. "I told you," he said evenly, "it''s something you need to figure out yourself. I can''t interfere with that."


    Damian''s shoulders slumped. He''d expected Cassius to brush him off, sure, but a small part of him had hoped¡ªjust a sliver¡ªthat maybe this time he''d get more. Some hint, a breadcrumb, something that could help him piece things together. But as always, Cassius gave nothing away, guarding his secrets as tightly as ever.


    Cassius led them inside, his expression unreadable as he made his way through the corridor and into a warmly lit dining area adjacent to the kitchen. The room was homey, filled with the faint aroma of herbs and something savory.


    "I''ll make something nutritious for you," Cassius said, his tone so matter-of-fact that it took Damian a moment to register what he''d just said.


    Damian blinked, watching in surprise as a kitchen apron floated from a nearby hook and settled around Cassius, tying itself securely around his waist. He even gave it a little pat as if to check it was snug. Cassius was actually going to cook for him?


    Before Damian could question it, Cassius opened his palm, and a vial with a rich, amber liquid appeared out of thin air. He tossed it over to Damian with a quick flick of his wrist. "Drink this," Cassius said, his tone as commanding as ever.


    Damian caught the potion, studying it as he tried to steady his breath. This wasn''t a Mana Potion¡ªthat much was obvious. The color was different, a warm amber instead of the usual cool blue. Based on what he''d read in his books, this was likely a Stamina Potion. Its color was rich and warm, giving off a faint, honeyed aroma that smelled almost like sunlight in a bottle.


    With a small nod to himself, Damian popped the cap and downed the potion in a single gulp. The effect was instant. A surge of energy spread through him, warm and steady, filling his veins with a sense of rejuvenation that went beyond just physical stamina. It was as if every muscle, every sore joint, had been gently soothed, the exhaustion fading into a pleasant hum.


    [Your Stamina has been fully recovered!]


    "Whoa..." Damian muttered, his voice barely above a whisper. He stretched his arms and felt the tension melt away, his body relaxing completely.


    Cassius turned, his expression neutral as he started preparing ingredients, pulling out vegetables, herbs, and a slab of meat that had a strange, purplish tint. With precise, almost ritualistic movements, he chopped and seasoned, adding pinches of herbs and sprinkling spices like someone who''d done this a thousand times. Despite his usual cold and stony demeanor, Cassius moved with a calm confidence in the kitchen that Damian hadn''t expected.


    Damian leaned back in his shadowy, bean bag-like seat, his gaze locked on Cassius as he worked. ''So he''s a master at cooking too?'' he thought, a bit impressed. Watching him, Damian''s mind began to wander, and curiosity pricked at him. Cassius was more than capable of summoning one of his shadowy servants to handle the cooking, and yet he''d chosen to make this meal himself. Why go through the trouble?


    Then it hit him.


    "Are you making... Behemoth Steak Slabs?" Damian asked, his voice hopeful and a little amazed. He realized this from the ingredients.


    Cassius looked over his shoulder with a small, almost imperceptible smirk. "Yes."


    A surge of excitement mixed with surprise ran through Damian. Behemoth Steak Slabs were practically legendary among the warrior and mage circles. Thick, tenderized slices of behemoth meat marinated in enchanted herbs, these steaks were a dense source of protein, brimming with essential nutrients for rebuilding muscle after intense training sessions. It was a meal built to restore strength after a brutal day, the perfect dish for someone who''d just endured what Damian had. But still...

 Chapter 74: Different Value

    Warlock Ch 74. Different Value


    "Isn''t it, you know... expensive?" Damian asked, a little hesitant as he approached the kitchen counter. The behemoth meat was no casual cut; in the Nullis world, it was on par with A5 wagyu beef, a rare delicacy with a price tag to match. Every slice was coveted, and prized for its restorative effects on the body.


    Cassius glanced at him with an unamused look. "Do you think I''m some kind of a poor mage or something?"


    Damian bit his lip, trying not to laugh, but his silence gave him away. Yes, he did think Cassius might be strapped for cash, at least by mage standards. "Well, you live alone," he pointed out, "and, uh... I''ve seen a lot of buildings bigger than this one."


    Cassius raised an eyebrow, setting his knife down as he gave Damian a look that bordered on insulted. "Then why didn''t you mention the fact I don''t have sports cars in my garage? Or maybe I lack helicopters and yachts?"


    Damian clamped his mouth shut. In the Nullis world, those things would''ve been seen as the ultimate indicators of wealth and status. But here? Here, they''d be utterly pointless.


    ''This place runs on magic, not money,'' he realized. In a world dominated by mages, warlocks, and all manner of supernatural beings, the typical trappings of wealth were pretty useless. Power didn''t come from fancy cars or luxury houses. No, here it was all about magical might, about what one could summon, craft, or command.


    A mage didn''t need a sports car when he could teleport anywhere he wanted with a flick of his wrist or maybe fly with his wind spell. A warlock didn''t need a yacht when he could summon a leviathan to carry him across oceans. And witches? They didn''t need designer jewels¡ªthey could make those things themselves using their witchcraft, crafting items of value and power that far outstripped any mundane treasure.


    The only thing anyone needed in this world, the true currency, was power.


    Damian cleared his throat, trying to think of how to respond. "Fair point," he said, rubbing the back of his neck. "Guess I hadn''t thought about it like that."


    Cassius resumed his cooking, clearly unimpressed by Damian''s earlier assumptions. "Most newcomers don''t," he replied, flipping the behemoth meat in the pan with ease. The meat sizzled, its aroma filling the room with a mouthwatering scent. "They come here, from the Nullis world or elsewhere, thinking it''s the same. That they can bring the same values, the same markers of success. It doesn''t take long for them to realize... only power matters here."


    Damian watched the behemoth steak as it sizzled and browned to perfection in the pan, filling the room with a rich, savory aroma that made his stomach rumble. He shifted a little, trying to distract himself from the gnawing hunger and the fatigue lingering from training. The day''s lessons had been brutal, and his body felt like it was running on fumes. Maybe a little conversation could keep his mind off it.


    "So..." he started, trying to sound casual. "Does that mean there are other people who enter this world? You know, like adults?"


    Cassius didn''t look up from his cooking, but his mouth twisted in a slight smirk. "Yes, there are others. Not many, thankfully. Most of them... they''re incredibly annoying."


    Damian raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Annoying? How?"


    Cassius let out a low sigh, turning the steak in the pan with a precise flick of his wrist. "Adults from the Nullis world, people who come here late in life... they''ve already formed a certain understanding of the world. Rules, values, instincts¡ªall of it honed over years in their world. It''s hard for them to unlearn that. They come in acting like they can use those old ideas here, expecting them to work just as they did in Nullis."


    "Right," Damian nodded, understanding the challenge. "So they think they can just... fit in?"


    "They think they can get by on what they already know," Cassius replied, his tone sharp. "Most of them assume this place follows the same rules. That their knowledge, their money, their status are things that will help them here. But this world? It doesn''t care about those things."


    Damian took a moment to digest that. In Nullis, everything seemed to hinge on wealth, power, and status. A person''s value was often measured by the money they held, the influence they wielded, or the position they occupied. Yet here, those things didn''t hold the same weight. It was... refreshing. And strange.


    Cassius continued, his tone cold and unforgiving. "Some of them come in here, waving their money around, trying to buy their way into power or influence. They think that a few coins will solve all their problems, that their resources from Nullis have any sway here. And when they realize that isn''t the case, they get angry. They feel cheated. It''s amusing, really."


    Damian could almost picture it: newcomers, arrogant and entitled, trying to throw their wealth or connections around, only to find that no one cared. The idea of money, authority, even social clout¡ªit all crumbled in the face of true magic. Here, the only thing that mattered was strength. Real strength, the kind that came from skill and hard work, not a currency balance.


    "What happens when they try to buy their way in?" Damian asked, a slight smirk playing on his lips.


    Cassius finally glanced over at him, a faint gleam of amusement in his eyes. "They learn quickly, usually after a harsh rejection or two. Magic isn''t sold to the highest bidder, and power isn''t just given. A mentor will only take an apprentice if he truly wants to. The academy lets students in if they can prove themselves. And sellers... they only sell their wares if they believe the buyer can handle the power of the goods they''re purchasing."


    Damian leaned back, mulling it all over. It was a world where someone earned his place, where skill and dedication were the only things that got someone ahead. In Nullis, he''d seen people climb to the top simply because they had the resources. They didn''t need the actual skills or knowledge to hold that power; they just needed the right connections or money. But here? Here, there were no shortcuts.

 Chapter 75: He Just Called Me Poor in 101 Languages

    Warlock Ch 75. He Just Called Me Poor in 101 Languages


    "So, basically, they just have to deal with it?" Damian asked, half-joking.


    Cassius let out a low chuckle. "Precisely. The few who manage to adapt usually drop their sense of entitlement fairly quickly. The others... they either leave, give up, or wind up failing. Miserably."


    Damian shook his head, impressed by the brutal honesty of it all. This was a place that didn''t bow to money or influence; it respected strength, skill, and integrity. In a way, it was almost liberating. Here, he couldn''t rely on social advantages or shortcuts¡ªhe''d have to earn his power, prove himself through sheer ability. The thought was daunting, but also thrilling. This world offered a chance to be something more, something real.


    "But..." Cassius''s voice broke the silence, this time deeper, carrying an edge that hadn''t been there before. Damian glanced up, seeing Cassius''s expression shift into something sharper, his gaze fixed on him with a kind of severity that made Damian''s stomach tighten.


    "Leaving this place doesn''t mean they will forget that this world exists," Cassius continued, his tone laced with a serious warning. "You know about the... other warlocks, don''t you? The ones who steal Mana Cores to strengthen themselves?"


    Damian nodded, his throat suddenly dry.


    Cassius''s gaze didn''t waver as he continued, "They usually target mages like the ones I told you about. Whether their Mana Cores are strong or not, it doesn''t matter. The weak are prey to the strong here. Once they return to the Nullis world, where the eyes of authority are fewer and weaker, if they''re lucky, they''ll only lose their Mana Core."


    Damian felt a chill spread down his spine as he absorbed Cassius''s words. "And if they''re not lucky...?"


    "If they''re not lucky," Cassius said, his voice hard, "they''ll lose more than that. Their lives... or maybe the lives of those around them."


    The words were heavy with a cold, brutal truth that made Damian''s stomach twist. He swallowed hard, forcing himself to meet Cassius''s unblinking gaze. The idea that he could return to the Nullis world, only to endanger himself and others, was something he hadn''t even considered. Here, magic was a means of survival, but there? If he left, he''d be a target in a world with no real way to protect himself.


    "So... once someone''s awakened their Mana Core, going back isn''t really an option, is it?" Damian asked, his voice barely above a whisper.


    "Not if they want to stay alive," Cassius replied, his tone unyielding. "For those who cross back into the Nullis world, they either become hunted or become hunters themselves. It''s a dead end. And there''s no place there for people who wield true power."


    Damian was silent. The Nullis world, the place he''d grown up in, suddenly felt distant. Alien. He hadn''t realized it before, but there really was no way back. He''d thought of visiting, maybe dropping in on his friends now and then, just to stay connected to his old life. But it seemed he''d have to bury that idea, at least until he was stronger. This wasn''t a choice he could unmake. Stepping into this world as a mage meant shutting the door on Nullis for good.


    Cassius continued cooking, his attention fixed on the pan in front of him. The smell of the behemoth steak filled the room, rich and enticing. He didn''t look up as he spoke, "Let me guess..." he said, his tone almost amused. "You''re thinking about visiting your friends. Or whoever it is you left behind."


    Damian cleared his throat, not expecting Cassius to pick up on that so easily. "Kinda," he admitted. "But... I''m not planning on going back, not for good. Don''t worry. I know what''s out there. I''ve seen the kind of power people have here. I watched Malthus, uh... flatten an entire building with one hit. So yeah, I get it."


    Cassius nodded approvingly. "Good," he said, his tone carrying a finality that didn''t invite argument. "Now sit down. Your food''s almost ready."


    Damian felt his shoulders relax. He pulled out a chair and sank into it, grateful for the break. He''d barely settled in before a plate floated gracefully in front of him, guided by Cassius''s telekinesis. The behemoth steak was perfectly seared, resting atop a bed of lightly charred vegetables, its juices pooling in a small, mouthwatering puddle beneath it. Damian''s stomach growled once again just looking at it.


    Meanwhile, Cassius was busy making himself a cup of tea. Not just any tea, Damian could tell, but some special brew. The pot and cup hovered around Cassius, following him as he moved to the table. When he finally sat down, they landed gently in front of him, settling as if by routine.


    Cassius noticed Damian''s hesitation and frowned, his voice taking on a sharp edge. "What are you waiting for? Eat."


    Damian looked up. "Where''s... your steak?"


    Cassius raised an eyebrow, his expression one of mild annoyance. With a quick snap of his fingers, the teapot poured hot tea into his cup, the warm steam rising between them. "It wasn''t me who scrambled around the training room today," Cassius said, not hiding the amusement in his voice. "I don''t need it."


    Damian shifted uncomfortably. He couldn''t help but feel a little bad about indulging in a meal this grand by himself. Behemoth meat wasn''t cheap; he knew that. Growing up in an orphanage had taught him to share, to be mindful of food and resources, and here he was, about to devour a prized cut of meat while Cassius went without.


    "You know," Damian began, trying to find the right words, "this is... a big piece of meat. What if we split it in half? I mean, it''s kind of expensive, so maybe¡ª"


    Before he could finish, Cassius''s gaze sharpened, and he snapped his fingers with a suddenness that made Damian flinch. In response, the fridge against the wall swung open, revealing a freezer filled to the brim with thick cuts of behemoth meat, each one neatly packed and ready to cook. There had to be a fortune''s worth of steaks in there, more than Damian could have even imagined.


    Cassius''s eyes bore into him with a stern look. "Eat."


    ''Yup, he just called me poor in 101 languages,'' Damian cringed internally.

 Chapter 76: That’s All in The Past

    Warlock Ch 76. That''s All in The Past


    Swallowing his pride, Damian picked up his utensils and cut into the steak, feeling the knife glide through the tender meat like it was butter. The first bite was heavenly¡ªa rich burst of flavor that seemed to restore him from the inside out, warming him down to his core. The meat was juicy, perfectly seasoned, and just salty enough to make him crave more. A hint of herbs lingered in the background, earthy and fragrant, adding layers of complexity to every mouthful. He didn''t want to rush it, savoring each taste like it was the last meal he''d ever have.


    He glanced at Cassius. "This... This is incredible," Damian said, the words tumbling out with genuine awe. "Honestly, I didn''t expect you to be so talented at cooking." He took another bite, practically melting into his chair. "Why do you live alone? I mean, being able to cook like this¡ªit''s gotta be a plus for a man, right? At least, that''s how it is in the Nullis world."


    Damian looked at Cassius, curiosity written all over his face.


    Cassius, though, just scoffed, his expression unimpressed. He took another slow sip of his tea, giving Damian a look that was as condescending as it was amused. "You can actually win a woman''s affection just by being able to cook in the Nullis world?" he asked, his tone dripping with skepticism.


    Damian chuckled, nodding. "Yes! I mean, it''s a big plus! Besides, it''s not just the cooking¡ªyou''ve got so many other things that would make you a catch."


    Cassius raised an eyebrow, his expression unreadable but his eyes still fixed on Damian, waiting to see where he was going with this.


    Undeterred, Damian continued, "I mean, you''ve got everything women dream of, right? Money, looks... you''re pretty handsome for your age, and you''re also a strong warlock. You''ve got your own house and everything. Plus, the shadow servants? Yeah, those definitely count."


    Cassius watched him, his expression flat and impassive, his eyes flicking to his tea as he took another sip, clearly unfazed by Damian''s rambling praise.


    But Damian couldn''t help himself. He continued, unable to keep his thoughts to himself now that he''d started. "Honestly, where I come from, you''d be seen as a catch. Men like you don''t just live alone unless they want to."


    Cassius set his cup down with a soft clink, his gaze still fixed on Damian but with a faint trace of... amusement? Or maybe it was pity¡ªit was hard to tell. He seemed to be studying Damian, almost as if weighing the usefulness of explaining something he had no intention of ever sharing. Finally, with a slight smirk, he spoke.


    "You just answered your own question," Cassius said, his voice dry.


    Damian''s brows furrowed. "Wait, you choose to be alone?"


    Cassius scoffed, giving a dismissive wave. "Yes. Got a problem with it?"


    "No," Damian replied quickly, shaking his head. "I just... I don''t get why you''d want to do that."


    Cassius''s gaze drifted down to his cup of tea, but Damian could tell he wasn''t really seeing it. His mind was somewhere else, far away, in a place Damian had no access to. After a pause, Cassius spoke again, his tone quieter, the faintest edge of bitterness creeping in.


    "Because I''ve seen what betrayal looks like," he said slowly. "I watched someone I respected, someone I called a friend, get turned on by those he trusted. People he''d fought to protect, people he''d bled for... and they stabbed him in the back without a second thought."


    The bitterness in Cassius''s voice hit Damian hard. He hadn''t expected this. Cassius was always so composed, so untouchable. But here, in this rare moment, he was revealing something raw, something that had clearly left scars.


    Damian stayed silent, his gaze fixed on his plate. He didn''t know what to say, but he could feel the pain and distrust underlying everything Cassius had said. It was like he could see the echo of that betrayal in Cassius''s eyes, an old wound that had never fully healed.


    "Sorry to hear that," Damian said quietly, his voice barely above a whisper. He meant it, too. Now he understood why Cassius kept his distance, why he''d chosen to live alone, avoiding attachments. It wasn''t just a preference¡ªit was a defense.


    Cassius glanced up, his expression unreadable, but there was a flicker of something¡ªmaybe a touch of appreciation. "Don''t be," he replied, brushing it off. "That''s all in the past."


    Damian nodded, taking another bite, though the rich flavors of the steak felt somewhat muted now in the somber atmosphere. He glanced at Cassius, a question forming in his mind, something he wasn''t sure he should ask, but the curiosity was too strong to ignore.


    "What... What about that friend?" he asked carefully. "What happened to him?"


    Cassius''s gaze hardened slightly, his eyes distant again, as though he were looking past Damian and into some painful memory. "Gone," he said simply, his voice steady but cold. "I assume he''s dead. I can''t feel his magic power anymore."


    There was a finality in Cassius''s tone. Damian could tell that Cassius had built these walls around himself for good reason, to keep others at a distance, to protect himself from ever feeling that kind of loss again. But he couldn''t help but think that this solitude had cost Cassius more than just avoiding the pain of betrayal¡ªit had robbed him of any chance at real connection.


    Damian pressed his lips together, chewing quietly, unsure how to respond. A part of him wanted to dig deeper, to understand Cassius''s past fully. It might be connected to him. But he was afraid of hitting a nerve, of pushing too far and getting that cold, dismissive side of Cassius that he''d come to expect.


    The silence hung thick, and Damian shifted in his seat, racking his brain for something¡ªanything¡ªthat might break the tension without prying too much.


    An idea struck him. Maybe he could turn the conversation back to safer ground.

 Chapter 77: Power Comes to Those Willing to Work For It

    Warlock Ch 77. Power Comes to Those Willing to Work For It


    "So, uh... the training," Damian said, carefully casual as he cut into another piece of steak. "Are we going to continue it again today?"


    Cassius''s gaze glanced over at the clock on the wall. The time glowed back at them. 4:51 PM. "No," he said, his voice low but firm. "It''s already evening. You should head home, get some rest. We''ll continue the training tomorrow."


    Damian felt a rush of relief but hid it behind a neutral nod. Honestly, his body was barely hanging on. Even with the restorative meal, his muscles were sore, and his mind felt like it had been stretched to its limit. But yeah, he said that to cheer Cassius up.


    "Alright," Damian said, trying to keep his tone light as he took one last bite of the steak, savoring the lingering flavors. "Tomorrow, then."


    Cassius gave a single nod, his eyes briefly softening before returning to their usual sharp focus. Damian took that as his cue and leaned back, setting down his fork as he finished the last bite of the steak. His stomach felt warm, the heavy, restorative meat settling in comfortably, its lingering warmth rejuvenating him from the inside out. He hadn''t felt this recharged in what felt like ages, and he couldn''t deny the satisfaction that came from such a simple pleasure.


    A soft rustle caught his attention, and Damian glanced to his side, where one of Cassius''s shadows materialized, reaching for his empty plate. The shadow took it with silent efficiency, gliding over to the sink, while another shadow appeared beside him, pouring him a glass of water with the same eerie calm. Damian took the water, nodding in appreciation.


    "Thanks," he muttered to the shadow, feeling a bit strange talking to what was essentially a magical servant, but grateful nonetheless.


    Cassius stood, his movements fluid and deliberate as he straightened his robe. "Follow me," he said, his voice unhurried but carrying an undeniable authority. "There are some books I want you to finish tonight."


    Damian blinked, caught off guard. "Tonight?"


    "Yes," Cassius replied simply, already heading down a shadowy corridor without waiting for Damian''s reaction.


    Damian let out a low sigh, setting his water glass down before quickly following. Despite the unexpected assignment, he felt a flicker of curiosity. Cassius''s world was a mystery wrapped in layers of shadow and knowledge, and every time he peeled back a piece of it, he felt that strange allure pulling him in deeper.


    They entered a large, dimly lit room that left Damian momentarily speechless. It was a library¡ªthough calling it that felt like an understatement. The room was vast, with towering bookshelves stretching up toward a high ceiling, each shelf packed with old, leather-bound volumes and strange artifacts, some of which hummed softly with their own energy. In between the rows, low-level shadow creatures floated silently, dusting shelves and rearranging books.


    He caught a glimpse of a status hovering over one of the creatures.


    Servant Shadow <Level 2>


    Damian couldn''t help but stare. These creatures, despite their apparent simplicity, moved with an unsettling intelligence, their dark forms flickering as they cleaned and organized.


    Cassius stopped in the center of the room and snapped his fingers. At least ten books, each one as thick as a dictionary, floated off the shelves, gliding through the air in a neat formation. Damian instinctively reached out, catching each one as they piled up in his arms. The weight hit him like a ton of bricks.


    Cassius watched him, his expression neutral, as Damian staggered under the sudden load. The books were heavy, far heavier than he''d expected, and he struggled to keep his balance as he glanced down at the titles. Each one was dense, crammed with spells, techniques, history, and other knowledge he couldn''t even begin to guess at.


    "You want me to read all of this in one night?" he blurted out, the words slipping out before he could stop himself.


    Cassius turned to him, arching an eyebrow in that infuriatingly calm way of his, his stare saying, ''Yes. Is there a problem?''


    Damian gulped, quickly realizing that any argument would be a waste of breath. "Uh... I mean, I''ll need a bag for these," he said, trying to mask his frustration with a sheepish smile. "There''s no way I can walk if all these books are blocking my view."


    Cassius''s eyes softened, just a fraction, and with a nod, he acknowledged the request. "Right. I''ll give you a bag," he replied, waving a hand dismissively.


    With another snap of his fingers, a shadow creature appeared, carrying a dark leather satchel that looked both sturdy and enchanted. The shadow placed the bag at Damian''s feet, and Damian quickly began loading the heavy books into it, grateful for the added support. As he lifted it, he could feel a faint hum of energy, as though the bag itself was enchanted to reduce the weight of its contents. It wasn''t exactly light, but it was manageable.


    Cassius watched him with that same unreadable expression, his gaze steady as Damian adjusted the strap over his shoulder. "You''re expected to finish these tonight," Cassius said, his voice calm but leaving no room for argument. "These volumes cover the basics of Mana theory, spellcrafting, and foundational combat techniques and a special book. You''ll need them if you want to progress."


    Damian looked down at the bag, feeling a pang of apprehension. "All of it?"


    "All of it," Cassius replied, his tone unyielding. "If you''re serious about mastering your power, you''ll need a strong understanding of these fundamentals. Knowledge is as much a part of a mage''s strength as raw ability."


    Damian let out a long breath, adjusting the strap again as he squared his shoulders. "Alright," he muttered, more to himself than to Cassius. He''d asked for this, hadn''t he? Pushed for it, even. If Cassius thought he was ready for this, then he''d rise to the challenge, no matter how daunting it seemed.


    Cassius''s gaze softened, just slightly, but Damian could see the flicker of expectation there, the unspoken challenge. "Remember," Cassius said quietly, almost as if speaking to himself, "power comes to those willing to work for it. There are no shortcuts here."

 Chapter 78: No-nonsense Attitude

    Warlock Ch 78. No-nonsense Attitude


    Damian met his gaze and nodded, gripping the bag tightly. "Got it," he said.


    Cassius gave a curt nod, and for a moment, Damian thought he might say something more. But Cassius''s expression remained stony, unreadable.


    Damian hesitated, waiting in case Cassius had another instruction. Better to stand there like a cautious student than to turn his back too soon¡ªCassius had the energy of a grumpy, old-school teacher, and Damian wasn''t about to risk annoying him further. But the stare Cassius leveled at him said it all.


    "What are you waiting for?" Cassius said, his tone half-irritated. "Go home now. You know where the exit is, right?"


    "I know where the exit is," Damian replied, his voice steady. "Thanks for teaching me today." He turned without waiting for an answer, letting out a long exhale as he walked toward the door. His legs were aching, his shoulders tight, and his mind swimming with questions.


    The truth was, he didn''t know what to make of Cassius. One second, he was barking orders, cold and condescending, and the next... Damian had caught glimpses of something different, a flicker of protectiveness that didn''t match the hardened exterior Cassius wore like armor. But every time Damian thought he was getting somewhere, Cassius snapped back into his usual self, dismissing him with that piercing stare.


    He stepped into the main hallway and couldn''t help but think back to his old boss in the Nullis world. ''I miss my ex-boss,'' he thought ruefully.


    At least back then, he had someone who wouldn''t shout at him every five minutes, or look like they were barely tolerating his presence. His ex-boss had been patient, steady¡ªa contrast to Cassius''s cold, no-nonsense attitude. The training with Cassius felt like an unrelenting series of challenges, each one designed to push him harder, faster, beyond anything he''d thought possible. And as much as he resented the constant tension, he had to admit that he was learning faster than ever.


    A soft rustle pulled him from his thoughts as a shadow servant appeared beside him, moving smoothly to open the front door. Damian paused, nodding in thanks. "Appreciate it," he murmured, surprised at how natural it felt to thank a shadow creature. The figure dipped its head slightly, and Damian stepped outside, greeted by the crisp, cool evening air.


    The sky was a hazy blue streaked with orange and pink, the last rays of sunlight stretching across the horizon. He let out a long breath. The walk home would give him time to think, to process everything he''d learned¡ªnot just about magic, but about Cassius as well.


    He walked. His mind wandered back to the training session. ''Weird,'' he thought. ''No matter how rough the training gets, I never end up hurt.'' The realization hit him suddenly. The drills had been grueling, pushing him to the edge, with dodges and attacks that could''ve easily taken him out if he slipped up. And yet, here he was, a little bruised and sore but intact.


    Sure, there were minor injuries¡ªa few scratches, the occasional bruise from tripping or falling. But nothing life-threatening. It was strange, really, given how intense the training had been. He was almost certain that if anyone else had trained him this hard, he''d be sporting a broken bone or two by now.


    ''Maybe I''m jumping to conclusions,'' he thought, brushing it off. After all, it was only his second day, and he knew better than to assume he''d gotten a full understanding of Cassius. But still... there were little signs, things he''d noticed here and there that made him wonder if Cassius''s harshness was just a cover. Like the way Cassius''s hand would twitch when Damian was close to failing a dodge, the flicker of readiness in his eyes as if he were prepared to cast a spell to intervene. It was subtle, barely noticeable, but it had been there.


    He shook his head, smiling to himself. ''Can''t blame him for being grumpy, I guess. He''s been alone for who knows how long. That would make anyone difficult to deal with.''


    The thought lingered, and Damian found himself feeling something close to sympathy. Cassius wasn''t obligated to take him on as an apprentice. If anything, accepting Damian felt like more of a burden than a benefit to him. Cassius had all the power, knowledge, and experience he could ever need¡ªservants at his disposal, access to a vast library, not to mention the skill to summon shadows who could do anything a living servant could. What did Cassius need him for?


    The answer, it seemed, was nothing at all.


    He was so lost in thought that he didn''t notice the figure in front of him until it was too late. He bumped into her with a soft thud, and they both stepped back in surprise.


    "Sorry," he said quickly, feeling a bit flustered. He hadn''t even seen her coming.


    The girl, however, waved it off with a polite smile. "It''s okay. I wasn''t paying attention to where I was going either," she replied, her voice calm and friendly.


    Something about that voice made him pause. It wasn''t Evelyn''s voice, nor did it belong to that vampire woman he''d met recently, but it still carried a haunting familiarity. His heartbeat quickened. He looked up, studying her face.


    The girl looked about his age, with a warm and open expression, her eyes bright and inquisitive. She had silver hair, half-tied back in a casual but elegant style that framed her face. But it wasn''t just her friendly smile or the simple shirt, outer jacket, skirt, and leggings she wore that made him freeze. It was the color of her hair¡ªthe exact same silver as the woman he''d seen in his dream.


    ''You only bring calamity.''


    The woman''s warning from his dream echoed in his head. And here, standing right in front of him, was a girl with a voice and hair color eerily similar to the figure that had haunted his sleep. Every instinct he had screamed at him to back away, to put distance between himself and this girl before something happened.

 Chapter 79: Is It Just My Imagination?

    Warlock Ch 79. Is It Just My Imagination?


    The girl noticed his hesitation, her head tilting to the side as she studied him with a hint of concern. "Are you okay?" she asked, her tone gentle but curious.


    "Um... yeah, I''m fine," he managed, his voice coming out more strained than he''d intended. He tried to act normal, but every nerve in his body was on high alert, his instincts telling him to move, to get out of there as quickly as possible.


    He took a step back, his mind racing. Logic told him that it was ridiculous to feel so uneasy just because of a dream, but something about this girl felt... off. There was a familiarity in her presence, an aura he couldn''t shake. He didn''t want to risk anything¡ªnot tonight, not when he was already exhausted and burdened with the books Cassius had given him.


    Damian forced a polite nod, hoping to end the encounter quickly. "Sorry about that. You just, uh... startled me," he said, trying to sound casual. "I should really be going."


    The girl''s eyes lingered on him for a moment, her expression unreadable, before she smiled again. "Of course. Take care," she replied, her voice carrying a hint of something¡ªwas it curiosity? Or was it understanding?


    Without waiting for more, Damian turned on his heel and headed down the path, his pace brisk. He could feel her gaze on him as he walked away, but he didn''t look back.


    He made his way down the road, the evening sky slowly darkening. He tried to shake off the encounter. ''It was just a coincidence,'' he told himself. ''A strange one, but a coincidence all the same.'' But as much as he wanted to believe that, a part of him couldn''t ignore the warning that had played out in his dreams. The resemblance, the familiarity in her voice¡ªit was all too close for comfort.


    Damian quickened his pace and mentally replayed every second of the encounter with the girl. Her face, the silver hair, the echo of her voice¡ªall of it felt like an omen. He knew it was a paranoid thought, maybe even foolish, but considering the world he''d found himself in, he decided to trust his instincts. Better safe than sorry.


    Despite the protection of his amulet, he was still a newly awakened warlock, and that meant he probably still had a target on his back. The girl could have easily followed him or, worse, left something¡ªsome charm or mark¡ªon him without his noticing. He wasn''t about to risk leading her, or anyone else for that matter, straight to where he stayed.


    He made an abrupt turn, veering away from his route and heading toward the marketplace. The market was still bustling with people finishing up their evening errands. The chatter and movement provided enough of a crowd that, if he was being followed, it would be hard for anyone to stay on his trail without being noticed. He kept to the busier side of the market, moving slowly between stalls, pretending to glance at the various wares.


    After a while, he began to relax, realizing he hadn''t seen any sign of the girl. No silver hair, no familiar voice calling out from behind. Still... she could have planted something on him, or maybe even summoned a servant to track him. But as cautious as he was, the market was the best layer of protection he could muster for now.


    Once he was confident she wasn''t following him, he finally set his sights on home, cutting through the market''s maze of stalls and making his way back toward his place. By the time he reached his door, the sky had faded into a deep navy, the first stars pricking through. He took a deep breath and pressed down on the handle, hoping it was unlocked. Fortunately, the door gave way.


    Stepping across the threshold, he immediately felt a slight resistance, like a force pressing against him from all sides. The barrier activated as he passed through, surrounding him for a split second before fading. A warmth sensation washed over him, but he also felt something else¡ªa strange, subtle sensation, like something had been plucked from him and pulled away, nullified as he crossed into the house''s protective field.


    He paused, his hand still on the doorknob, looking over his shoulder at the quiet street behind him. Had there been something attached to him after all? He couldn''t see anything, but the feeling lingered, as though something foreign and unseen had been following him and had been severed the moment he stepped inside.


    ''Is it just my imagination,'' he wondered, ''or was there really something following me?''


    If there had been something¡ªor someone¡ªtracking him, he needed to know. Whatever it was, he''d have to bring it up with Evelyn. She''d know what to make of it, or at least give him some advice on what to watch out for. Closing the door behind him, he placed the bag of books on the table, glancing around the quiet house, half-expecting to see her.


    "Evelyn?" he called out, his voice echoing slightly in the stillness. He waited, listening for any sign of movement, but the house remained quiet. He huffed. If there was ever a time he could use her expertise, it was now. He''d already experienced enough strangeness for one evening, and this lingering suspicion wasn''t something he wanted to face alone.


    Moving through the house, he checked each room, calling her name again. It was strange for her to be absent like this since she didn''t mention anything this morning.


    Finally, accepting that she wasn''t there, he let out a resigned sigh, heading back to the kitchen and grabbing a glass of water to clear his head. He took a long drink, the coolness of the water grounding him. Setting the glass down, he glanced at the bag of books Cassius had given him.


    "Guess it''s just me tonight," he muttered to himself.


    He took the bag upstairs and dropped it onto his desk with a heavy thud.

 Chapter 80: Am I Hallucinating?

    Warlock Ch 80. Am I Hallucinating?


    The bag seemed to stare back at him.


    He exhaled a long breath. "Here we go again..." he muttered.


    But first, he needed to clean up. He could smell the scent of sweat and dirt from the training, and he could feel the soreness deep in his muscles. A bath would be a good way to clear his head and maybe wash off some of the tension.


    He stepped into his room to grab a change of clothes. Then he noticed something unexpected¡ªhis laundry had been folded neatly and stacked by the bed. ''Huh,'' he thought, a bit surprised. ''Evelyn, maybe?'' Who else could it be? He hadn''t seen her all evening, but she must have been here earlier.


    A small idea popped into his mind. Maybe he''d make something for her later. He''d already eaten at Cassius''s place, but Evelyn hadn''t mentioned where she''d gone or if she''d had dinner. He could throw something together when she got home, just as a small thank-you.


    With his mind half on food, he walked to the bathroom and started up the shower. The hot water felt incredible, steam rising around him and loosening the tension from his shoulders. But soon, his thoughts drifted back to his dream from the other night. Only, this time, it wasn''t the woman''s voice haunting him¡ªit was himself? Or maybe it had been someone else entirely, seeing things through his eyes.


    "That guy," Damian muttered to himself, his brow furrowing as he tried to piece it all together, "he could use dark power. So... that means he had to be a warlock or maybe a witch." He scrubbed at his hair, thinking it over. "But he could also use elemental spells, which means he was probably a sorcerer, too. Does someone like that even exist?"


    Cassius''s book from yesterday had covered the basics of each class, so Damian knew a little about their distinct powers and limits. But what he''d seen in his dream seemed... impossible. This person had a mastery that seemed to blur the lines between warlock, witch, and sorcerer.


    He thought back to the moment in the dream when the figure had floated, hovering effortlessly mid-air without the aid of a staff or any other support. Hovering was usually the domain of wind elementals or expert sorcerers who specialized in air magic. But he was sure he''d seen him wield dark spells, too. The longer he thought about it, the less sense it made.


    "I don''t get the concept..." he muttered, frustrated, rinsing the last of the shampoo from his hair. But in the middle of his confusion, he paused, holding his hand up in front of him. Something tugged at his attention, a strange feeling stirring in his palm.


    In a flash, he saw it... water, swirling softly just above his palm, spinning in a tiny whirlpool that pulsed with an energy he could feel in his bones. The sight of it filled him with an odd mix of excitement and dread.


    He blinked, and the vision was gone. His hand was empty, fingers wet but otherwise normal.


    Damian lowered his hand slowly, his heart pounding. ''Am I hallucinating?'' he wondered, shaken by the strange moment. It had felt real¡ªtangible, even. But that was impossible, right? Maybe he was just seeing things.


    It wouldn''t be the first time; when he was younger, he''d occasionally imagine things that weren''t there, strange visions and sensations that seemed to come out of nowhere. As he''d gotten older, they had faded, almost disappearing altogether. He''d chalked it up to the trauma of losing his parents in that accident, just part of the baggage he''d carried with him since childhood.


    But now, here it was again. The thought made him uncomfortable, like some old, buried part of him was stirring awake. Deciding not to dwell on it, he hurried through the rest of his shower. The books were waiting, after all, and he had plenty to read.


    After drying off, he pulled on clean clothes and returned to his room. The bag of books sat patiently on his desk. Damian let out a slow breath and sat down, pulling the first book from the bag. The leather binding was worn, its cover stamped with an intricate symbol he recognized from Cassius''s lessons¡ªa symbol representing the fundamentals of Mana manipulation.


    He opened the book, flipping through pages dense with diagrams, annotations, and theories. The page was packed with details on how to sense and channel Mana more efficiently, techniques for stabilizing spells, and ways to optimize his control. It was all incredibly detailed, and it became clear within minutes that this would be no light reading. Yet, as dense as the information was, something strange happened.


    The moment he began reading, the words seemed to flow into him as if his mind were a sponge soaking up every concept, every subtle nuance. He didn''t just read¡ªhe absorbed. Faster than yesterday.


    He closed the first book after finishing it and let out a long, impressed breath, his eyes lingering on the cover. There was a light frown on his forehead as he stared at the intricate symbol etched into the leather. "Why do I feel like he gave me advanced-level stuff?" he muttered.


    The difference between yesterday''s book and tonight''s was unmistakable. Today''s text dove straight into complex techniques and arcane theories he was almost certain a novice like him wasn''t supposed to touch.


    And yet, for some reason, he could understand it. The text, as intricate as it was, didn''t overwhelm him. He wasn''t struggling to keep up; his mind took it all in with an ease.


    He shook his head and set the book aside, reaching for the next one.


    Once he skimmed the initial pages, a strange feeling filled him, something akin to de?ja? vu. This book felt different, almost familiar. The writing style, the way the diagrams were drawn, the instructions¡ªit was all... known to him, somehow, even though he''d never seen this book before.

 Chapter 81: Kaelan Voidweaver

    Warlock Ch 81. Kaelan Voidweaver


    The feeling was so strong that he paused, glancing down at the book''s cover to see if there was any indication of where this familiarity came from. And there it was, scrawled in a fine, dark script near the spine.


    "Kaelan Voidweaver," he muttered, testing the name on his tongue. It rang out with an odd resonance. He knew that name, or at least his mind did, somewhere in the recesses of his memory. But how?


    He frowned, flipping the book over again, his curiosity deepening. He tried to dredge up anything he could remember, anything that would link him to this name. The book was filled with real techniques and knowledge that felt shockingly familiar¡ªas if it was knowledge he''d once known and had somehow forgotten.


    Voidweaver''s teachings weren''t like the others he''d read so far. The other books had been technical, detailed, but detached in a way. Kaelan''s words, though, carried a unique depth. He didn''t simply lay out theories or list spells; he refined them, transforming standard magical concepts with an edge that was both practical and, somehow, deeply personal. It was as if he were speaking directly to Damian, passing on wisdom gained not from study but from hard, real-world experience. Voidweaver''s teachings spanned across all classes¡ªmages, warlocks, witches, sorcerers¡ªblurring the lines between them in ways that seemed almost revolutionary.


    Damian felt an excitement rise within him. He could almost visualize every spell, every technique Kaelan described, like he was watching a memory instead of learning something new. The descriptions were so clear, so detailed, that he could almost see how each spell would play out in battle. He could imagine himself casting them, feeling the Mana flow and twist at his command, even anticipating how to adapt them for different situations.


    One line in particular caught his attention, scrawled at the back of the book, almost like an afterthought. The words made him pause.


    "Magic isn''t just power¡ªit''s knowledge that reshapes the world, and those who understand it most are the ones most feared."


    The words struck something deep within him, resonating something he couldn''t quite explain. He frowned, whispering to himself, "Why?"


    It felt like more than just a sentence on a page. It was almost like a warning¡ªa warning that he could feel in his bones, even if he didn''t understand why. He stared at the words, lost in thought, a single drop of water splashed onto the page, spreading across the ink. Startled, Damian jolted, quickly lifting his head to check if there was a leak in the ceiling.


    But there was nothing. The roof was dry, and the air in the room was still. His hair wasn''t wet anymore, either, so it couldn''t have dripped from him.


    Confused, he felt a strange wetness on his cheek. He touched his face, realizing with a shock that the dampness wasn''t from a leak¡ªit was from his own eyes.


    "Why am I crying?" he whispered, his voice barely audible as he stared at the wet trail on his fingers.


    A strange weight settled over him, a heaviness that had nothing to do with exhaustion. It was as though something hidden within him had stirred, against memories or feelings he hadn''t even known were there. He didn''t understand it, didn''t know what could have triggered such a reaction, but the tears came unbidden.


    But one thing for sure... Damian knew Kaelan Voidweaver hadn''t written these words lightly; Damian could feel that much. They were a truth he''d learned, perhaps even suffered for.


    He closed the book slowly, his fingers trembling slightly as he ran them over the cover. Kaelan''s lessons had felt familiar from the beginning, but now, that familiarity was tinged with something deeper¡ªan almost painful sense of loss or longing. It was like he was mourning something he couldn''t remember, something that had slipped through his fingers long ago.


    Whatever had drawn him to this world, to Cassius, to these books, was no accident. And somehow, he knew that Voidweaver''s words would be key to unlocking a truth he''d barely begun to scratch the surface of.


    Wiping his face, Damian took a steadying breath, setting the book back down on the desk. This knowledge, this magic Kaelan spoke of, wasn''t just advanced¡ªit felt like fragments of a puzzle, pieces of a power he was meant to wield, even though he didn''t yet know how or why.


    ''I''ll ask Cassius about this tomorrow,'' he mentally noted. He believed this book was the one that Cassius referred to as the special book and it may be something related to his own memory fragment.


    He knew Cassius might hide the answers from him again, so he had to tread carefully. He didn''t want to push too hard and risk losing whatever trust Cassius had in him. But at the same time, he couldn''t ignore it. He needed to know, if only to fill in the blank spaces that stretched back through his mind, his childhood, his memories¡ªall of it set in the Nullis world. So how did any of this fit in?


    Taking a steady breath, Damian reached for another book from the pile, the one Cassius had labeled as essential reading. This one looked decidedly more tedious than the last. It was thick and worn, with a plain, faded cover, and judging by the title, it appeared to be a comprehensive guide to the magical classes of this world. Even the spine looked exhausted from years of use.


    But he knew better than to skip it. His encounters had already proven that the threats out there weren''t limited to the likes of evil warlocks. That previous vampire woman, for instance¡ªher interest in him had felt uncomfortably keen. And then there was the silver-haired girl he''d bumped into, her resemblance to the woman from his dream made him shudder. He had a target on his back, one he''d be foolish to ignore. If he was going to survive here, he needed to know exactly who, and what, he might be facing.

 Chapter 82: Sink or Swim (Review Bonus)

    Warlock Ch 82. Sink or Swim


    Remembering stuff like this wasn''t a challenge for Damian¡ªhis mind was practically a steel trap.


    First up was the warlock thing. Back in the Nullis world, warlocks were typically painted with broad strokes¡ªdark, sinister, often sinister, and always feared. They were the magic rebels, the outsiders, the ones who either broke the rules or laughed in the face of them. Here, though, the book hinted that the truth was more complicated. Originally, warlocks were just mages who''d been kicked to the curb by the Mage Academy. Yeah, banished, tossed out of the magical elite''s ivory towers for one reason or another. And instead of sulking, they went rogue, tapping into magic from unconventional sources. They didn''t let a little thing like rejection hold them back.


    In the early days, society always assumed warlocks were up to no good, and in a way, maybe they had been. After all, with their unorthodox magic and strange new abilities, they looked pretty terrifying. But over time, that stereotype started cracking. Some warlocks began showing up who weren''t monsters or dark overlords. They had power, sure, but they used it in ways that actually helped people. And the rest of society finally figured out that, hey, maybe not every warlock was a bad apple. So, slowly but surely, warlocks clawed their way back into the folds of the magical community, earning their place among mages, even if they were always a little on the fringes.


    But¡ªand this was a huge but¡ªtheir path was still vastly different from the mages'' training in the prestigious academies with all their ranks and structures. If someone walked into a Mage Academy, he came out with official titles, ranks, and an aura of respect. He trained with the best instructors, and he had the resources and prestige that came with that kind of education.


    Warlocks, though? They didn''t get any of that. No grand halls, no academic accolades, no official ranks or scrolls of parchment. Instead, they relied on mentors, usually older, more experienced warlocks who''d paved their way through trial and error. A bit like homeschooling but with a whole lot more danger¡ªand way more hands-on practice than dusty books and lecture halls. The warlock system was gritty, unregulated, and by its very nature, more practical. It was the kind of training where if they didn''t learn fast, they might not make it to the next lesson.


    Meanwhile, witches¡ªwell, witches had a foot in both worlds. They had their own academies, often private, shrouded in secrecy, but they also had the option to train under a mentor, like the warlocks. They could go either route, and no one would bat an eye. Witchcraft had its own mysterious prestige, and society, for whatever reason, was fine with their flexibility. There was even a quiet understanding that the strongest witches¡ªthose with power most mages wouldn''t dare dream of¡ªoften came from a mentor-based background. It was less about official ranks and more about real power, earned and proven.


    For warlocks, though, it was almost like a rite of passage to train under someone who had seen it all. These mentors weren''t just teachers; they were legends in their own right, shaping their apprentices not just with spells but with wisdom that no one would find in any academy curriculum. It was brutal, for sure, but also straightforward¡ªan exchange. Warlocks didn''t do it for money. No, they did it for fame, respect, reputation, all those intangible yet undeniably valuable perks that came with having their names whispered in awe. And believe it or not, a warlock''s reputation was worth way more in this world than gold. Apprentices flocked to these mentors, hoping to glean even a fraction of their power and influence.


    And Cassius? The exception to the rule. He''d somehow managed to carve out a name for himself without apprentices, without followers, and without all the attention. If the other warlocks were beacons, drawing others to them, Cassius was a shadow¡ªa powerful, unapproachable figure who walked his own path. And yet, his name was still whispered across the magical community, even by those who''d never met him.


    Damian found himself chuckling under his breath as he thought about it. There was something oddly fitting about Cassius''s approach¡ªkeeping to himself, no fuss, no frills, just raw power wrapped up in a shroud of mystery. Cassius wasn''t the kind of guy who''d give lectures or spoon-feed his secrets to a bunch of eager apprentices.


    Hell, Damian doubted any apprentice could survive under Cassius, not with the way he trained. It was brutal, and word was Cassius had all the patience of a ticking time bomb. The man didn''t suffer fools, didn''t take excuses, and probably didn''t care if he learned or didn''t. Sink or swim, that was Cassius''s method. And honestly? It was a big part of what made his name so infamous.


    Just as he was settling into that thought, he heard footsteps echoing down the hall, drawing his attention. He turned toward the sound, and a familiar figure stepped into view.


    "Oh, you''re home already," Evelyn said, raising an eyebrow as if surprised to see him.


    "Yeah," he replied, leaning back, closing his book casually. He almost added, ''Took you long enough,'' but stopped himself. It was tempting, though. Here he was in her place, eating her food, using her room, and somehow, despite everything, she''d been... kind. Generous, even.


    Instead, he glanced at her, debating for a second. He didn''t really know her yet, not really. She was still a puzzle he hadn''t managed to crack. And Evelyn didn''t seem eager to hand him the missing pieces. But that was fine. He just needed to be patient.


    "You eaten yet?" he asked, figuring it was as good a place to start as any.


    "Yeah," she replied, leaning against the doorway with a sly little smirk, her arms crossed. "Was about to ask if you wanted some snacks, though."


    "Nah, I''m good," Damian said, shrugging. He waved her off, a grin tugging at the corner of his mouth. "You already did enough with the laundry, honestly. Plus, you''re basically hosting me here, so...." He let the words hang, not entirely sure how to phrase the rest of what he was thinking. It wasn''t exactly gratitude¡ªmore like an understanding that she''d gone out of her way when she didn''t have to.

 Chapter 83: This is Your Home…

    Warlock Ch 83. This is Your Home...


    For a moment, there was silence. Evelyn didn''t move, didn''t break her gaze. She just watched him. "Don''t mention it," she finally said, her tone softening a bit. Then, almost in a whisper, she added, "This is your home too... Damian."


    Damian froze, his mind scrambling to catch up. He managed a nervous smile, unsure if he''d heard her right. "What do you mean?" he murmured, his voice barely a notch above a whisper. "There''s no way..." But before he could say more, Evelyn closed the distance between them, lifting her hand and gently placing a finger against his lips, silencing his doubts with a simple, firm touch. It was enough to steal any further protest from his tongue.


    Her expression softened even more. He saw a hint of something vulnerable, almost fragile, in her eyes. "This is your home too, Damian," she said, her voice laced with an unexpected sadness. It wasn''t a sadness born of pity or regret, but rather of empathy, as though she understood the depth of his solitude in a way he hadn''t been ready to admit to himself. "If you don''t have a place to go..." she paused, as if choosing her words carefully. "...then this place will always be your home."


    Those last words hit him harder than any spell or training session ever could. He felt the breath catch in his throat. Home. As an orphan, the concept had been so distant, so far removed from his life for so long that he''d almost forgotten what it felt like to belong somewhere. And now, standing here, hearing her say it so plainly, it felt... overwhelming.


    He took a second, pulling himself together, forcing his voice to work again. "Okay," he managed, his voice barely a whisper. And then, realizing he hadn''t said nearly enough, he nodded, offering a faint smile as he repeated, "Okay."


    She smiled back, warm and reassuring, as though she''d expected that reaction all along. "How about a drink, then? Something like yesterday?"


    At the mention of a drink, he felt his shoulders ease a bit. "Sure," he replied, nodding. "I''ll help you out." He pushed himself up from his seat, stretching a little.


    Evelyn looked at him with a slight shake of her head. "You don''t have to," she said, waving him off. But Damian shook his head, grinning.


    "I insist," he replied, with a determined edge to his voice. "Besides, I could use the break, and I''m pretty sure you''d love to hear all about Cassius'' brutal training techniques. Trust me, it''s a wild story."


    At that, Evelyn''s expression shifted, curiosity sparking in her eyes. She let out a soft laugh, nodding. "You''ve got me interested. Okay, let''s hear it."


    They went down to the kitchen and worked side by side, comfortable and easy, falling into a rhythm as he helped her measure out ingredients, occasionally throwing in a little commentary to make her laugh. He recounted the day with all its ups and downs¡ªthe punishing spells Cassius had him practice, the relentless drills, the kind of brutal lessons that left his muscles aching and his mind exhausted. And through it all, Evelyn listened, a half-smile playing on her lips, as though she could picture every detail he described.


    "So, there I am, practically half-dead by the end of it, and Cassius just looks at me and says, ''Not bad, but don''t get cocky.'' Like, really?" Damian shook his head, feigning disbelief, though a grin tugged at the corners of his mouth.


    Evelyn chuckled. "Sounds like Cassius. He''s never satisfied, is he?"


    "Not even a little," Damian agreed, clinking his glass against hers before taking a sip. The drink was smooth and sweet with a hint of warmth that spread through him instantly. He let out a satisfied sigh, savoring the moment.


    After a moment, Evelyn broke the silence, a hint of mischief back in her voice. "So... how does it feel to survive another day under Cassius'' iron fist?"


    He chuckled, shaking his head. "Feels like I wrestled a bear," he replied, rubbing a sore spot on his shoulder. "And lost. But hey, at least he didn''t kill me. This time."


    "Sounds like he''s doing wonders for your resilience," Evelyn teased, taking another sip of her drink, but her gaze softened as she watched him.


    "Yeah, well, resilience is fine and all," Damian replied, his tone dropping slightly. "But when he just brushes off any attempt to give feedback like you''re nothing but a trainee who got in the way, it gets... tiring."


    Evelyn nodded knowingly, sympathy flickering in her gaze. "Cassius has his ways," she said carefully. "Not everyone''s meant to handle them." Then she tilted her head slightly, as if choosing her words with care. "You''re different. He sees that, even if he doesn''t say it."


    Damian gave a small, grateful smile. "Maybe," he muttered, glancing down at his drink. "But I think his recent visitor got his attention more than I did."


    That made Evelyn pause, her expression shifting, a shadow passing over her face. "Visitor?" she asked, her voice cautious.


    He glanced up, watching her reaction with growing curiosity. "Yeah, Cassius had someone over today... a vampire, actually. Victoria Bloodrose, I think she called herself." He leaned back, studying her, noting the way her posture straightened, her fingers tensing slightly around her glass.


    "Victoria Bloodrose..." Evelyn''s voice was barely above a whisper, but there was an edge to it now, a layer of caution he hadn''t seen before. "She was there with Cassius?"


    Damian nodded, not missing the change in her demeanor. "Yeah. Pretty sure she was there because of me, too. She kept going on about ''detecting power'' or something like that. It was... strange. Like she was looking for something, or someone." He played it off, not wanting to stress her out.


    The tension in Evelyn''s face deepened, her eyes narrowing as she took in his words. She was silent for a moment, her gaze fixed on the floor, lost in thought. Damian felt a prickle of concern, realizing just how much his words carried for her. It wasn''t like Evelyn to be easily rattled, but this seemed different.

 Chapter 84: Reason for Vengeance

    Warlock Ch 84. Reason for Vengeance


    "Victoria Bloodrose..." she repeated, her voice carrying a note of worry that set Damian on edge. "She''s... not someone to be taken lightly, Damian. If she''s looking for revenge, she might already know more than she''s letting on." She set her glass down, folding her hands together as she looked him straight in the eye, all traces of playfulness gone. "Did she say anything else? Anything that seemed... unusual?"


    "Just that she could ''sense a shift in the balance'' or something like that." He shrugged, though he could feel the weight of her gaze pressing down on him. "But Cassius said it was nothing to worry about."


    Evelyn''s eyes darkened at that, her expression troubled. "Cassius has his strengths, but Victoria isn''t someone he can brush off like other people." She hesitated, as if weighing her words, and Damian could see the worry flickering behind her composed exterior. "And if she''s sensing power, that means she''s looking for something very specific."


    Damian reached for the amulet hanging around his neck. He held it up, smiling faintly. "I''ve got this, remember?" He gestured to the amulet, hoping to lighten the mood. "It should keep me off anyone''s radar. Even hers."


    Evelyn''s gaze softened as she looked at the charm, but her concern didn''t fade. "The amulet is powerful, yes. But it''s not infallible." Her voice was low, almost a whisper. "There are beings¡ªespecially vampires like Victoria¡ªwho can sense things beyond what amulets and charms can mask. If she was looking for you... then we need to be careful. Very careful."


    Damian forced a chuckle. "Guess she just has a good sense for power, then." He shrugged, trying to shake off the unease, though Evelyn''s serious gaze made it hard to ignore. Her eyes held an intensity he hadn''t seen before, something like worry but sharper, more urgent. She didn''t look convinced by his casual tone. In fact, the way she stared at him made him feel like he was missing something huge.


    Evelyn''s voice was soft but heavy with meaning. "Like I said, Damian, she''s out for revenge. She''s dangerous. And if she''s caught even the faintest hint of your power..." She hesitated, like she was carefully choosing each word. "You''ll need to be very careful around her."


    Damian''s brows knit together, a wave of confusion washing over him. "Revenge? Revenge for what?" He let out a small, incredulous laugh. "I don''t even know her. I''ve never done anything to her." He held her gaze, half-expecting her to break into a smile and tell him it was all just a weird misunderstanding. But Evelyn''s expression remained unreadable, serious, the silence thickening as she looked away, her lips pressing into a thin line.


    For a moment, Evelyn didn''t answer. She seemed to be searching for the right words, her fingers absently tapping against the edge of her glass as if wrestling with how much to say. Finally, she spoke, her voice low and cautious. "Did Victoria... mention her late husband?"


    Damian blinked, caught off guard. "Yeah, she actually did. Said something about him being... gone, or something like that."


    Evelyn nodded, as if she''d been expecting that. She paused, glancing down at her hands, her expression guarded. "Her husband died, Damian," she said quietly, her tone tinged with a weight that made Damian''s chest tighten. "And Victoria... She''s on a mission. A mission to find his killer."


    The room felt suddenly colder, and Damian found himself gripping his glass a little tighter, his gaze narrowing. "Okay... but what does that have to do with me?" he asked, trying to keep his voice steady, though his heart was starting to beat a little faster. This was turning into something he hadn''t signed up for, and the seriousness in Evelyn''s eyes wasn''t helping.


    Evelyn took a breath, her eyes meeting his with a look that sent a chill down his spine. "Her husband''s killer," she said slowly, carefully, "has a mana flow... similar to yours."


    Damian went still. He opened his mouth to respond, but the words caught in his throat, leaving him in stunned silence. ''Similar to mine?'' The thought echoed in his mind, and for a second, he felt like the ground had dropped out from under him.


    "What?" he finally managed to say, his voice barely a whisper.


    Evelyn held his gaze, her expression grim. "She''s been tracking the signature of his mana for years. Following traces, pulling on every thread she could find. And if she''s sensed even a hint of that energy from you..." She trailed off, letting the implication hang in the air, heavy and unavoidable.


    Damian''s mind was racing, piecing together everything he knew¡ªor thought he knew¡ªabout himself and the strange, hidden aspects of his magic. "I don''t... I don''t even know her," he repeated, as if saying it again would somehow change the facts. "How could I possibly be connected to any of this?"


    Evelyn''s expression softened, but the gravity didn''t leave her eyes. She seemed to be struggling to explain something that was impossible to pin down with logic. "It''s complicated, Damian. And it''s... it''s a long story." She sighed, rubbing her temple as if she could feel all the hidden knowledge pressing against her.


    "Then tell me," Damian pressed, his voice sharper than he intended. He took a calming breath, loosening his clenched fists as he looked at her. "Please. Whatever you know... tell me. I need to understand what I''m dealing with here."


    Evelyn nodded, but her gaze drifted as if she were looking back through the fog of memory. "Victoria... and her late husband," she began slowly, "were the two strongest vampires in their time. They had more power between them than some entire factions, and with that strength, they nearly united the vampire clans under their control." She paused, a hint of sadness flickering across her face. "They were ambitious, yes, but they also had a vision, a way to bring order to their kind. But then, something happened. Something no one talks about."

 Chapter 85: A Vow

    Warlock Ch 85. A Vow


    Damian stayed silent, his attention locked on her, each word pulling him deeper into the mystery.


    "Victoria''s husband was killed," Evelyn continued, her voice barely a whisper. "In an attack that seemed to come out of nowhere. It was brutal, and whoever did it left no trace... just death. And for someone as powerful as him, it was unimaginable." She took a breath, steadying herself. "After that, Victoria was... lost. She went mad with grief. She locked herself away, shut herself off. It was like she was drowning in her own pain."


    "Then one day," Evelyn went on, her voice steadier now, "she just... emerged. And she was different. Harder, colder. She was determined, single-minded in her purpose." Evelyn''s gaze drifted toward the window, her expression thoughtful and heavy. "She made a vow to find her husband''s killer. And she''s been following that path for years, tracking every whisper, every trace of mana that even remotely resembles his. It''s consumed her."


    Damian felt a shiver creep up his spine. "Do you know who the killer is?" he asked, his voice quieter now, more cautious.


    Evelyn was silent for a long moment, her gaze falling to her hands as she shook her head slowly. "Yes," she murmured, her voice barely audible. "But his name... well, most people don''t even speak it. They say it brings a bad omen, that even mentioning him invites darkness." She glanced at Damian, her eyes carrying a hint of something he couldn''t quite place¡ªmaybe fear, or maybe just caution. It was rare to see Evelyn unsettled, but this... this was something else entirely.


    Damian shuddered, the weight of her words pressing down on him, filling the room with an eerie quiet. "That bad?" he asked, trying to wrap his mind around it. "I didn''t think... I mean, I didn''t think someone like that even existed." A part of him felt silly saying it, like he was a kid whispering ghost stories, but the chill running down his spine told him this was anything but a story.


    Evelyn gave a bitter smile, a resigned kind of look crossing her face. "Well," she said with a huff, as if trying to brush off some of the weight of it all, "not everything they say is true, Damian. Vampires are... let''s say, colorful with their stories. But..." She hesitated, and her gaze softened, her voice lowering. "I don''t know the truth either, Damian. And I can''t say much more than that."


    Damian fell silent, watching her, trying to read the expression flickering across her face. There was something there, some shadow that was deeper than her words, something she wasn''t saying. She looked almost... haunted. He could see it in the slight tremble of her hands, in the way her gaze seemed distant, like she was staring right through him and into some dark memory and tragedy.


    For a moment, Damian debated asking more, prying further, but he couldn''t bring himself to push. Instead, he cleared his throat, trying to ease the tension. "Right," he said, shifting uncomfortably. "Guess I''ll just... keep that in mind."


    She offered him a faint smile, but it didn''t reach her eyes. Damian was about to move on, letting the conversation drift to safer ground when a memory flashed through his mind¡ªsomething he''d almost forgotten in all this talk about killers and curses.


    "So, uh... there''s something else," he started, glancing at her carefully. "Earlier, when I was coming back from Cassius''s, I... Well, I bumped into someone. A girl. Silver hair, kind of intense look." He shrugged, trying to keep his tone casual. "Didn''t think much of it, but now... it feels like maybe I should."


    The moment the words left his mouth, he saw the change in Evelyn. Her face turned pale, her eyes widening, and for the first time since he''d known her, he saw something close to panic in her expression. She froze, her hands tightening around her glass, her knuckles turning white.


    "What did you say?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.


    Damian blinked, taken aback by her reaction. "I, uh... I just bumped into her. She didn''t say anything, just looked at me, really. She had this... I don''t know, kind of powerful aura, like she was someone who knew exactly what she wanted." He hesitated, watching Evelyn''s reaction carefully. "Why? Who is she?"


    Evelyn didn''t answer immediately. Her gaze flickered, her mind clearly racing, and the silence between them grew heavy and tense, thick enough to cut through. Finally, she looked at him, her eyes dark and serious, a hint of warning in them. "Damian," she began slowly, each word laced with caution, "if you see her again... don''t approach her. Don''t even acknowledge her. Do you understand?"


    Damian nodded, though every fiber in him wanted to protest, to ask why, to pry into this strange fear that he could practically feel radiating off Evelyn. The girl looked almost... familiar. And that aura, that intensity, that pull he''d felt¡ªit was like some deep instinct waking up, some primal connection he couldn''t quite place.


    "Yes," he murmured, a slight tremor in his voice. "But... is she the one from my dream?"


    Evelyn''s expression faltered, a flicker of uncertainty crossing her face. "I... I don''t know, Damian," she said finally, her voice barely above a whisper. "I haven''t seen her myself, but..." She trailed off, glancing to the side, as if grappling with something she couldn''t quite put into words. "Better safe than sorry," she said after a moment, almost to herself, as if she was trying to convince herself as much as him. "I''ll inform Cassius tomorrow."


    Her voice dropped lower, almost a murmur under her breath, but Damian caught the words. "Or maybe... she already knows. She could feel his aura after all."


    The statement caught him off guard, and he leaned in, curiosity flaring. "She knows Cassius, too?" he asked, watching her carefully, noting the slight tension in her shoulders, the way her gaze remained fixed on some invisible point in the room.


    Evelyn let out a hollow chuckle, a humorless smile crossing her face. "Who doesn''t know Cassius in this magical world?" she replied, her tone carrying a bitter edge.

 Chapter 86: I’m a Wanted Man!

    Warlock Ch 86. I''m a Wanted Man!


    Damian nodded. It made sense. Cassius was a legend, and if this silver-haired sorceress had that same commanding presence, then she was probably someone who shared that same level of history, that same haunting reputation. But still... something didn''t add up. "True," he murmured, a note of skepticism slipping into his tone. "But who is she? And why... why would she appear in my dreams?"


    Evelyn''s gaze darkened, her expression growing distant as if she was dredging up some long-buried knowledge. "She," Evelyn began slowly, her voice barely above a whisper, "is one of the strongest sorceresses alive. She''s a master of elemental spells, an archmage who has spent her life perfecting every branch of magic known to us. She''s untouchable, Damian. She''s one of the elites."


    Damian''s frown deepened, his thoughts racing. "Is that all?" he asked, his voice filled with a quiet defiance, a refusal to let this end here. "Look, I get that she''s powerful. I get that she''s some kind of big deal. But that doesn''t explain why she''s... showing up in my life. In my dreams. Why are you telling me to keep my distance?"


    Evelyn turned to him, her expression hardening as her gaze bore into his. "Damian, it''s more than just a ''big deal,''" she replied sharply, her voice low and intense. "If she''s interested in you¡ªif she''s been watching you¡ªthat''s dangerous in itself. Her power, her influence... it reaches everywhere. She holds a position at the very top of the mage faction. She can make people disappear with a snap of her fingers. She''s no one to take lightly."


    Damian shook his head, unphased. "I get it. But there''s more to this, isn''t there?" He met her gaze, his tone resolute, unwilling to back down. "Why should I be careful with her? Why all the warnings?"


    For a moment, Evelyn''s composure wavered, a flicker of doubt crossing her face. She looked away, her hands clenching slightly as she wrestled with herself, visibly torn between keeping secrets and revealing truths that might be too dangerous to know. Finally, she took a breath, her voice barely above a whisper. "Because she''s... dangerous."


    Damian raised an eyebrow, sensing another mystery building up, another layer he wasn''t being allowed to see through. He felt that familiar frustration creeping in¡ªthe kind that nagged him every time Cassius or Evelyn dangled some cryptic warning in front of him without any real explanation. "And?" he pressed, trying to keep his tone steady, though he could feel his patience thinning. It was like being told to stay away from the edge without knowing how far the drop was. "Please don''t tell me this is one of those ''you''ll find out yourself'' moments," he added, his voice edged with irritation. "Because I''m sick of it, Evelyn."


    Evelyn pressed her lips together, her gaze hardening. After a moment, she seemed to relent, letting out a sigh as she glanced at him, her expression heavy. "Do you remember the person I mentioned earlier?" she asked, her voice low and cautious. "The one who killed Victoria''s husband."


    Damian nodded slowly. "Yeah," he replied, his voice barely audible.


    She looked down, her gaze distant, her fingers nervously tracing the edge of her mug. "Well," she began, her voice strained, "she''s looking for him too."


    There was a pause between them.


    "So... if she somehow finds out I''ve got a similar mana flow to that killer..." He let the sentence hang. His voice dropped, barely more than a murmur. "I''m... I''m doomed, aren''t I?"


    Evelyn''s silence was all the confirmation he needed. She gave a small, reluctant nod, her expression grim, her eyes filled with a sorrow he hadn''t expected. She looked almost... apologetic, as if she wished she could change the truth but knew it was beyond her control. There was no comfort in her gaze, no reassurance. Just a cold, hard reality.


    He leaned back, letting out a low, humorless laugh. "Great. Just great..." he muttered, taking a long, steadying sip from his drink. "So, I''m not just a target. I''m a wanted man."


    The words tasted bitter on his tongue. But here it was, undeniable, a truth he couldn''t run from.


    Evelyn''s gaze softened slightly, but there was no relief in her expression, only a grim acceptance. "This is why Cassius pushes you so hard," she murmured, her voice barely a whisper. "He''s trying to make sure you''re ready for whatever''s coming. Whatever she might bring with her."


    Damian nodded slowly. He finished the last sip of his drink, the warmth sliding down his throat a poor substitute for the answers he still didn''t have. He placed the mug in the sink.


    "I need to finish my books."


    He turned and headed upstairs, his feet dragging just a bit, his steps a little less steady than usual.


    Cassius, the training, the warnings¡ªit all made sense now in a twisted, frustrating way, but it didn''t make it feel any less unfair.


    He reached the bedroom and turned to his stack of Cassius'' books. He reached for the nearest one and sank into his chair, opening to a page he hadn''t looked at before, trying to drown out his spiraling thoughts in the words.


    But his focus wavered, his mind drifting. ''Why? Why me? Why did I have this cursed power in the first place?'' He clenched his fist, his knuckles going white as he fought the urge to slam the book shut, to throw it across the room and yell. But he kept himself still, his chest rising and falling with barely contained frustration. None of this made sense. Why was his mana like that of some killer he''d never even heard of? Why did it have to be him?


    The thoughts grew darker, angrier, and twisting. He took a shaky breath, trying to calm himself, but the bitterness remained.


    But then a thought crossed his mind. It made him frown.


    ''Why would Evelyn or Cassius even bother helping me if they knew this all along?'' They weren''t fools. Cassius especially wasn''t the type to take on lost causes. And yet... here they were, risking themselves for him, dragging him through merciless training, and guiding him down this perilous path as if they saw something in him worth saving. But why?

 Chapter 87: Fool

    Warlock Ch 87. Fool


    ''I want to know,'' he thought, his heart pounding, ''but I don''t think I can take another answer that crushes me even more.''


    He turned back to the books, letting their pages swallow him up. Hours slipped by, marked only by the turning of pages as he moved from one tome to the next. Despite it felt like forever, he only ended up spending just another two hours, though Cassius had given him more books than before. He''d hardly made a dent in the pile by the time fatigue began to creep in. But one book caught his eye, drawing him back as his fingers traced over the worn leather cover. It was strange, but for some reason, this book¡ªKaelan''s writing, Kaelan''s approach¡ªfelt different.


    After another round of reading, Damian shut the book. He chuckled softly, shaking his head. ''Never thought I''d get this hooked on someone who writes books,'' he thought. It was absurd, and yet... he felt like Kaelan''s words had reached him in a way none of the other texts ever had.


    But there was something more, something unsettling in that strange sense of connection. He stared down at the book''s cover, rubbing his thumb along the edge of the leather, he felt it again¡ªa flicker of de?ja? vu, these teachings, were a thread connecting him to something... someone.


    His brow furrowed, the feeling gnawing at him. ''These books... there are two more by Kaelan,'' he thought. But why did he know it? He traced his fingers over the spine, his mind hazy and heavy with exhaustion.


    Drowsiness weighed down his eyelids. He stifled a yawn, his thoughts drifting, slipping between questions, half-formed suspicions, and the pull of sleep that was becoming harder to resist.


    ''Weird...'' he thought, the single word slipping from his mind like a feather falling into darkness.


    A dark feather to be exact...


    But then, the feather seemed to materialize before him. It floated, pitch-black and elegant, twisting gently in the still air before settling, gliding down in his mind. When it touched the surface, it landed on what felt like still water, sending a soft ripple through his thoughts.


    The ripple grew, spreading in widening circles, and from its center, something dark and powerful began to emerge. Shadows clawed their way up from the depths, wrapping around him.


    Damian felt his instincts flare, crossing his arms instinctively, shielding himself against this strange, dark energy. ''Oh no,'' he thought. ''This must be another dream.'' He lowered his arms, bracing himself for whatever was to come, and then he saw it.


    Before him stood a towering figure¡ªno, more than just a figure.


    A presence.


    A demon. Strong and majestic, its very aura declared that it was a demon among demons. Its skin was an obsidian black, smooth yet lined with traces of deep crimson veins that pulsed with dark energy. His wings unfurled behind it, feathers darker than midnight. Its eyes burned like twin flames.


    The demon grinned, looking at Damian like he was some kind of nai?ve fool for even showing up here. He tilted his head with this mocking glint in his red, fiery eyes.


    "So... you''ve come, warlock. Alone, aren''t you?" the demon drawled, his voice dripping with venom. "No friends, huh?"


    Damian''s fists clenched. He felt the bite of the demon''s words, and yeah, he wanted to fire back, to snap that he did have friends. He had allies. But instead, something else slipped out of his mouth, a colder, sharper retort.


    "Alone or not... it''s none of your business. I''m here to make sure you don''t break our deal."


    The demon laughed, deep and slow, like he found Damian''s attempt at bravado amusing, even pathetic. "Oh, I don''t break it, do I?"


    "Yeah, you broke it¡ªtwice now," Damian shot back, voice edged with frustration. "Sending chaos out, stirring up conflict, getting everyone riled up just for your stupid ambition." He took a step forward, meeting the demon''s stare without a flinch. "You just want to destroy this world, don''t you? That''s all you want."


    ''What the hell I''m talking about?'' Damian thought. It was clear he didn''t have control over his mouth or even his body.


    The demon chuckled again, louder this time, the sound bouncing off like it had a life of its own. "And you''ve just perfectly described what demons do, warlock." He leaned in, grinning wider, showing too many sharp teeth. "What else did you expect?"


    Damian''s jaw tightened. He took a steadying breath, ignoring the heat rising to his face, and spoke with resolve.


    "The deal was sealed. The agreement... it was set in stone." He made his voice hard. "You swore to stop this endless, pointless battle. You swore that you wanted peace, that your kin wanted peace. So why? Why the betrayal? Why did you have to go and destroy it?"


    For a moment, the demon''s expression shifted¡ªjust a flash, a flicker of something less cocky. But it was gone in an instant, replaced by that sneering smirk. "Oh, the naivety," he sneered, shaking his head like Damian was some starry-eyed fool. "Peace, you say? My kin, they may have once desired such a foolish thing, but you don''t know what true power is, warlock."


    Damian''s glare was unyielding, his resolve only strengthening. "Maybe not. But I know honor, and I know a promise when I hear one."


    "Oh, honor," the demon mocked, eyes rolling dramatically. "You think that matters in the underworld, in the depths where only the strong survive? Honor is for mortals¡ªthose who die, who fade away. Demons... we''re eternal. Promises? Meaningless."


    Damian felt the anger bubbling up. He clenched his fists tighter, his voice dropping to a low, dangerous tone. "Then why bother with the deal in the first place? If promises mean so little, why make them?"


    "Because you mortals are so easy to manipulate," the demon replied, his voice as oily as his grin. "So, trusting, willing to believe in hope and peace. Just a few pretty words, and you''re all so eager to trust... even a demon."

 Chapter 88: Not a Pawn

    Warlock Ch 88. Not a Pawn


    "Maybe we trust," Damian admitted, his voice steady, his gaze unflinching, "but we also remember. And we hold others accountable when they break that trust."


    The demon''s smile faltered, only for a split second, but Damian caught it. There was something there¡ªa crack in that cold, arrogant mask. Maybe this demon wasn''t as untouchable as he wanted to appear.


    "You hold me accountable?" The demon sneered, his tone defensive now, a hint of irritation creeping in. "You, a single warlock, think you can hold me accountable?"


    "Yeah, I do," Damian replied simply, his voice calm but filled with a confidence that seemed to unsettle the demon. "Because that''s what this is about. This isn''t just me or you. This is about every life you''ve affected."


    The demon''s eyes flashed, and for a split second, his calm demeanor cracked, something darker and wilder showing through. He sneered, rolling his shoulders like a predator getting ready to pounce.


    "And what are you gonna do, warlock?" he mocked, the words practically dripping with disdain. "Just keep talking to me? You think all this little chit-chat is going to stop me?"


    Damian''s teeth clenched, frustration knotting in his chest. His fists were itching for a fight, but he knew better than to let himself get riled up, not in front of this creature. No, the demon wanted him to snap, to lose control.


    "Words mean something when they''re backed by a pact," Damian shot back, his voice steely despite the heat in his chest. "You know that better than anyone. You agreed to this deal because you said you wanted peace, because you claimed you wanted your people to have a shot at real life, like everyone else."


    The demon''s laugh was cold, hollow, echoing off the stone walls around them. "Peace? Who told you I actually cared about peace? That I gave a damn about what those weaklings want?" He shrugged, as if brushing off an annoying gnat. "I''m their king. They should follow me, no matter what I decide. That''s how power works, warlock. If you were truly powerful, you''d understand that."


    Damian''s chest tightened. All those who''d come to him, asking for help, hoping he could broker some kind of peace... They weren''t looking for a hero; they just wanted a fair shot. And here was their so-called king, shrugging off their lives like they were nothing.


    "Don''t you feel even a little pity?" Damian demanded, the words sharp and desperate. "The ones who''ve been dragged into this? The ones who suffer because of what you''ve done... they''re your own kin! They just want a life, like anyone else, like any other race. Isn''t that why we struck this deal in the first place? Why would you throw that all away?"


    The demon shrugged again, casual as ever, though his eyes sparked with a dangerous light. "Pity? For what? Their lives?" He snorted. "They''re tools. Nothing more. They exist to serve me, to fight for my cause. If they die, then they aren''t strong enough. I don''t need the weak in my ranks."


    The words hit Damian hard, sinking in with a chill he couldn''t shake off. The demon wasn''t even trying to hide his disdain. The revelation was sickening, the depths of his apathy staggering.


    "You... you don''t even care," Damian murmured, half to himself, struggling to believe it. "They aren''t just soldiers. They''re people. They trusted you, looked to you to lead them somewhere better. But you¡ª" He swallowed, feeling the bitter edge of disgust rise in his throat. "You''re using them, playing them like pawns in your sick game."


    The demon grinned, his sharp teeth flashing in the dim light. "Ah, you''re catching on, warlock. Power doesn''t come from playing nice or coddling the weak. It comes from using every tool at your disposal. And guess what? My kin are the perfect tools."


    Damian felt a wave of anger flare up, hot and sharp. He couldn''t stand the smug look on the demon''s face, the way he dismissed his own people like they were nothing.


    "You disgust me," Damian spat, his fists clenched tight enough that his knuckles turned white. "You made a promise. You said you wanted peace, that you''d stop the fighting, that this endless bloodshed would finally end. And now? Now you''re throwing that all away, for what? For more power? More control?"


    "More control, more power... until it''s all mine," the demon hissed, his voice low and menacing, as though savoring every word like a dark promise. His hands flexed, dark energy crackling at his fingertips, a subtle reminder of the vast power he held.


    Damian exhaled slowly, forcing himself to stay calm, even as the demon''s power thrummed ominously in the air around them. It was thick and suffocating, like standing at the edge of a bottomless pit. But Damian didn''t flinch. He let his gaze settle on the demon, something new¡ªsomething unbreakable¡ªhiding behind his calm demeanor.


    "I see..." Damian murmured, almost to himself. He let out a long, steady breath, his shoulders relaxing even as the tension mounted. And then he looked the demon straight in the eye, calm as if they were talking about the weather. "Since you don''t want to cooperate, and you clearly don''t give a damn about anyone but yourself..." He paused. "Then maybe... maybe the demon race needs a new king."


    For a second, the demon just stared, his face a mix of confusion and disbelief. And then he let out a loud, mocking laugh, a sound so cold and arrogant it made Damian''s skin crawl.


    "A new king?" The demon sneered, eyes alight with scorn. "And just who is going to take that role, huh? Which demon out there is stronger than me?" He spread his arms wide, gesturing to the dark scenes around them. "No one, warlock. No one is stronger than me!" His voice rose, echoing, reverberating off the stone like a declaration from the depths.


    Damian just watched him, a bitter smile creeping onto his lips. It was a weary kind of smile, like he''d seen enough of this game to know how it ended, but he was still determined to play his part.

 Chapter 89: A Human King Over Demons?

    Warlock Ch 89. A Human King Over Demons?


    "I don''t know about the demons in your ranks," Damian said, shrugging lightly, his tone almost casual. "Maybe there isn''t anyone among them who can take you down. But me?" He paused. "I''m a simple guy. If no one else wants the job... and if no one can actually do it..." He looked the demon dead in the eye. "Then I guess I''ll just have to step up and do it myself."


    The demon''s laughter died, his expression twisting from amusement to something darker, something raw. His eyes glinted with a dangerous light as he stepped closer.


    "What can you do, warlock?" he growled, his voice a low rumble. "You think you, a mere mortal, could challenge me? I could crush you with a thought. This isn''t some heroic fairytale. You''re nothing compared to my power."


    Damian chuckled, a low, unbothered sound. "Maybe. Who knows?" His lips curled into a grin, one that mirrored the demon''s own smugness. "But let''s just say I made... something. Something that could, maybe, contain your power. Just a little side project."


    The demon''s eyes narrowed, suspicion flaring again. "What are you talking about?"


    Damian tilted his head, his grin widening, a touch of mischief slipping into his expression. "Since no one seems fit to take on the title of demon king..." He shrugged. "I figure I might as well take a shot at it myself. A human king over demons? Sounds kind of fun, don''t you think?"


    The demon''s rage was almost clear. The atmosphere was filled with heavy pressure. His sneer deepened, and he moved closer, his voice dropping to a dangerous whisper.


    "You think this is a game? You, a warlock, stepping in to rule over my kind? That''s beyond arrogance¡ªit''s suicide."


    Damian didn''t back down. If anything, his grin grew wider, his eyes gleaming with a mix of defiance and a dangerous thrill. He was pushing the demon, and he knew it. He was poking at a sleeping giant, taunting a creature with the power to obliterate him, but the thrill of that risk gave him strength.


    "Arrogant? Maybe. But I don''t mind putting my life on the line for what I believe in." Damian''s voice softened, but his gaze was steely. "You think you''re untouchable. You think no one could ever stand against you. But that''s the thing about monsters, isn''t it? They think they''re invincible... until they meet someone who''s not afraid to fight back."


    The demon''s eyes flared with anger, his fingers twitching as if itching to strike. "You talk big for someone standing on the edge of his own grave, warlock."


    "Maybe," Damian replied, shrugging like he didn''t have a care in the world. But the glint in his eye hinted at something different, something sharp and dangerous.


    The demon was waiting for him to back down, to throw in the towel and admit he''d bitten off more than he could chew.


    But Damian?


    He wasn''t about to give this creature the satisfaction.


    Without another word, Damian raised his hand, slowly, purposefully, his eyes never leaving the demon''s. What happened next threw the demon off completely. Because instead of the dark energy that typically accompanied a warlock''s power, something else entirely flickered to life in Damian''s palm.


    Light. Pure, radiant, almost blinding light.


    The demon''s confident sneer slipped, his eyes widening in shock. He took an involuntary step back, the shadows around him twisting and recoiling from the light as if burned by its mere presence. For the first time, he looked... rattled, the very idea of a warlock wielding light was so absurd it couldn''t possibly be real.


    "What... what is that?" The demon''s voice was unsteady. He glared at Damian, his bravado faltering as he struggled to understand what he was seeing. "You... you''re a warlock. You shouldn''t have that power."


    Damian just smirked, holding his hand steady as the light grew brighter. "Guess I''m not the kind of warlock you''re used to," he said, his voice dripping with defiance. "Maybe you need to get used to surprises."


    The demon''s mouth twisted in a snarl, his hands flexing at his sides, dark energy flickering around his fingers in angry sparks. "This is impossible. No warlock can summon light. You''re meddling with powers beyond your kind."


    "Yeah, well, maybe I''ve been doing a little learning," Damian replied, his tone calm but laced with challenge. He gave the demon a cold smile, his hand still radiating that powerful, pure light. "Now... Enough chit-chat. I''m bored of hearing you talk about how untouchable you are."


    The demon''s eyes blazed with fury, his dark aura flaring up, twisting around him. The shadows around him pulsed, writhing as if they couldn''t wait to rip into Damian. But Damian didn''t flinch; he let the light in his hand grow stronger, brighter.


    "Careful what you wish for, warlock," the demon snarled, his voice a low, dangerous growl. And in the next heartbeat, he lunged as he thrust his power forward.


    Damian didn''t hesitate. He met the demon''s attack head-on, his light clashing with the demon''s dark power, the two forces colliding in a burst of energy that rattled the air around them.


    The light and darkness struggled against each other, neither side giving way.


    The demon let out a roar, pushing harder, trying to drown out Damian''s light with his shadows. "You think you can best me with some cheap trick?" he spat, his voice dripping with venom. "This light... it doesn''t belong to you. It''s borrowed power, nothing more."


    Damian''s gaze hardened, his jaw set in defiance. "Maybe it''s borrowed. Or maybe it''s something I''ve earned," he replied, voice steady despite the strain in his body. "But one thing''s for sure¡ªit''s more than enough to deal with you."


    The demon''s face twisted in rage, his eyes blazing as he poured more power into his attack. The shadows thickened, inching closer, suffocating. But Damian held firm, refusing to let the darkness consume him. And then, in one powerful surge, he pushed back, his light flaring with an intensity.


    But then, everything went dark.

 Chapter 90: Power is The Key

    Warlock Ch 90. Power is The Key


    Damian''s eyes snapped open, his heart pounding in his chest like he''d just run a marathon. He blinked, momentarily disoriented, as he realized he was slumped over his desk, a heavy book beneath his cheek. He was back in his room, the soft morning light filtering through the window. For a moment, he just sat there, breathing hard, his mind still reeling from the clash.


    He swallowed, trying to shake off the lingering adrenaline, the demon''s sneer still fresh in his mind. He could still feel the strange, almost foreign warmth of the light he''d wielded, the way it had surged through him. But it was just a dream... right?


    Damian sat up slowly, rubbing his forehead as he tried to process it. "A warlock... who wields the power of light?" he muttered, his voice barely above a whisper. "How is that even possible?"


    He looked down at the book on his desk.


    ''Light magic?''


    That had never even crossed his mind. Warlocks didn''t use light¡ªit was practically a rule, a law of magic itself. Warlocks wielded shadow, darkness. Light was... well, light was the opposite of everything a warlock was supposed to be. Yet here he was, vividly recalling the feeling of that power, the way it had burst from his hand and clashed with the demon''s darkness.


    Damian slowly pushed himself up from his desk, stretching out his stiff shoulders and cracking his neck. Once he moved, a blanket slipped from his shoulders, falling to the floor. He blinked, looking down at it, realizing it hadn''t been there before he''d dozed off.


    ''Evelyn...''


    A small smile tugged at his lips. He bent down to pick it up. It had to be her; she''d probably come in after he''d knocked out over his books and, in her quiet way, made sure he was comfortable. He turned toward the bed, and sure enough, there she was, asleep under the covers, her dark hair spilling over the pillow in a tangled mess.


    For a moment, Damian thought about heading to the kitchen to make her some food, like he had yesterday. But as he watched her, he felt something shift in him. He wasn''t particularly hungry, and for some reason, the idea of cooking didn''t appeal to him. Instead, he folded the blanket, setting it aside, and slipped into bed beside her.


    Settling down next to her, he found himself staring at her sleeping face, taking in the soft rise and fall of her breath, the peaceful expression she wore in sleep. It was like... He was trying to search for a piece of peace from it.


    Eventually, he turned his gaze to the ceiling, his thoughts wandering back to the dream. The whole thing felt so vivid, so real, but he knew it had been a dream... or at least, that''s what he kept telling himself. Still, it left a strange sense of curiosity nagging at him.


    Could it really be connected to him, to something within him? It didn''t make sense, but he couldn''t deny the feeling, the certainty that this dream was showing him something more, something he was meant to uncover.


    "It might have something to do with the power inside me..." he murmured under his breath, barely aware he''d spoken the thought aloud.


    It was just a guess, sure, but a part of him was convinced there was truth to it. There was something hidden inside him, something waiting to be unlocked, and the more he grew, the closer he got to unraveling it. Power was the key¡ªthat much seemed obvious now. Maybe Cassius and Evelyn had been right all along. Maybe there really was something he had to find on his own, a truth buried so deep that even they couldn''t see it.


    "So, power is the key, huh?" he thought, letting the words settle in his mind. Whatever it was he needed to find, whatever this light inside him meant, he''d only get closer to it by growing stronger. No shortcuts, no easy answers¡ªjust raw, unrelenting strength.


    The bed shifted beside him, pulling him out of his thoughts as Evelyn moved closer, her hand brushing against his arm. He felt her body lean into his, and before he knew it, she had wrapped her arms around him. He glanced down, surprised by the gentle way she held him, like she''d been searching for comfort even in her sleep.


    She murmured something, her voice so soft it was barely more than a breath. He couldn''t make out the words, but he noticed the faint glisten of moisture at the corner of her eyes, tears that had formed without her even knowing.


    Gently, he lifted a hand, brushing a thumb over her cheek, wiping away the tear. She shifted again, murmuring his name softly. "Damian... Don''t go... Don''t leave..." Her voice was laced with something he couldn''t quite place¡ªfear, maybe, or something deeper, something she''d kept locked away.


    He didn''t know what she was dreaming about, but he could guess. She clung to him like she feared he''d disappear, her face pressed into his shoulder.


    For a moment, he just lay there, caught off guard by how much she seemed to need him right now. He''d always thought he was the one who leaned on her. But here, now, the roles felt reversed, like she was the one silently asking for reassurance.


    He lowered his head, letting his voice fall to a soft whisper. "I won''t go..." The words slipped out without a second thought.


    He wrapped his arms around her, pulling her closer. She seemed to relax, her breathing evening out. He felt his own heart steady, the simple act grounding him.


    His mind turned back to his goal. He needed to get stronger, and fast.


    ''Wait...'' he mused, a mischievous smile creeping onto his face, ''I can get stronger by doing ''that'' with her, right?''


    Slowly, his hands drifted along her side, fingers tracing the curve of her back. She murmured something, still half-asleep, and he took it as a good sign, letting his hands wander a bit more boldly. His pulse quickened.

 Chapter 91: Instinct

    Warlord Ch 91. Instinct


    But before he could so much as lean closer, Evelyn''s eyes snapped open. Her instincts kicked in like a spell firing off on reflex. In a heartbeat, she''d thrown off the blanket, her body shifting as she moved with lightning speed, flipping him onto his back and pinning him to the bed with a fierceness that made his head spin.


    He barely had a second to process what was happening before her hand crackled with magic.


    "It''s me, Evelyn. It''s me," he blurted out, his voice a mix of surprise and a bit of pleading. He was half afraid she might actually blast him with a spell just for startling her.


    Evelyn blinked, her expression softening as the sharp edge in her eyes faded, replaced with recognition. Her hand relaxed, the magic dissipating as she shook her head, her posture unwinding. "Damian... you startled me," she said, her tone carrying a trace of apology. She pulled herself off him, taking a deep breath as she settled back onto the bed.


    Damian rubbed the back of his neck, feeling the heat of embarrassment creeping up his cheeks. "Uh, yeah, sorry about that," he mumbled, averting his gaze, because telling her why he''d gotten so close was definitely out of the question now. He mentally kicked himself for even thinking that sneaking up on her had been a good idea. Clearing his throat, he quickly pivoted. "How about we, uh, head to breakfast? I want to get ready before I go to train at Cassius''s place, and you could use some food."


    Evelyn tilted her head, watching him with a mix of curiosity and skepticism, like she was trying to figure out what he was hiding. "You sure that''s all?" she asked, a small smirk playing at the corners of her mouth.


    "Yup, breakfast. Just breakfast," he said, forcing a grin and hoping it masked his flustered state. "Can''t face a day of training on an empty stomach, right?"


    Evelyn raised an eyebrow, a knowing glint in her eyes, but she didn''t press him. Instead, she offered, "I''ll make something for us, then. How about it?"


    Damian''s guilty conscience kicked in instantly. "Nah, I''ll handle it," he said quickly, holding up his hands. "Let me take care of it. You''ve been doing enough as it is."


    A slight smirk crossed her face. "Alright, if you insist."


    "Perfect," he replied, feeling a rush of relief as he headed downstairs.


    Once in the kitchen, he decided to keep things simple¡ªa sandwich with a twist, something he''d learned back in Nullis world. The ingredients came together fast. But as he stood there, finishing up, he realized Evelyn hadn''t come down yet.


    Minutes ticked by, and the silence in the house began to feel heavy, the kind that creeps in when something is off. Curious, he set down the plate and made his way back upstairs, moving quietly. He was just about to call out her name when he stopped in his tracks. She was standing by the desk, her back to him, perfectly still, her gaze fixed on a closed book.


    There was something in her stance, a kind of stillness he rarely saw in her. The book lay there, untouched, but her expression... it was almost haunted, a flicker of nostalgia mingled with something else, something he couldn''t quite place. He didn''t need to see the title to recognize it¡ªit was Kaelan''s book, one he''d always felt held more secrets than met the eye.


    ''I knew it¡ªthat book''s different from the others,'' he thought, watching her, trying to gauge what she might be feeling.


    After a long moment, he finally decided to approach, his voice soft as he called her name. "Evelyn?"


    She turned at the sound, her face immediately shifting, the haunting look disappearing behind her usual calm mask. He opened his mouth to speak, to maybe ask what she''d been thinking about, but before he could get a word out, she stepped forward and wrapped her arms around him, pulling him into a quiet, steady hug.


    Surprised, Damian hesitated, his own arms slowly moving to return the embrace. "Evelyn... what''s wrong?" he asked, his voice gentle, laced with a concern he couldn''t keep out.


    For a moment, she didn''t answer, just held him, as if drawing strength from his presence. Then, she pulled back, her gaze unreadable, and shook her head. "Nothing. Let''s go eat," she said, her voice calm but carrying an edge that told him this wasn''t the time to press her further.


    They walked downstairs together. They sat down to eat, Damian couldn''t help but notice how unusually attentive Evelyn was. Every now and then, he''d catch her glancing at him, a flicker of worry passing over her face before she masked it with her usual calm expression.


    She seemed restless, fidgeting with her food more than actually eating it. A few times, she poured him water or reached out to offer him tea, as if she wanted to keep busy, to keep herself grounded. Damian took a bite of his sandwich, chewing thoughtfully as he watched her.


    He finally cleared his throat, breaking the stillness. "So... when did you get any sleep?" he asked, keeping his tone casual, trying not to push too hard.


    Evelyn paused, setting her glass down, her gaze dropping to the table. She took a breath, as if bracing herself, then looked up at him, her eyes softer than he was used to seeing. "I didn''t sleep much," she admitted quietly, her fingers toying with the edge of her plate. "And when I did... I had a dream."


    Damian leaned forward, watching her carefully, the way she seemed hesitant to continue.


    "What... what kind of dream?" he asked gently.


    She hesitated, her gaze flicking to his, as though debating whether to share it. Finally, she sighed, her expression clouded with something he couldn''t quite name. "It was a war," she murmured, her voice barely more than a whisper. "A war that took you away from me."

 Chapter 92: Triple Troubles

    Warlord Ch 92. Triple Troubles


    He watched her, the vulnerability in her eyes startling him. Evelyn looked genuinely shaken, like she''d seen something in that dream that had left her rattled.


    A part of him wanted to brush it off, to make a joke, to say something light-hearted and remind her that he was right here, safe, sitting across from her. But another part of him, a deeper, quieter part, recognized the fear behind her words, the kind of fear that didn''t fade with reassurances.


    He reached across the table, his fingers brushing against hers. "Evelyn... I''m here," he said softly, the words slipping out without him even thinking. "I''m right here. And I''m not going anywhere."


    She looked down at their hands, her gaze lingering on the point of contact before she looked back up, meeting his eyes. "I was scared," she admitted, her voice carrying a raw honesty that she rarely let show. "I''ve fought so many battles. But this one... this one felt different."


    "Different how?" he pressed, his curiosity piqued, his concern deepening.


    She took a shaky breath, searching for the right words. "In the dream... I saw you surrounded, trapped in darkness. No matter how hard I tried, I couldn''t reach you. There was this... this wall between us, a force that kept pulling you away."


    Damian felt a chill run down his spine. The darkness... it sounded eerily similar to the dream he''d been having last night.


    He tightened his grip on her hand. "Evelyn, I''m not planning on letting anything come between us," he said firmly. "Not a war, not some force of darkness, nothing."


    A faint smile touched her lips, a soft, bittersweet expression that made his chest ache. "You always know what to say, don''t you?" she murmured, her voice carrying a hint of warmth.


    "Only when it matters," he replied, offering a small smile, hoping to lighten the mood even a bit. He could see the faintest glint of amusement in Evelyn''s eyes, but it was fleeting.


    She nodded and returned to her breakfast. Her gaze shifted around the room, landing on him every so often with a kind of intensity that made him feel like she was making sure he was still there, still with her.


    After they finished eating, Damian stood and began gathering his things for the day. The books, everything he usually brought to Cassius''s place for training and study. His hand hovered over Kaelan''s book, and he paused, his eyes lingering on it as he recalled the way Evelyn had looked at it that morning.


    ''What''s wrong with this book?'' he wondered. Something about it felt important, like it held answers he hadn''t yet uncovered. Finally, he tucked it into his bag.


    "I''ll head out now," he said, slinging his bag over his shoulder.


    Evelyn glanced at him, a strange look crossing her face. "Going alone?" she asked, her voice carrying a note of caution that made him pause.


    "Yeah... I''m an adult, unless there''s something you need?" he replied, half-expecting her to insist on staying behind.


    She hesitated, her gaze flickering, and then she shook her head. "No... I think I''ll come with you," she said, her tone leaving little room for argument. "I have a few things I need to discuss with Cassius, anyway."


    Damian raised an eyebrow, surprised by her response. "Really? I mean, it''s just training, and I''ll be back soon. You don''t have to come if¡ª"


    "No, I''m coming," she interrupted, her voice firm. There was a determination in her eyes, an edge he rarely saw, and it told him all he needed to know. She wasn''t asking¡ªshe was coming along, whether he liked it or not.


    "Alright, then," he replied, trying to hide the curiosity bubbling up inside him.


    Something was different about her today, something he couldn''t quite put his finger on. She looked... wary, as though she was expecting trouble around every corner.


    They left the house and began their journey to Cassius''s place. Evelyn was unusually quiet, her gaze constantly sweeping the surroundings, her posture tense as if she was bracing for an attack at any moment.


    After a few minutes of walking in silence, he finally spoke up. "Hey, you seem on edge. Everything alright?"


    She glanced at him, her lips pressing into a thin line. "I''m fine. Just... making sure we''re not caught off guard."


    Damian frowned, glancing around. Everything was normal, and as far as he could tell, there was no reason for her to be this cautious. "Caught off guard? You''re acting like we''re about to be ambushed or something."


    "Maybe that''s exactly why I''m cautious," she replied, her voice clipped. She looked at him, her gaze sharp.


    Damian let out a small sigh. He knew Evelyn''s protective instincts ran deep, but this felt different. There was a new intensity behind her words, like she was seeing connections he wasn''t quite grasping. "Is this because of that silver-haired girl I told you about yesterday?"


    Evelyn''s jaw tightened, and she nodded slowly. "Yes. The sorcerer."


    He was about to continue, maybe ask her exactly what she thought the sorcerer had to do with his dreams and Kaelan''s book, but Evelyn cut him off, her voice laced with tension.


    "And the vampire."


    Damian pressed his lips together, exhaling slowly. "Yeah... that vampire, too, of course."


    The last encounter had left a bad taste in his mouth, a nagging unease he couldn''t shake. Both the silver-haired sorcerer and that vampire had shown up. Their intent was still unclear. And yet, Evelyn seemed to sense danger in their arrival.


    She watched him, her eyes flickering with determination. "Cassius needs to know everything you told me," she said firmly. "And if he already knows, I want to know how he plans to handle them."


    Damian ran a hand through his hair. "So, now we''ve got a mysterious sorcerer, a vengeful vampire and a set of dreams that feel more real than my waking hours." He let out a short laugh, though it held little humor. "Everything''s getting more complicated, isn''t it?"

 Chapter 93: Not a Request

    Warlock Ch 93. Not a Request


    Evelyn gave him a brief, understanding nod, though her face remained serious. "That''s exactly why we need to talk to Cassius."


    Damian followed Evelyn to Cassius''s mansion. Her face set in that unreadable way of hers, but he could see something in her eyes¡ªa flicker of unease she rarely showed. She didn''t break stride, though, even as they approached the door, which opened as if Cassius himself had been waiting for them.


    Cassius stood in the dim foyer, his dark eyes giving nothing away except for the faintest spark of expectation. Damian''s eyes narrowed. It was as if Cassius already knew what they were here to ask him. Well, maybe he did. It wouldn''t be the first time Cassius knew things before anyone else.


    "Cassius," Evelyn greeted him, her voice calm but firm, like she was ready to cut through any games he might try. "We need to talk. It''s about the sorcerer... and the vampire."


    A flicker of a smile¡ªa mere ghost of one¡ªcrossed Cassius''s lips, vanishing as quickly as it came. "I had a feeling you''d come for that," he replied smoothly. His gaze shifted to Damian, who was watching him with guarded suspicion. He gestured subtly toward the darkened hallway. "Damian, why don''t you take those books you brought to the library first? We''ll join you soon."


    Damian bristled at that, his frustration bubbling just beneath the surface. "Really? You''re just going to send me off now? If this conversation has anything to do with the people coming after me, I''d like to actually hear it."


    Cassius''s expression barely changed, but his eyes sharpened, a hint of steel in them. "It''s not a request, Damian," he said, voice low and unyielding. "To the library."


    Grinding his teeth, Damian muttered under his breath, words that thankfully no one heard, and stalked off down the hall. He knew when Cassius was serious, and pushing back would be as effective as shouting at a brick wall. Still, it didn''t mean he had to like it.


    The library was vast and dimly lit, rows upon rows of towering bookshelves. The faint scent of leather and old paper filled the room. Setting down his bag, he began pulling out the books he''d brought, grumbling as he stacked them on a nearby table.


    "One day... One day I will make you talk. I will make you tell everything to me. I''m sick of it," he grumbled under his breath.


    Just as he reached for one of the larger volumes, a shadowy figure materialized beside him, one of Cassius''s shadow servants. It moved with an eerie movement, more like mist than flesh, silently gathering the books and gliding into the depths of the library.


    Damian put on his innocent smile. "Hi," he greeted, hoping that thing didn''t hear what he muttered before. But the shadow didn''t respond. It just did its job before it vanished.


    His smile faded. "It won''t tell Cassius, won''t it?" he muttered.


    Part of him wanted to march right back to the foyer and demand answers, but he knew better than to try his luck. Cassius wasn''t someone he could argue with unless he wanted to end up on the wrong end of Cassius'' patience. So, instead, he took a moment to steel himself, shoving his frustration down and turning back toward the main room.


    When he returned, the atmosphere had shifted. Evelyn and Cassius both looked at him as he walked in, their faces serious. Evelyn''s expression softened for a moment, but she didn''t say anything. Instead, she gave him a nod and slipped out of the room, leaving him alone with Cassius.


    Cassius nodded toward him, his dark eyes as unreadable as ever. "Let''s head to the training room," he said simply. "There''s work to be done."


    Damian clenched his jaw, the spike of irritation flaring up again, but he held back any retorts and followed him down the hall.


    Cassius turned to face him, his gaze fixed and unyielding. "If you have something to say, say it."


    Damian didn''t hesitate, his frustration finally breaking free. "Oh, I have plenty to say. Like why you sent me out of the room in the first place. If there are people out there planning to come after me, don''t you think I have a right to know what''s going on?"


    Cassius''s gaze softened just a fraction, but his tone remained calm and steady. "You''re right to be frustrated. But understand this¡ªsome knowledge can be as dangerous as ignorance, especially when it comes to the enemies you''re facing." He paused, letting the words sink in. "I''m telling you now because you''re ready for it. Earlier, you weren''t."


    Damian let out a slow, shaky breath, forcing himself to listen despite the impatience gnawing at him. "Fine. So what is it? What am I up against?"


    Cassius regarded him with a serious, almost grave look. "The sorcerer... She''s dangerous. Cunning, ruthless, and skilled in elemental magic beyond what most of us can comprehend. She''s not alone, either. You''ve become a target, and those who want you gone are relentless. They won''t stop until they''ve dealt with you." He paused, his gaze piercing. "You need to be prepared, more than you''ve ever been."


    A cold shiver ran down Damian''s spine, but he masked it with a determined frown. "So she''s that big of a threat, huh?"


    "More than that," Cassius answered, voice somber. "The vampire is no less dangerous, though his motives are different. They present a threat far greater than you realize. They''re both powerful and they have their own reasons for wanting you... out of the picture."


    Damian swallowed, Cassius''s words pressing down on him like a tangible force. "So... I just have to watch my back constantly, then? Sounds great."


    Cassius''s gaze hardened, his expression turning fierce. "This is serious. You can''t afford to face these threats casually. You''ll need to be stronger, faster, and smarter than ever before. That''s why I want you to make more pacts. Surround yourself with allies and servants who can stand by your side and support you."

 Chapter 94: Out of The Picture

    Warlock Ch 94. Out of The Picture


    Damian let out a slow, resigned sigh. "Alright, sounds like a good way out."


    A hint of approval glinted in Cassius''s eyes, though he said nothing. Instead, he stepped closer, his voice softening. "Good. This isn''t just about gathering power¡ªit''s about loyalty, about knowing who you can truly trust when things get dark. Because those who stand with you now will define the battles you fight. Servants are the warlock''s best allies."


    Damian met Cassius''s gaze, his own determination solidifying. They arrived in the training room.


    "Alright," Damian said, his voice steady, a spark of excitement flaring in his chest. He stepped to the center of the training room, facing Cassius with unwavering focus. "Let''s get started."


    Cassius gave a slight nod, clearly pleased with Damian''s determination. He made his barrier and reached into his robe, pulling it back to reveal a row of flasks tied to his belt, each filled with a strange, colored liquid. Damian''s eyes quickly scanned them, his recent studies coming in handy¡ªeach flask was a summoning potion, each capable of calling forth different types of beasts, each with unique elements and levels.


    Cassius selected one flask, its liquid a ghostly silver that seemed to pulse with an eerie glow. "This," he said, lifting it, "is Phantom Beast Brew. Prepare yourself."


    Before Damian could fully process his words, Cassius dropped the flask. The liquid spilled out in mid-air, spreading into a complex, glowing formation on the floor beneath him. The lines of the magic circle shimmered, flickering like silver flames, and a low hum filled the room as energy built around the summoning spot.


    Without hesitation, Damian called out, "Fenrith!"


    The room darkened briefly, shadows pooling around him as his loyal servant materialized. Fenrith was a fierce wolf-like creature with dark fur and eyes that gleamed with intelligence and loyalty. As Fenrith stood by his side, Damian quickly checked his stats, his mind racing through his options.


    Fenrith <Level 32>


    HP: 1,400/1,400


    MP: 250/250


    Skills: [Savage Bite], [Triple Roar], [Void Howl], [Lunar Blessing]


    Weakness: Unknown


    ''Good,'' Damian thought. Fenrith was ready, but he couldn''t help feeling a pang of unease as he looked back to the summoning circle. Whatever creature Cassius had summoned was powerful, maybe even beyond anything he''d faced in training so far. The air thickened as the summoning magic intensified, filling the room with an almost oppressive weight.


    And then, with a sudden burst of energy, the creature appeared.


    A sleek, menacing raven with blood-red feathers emerged from the formation, its wings unfurling with a powerful flap that sent a gust of wind sweeping through the room. Its eyes, sharp and calculating, locked onto Damian and Fenrith with an unsettling intensity. The raven''s dark aura pulsed as it let out a chilling screech that echoed off the walls.


    Damian''s eyes widened as he took in the stats floating before him.


    Bloodwing Raven <Level 44>


    HP: 1,900/1,900


    MP: 360/360


    Skills: [Life Siphon], [Bloodstorm], [Screech of Terror]


    Weakness: Lightning-based attacks and sound-based spells; physical attacks are less effective at close range due to its evasive movements.


    "A raven?" he muttered, his mind racing. ''How am I supposed to beat that?''


    The raven''s HP was significantly higher than Fenrith''s, and its skills hinted at a range of deadly abilities that could end the fight before it even began. He needed to be careful, to stay focused. He looked over at Fenrith, who was already growling lowly, his hackles raised, ready to attack on command.


    "Alright, Fenrith," Damian said, his voice firm. "Let''s go with [Void Howl] and keep our distance. We need to see what this thing''s capable of first."


    Fenrith let out a powerful, echoing howl, the sound rippling through the air with a dark energy that seemed to disrupt the Bloodwing Raven''s focus. But the raven barely flinched. It let out a piercing, bloodcurdling screech¡ª[Screech of Terror]¡ªthat made Damian''s ears ring and filled him with a brief, paralyzing fear. He gritted his teeth, pushing past the effects, but Fenrith took a hit, recoiling as the screech affected him even more.


    "Damn, that''s strong," Damian muttered, quickly assessing his options. He needed to disrupt the raven''s abilities before it could chain them together. "Alright, no more messing around. [Arcane Bolt]!"


    A pulse of bright energy gathered in Damian''s palm, crackling as it formed into a bolt. With a fierce determination, he fired it directly at the Bloodwing Raven, watching as the dark energy streaked toward his target. But just as the bolt neared the raven, the creature swerved mid-air with an effortless grace, the attack whizzing harmlessly past it.


    "Damn it!" Damian muttered under his breath. The raven''s agility was unreal; every move it made was precise, calculating. It twisted and dodged like it was born to evade.


    He glanced at Fenrith, who stood at his side, growling in frustration. Every time Fenrith lunged, the raven would simply dart upward, staying just out of reach, taunting them from above. Damian could see the frustration building in his companion, a mirror of his own irritation.


    The Bloodwing Raven flapped its crimson wings, circling them like a predator toying with its prey. Its eyes glinted with malice as it let out a sharp, ear-piercing screech¡ªits [Screech of Terror] attack.


    Damian winced, covering his ears against the shrill sound. He felt a surge of fear briefly tighten in his chest before he managed to shake it off. Beside him, Fenrith flinched, his hackles rising as he recovered from the stunning effect of the screech.


    "Alright, enough games," Damian muttered, clenching his fists as he steeled himself. He raised his hand and fired another [Dark Bolt], aiming for the raven as it swooped down for another pass. But again, the raven dodged, flapping its wings and ascending higher, well out of reach.


    ''Think, Damian... think!''


    He gritted his teeth, frustration boiling inside him. Every attack they threw seemed to miss by a hair''s breadth, while the raven continued to swoop down with sharp claws and vicious speed, leaving them scrambling to dodge.

 Chapter 95: Bind It or Lock It Up

    Warlock Ch 95. Bind It or Lock It Up


    The raven darted down again, its beak gleaming as it aimed straight for Damian. He rolled to the side, narrowly avoiding the strike as the creature soared back up with a mocking caw.


    ''Wait... this feels familiar...''


    The thought struck him suddenly, like a half-remembered dream. It wasn''t his memory, not entirely, but a strange fragment, a voice from somewhere deep within his mind. A voice that didn''t belong to him, yet it felt... familiar.


    ''You know what? If I can''t fly, I''ll bring it down. If it''s too fast, I just need to bind it... or lock it up.''


    The words echoed in his mind, the tone confident, almost amused, like a mentor giving a lesson. The voice wasn''t his own, but the hint was enough to ignite a spark in his mind.


    "Bind it... or lock it up," he murmured, a grin tugging at the corners of his mouth. He knew exactly what to do.


    "Fenrith!" he called, and his loyal servant perked up, ready for the next command. "We''re not going to chase it anymore. Let it come to us."


    Fenrith nodded, his eyes narrowing as he planted his paws firmly on the ground, bracing himself. Damian took a deep breath, feeling the mana surge within him as he prepared his next spell.


    The raven circled above them, clearly calculating its next move. It screeched, its wings folding back as it dived toward them, razor-sharp talons aimed for Damian''s head. But this time, Damian was ready.


    "[Dark Chains]!" he shouted, extending his hand as ethereal chains of darkness shot from his fingers, streaking upward to intercept the raven.


    The chains wrapped around the raven''s wings, binding it mid-flight, the dark energy coiling around its body and restricting its movements. The raven let out a furious screech, struggling against the chains as it tried to break free, but the bindings held strong.


    [Bloodwing Raven''s Power reduced by 30%].


    "Now, Fenrith!" Damian yelled. "Attack with [Savage Bite]!"


    Fenrith lunged forward, his powerful jaws clamping down on the raven''s bound wing. The creature screeched, thrashing as Fenrith''s fangs tore into its feathers and flesh.


    [Bloodwing Raven] took 178 damage.


    The raven struggled, its body jerking as it tried to break free from both the chains and Fenrith''s grip. Damian knew he had only moments before the creature found a way out.


    He raised his hand, gathering the energy for another spell. "[Arcane Bolt]!" he shouted, firing a blast of pure arcane energy that arced toward the raven and split mid-air, chaining into three bolts that struck the creature with a bright flash.


    [Bloodwing Raven] took 132 damage.


    The raven''s HP dipped, but it wasn''t done yet. With a burst of desperation, it managed to break free of the chains, flapping its wings wildly as it shot back into the air. Damian watched, heart racing as the raven glared at him, its eyes filled with fury.


    "Alright, if that''s how it''s gonna be..." Damian muttered, his hand crackling with dark energy as he prepared his next move. He was done letting this bird dictate the fight.


    "Fenrith, get ready to dodge," he called, his voice tense. "That thing''s about to pull something nasty."


    The raven''s aura pulsed as it prepared to unleash its next skill, [Bloodstorm]. Damian recognized the attack just as the red mist began swirling around it, expanding outward in a violent vortex of blood-red energy. The storm whipped through the room, threatening to engulf them both.


    "[Shadow Barrier]!" Damian called, a dark shield forming around him and Fenrith just in time. The barrier absorbed most of the impact, but the sheer force of the storm pushed them back, testing the limits of his defenses.


    Once the storm subsided, Damian knew he needed to press the attack while the raven was vulnerable. He raised his hand, summoning a concentrated spear of dark flames.


    "[Hellfire Spear]!"


    He hurled the spear at the raven, the dark flames streaking through the air like a comet. But just as the spear neared, the raven twisted, evading the attack with an infuriating ease.


    "Ugh, this thing''s driving me nuts," Damian growled, clenching his fists. He glanced at Fenrith, who looked equally frustrated, his eyes locked on the raven as it hovered above them, taunting them with every beat of its wings.


    Then, an idea hit him¡ªa strategy that was risky but just might work.


    "Fenrith, I''m going to need you to distract it. Use [Triple Roar] and keep it focused on you. I''ll take it from the side."


    Fenrith nodded, his eyes gleaming with understanding. He braced himself, then let out three successive roars, each one carrying a pulse of dark energy that rippled through the air. The raven''s attention snapped to Fenrith, its red eyes narrowing as it prepared to dive toward him.


    This was his chance.


    Activating [Spectral Surge], Damian felt his body lighten as his speed and reflexes boosted, a ghostly trail following him as he darted to the side. He moved quickly, positioning himself at an angle where he had a clear shot at the raven''s blind spot.


    "Alright, time to end this," he muttered, raising his hand. "[Dark Bolt]!"


    The concentrated blast of dark energy shot from his hand, striking the raven in the side before it could react.


    [Bloodwing Raven] took 250 damage. Fear status inflicted.


    The raven screeched, momentarily disoriented as the Fear effect took hold, its movements faltering as it struggled to regain control. Damian''s eyes narrowed, knowing he had only seconds to capitalize on this opening.


    He quickly extended his hand, shadows curling around his fingers as he prepared to cast [Dark Chains] again, hoping to bind the raven before it could recover. But the raven was fast. Even in its disoriented state, it managed to snap out of the Fear effect, flapping its wings furiously and darting away just as the chains reached for it, the dark tendrils missing their mark by inches.


    The Bloodwing Raven let out a furious screech, realizing that Damian''s strategy relied heavily on binding it up close. It circled high above, keeping a careful distance, its keen eyes watching him warily.

 Chapter 96: Second Servant

    Warlock Ch 96. Second Servant


    "Alright, fine," Damian muttered, smirking as he adjusted his approach. "You want to play hard to catch? Let''s see how you handle us coming at you from two sides."


    "Fenrith!" Damian called, glancing at his loyal companion. "We''re going in from two directions. I''ll come at it from above¡ªtry to get in close and draw its attention."


    Fenrith growled in response, his sharp gaze locked onto the raven. They moved in tandem, splitting off in opposite directions, their steps mirroring each other as they approached the creature from both sides. The raven watched them, its crimson eyes narrowing as it tried to track both of them, a trace of unease flickering in its expression.


    Damian''s mind raced. He knew that if he tried to get close, the raven would simply evade him, so he needed something to box it in, something it couldn''t dodge. And he had the perfect solution.


    He raised his hand, dark energy crackling around him as he summoned [Shadow Barrier]. The barrier shimmered into existence around the raven, closing in on the raven and limiting its movement.


    The Bloodwing Raven let out an agitated caw, its wings beating against the confined space as it struggled to maintain its evasive advantage. Damian''s grin widened, his plan starting to come together. He and Fenrith positioned themselves, the barrier effectively trapping the raven. "Now!" Damian shouted, signaling to Fenrith.


    They both jumped, launching themselves off the barrier''s surface and up toward the raven in a synchronized attack. Damian''s hand reached down, his energy pulsing as he prepared to unleash his skill.


    Fenrith lunged at the raven from one side, his fangs bared, while Damian came at it from the other, his hands brimming with dark energy. The raven''s eyes widened, realizing it had nowhere to go. With a desperate flap of its wings, it tried to ascend, but the barrier was too narrow, too restrictive.


    They struck together, driving the raven downward. He extended his hand to the floor.


    "[Dark Dominion]!" he shouted, and a dark aura erupted from the ground, spreading in a swirling, shadowy mist that engulfed the raven as it crashed down within the confined space.


    Before they also crashed, Damian and Ferith jumped again. He grabbed onto Fenrith mid-air and went to the safe space.


    The Dark Dominion wrapped around the raven, binding it in place and dealing continuous damage that pulsed with each passing second.


    [Bloodwing Raven took 200 damage.]


    The raven screeched, thrashing in the grip of the dark energy as it struggled to break free. But the Dark Dominion held strong, its relentless damage chipping away at the raven''s HP. Damian''s gaze was steely as he watched the creature''s struggles, knowing he had the upper hand at last.


    He stepped forward, his expression calm yet filled with resolve. "Listen," he called out, his voice carrying a note of command. "You''re tough, I''ll give you that. But you''re not getting out of this unless you''re willing to make a deal."


    The raven''s screeches quieted as it turned its furious gaze on him, the pain of the Dark Dominion wearing down its strength. Damian raised his hand, letting the dark energy ripple around him as he held its attention.


    "I''ll release you from this binding... if you agree to make a pact with me," he said firmly, his eyes locked onto the raven''s. "Fight for me, stand by my side, and I''ll make sure you don''t fall like this again."


    The raven hesitated, its gaze flickering between Damian and the shadowy aura holding it captive. A moment passed, filled only with the sound of its labored breaths, before it gave a sharp, acknowledging caw, its head bowing slightly in submission.


    Damian felt a rush of satisfaction as he saw the agreement in its eyes. He released the Dark Dominion, allowing the energy to dissipate as he stepped back, his heart pounding with the thrill of victory.


    He extended his hand toward the raven, feeling the surge of magic as he invoked [Pact Creation]. Dark tendrils of energy reached out, wrapping around the raven as the bond took hold, linking them in a shared understanding.


    The raven''s stats appeared before him, updated to reflect its new status as his servant.


    Bloodwing Raven <Level 44>


    HP: 1,900/1,900


    MP: 360/360


    Skills: [Life Siphon], [Bloodstorm], [Screech of Terror]


    Weakness: Lightning-based attacks and sound-based spells


    The pact solidified. The raven acknowledged him as its new master. It gave a low, respectful caw, its previously defiant gaze softened by loyalty.


    Damian nodded. He glanced at Fenrith, who had watched the entire exchange with a quiet, approving look.


    "Well," Damian said, catching his breath as he looked between his two servants, a small grin tugging at his lips. "Looks like we''re building quite the team."


    He glanced over at Cassius, half-expecting some sort of response, maybe even a faint nod of approval. But Cassius, as usual, wore that stony, unreadable expression, his eyes as calm and distant as ever. Damian sighed inwardly. ''What did I expect from him?'' The man was about as likely to hand out compliments as he was to reveal the secrets of the universe.


    Just as Damian was about to turn away, Cassius moved, a subtle shift as he raised his hand and summoned his own servants. Three figures appeared, materializing in the dim light of the training room. Damian''s eyes widened as he took in their forms.


    The first was a towering, armored figure with crimson plating that shimmered like molten lava. Its eyes glowed a searing red, and its hands were wreathed in flames. The air around it warped with heat, and Damian could feel its raw power thrumming through the room.


    Molten Guardian <Level 50>


    HP: 2,200/2,200


    MP: 400/400


    Skills: [Flame Strike], [Inferno Barrier], [Magma Rush]


    Weakness: Water and ice-based attacks


    The second was a shadowy, almost spectral figure, its form constantly shifting, fading in and out of focus like smoke caught in the wind. Its eyes were voids, endless and unsettling, and its aura felt like a void sucking the warmth out of the room.


    Void Wraith <Level 50>


    HP: 1,800/1,800


    MP: 450/450


    Skills: [Shadow Blink], [Soul Drain], [Abyssal Bind]


    Weakness: Light-based attacks


    The last servant was a beast that resembled a cross between a wolf and a lion, its mane crackling with electricity, arcs of lightning dancing along its fur. It moved with a deadly grace, each step quiet yet powerful, its eyes sharp and calculating.


    Stormbeast <Level 50>


    HP: 2,000/2,000


    MP: 500/500


    Skills: [Thunder Pounce], [Electric Surge], [Storm Roar]


    Weakness: Earth-based attacks

 Chapter 97: Less Talk

    Warlock Ch 97. Less Talk


    Damian''s heart pounded as he took in the sight of these opponents. Cassius clearly meant for this to be more than just a warm-up.


    Cassius''s eyes flicked to him, a slight tilt of his head as he spoke, his tone as dry as ever. "Expecting a compliment, were you?"


    Damian let out a nervous chuckle, trying to keep his cool. "No, not really. Just thought maybe you''d have a... tip or something."


    Cassius''s expression didn''t change. "Less talk, more practice," he replied calmly, his voice carrying an edge of challenge. "This time, I want to test your fighting skills and teamwork. Prove to me that this team of yours can handle real threats."


    Damian took a steadying breath, glancing at Fenrith and Bloodwing Raven, who both stood at his side, poised and ready. He could sense their focus, their resolve, and it filled him with a renewed sense of determination.


    "Alright, team," he muttered, his eyes narrowing as he analyzed their opponents. "Let''s show him what we''ve got."


    The three enemy servants moved first, closing in from different angles. The Molten Guardian let out a deep, rumbling growl as it raised a hand, flames gathering around its fist before it charged with [Magma Rush], leaving a trail of molten lava in its wake. The Void Wraith blinked in and out of existence, its form shifting as it circled around, waiting for an opening, while the Stormbeast''s fur bristled with energy, its gaze locked onto Damian.


    "Bloodwing, keep the Stormbeast distracted! Fenrith, you''re with me on the Guardian!" Damian called, formulating his strategy on the fly.


    The Bloodwing Raven let out a piercing [Screech of Terror], directing it toward the Stormbeast. The creature flinched, its movements faltering as the sound disoriented it, giving Bloodwing Raven the opening it needed to swoop down, keeping the Stormbeast occupied.


    Meanwhile, Fenrith lunged forward with a ferocious snarl, his claws digging into the ground as he charged the Molten Guardian. Damian followed close behind, his hand raised as he gathered energy for [Dark Chains]. He had to bind the Guardian if they wanted to stand a chance.


    As they closed in, the Molten Guardian raised its fist, flames bursting forth as it prepared to unleash [Flame Strike]. Damian''s eyes narrowed, his focus razor-sharp.


    "[Dark Chains]!" he shouted, the dark tendrils shooting forward, wrapping around the Guardian''s arm and immobilizing it just as it was about to strike. The chains tightened, sapping the creature''s strength as it struggled against the binding.


    [Molten Guardian''s Power reduced by 30%].


    "Fenrith, now!" Damian yelled.


    Fenrith leaped at the Guardian, his jaws clamping down on its shoulder with a vicious [Savage Bite]. The creature let out a deep, rumbling growl as it staggered back, flames flickering around it as it tried to shake Fenrith off.


    [Molten Guardian] took 184 damage.


    The Void Wraith, however, was not idle. It blinked into existence just behind Damian, reaching out with a shadowy hand to unleash [Soul Drain]. Damian felt a cold, draining sensation as the spell took hold, sapping his energy.


    "Not so fast!" he gritted out, summoning his [Shadow Barrier] to block the Wraith''s next attack. The barrier absorbed the worst of the energy, giving him a moment''s reprieve.


    The Stormbeast, meanwhile, had recovered from Bloodwing Raven''s screech. It growled, arcs of electricity crackling along its mane as it prepared to launch [Electric Surge]. Bloodwing Raven flapped its wings, staying just out of reach, but the Stormbeast was relentless, jumping up with a powerful leap to get closer.


    "Bloodwing, use [Life Siphon]!" Damian ordered.


    The raven complied, extending its talons as a dark energy flowed from the Stormbeast to it, siphoning its health and weakening it momentarily.


    [Stormbeast] took 145 damage.


    The Molten Guardian roared, managing to break free of the dark chains, flames surging around it as it prepared to strike again. Damian backed up, his mind racing as he tried to think of a way to neutralize it.


    "Fine," he muttered, gathering his energy once more. "[Hellfire Spear]!"


    A blazing spear of dark flames formed in his hand, the heat intense as he hurled it directly at the Guardian''s chest. The spear struck true, piercing through its armor with a fiery explosion.


    [Molten Guardian] took 210 damage.


    The creature staggered, flames sputtering as it tried to recover, but Damian wasn''t done yet. He reached out, activating [Dark Dominion], the ground around him darkening as shadows spread in a fifteen-meter radius, sapping the strength of the Guardian, the Wraith, and the Stormbeast alike.


    [Molten Guardian, Void Wraith, Stormbeast took 150 damage per second].


    The dark energy pulsed, dealing continuous damage as the three opponents struggled within its range. Damian felt a surge of adrenaline, his mind clear as he coordinated his next move.


    "Fenrith, [Triple Roar] on the Void Wraith! Bloodwing, keep the Stormbeast busy with [Bloodstorm]!"


    Fenrith let out a powerful, echoing roar, the sound waves rippling through the air and disrupting the Wraith''s form, causing it to flicker and lose focus.


    [Void Wraith] took 120 damage.


    Bloodwing Raven summoned a swirling vortex of dark red energy, the [Bloodstorm] enveloping the Stormbeast and keeping it trapped within the violent winds. The creature howled, its fur crackling with electricity as it tried to fight its way out, but the storm''s intensity kept it contained.


    [Stormbeast] took 165 damage.


    The Void Wraith shifted, slipping out of Fenrith''s range with [Shadow Blink], reappearing behind Damian with a deadly, silent focus. It reached out, its spectral fingers brushing Damian''s back in an attempt to drain his life force again.


    Damian spun around, his eyes flashing as he cast [Arcane Bolt], the energy chaining out to strike the Void Wraith, then the Molten Guardian, and finally, the Stormbeast in rapid succession.


    [Void Wraith] took 132 damage.


    [Molten Guardian] took 143 damage.


    [Stormbeast] took 121 damage.


    With a growl, the Molten Guardian staggered, its HP dropping dangerously low. Damian knew he needed to finish it off quickly before it could recover.


    "Fenrith, go for the kill! [Savage Bite] on the Guardian!"

 Chapter 98: Rank F

    Warlock Ch 98. Rank F


    Fenrith leaped forward, his powerful jaws clamping down on the Guardian''s neck, dealing a crushing blow as he tore through its armor.


    [Molten Guardian] took 200 damage.


    The Guardian fell with a heavy crash, its flames sputtering out as its form dissolved into nothingness.


    Damian turned his attention to the remaining two servants, his heart pounding with determination. The Void Wraith and Stormbeast were weakened, but they weren''t out yet. He tightened his grip, ready for the final push.


    "Alright, team," Damian called, his voice steady as his eyes flashed with fierce determination. "Let''s finish this together."


    The Void Wraith and Stormbeast, though battered, still had fight left in them, but Damian was ready to end this.


    "Bloodwing, keep the Stormbeast busy!" he ordered, and with a sharp caw, the raven dove toward the Stormbeast, its claws extended. The Stormbeast snarled, charging up another [Electric Surge], but the raven was relentless, weaving through the air and keeping the creature''s focus off Damian.


    "Fenrith," Damian said, giving his loyal companion a nod. "Let''s handle the Void Wraith."


    Fenrith growled in agreement, his eyes locked on the Wraith, whose smoky form flickered in and out of focus. Damian activated [Spectral Surge], feeling a sudden boost in speed and reflexes, his body moving with a ghostly trail that seemed to confuse the Void Wraith''s shifting eyes. The energy coursed through him, heightening his senses and making each movement feel sharper, more precise.


    The Void Wraith blinked behind him, reaching out with its shadowy hand to unleash another [Soul Drain]. But Damian was ready, his boosted reflexes allowing him to sidestep and counter with a powerful [Dark Bolt].


    The concentrated blast of dark energy hit the Wraith dead-on, causing it to stagger back, its form flickering as it struggled to recover.


    [Void Wraith] took 200 damage.


    As the Void Wraith faltered, Fenrith lunged forward with a vicious [Savage Bite], his fangs sinking into the creature''s shifting form. The Wraith let out a distorted wail, its HP ticking down as Fenrith''s powerful jaws tore through it.


    [Void Wraith] took 180 damage.


    Damian could see its HP dropping rapidly, the combined force of his [Dark Bolt] and Fenrith''s attack pushing it closer to defeat. But he didn''t want to leave anything to chance. He raised his hand, summoning a dark spear that burned with intense flames.


    "[Hellfire Spear]!"


    The spear blazed through the air, piercing the Void Wraith with a burst of dark fire that consumed its form. The Wraith let out one final, anguished wail before its HP dropped to zero, its form dissolving into the shadows.


    [Void Wraith] took 250 damage.


    With the Void Wraith defeated, Damian turned his focus to the remaining threat. The Stormbeast. Bloodwing Raven was keeping it occupied, swooping in and out with precise strikes, while the creature''s HP continued to drop.


    "Raven, let''s hit it hard!" Damian called, his eyes flashing with determination as he raised his hand, preparing for one final strike. "[Dark Dominion]!"


    Dark energy surged around him, spreading out in a fifteen-meter radius, engulfing the Stormbeast in a swirling aura of shadows. The creature howled as the dark energy chipped away at its HP, sapping its strength and leaving it vulnerable.


    [Stormbeast] took 200 damage per second.


    Bloodwing Raven let out a screech and dove in with [Life Siphon], draining the last remnants of the Stormbeast''s health as the dark energy continued to eat away at it.


    [Stormbeast] took 145 damage.


    The Stormbeast let out a defeated snarl before collapsing, its form dissolving into crackles of electricity and fading into the darkness. Damian let out a breath.


    [Level Up!]


    [You has gained 5 levels!]


    [Fenrith has gained 2 levels!]


    [Bloodwing Raven has gained 1 level!]


    [Dark Dominion has increased to Level 3!]


    Dark Dominion Lv. 3: Range increased to 20 meters, duration extended to 20 seconds, and damage increased by +30% per second. Now causes slight Fear in enemies upon activation.


    [Hellfire Spear has increased to Level 2!]


    Hellfire Spear Lv. 2: Flame heat and corrosive effect increased by 25%, capable of burning through most magical barriers. Cooldown reduced.


    [Spectral Surge has increased to Level 2!]


    Spectral Surge Lv. 2: Boosts speed, strength, and reflexes by 20%. Movements now leave an afterimage, confusing enemies. Duration extended to 12 minutes.


    [Warlock Rank Up!]


    Warlock Rank: F


    He checked his updated stats, pleased to see the gains from leveling up.


    Name: Damian Blackthorn


    Age: 23


    Class: Warlock of Eternal Bonds


    Rank: F


    Level: 28


    Partners: Evelyn Windward (Witch)


    Servants: Fenrith (Three-Headed Wolf), Bloodwing Raven (Blood Raven)


    Stats:


    Mana Power: A


    Stamina: B+


    Endurance: B+


    Strength: A


    Agility: A+


    Magic Affinity: A-


    XP: 0/4500


    Bond Points: 4


    He grinned at the stat boosts. He glanced at Fenrith and Bloodwing Raven, both of whom had leveled up as well.


    Fenrith <Level 34>


    HP: 1,600/1,600


    MP: 270/270


    Skills: [Savage Bite], [Triple Roar], [Void Howl], [Lunar Blessing]


    Weakness: Unknown


    Bloodwing Raven <Level 45>


    HP: 2,100/2,100


    MP: 380/380


    Skills: [Life Siphon], [Bloodstorm], [Screech of Terror]


    Weakness: Lightning-based attacks and sound-based spells


    Damian turned to Cassius with a grin. "I just got my rank!" he announced, his voice brimming with excitement.


    Cassius gave him a steady look, arching an eyebrow ever so slightly. "So, you''re a Rank F Warlock now, huh?"


    "Yup!" Damian replied, pride shining in his eyes. Beside him, Fenrith and Bloodwing Raven seemed to share his enthusiasm.


    "Good," Cassius said, his tone as flat as ever.


    Damian''s grin widened; he''d rarely heard anything that even resembled praise from Cassius, so this moment felt especially satisfying. For a second, he almost forgot where they were¡ªuntil Cassius reached into his robe and pulled out another flask, this one filled with a swirling weird looking liquid. It was called "Draught of Elemental Servants".


    "Here," Cassius said, holding up the flask. "Your reward."


    Damian''s eyes lit up, but the feeling was short-lived. Cassius dropped the potion to the floor, and as it shattered, the liquid spread out, forming a swirling magic circle in the center of the training room.


    The air grew thick, the ground trembled, and with a loud rumble, a massive creature rose from the formation, solidifying into a towering figure of stone and earth. Its back was jagged with rock formations, and its eyes glowed an eerie, earthy green as it let out a deep, resonant roar that shook the walls.


    Stoneback Golem <Level 48>


    HP: 2,800/2,800


    MP: 200/200


    Skills: [Earthquake Stomp], [Stone Skin], [Rock Shard Barrage]


    Weakness: Susceptible to water-based attacks, which erode its defenses; highly vulnerable to magic-based attacks, particularly wind and ice.


    Damian cringed, taking a small step back. "This is not a reward."


    Cassius''s stony face remained unchanged, but there was a glint of amusement in his eyes. "It''s a reward, at least for me," he replied. "Now, let''s see if you''re ready to handle it."


    Damian huffed, glancing at the hulking golem before him. "Right, okay. Reward, huh?" He smirked, summoning his resolve. "Fine, reward. You''re mine."


    He turned to his two servants, already strategizing. "Bloodwing, keep your distance and use [Life Siphon] whenever you get an opening. We need to wear it down. Fenrith, go in close and use [Void Howl]¡ªlet''s see if we can rattle this rock."

 Chapter 99: Level 50 Before Sunset

    Warlock Ch 99. Level 50 Before Sunset


    Once again, Damian spent the rest of the day locked in intense training. The Stoneback Golem had been only the start¡ªa brutal, exhausting start, but still just the beginning. Cassius didn''t believe in easy victories, and it showed in every grueling task he threw Damian''s way.


    Damian''s muscles burned, his mana reserves were running on fumes, and every part of him ached.


    After what felt like hours, Cassius finally called for a break. Relief flooded Damian, but that relief was short-lived. Instead of leading him to the dining room, a shadow servant went in and brought them the food¡ªright there, in the training room.


    "Great," Damian muttered to himself, wiping the sweat from his forehead. "Lunch and training¡ªtogether, as always."


    Cassius approached, his face as impassive as ever. Without a word, he handed Damian two flasks¡ªone glowing with a faint green hue, the other a deep sapphire. A stamina potion and a mana potion.


    "Take these," Cassius said, his tone as stern as ever. He then turned to Fenrith, Raven and Damian''s new servant, Golem, observing them closely before giving each a potion of their own. Damian watched as his servants took the potions, grateful that Cassius hadn''t overlooked them. They''d fought hard, and he could see their fatigue.


    They had no more than thirty minutes to rest. As soon as that time was up, Cassius was back, standing over them with a gaze that left no room for negotiation.


    "Ready yourselves," Cassius said, his voice leaving no room for argument. "You have one task, reach level 50 before sunset."


    Damian nearly dropped his empty flask. "Wait... what?" The words slipped out before he could stop himself. He was exhausted, both physically and mentally, and level 50 felt like a distant dream given the amount of progress he''d already made.


    Cassius raised an eyebrow, unperturbed. "You heard me."


    Damian wanted to argue, to insist that it was impossible. But the look in Cassius''s eyes told him there was no point. Cassius expected him to reach that goal, no matter what.


    He clenched his fists, taking a deep breath to steady himself. ''Alright, fine,'' he thought, determination hardening within him. ''If he wants level 50, then I''ll give him level 50.''


    Hours felt like eternity. His body trembled, muscles aching from non stop fighting. Cassius had him battling relentless waves of monsters, traps sprung from every corner of the training room, and his opponents growing stronger with each battle. At this point, Damian didn''t even have the energy to curse or glare at Cassius. All he wanted was to defeat the enemy in front of him and end this ordeal.


    Now, a new monster loomed before him¡ªa creature that exuded an eerie glow, its form shifting between solid and spectral like a ghost caught in a flickering light. The Spectral Serpent''s translucent body coiled and uncoiled, its scales shimmering with an unearthly sheen as it fixed its venomous gaze on him.


    Spectral Serpent <Level 50>


    HP: 2,600/2,600


    MP: 450/450


    Skills: [Venomous Mist], [Ghostly Glide], [Soul Bind]


    Weakness: Fire, holy, and light-based magic disrupt its spectral form, making it vulnerable.


    Cassius''s voice echoed in his mind, "Level 50 by sunset." The deadline felt like a shadow over him, urging him forward. He steadied himself, glancing at his allies.


    "Alright, everyone," he said, forcing strength into his voice. "This one''s tough, but we''re tougher. Bloodwing, stay above it and use [Screech of Terror] whenever it tries to strike. Fenrith, go for its body when it solidifies. And Golem..." He looked up at the towering Stoneback Golem. "Let''s keep this serpent grounded."


    Bloodwing Raven let out a fierce caw, his wings flaring as he circled above. Fenrith bared his teeth, his stance low and ready. The Golem lumbered forward, its hulking form casting a massive shadow over the battlefield.


    The Spectral Serpent hissed, its body shimmering as it activated [Ghostly Glide], slipping through the air like smoke on a breeze. Damian knew it wouldn''t be easy to land a hit on this creature.


    "[Arcane Bolt]!" Damian shouted, firing a bolt of pure arcane energy toward the serpent. The bolt arced through the air, splitting into several tendrils that sought out their mark.


    But the serpent twisted its body, dodging the majority of the bolts. One of the tendrils struck, dispersing in a flash of energy.


    [Spectral Serpent] took 160 damage.


    The serpent''s eyes flared with anger, and it responded with [Venomous Mist], a cloud of thick, poisonous vapor spreading through the room. Damian and his team staggered back as the mist rolled forward, the air heavy with a stinging, suffocating poison.


    "Bloodwing, get above it and use [Screech of Terror]!" Damian ordered, covering his mouth as he activated [Shadow Barrier] to shield himself from the worst of the poison.


    Bloodwing Raven ascended, unleashing a piercing screech that echoed throughout the room. The serpent faltered, its form flickering as the sound disoriented it momentarily.


    [Spectral Serpent] took 140 damage.


    The mist dissipated slightly, and Damian took advantage, gathering energy in his hand as he cast [Dark Chains]. Ethereal chains erupted from the ground, snaking up and wrapping around the serpent''s body, pulling it down and limiting its movement.


    "Now, everyone! Attack!"


    Fenrith charged forward, his claws digging into the ground as he leaped at the serpent, his fangs sinking into its spectral body. The serpent hissed in pain, its translucent form shifting under the assault.


    [Spectral Serpent] took 185 damage.


    Not wasting a second, Damian raised his hand and summoned [Hellfire Spear], the flame blazing brighter and hotter than before. He hurled it at the serpent''s midsection, the intense heat disrupting its spectral form.


    [Spectral Serpent] took 320 damage.


    The serpent writhed, its body flickering wildly as it struggled against the chains. But it wasn''t done yet. With a defiant hiss, it activated [Soul Bind], its eyes locking onto Damian as a dark tendril of energy extended from its form, latching onto his.


    Damian gasped as his energy began to drain, his strength sapping away as the serpent attempted to bind his soul.

 Chapter 100: Stop Being Dramatic!

    Warlock Ch 100. Stop Being Dramatic!


    "Golem, disrupt it!" he managed to shout, his voice strained.


    The Stoneback Golem lumbered forward, raising its massive fist before slamming it down with [Earthquake Stomp]. The impact sent shockwaves rippling through the ground, shattering the bond between Damian and the serpent.


    [Spectral Serpent] took 220 damage.


    Freed from the bind, Damian stumbled back, his vision briefly blurring from the strain. He steadied himself, breathing heavily as he assessed the battlefield. The serpent''s HP was dropping, but it was still putting up a fierce fight.


    "Alright, you want to play with souls? Try this," Damian muttered, summoning his energy once more. "[Dark Dominion]!"


    A dark aura expanded around him, the oppressive energy filling the room and spreading to a radius of 25 meters. The serpent shuddered as it entered the field, the aura amplifying the fear effects and sapping its strength with each passing second.


    [Spectral Serpent] took 250 damage per second.


    The creature writhed, hissing in terror as the darkness seeped into its very essence. Bloodwing Raven swooped down, talons glowing with dark energy as it unleashed [Life Siphon], draining the serpent''s remaining HP and weakening it further.


    [Spectral Serpent] took 180 damage.


    The serpent was on its last resort, its form flickering and fading as it desperately tried to hold on. Damian took a steadying breath, watching as his team worked in unison, wearing down the creature''s defenses.


    He stepped forward, feeling a sudden clarity as he extended his hand toward the Spectral Serpent. "Enough," he said, his voice calm but commanding. "Join me. Make a pact, and I''ll release you from this fight."


    The serpent''s gaze locked onto him, its eyes filled with a strange, almost resigned acceptance. It knew it couldn''t win, and Damian could feel its desire to survive, even if it meant submitting.


    Slowly, it bowed its head, an ethereal glow forming around it as it acknowledged his offer.


    Damian activated [Pact Creation], dark tendrils of energy wrapping around the serpent, binding it in a shared contract. He felt the bond solidify, a new, powerful presence now linked to him, its energy mingling with his own.


    The Spectral Serpent''s stats appeared before him, updated to reflect its new status as his ally.


    Spectral Serpent <Level 50>


    HP: 2,600/2,600


    MP: 450/450


    Skills: [Venomous Mist], [Ghostly Glide], [Soul Bind]


    Damian released a long, shaky breath, his body finally relaxing as the battle came to an end. He barely had enough energy to stay upright, his limbs trembling from the hours of relentless combat. But he couldn''t help the surge of pride and satisfaction bubbling up inside him. Against all odds, he''d pushed through Cassius''s brutal regimen and climbed higher in level.


    With a shaking hand, he opened his status window.


    [Name: Damian Blackthorn]


    [Age: 23]


    [Class: Warlock of Eternal Bonds]


    [Rank: E]


    [Level: 55]


    [Partners: Evelyn Windward (Witch)]


    [Servants: Fenrith (Three-Headed Wolf), Bloodwing Raven (Blood Raven), Stoneback Golem (Earth Golem), Spectral Serpent (Ghost Snake)]


    Status:


    Mana Power: S-


    Stamina: A


    Endurance: A


    Strength: S-


    Agility: S


    Magic Affinity: S-


    XP: 0/20,000


    Bond Points: 6


    He let out a satisfied sigh. ''I made it...''he cried internally.


    Turning to Cassius, he realized that the warlock was already preparing to summon yet another wave of servants, his hand lifted, ready to unleash more.


    "Wait!" Damian called out, a note of desperation in his voice. "I''m level 55 now! Rank E!" He held up his status window, almost as if it were proof. His eyes locked onto Cassius, practically begging for mercy.


    Cassius paused, glancing at Damian''s status window before lowering his hand with a slight, almost imperceptible nod. "Fine. That''s all for today," he said, his tone begrudging.


    Relief crashed over Damian so hard he nearly collapsed. "Thank you..." he breathed, and he wasn''t entirely joking when he felt like tearing up.


    Cassius gave him a look that was somewhere between exasperation and amusement. "Stop being dramatic."


    "Dramatic? I fought for almost five hours nonstop!" Damian shot back, his voice a mix of exhaustion and indignation. He couldn''t even count how many battles he''d been through today.


    Cassius raised an eyebrow, his mouth twitching ever so slightly. "Should I make it six?"


    "No, no, no," Damian said quickly, holding up his hands in surrender. "I''ll stop being dramatic. I swear."


    Cassius smirked, and in that moment, Damian could''ve sworn he saw a flicker of genuine amusement. "Good. Now, follow me," Cassius said, gesturing for Damian to join him. "You''ve earned your reward."


    "Return," Damian commanded. His servants vanished, returning to wherever it was they went when he didn''t need them, Damian trudged after Cassius, feeling his stomach grumble with anticipation. After a day like today, he needed a meal that could fill the void left by endless combat and mana-draining spells. And he could only think of one thing.


    They walked down the quiet halls of Cassius''s weird mansion. Damian couldn''t help but let his mind drift to the meal ahead. He hadn''t had a proper lunch, and his stomach growled at the thought of what Cassius could prepare.


    "You know," Damian said, trying to lighten the mood as they walked. "I wouldn''t mind another serving of those Behemoth Steak Slabs." He smiled innocently like a kid hoping for a candy from his teacher.


    Cassius gave him a sideways glance. "Fine. Behemoth Steak Slabs it is," he replied, the faintest hint of a smile tugging at his lips.


    "Yes!" A grin broke out on Damian''s face as he followed Cassius into a large, warmly lit kitchen that looked surprisingly well-equipped.


    Cassius, despite his stoic exterior, seemed to take cooking seriously. Damian settled onto a stool by the counter, watching as Cassius moved around with quiet efficiency. He pulled a slab of meat that looked large enough to feed an entire group, laying it down on a thick cutting board.


    Damian didn''t say a word, didn''t even bother pretending he wasn''t completely fixated on the food. He grinned, his eyes glued to the meat as Cassius expertly flipped it over, the sizzling sound music to his ears.


    Without looking up, Cassius raised an eyebrow, his gaze briefly flicking to Damian''s unrestrained, almost predatory stare. "Can you not?"


    Damian blinked, caught off guard, but he couldn''t look away from the slabs. "What?" he asked, barely managing to tear his gaze from the food for a second. But his eyes immediately drifted back to the steak. "I''m just... admiring your work. That''s all."

 Chapter 101: Eating, Talking, and Breathing

    Warlock Ch 101. Eating, Talking, and Breathing


    Cassius gave a small huff of amusement, shaking his head as he went back to his task. "After hours of intense training, you''re still this focused?"


    Damian laughed, rubbing the back of his neck. "I mean, yeah, kind of. I don''t think I''ve been this hungry since... well, ever."


    Cassius smirked, flipping the steak one last time before reaching for a heavy-duty carving knife. The blade glinted in the warm light, and Damian could practically feel the weight of it. With practiced precision, Cassius cut through the slab, the tender meat parting effortlessly under the knife.


    Damian watched in rapt silence, his stomach doing somersaults as Cassius plated the steak. When he finally set a plate in front of him, Damian''s grin widened, his hand itching to dive in, even though he could tell Cassius expected some restraint.


    "Dig in," Cassius said, his tone as dry as ever.


    Damian didn''t need to be told twice. He took a piece, savoring the moment before taking a bite. The flavor was unlike anything he''d tasted, rich and earthy with a hint of spice that warmed his chest. It was a small taste of victory after hours of pushing himself to the limit.


    Cassius leaned against the counter, his gaze steady as he watched Damian enjoy the meal. "You''ve done well today," he said quietly, his tone softer than usual.


    Damian looked up, surprised by the rare praise. Without another word, he turned toward the window, his mind racing with exaggerated possibilities.


    Maybe some apocalyptic event was unfolding outside? Or a massive war? Yet all he saw was the peaceful landscape outside. No chaos, no catastrophe. Just a quiet evening.


    He squinted at the calm scene, then glanced back at Cassius, who was watching him with a flat stare.


    "What do you mean by that?" Cassius asked, his tone carrying that familiar, dangerous edge.


    Damian hesitated, searching for the right words. "Nothing," he said innocently, though the twitch at the corner of his mouth betrayed him. He gestured vaguely with his fork. "It''s just... you hardly ever give me any praise. And now you''re suddenly doing it. It''s... weird. Like, weird in a jinx sort of way."


    Cassius''s expression darkened into what could only be described as a death stare, his sharp eyes practically cutting into Damian''s soul. It was the kind of look that said, ''Are you serious right now?''


    Realizing his mistake, Damian threw up his hands defensively. "I''m just kidding!" he blurted, his grin almost painfully forced. "Thank you for the food and the praise. I really, really appreciate it."


    Cassius huffed, returning his attention to pouring himself a cup of tea.


    Damian sighed in relief and went back to eating. The steak was as tender and flavorful as ever, but something about the atmosphere made it feel... off. Like there was an invisible pressure in the room, and it was all coming from Cassius.


    Cassius sipped his tea in silence, but his eyes never left Damian. There was no warmth in his gaze, no hint of pride or even satisfaction. Instead, his expression resembled that of a calculating predator, analyzing its prey and contemplating the most effective way to inflict pain.


    Damian swallowed another bite, his appetite wavering under that unnerving stare. ''Is he thinking about how to torture me next?'' he wondered, the question gnawing at the edges of his mind. ''Or maybe he''s wondering up a new sadistic training method to throw at me tomorrow.''


    The steak, delicious as it was, suddenly felt heavier in his mouth. He chewed slowly, his eyes darting toward Cassius before quickly looking back at his plate.


    Finally, Damian couldn''t take it anymore. He lifted his head, his grin awkward and forced. "Uh... is your tea bad? You don''t look like you''re enjoying it that much."


    Cassius raised an eyebrow, his expression unchanging. "No," he replied simply. "My tea is good."


    "Then can you stop giving me that look?" Damian asked, his voice tinged with desperation. "You''re creeping me out."


    Cassius set his cup down with deliberate calm, his gaze sharpening as he leaned slightly forward. "I''m thinking."


    Damian''s stomach churned, and it wasn''t from the food. He forced a chuckle, trying to hide his rising panic. "What are you thinking about?"


    Cassius narrowed his eyes, the faintest glint of amusement flashing in them. "You wouldn''t want to know."


    Damian felt a shiver run down his spine. ''He''s absolutely thinking about how to make tomorrow worse,'' he thought grimly. ''Probably something with fire. Or more of those damned potions.''


    He tried to shake off the tension, focusing back on his plate. The steak didn''t taste as amazing as before, but hunger forced him to keep eating. He wasn''t going to waste something this good, even if the atmosphere made it feel like he was dining with an executioner.


    Food is food!


    "So," Damian began, trying to steer the conversation somewhere less ominous. "What''s the plan for tomorrow? More summoning? A different kind of nightmare?"


    Cassius gave him a long, unreadable look before taking another sip of tea. "Tomorrow will depend on how much energy you have left after today."


    Damian almost choked on his food. "Wait, depends on how much energy I have left? You''ve already drained me dry, Cassius! What''s left to take?"


    Cassius''s lips twitched, the closest thing to a smirk Damian had seen in hours. "You''ll be surprised how much more you can give when pushed hard enough."


    "That''s... not reassuring," Damian muttered, stabbing his steak a little harder than necessary. "I think I''ve already gone through every ounce of energy, stamina, and willpower I had."


    "Yet here you are," Cassius said, his tone calm but pointed. "Eating, talking, and breathing."


    Damian groaned, leaning back in his chair. "But I almost died," he said, his voice half a complaint, half a desperate plea for sympathy. "Like... a couple of times today."


    Cassius didn''t even blink. He simply raised one of his eyebrows, his expression as flat and unimpressed as ever. "Really? You don''t look like a dying person to me. Or someone who almost experienced death."

 Chapter 102: Unorthodox

    Warlock Ch 102. Unorthodox


    Damian opened his mouth, ready to launch into a tirade about the absurd amount of life-threatening situations he''d been thrown into over the past few hours. But he stopped himself, pressing his lips together and letting out a resigned sigh. ''What''s the point?'' Complaining to Cassius was like yelling at a brick wall¡ªonly the wall had a sharp tongue and an even sharper ability to turn complaints into worse punishments.


    Instead, he picked up his fork and stabbed another piece of steak. "Right," he muttered, shoving the bite into his mouth. No complaints. Just food. Food was safe.


    He chewed quietly, trying not to let his mind drift to the sheer insanity of the day. Five hours of nonstop training, brutal battles, and Cassius''s unrelenting standards. And yet, as much as he wanted to whine about it, he knew why it had to be this way. He needed to get stronger¡ªfast. He wasn''t just another player in this world; he was a target. A big one. And if he didn''t keep leveling up, someone would eventually catch up to him.


    Cassius, meanwhile, poured himself a cup of tea with the same deliberate precision he applied to everything else. Damian watched him out of the corner of his eye, hoping for some kind of shift in his demeanor¡ªa smile, a sigh, something that might show he wasn''t plotting the next round of sadistic training methods.


    Instead, Cassius sat down across from him, his hands wrapped around his cup as he stared. It wasn''t a casual, relaxed kind of look. Oh no. This was a calculating, dissecting stare that felt like it could peel away Damian''s very thoughts layer by layer. Damian tried to ignore it, focusing on his food, but the intensity of Cassius''s gaze made the air feel heavier.


    Finally, unable to take the silence any longer, Damian raised an eyebrow and said, "Can I help you with something, or is this just your usual attempt to make me squirm?"


    Cassius didn''t react immediately, taking a deliberate sip of his tea before speaking. "I will give you more books today," he said calmly, setting the cup down with a soft clink. "I hope you can study them tonight."


    ''More books?'' Damian swallowed and tried to keep his voice neutral. "Of course, books. You wouldn''t want me to get too comfortable."


    Cassius ignored the jab, his gaze unwavering. But the mention of books jogged something in Damian''s memory. He put his fork down and looked up at Cassius. "Speaking of books... yesterday, you mentioned a special one. Were you talking about the one written by Kaelan Voidweaver?"


    Cassius nodded slightly, confirming it.


    Damian leaned forward, curiosity sparking in his eyes. "Are there... any other books written by him? I mean, you must keep them somewhere, right? There should be two more, right?"


    Cassius''s eyes narrowed slightly. "Did Evelyn tell you that there were two other books?"


    Damian shook his head quickly. "No, she didn''t say anything. This may sound strange, but I just know. It''s like... something deep down tells me there are two more."


    Cassius studied him for a moment, his silence stretching on long enough to make Damian shift uncomfortably in his seat. Finally, he nodded. "I will give them to you later. The two books."


    Relief washed over Damian, and he smiled faintly. "Thank you."


    He returned to his meal, the promise of the books swirling in his mind. But the more he thought about it, the more questions bubbled to the surface. He glanced at Cassius, who had resumed sipping his tea, and hesitated before asking, "Do you know who Kaelan Voidweaver is?"


    Cassius lowered his cup and set it carefully on the table. "I know him," he said, his voice carrying a weight that made Damian sit up a little straighter. "He was a strong warlock. Stronger than me."


    Damian blinked in surprise. Stronger than Cassius? That wasn''t something he heard often¡ªor at all.


    Cassius continued, his gaze distant, as though recalling something long buried. "His methods and teachings were unorthodox. Most people considered them reckless. But they worked, and that''s what made him... interesting."


    The faintest smirk crossed Damian''s lips. "Unorthodox methods, huh? Sounds familiar."


    Cassius didn''t take the bait, his expression as impassive as ever. Damian leaned forward slightly, resting his arms on the table. "Do you think I could meet him someday?"


    For a moment, Damian thought Cassius wasn''t going to answer. But then Cassius looked at him, his gaze sharp and strange, as though weighing something.


    "I don''t know if you can meet him or not," Cassius said finally. "That choice would be his, not mine."


    Damian frowned, trying to parse the cryptic response. "So... he''s alive, then? Or is he one of those mythical figures who pops up in dreams and visions to give you cryptic advice? Or maybe... a weird one, too. Just like you?"


    Cassius''s lips twitched, almost a smile, but not quite. "He is... different from me. He was carefree, energetic¡ªa man with a boundless passion for magic and knowledge."


    "Was?" Damian asked, catching the past tense. "What happened?" he added.


    Cassius''s expression darkened, his eyes narrowing. "Something changed him. Something profound. He became... quieter. Focused in a way that was almost obsessive."


    Damian felt a pang of unease. "Changed how? Did he¡ª"


    "Enough," Cassius interrupted, his tone firm. "That''s all I''ll say for now. Focus on what''s ahead of you. You''ll find your own answers soon enough."


    Damian picked up his fork again, not entirely satisfied with the cryptic answers but too tired to push further.


    He finished eating, feeling more recharged than he had any right to after the day he''d had. As usual, Cassius handed him a pile of books that was somehow even bigger than yesterday''s. Damian stared at the stack, wondering if Cassius was secretly summoning these books just to mess with him. But then, something caught his eye¡ªtwo of the books in the stack bore the name ''Kaelan Voidweaver''.

 Chapter 103: Found You…

    Warlock Ch 103. Found You...


    Excitement buzzed through him, washing away the exhaustion or annoyance. He carefully packed the books into the enchanted bag, the magic making it lighter than it had any right to be. He swung it over his shoulder, his grin widening as he thought about the treasure trove of knowledge waiting for him at home.


    "Thanks," Damian said, shooting Cassius a genuine smile as he turned to leave. He didn''t expect a reply, and Cassius didn''t offer one, just a silent nod and his usual unreadable expression.


    The evening sky was darker than it had been yesterday, the horizon painted in deep purples and blues as stars began to dot the sky. The streets were still bustling, though. People moved in every direction, some chattering animatedly, others rushing past with focused determination.


    Damian walked quickly, weaving through the crowd as he kept his head on a swivel. His thoughts kept drifting to the silver-haired girl and the vampire woman he''d encountered. He really didn''t want a repeat of that encounter tonight.


    Every few steps, he glanced over his shoulder, scanning the faces around him. Just people¡ªordinary people rushing home or heading to wherever it was they went this time of day. Still, he couldn''t shake the unease that prickled at the back of his neck, like someone was watching him.


    ''Relax,'' he told himself. ''You''re just being paranoid.''


    But his pace quickened anyway, his boots clicking against the cobblestone streets as he turned down a quieter road. The crowd thinned out here, the noise of the city fading into a soft murmur. He was only a block from home, and the thought of diving into Kaelan Voidweaver''s books made him push forward.


    Then, he heard it.


    "Found you..."


    The voice was low, smooth, and male. It wasn''t loud, but it cut through the quiet like a blade. Damian froze, his blood running cold as goosebumps raced over his skin. His grip tightened on the strap of his bag as he scanned the empty street around him.


    "Who''s there?" he called, trying to keep his voice steady. It came out firmer than he expected, though his heart was pounding in his chest.


    Silence.


    He turned in a slow circle, his eyes darting to every shadow, every corner, every window. The street was empty, eerily so, the kind of quiet that felt wrong. He tightened his grip on the strap of his bag, his senses on high alert.


    Then it happened.


    A shadow darted out from the wall to his left, moving so fast that Damian barely registered it. Before he could react, it grabbed him. Strong, cold hands wrapped around his body, pulling him with unnatural force. He saw no face, no form¡ªjust a mass of writhing darkness.


    The bag slipped from his shoulder, hitting the cobblestones with a dull thud. He tried to scream, but the shadow clamped a hand over his mouth, silencing him. Panic surged in his chest as he struggled against its grip, but it was no use. The thing was too strong.


    Worse still, the street was completely deserted. No one was around to see what was happening to him.


    ''[Arcane Bolt!]'' he thought desperately, summoning his magic without hesitation. Energy surged through him, crackling in his palm as he fired the bolt point-blank at the shadow. For a split second, he thought he had a chance¡ªuntil the notification appeared.


    [Umbra Devourer used Mana Leech to nullify your attack!]


    His eyes widened in shock as the bolt dissipated into nothing, absorbed by the shadow, like water into sand. The thing pulled him closer, dragging him toward the darkness inside the wall, its grip unrelenting.


    ''Oh no...'' he thought, his heart pounding in his chest. The edges of his vision seemed to dim as a strange, heavy feeling settled over him, like the shadow was seeping into his very being.


    ''Spectral Surge!'' he used his skill again, but the grip was too tight. He thrashed in its grip, his mind racing. In desperation, he reached out for his servants. ''Raven...''


    The moment he thought of it, Bloodwing Raven materialized above him with a sharp caw, its wings cutting through the air. The bird was about to dive toward the shadow, claws extended, ready to strike.


    ''Go!'' Damian managed to grunt, motioning toward Cassius''s house. He knew this shadow creature was out of his league, but Cassius might stand a chance. ''He has to know what''s happening,'' Damian thought, his hope pinned on his mentor''s intervention.


    The raven hesitated for a fraction of a second before banking sharply and flying off toward Cassius''s place. Damian''s heart twisted as he watched it go. The world around him grew darker as the shadow tightened its hold, dragging him deeper into its suffocating grip.


    "Trying to ask for help, huh?" the male voice came again, smooth and mocking, right next to his ear. It sent chills down his spine. "Do you think that will save you?"


    Damian gritted his teeth, forcing himself to stay calm. ''Stay awake. Stay conscious. Cassius said my summons disappear if I pass out... I can''t let that happen.''


    But the shadow wasn''t done with him. He felt a sharp, prickling sensation at the back of his neck, like a needle breaking skin. A new notification appeared before his eyes.


    [Warning! Umbra Devourer is using Sleeping Injection on you!]


    Sleepiness hit him, crashing over his body with terrifying intensity. His limbs felt heavy, his thoughts sluggish, and his vision blurred at the edges.


    ''No...'' Damian thought, fighting against the pull of unconsciousness. ''Please, wake up...''


    The male voice chuckled, its tone dripping with malice. "Give in, little warlock. You can''t fight it."


    Damian tried to resist, tried to summon the last reserves of his willpower, but his eyelids grew heavier. His body betrayed him, his muscles slackening as the darkness closed in around him.


    The last thing he saw was the faint glow of Bloodwing Raven''s distant form, disappearing into the night as it sped toward Cassius''s house. Then, the world went black.

 Chapter 104: Wake Up!

    Warlock Ch 104. Wake Up!


    In the darkness, Damian heard a woman''s voice. It was distant at first, like a whisper carried on the wind. "Wake up... Please, wake up!" she said, her tone desperate and trembling.


    The voice was unfamiliar, yet it tugged at something deep inside him. ''Who is that?'' he thought, his mind sluggish and heavy. He couldn''t place the voice, but the emotion in it¡ªfear, pain, desperation¡ªwas impossible to ignore.


    "Please wake up..." the voice sobbed, and something in the sound made his chest tighten.


    ''Why are you crying?'' he thought again, his consciousness struggling to claw its way back to the surface.


    "Please wake up... Kaelan!"


    The name hit him like a lightning strike, jolting him awake. His eyes shot open, and he gasped, his heart pounding as his surroundings came into focus.


    He wasn''t on the street anymore. He was in a dark, cold room¡ªa jail or dungeon, by the look of it. The air was thick with the smell of damp stone and decay. Flickering torches cast faint, eerie shadows on the walls, revealing rusted torture devices and piles of bones. A cracked skull stared back at him from the floor.


    Damian tried to move, but his arms and legs were bound by heavy chains, the cold metal biting into his skin. He was sitting against a stone pillar, the rough surface pressing uncomfortably against his back.


    ''What the hell happened?'' he thought, his breathing quick and uneven as he tried to piece everything together. The last thing he remembered was the shadow, the mocking voice, and then... darkness.


    The voice that had woken him was gone now, leaving only the sound of dripping water and the faint crackle of the torches. But the name she''d called out still echoed in his mind.


    ''Kaelan?'' he thought, frowning. That name¡ªhe knew it from somewhere, but it wasn''t his. It was... Kaelan Voidweaver.


    "Great," Damian muttered under his breath, the sound of his own voice grounding him. "I''m tied up in a creepy dungeon, and now I''m hearing voices calling me by someone else''s name. Just another normal day."


    The clink of chains echoed as he shifted, testing the strength of his bindings. They were tight, the kind of tight that didn''t allow for even the smallest bit of movement. Whoever had brought him here clearly didn''t want him to escape.


    ''This must be Malthus''s doing. It must be him...'' Damian thought, his mind racing as he stared at the chains binding him. He didn''t know the man well, but the methods, the malice¡ªit all screamed of someone who thrived on control and power. If this was his handiwork, Damian knew he was in serious trouble.


    ''I can''t stay here. I have to get out. Now!'' he thought.


    "[Hellfire Spear!]" he called, summoning his skill without hesitation. His plan was simple¡ªdestroy the pillar behind him, maybe take half the dungeon down with it if necessary. If someone wanted him alive, they''d think twice before burying him in the rubble.


    The air crackled with energy, the fiery spear forming in front of him. Its heat radiated against his skin, and for a moment, hope sparked in his chest. But before he could aim it, the spear flickered and vanished as if snuffed out by an invisible hand.


    "What the¡ª" Damian''s eyes widened in shock as notifications appeared in his vision.


    [You can''t use your skills!]


    [Manaspire Shackles are binding you!]


    "Shit," he muttered, his voice tight with frustration. His heart pounded as he tested the chains again, yanking hard enough that the metal cut into his wrists. No good. They didn''t budge.


    "Golem," he said aloud, trying to summon one of his servants. Nothing happened. He tried again, his voice sharper this time. "Fenrith! Bloodwing!"


    Another notification appeared.


    [You can''t summon your servants!]


    His stomach dropped. ''This is bad... really bad.'' He was completely cut off¡ªfrom his magic, from his summons, from everything that made him who he was. His mind raced, a hundred scenarios playing out at once, most of them ending badly.


    He glanced around the room again, his eyes scanning every inch for something¡ªanything¡ªthat could help him. The bag with Kaelan Voidweaver''s books was gone, taken by whoever had brought him here. The dungeon offered little else but despair: rusted torture devices, old bones, and the dim glow of torches on the walls.


    ''Think, Damian, think!'' he urged himself, trying to push through the rising panic. There had to be a way out of this.


    Footsteps echoed in the distance, faint but deliberate. Damian stiffened, his breath catching as the sound grew louder, closer. Someone was coming. The dungeon wasn''t as empty as he''d hoped.


    The footsteps stopped just beyond the faint light of the torches, and a figure emerged from the shadows. His presence radiated power, the kind that made the air feel heavier and colder.


    Malthus stepped into the light, his presence commanding and oppressive. He was tall, his lean frame draped in an elegant black robe embroidered with intricate crimson runes that pulsed faintly with an ominous glow. His pale, angular face was framed by dark hair slicked back in a way that screamed arrogance. Sharp, cold eyes gleamed with cruel intelligence, and a smirk tugged at the corners of his mouth, exuding the confidence of someone who had never been challenged¡ªand certainly never defeated.


    Beside him slithered the shadowy creature that had dragged Damian into this nightmare. The Umbra Devourer was grotesque, a mass of writhing darkness adorned with countless glowing eyes that blinked and shifted constantly. Its mouth stretched into a jagged grin, filled with sharp, uneven teeth that seemed designed to tear through anything.


    Umbra Devourer <Level 121>


    HP: ???


    MP: ???


    Skills: [Mana Leech], [Sleeping Injection], [Void Rend]


    Weakness: ???


    ''Right... Level 121. That explains why I''m hopeless,'' Damian thought bitterly, his gaze flicking between Malthus and the creature.


    "Comfortable?" Malthus asked, his voice smooth and mocking as he stopped a few steps away, his hands clasped behind his back.

 Chapter 105: Just Making Plans to Ruin Your Day

    Warlock Ch 105. Just Making Plans to Ruin Your Day


    "Depends," Damian shot back, masking his unease with sarcasm. "Do you offer room service, or is this one of those ''no frills'' kinds of dungeons?"


    Malthus chuckled softly, shaking his head. "Cassius must have trained you well. That sharp tongue of yours is almost entertaining. Almost."


    Damian''s jaw tightened at the mention of Cassius. He wasn''t sure if the name was meant as a compliment or an insult, but either way, it didn''t bode well. "If you know Cassius, then you know he doesn''t appreciate his student being kidnapped," Damian said, leaning forward against his chains. "Let me go now, and maybe he won''t burn your house or whatever it is to the ground."


    "Cassius?" Malthus raised an eyebrow, his smirk widening. "Oh, I''m counting on him coming after you. That''s part of the fun. But don''t flatter yourself, boy. You''re here for my purposes, not his."


    "And those are?" Damian asked, though the unease in his gut already knew the answer.


    Malthus''s smirk turned predatory. "Your Mana Core, of course," he said smoothly. "Do you have any idea how rare a core like yours is? Even among warlocks, it''s exceptional. Cassius must see it too¡ªwhy else would he invest so much time and effort into training you?"


    Damian''s blood ran cold, but he kept his expression neutral. "Flattered. Really. But if you think I''m just going to sit here and let you rip it out, you''re dumber than you look."


    Malthus''s chuckle was low and condescending, like a teacher amused by a student''s naivety. "Oh, you misunderstand. I don''t need your permission. In fact, the process is already beginning."


    Damian''s heart skipped a beat. "What the hell are you talking about?"


    Malthus gestured toward the Umbra Devourer, its many eyes fixed hungrily on Damian. "My shadow servant is quite efficient. Even now, it''s siphoning the energy from your core, weakening it little by little. Soon, it will be mine."


    Damian tugged against his chains instinctively, his mind racing. "You think Cassius will just let that happen?" he said, desperation creeping into his voice despite his best efforts. "He''ll come for me. And when he does, you''ll wish you never¡ª"


    "Cassius is too late," Malthus interrupted, his tone bored. "Do you honestly think I would have brought you here if I wasn''t prepared for him? Let him come. It''ll be amusing to see him try."


    Damian''s mind whirled, searching for a way out of this. His skills were locked, his servants couldn''t be summoned, and Malthus clearly had the upper hand. Worse yet, like Malthus said, he could feel it now¡ªhis Mana being drained. It was a faint pull at first, but it was growing stronger with every passing second, like a slow, steady leak he couldn''t plug.


    ''Think, Damian, think! ''he urged himself, his breathing shallow as panic nipped at the edges of his mind.


    And then, just when he thought things couldn''t get worse, a voice echoed in his head.


    ''You are weak...''


    It wasn''t his own inner voice, not the usual self-doubt that crept in during dire situations. No, this was the ancient artifact inside him, his own Mana Core. A laugh followed, cold and derisive, the kind of laugh that made his blood boil.


    ''Shut up! I''m thinking!'' Damian shot back, his frustration spilling into his thoughts.


    ''No, you''re not,'' the voice countered, dripping with scorn. ''You''re flailing. Desperate. There is no way out... You''re going to die here.''


    ''I said shut it!'' Damian barked, his anger flaring despite the circumstances. He had enough to deal with without some random voice adding to his problems.


    ''Ahahahaha! So pathetic!'' the voice jeered, the sound echoing in his head like a taunt from a bully who knew they''d already won.


    Yup, somehow, the ancient artifact embedded within him¡ªthe very source of his power¡ªhad intelligence. And not the helpful, wise, mentor-like intelligence he''d expect from something this important. No, his Mana Core was a complete jerk.


    ''Great. Just great,'' Damian thought bitterly. ''Not only is Malthus trying to rip my Mana Core out of me, but it''s also bullying me while it happens. Fantastic.''


    ''Why aren''t you scared or something?'' Damian muttered in his mind, his frustration boiling over. ''You''re the one he''s trying to steal! Shouldn''t you be, I don''t know, panicking?''


    The Mana Core''s voice responded with another mocking laugh. ''Why would I panic? If this Malthus fool thinks he can take me, he''s in for a surprise. But you? Oh, you''re done for.''


    Damian''s eye twitched. ''What''s that supposed to mean?''


    ''You''re weak,'' the Mana Core said again, its tone matter-of-fact. ''You rely on my power, but you don''t truly understand it. Without me, you''re just another mediocre warlock pretending to be important.''


    ''You know what? Why does your personality remind me of that demon king from my dreams last night?'' Damian snapped, his thoughts laced with exasperation. ''You''re just as annoying.''


    The Mana Core laughed again, and Damian swore he could feel it smirking. ''Maybe because we''re both stronger than you''ll ever be?''


    Damian let out a low growl, his head throbbing from the combination of mocking taunts and the constant drain on his Mana. ''Focus, Damian. Don''t let this thing get in your head more than it already has.''


    He turned his attention back to Malthus, who was watching him with an amused expression, clearly entertained by Damian''s internal struggle. "Talking to yourself, are we?" Malthus asked, his tone dripping with mockery.


    Damian glared at him, his jaw tightening. "Oh, you know. Just making plans to ruin your day."


    Malthus chuckled, clasping his hands behind his back as he circled Damian slowly. "You''re feisty. I like that. It makes this all the more entertaining. I wonder how long that fire will last once I have what I want."


    Damian didn''t respond. He kept his head down, his jaw clenched as he tried to think. Waiting for Cassius was the last resort. There was no guarantee Bloodwing Raven had reached him in time¡ªor at all. If Cassius wasn''t already on his way, waiting would be futile.


    ''I need another way out. Something only I can do.''


    Malthus tilted his head, his smirk deepening as Damian remained silent. "What''s this? No witty comeback? Have I finally broken that annoying little tongue of yours?"

 Chapter 106: Out of The Frying Pan, Straight Into The Fire

    Warlock Ch 106. Out of The Frying Pan, Straight Into The Fire


    Damian ignored him, his mind racing. If he could create a new skill¡ªsomething that didn''t rely on his locked mana reserves¡ªit might work. Creating a skill was fundamentally different from casting one. Casting required energy output which he couldn''t do due to these chains. Creating came from within, a deep understanding of his abilities and how to shape them into something new.


    He thought back to Cassius, to the way he moved with an almost supernatural fluidity, appearing and disappearing like a shadow. ''Something like that. A teleportation skill.'' It was a long shot, but it was all he had.


    He closed his eyes, focusing inward, tuning out Malthus''s voice and the oppressive drain of the Mana Core shackles. The warlock mark on the back of his hand began to glow faintly, pulsing with an energy he hadn''t felt before. He latched onto it, concentrating harder than he ever had.


    Malthus''s laughter cut through his focus, sharp and mocking. "Don''t tell me you''re trying to create a new skill now," he said, shaking his head in disbelief. "Unlocking a skill takes time, discipline, and preparation. You can''t possibly¡ª"


    He stopped mid-sentence. The laughter faded from his voice, replaced by a flicker of something Damian hadn''t seen before, doubt. Malthus''s eyes narrowed as he watched the glowing mark intensify, the faint hum of energy in the air growing stronger.


    "No," Malthus muttered, his voice low. "That''s impossible..."


    But Damian wasn''t paying attention. His entire focus was on the mark, the core of his being, and the vision of a skill that would free him. He could feel it forming, the strands of energy weaving together into something new, something raw and untamed.


    Malthus''s expression twisted into one of fury. He lunged at Damian, his hand glowing with dark energy as he slammed it against Damian''s chest. The force knocked the air from Damian''s lungs, and a searing pain shot through him as Malthus''s fingers dug into his flesh, as if trying to rip the Mana Core out by sheer force.


    The agony was overwhelming, but Damian gritted his teeth, refusing to scream. ''Focus. Focus. You need to get out. You need to survive.''


    "You think you can stop me?" Malthus growled, his voice filled with venom. "You think your pathetic tricks will save you?"


    Damian didn''t answer. The pain was excruciating, but he channeled it into his concentration, using it to fuel the spark of creation within him. The mark on his hand burned brighter, the glow spreading across his arm and into his body.


    Malthus''s eyes widened as the energy around Damian reached a crescendo. "No... this shouldn''t be possible!"


    A notification flashed before Damian''s eyes, cutting through the haze of pain.


    [New Skill Unlocked!]


    [Shadow Step Lv. 1: Allows the user to step through shadows, instantly teleporting to a nearby location. Cooldown: 60 seconds.]


    Without hesitation, Damian activated the skill. The world around him twisted and blurred, the shadows wrapping around him like a cloak. He felt a sudden pull, like he was being yanked through a narrow tunnel, and then¡ª


    He was free. Yes, he knew it would work because the teleportation skill also didn''t require energy output at all.


    The cold stone of the dungeon was gone. Damian stumbled, falling to one knee as the Mana shackles lifted. He gasped for breath, the crisp air burning his lungs as he pressed a hand to his chest. The faint, lingering ache from Malthus''s attempt to extract his core throbbed with every heartbeat.


    Looking around, he realized he wasn''t free yet. The alley was dark, the walls rough and ancient, made from the same kind of stone as the dungeon. The faint hum of malevolent energy lingered in the air, and Damian''s heart sank. He was still in Malthus''s stronghold¡ªjust a different part of it.


    ''Great. Out of the frying pan, straight into the fire,'' Damian thought, forcing himself to his feet. He didn''t have time to catch his breath. Malthus would be after him any second, and if the warlock didn''t find him, those shadow servants would.


    He reached deep into himself, activating [Spectral Surge]. Energy coursed through his body, sharpening his reflexes and leaving a faint trail of afterimages as he moved. ''Alright. Time to get out of here.''


    Keeping to the shadows, Damian darted forward, his enhanced speed making it easier to avoid detection. He turned corner after corner, his heart racing as he scanned for any sign of a way out.


    The first attack came from the darkness. A shadow servant lunged at him from above, its claws swiping at his head. Damian ducked just in time, spinning and firing [Dark Bolt] in a single, fluid motion.


    [Shadow Servant] took 210 damage.


    The bolt struck true, sending the servant reeling, its form flickering like a candle in the wind. Damian didn''t wait to see if it recovered¡ªhe was already moving again, his senses on high alert.


    But the further he went, the more servants appeared. Some moved in small groups, others alone, but all of them were far stronger than the shadows Cassius used. These weren''t just passive watchers or errand runners¡ªthey were hunters, designed for combat.


    A horde of them appeared ahead, their glowing eyes locking onto him. Damian skidded to a halt, his mind racing. ''No way I can take all of them head-on.''


    "Fine," Damian muttered under his breath, summoning his resolve. "Let''s make some room."


    He raised his hands, activating [Dark Chains]. Ethereal chains erupted from the ground, snaking out and wrapping around the nearest servants. Their movements slowed, their power visibly weakening as they struggled against the bindings.


    [Shadow Servant ] took 150 damage and is immobilized.


    [Shadow Servant ] is immobilized. Physical and magical power is reduced by 40%.


    Using the opening, Damian dashed past the group, weaving through the narrow alleys with his enhanced speed. He could feel the servants closing in behind him, their presence a constant, oppressive weight on his senses.


    ''This place is a damn maze!'' he thought, frustration bubbling up as he turned yet another corner, only to find more shadow servants waiting for him. One of them lunged, its claws slashing toward his chest. Damian threw up a [Shadow Barrier] just in time.

 Chapter 107: Why Am I Still Here? (Review Bonus)

    Warlock Ch 107. Why Am I Still Here?


    The servant''s attack bounced off the barrier, but the impact sent a jolt through Damian''s body. He winced, gritting his teeth as he retaliated with [Arcane Bolt], the energy chaining between the servants.


    [Shadow Servant ] took 180 damage.


    [Shadow Servant ] took 120 damage.


    The brief pause was enough to let him slip through, but the drain on his mana was starting to take its toll. ''I can''t keep this up forever.''


    And then he saw it¡ªa staircase at the end of the corridor, spiraling upward into darkness. Hope flared in his chest as he pushed forward, dodging another servant''s attack and firing a quick [Hellfire Spear] at a group blocking his path.


    [Shadow Servant] took 320 damage. Target defeated.


    The explosion cleared the way, and Damian sprinted toward the staircase, his heart pounding. ''If I can just get to the top... maybe I can find a way out.''


    As he reached the base of the stairs, a new notification flashed in his vision.


    [Warning! Reinforcements are arriving!]


    Damian glanced back and saw more shadows emerging from the walls, their glowing eyes locking onto him. He didn''t have time to think¡ªhe bolted up the stairs, taking them two at a time. The sound of the servants'' pursuit echoed behind him, their claws scraping against the stone.


    ''Keep moving. Don''t stop,'' he told himself, forcing his legs to keep going despite the burn in his muscles. The staircase seemed endless, twisting upward into the darkness, but Damian refused to let himself falter.


    The top of the stairs finally came into view, a heavy door standing between him and whatever lay beyond. Damian didn''t stop to think¡ªhe slammed his shoulder into the door, pushing it open with a burst of adrenaline.


    What he saw on the other side made his stomach drop.


    The room was massive, its high ceilings adorned with glowing sigils that pulsed with dark energy. In the center stood Malthus, his smirk wider than ever.


    "Welcome back," Malthus said, spreading his arms as if greeting an old friend. His smirk was wide, and his eyes glinted with amusement. "Did you really think you could escape so easily?"


    Damian''s breath came in ragged gasps, his body screaming in protest after the relentless sprint up the stairs. The barrier''s oppressive energy pressed down on him like a weight, making every movement feel heavier.


    "Malthus," Damian growled, forcing himself to straighten despite the exhaustion. "You''ve got a real knack for ruining people''s day, you know that?"


    Malthus chuckled, stepping closer with deliberate, measured steps. "And you''ve got a knack for surprises, Damian Blackthorn. Shadow Step, at your rank? That''s impressive. Unexpected, even. You''ve been holding out on me."


    Damian''s fingers twitched as he fought the urge to summon a spell¡ªany spell. But he could feel the barrier''s presence in the air, suffocating his mana, just like the shackles had done earlier. He didn''t need a notification to know his abilities were being suppressed again.


    "Lucky accident," Damian spat, masking his frustration with bravado. "Even a blind squirrel finds a nut sometimes."


    "Is that what you tell yourself?" Malthus stopped a few feet away, tilting his head as he studied Damian. "No, this wasn''t luck. Cassius has been pushing you harder than I thought. But even he wouldn''t expect you to unlock something like Shadow Step at your level. Tell me¡ªhow did you do it?"


    Damian didn''t answer, his eyes darting around the room, searching for an opening, an exit, anything he could use to get out of here. But every path was sealed, glowing with the same ominous energy as the sigils on the walls.


    "Trying to leave already?" Malthus taunted, following Damian''s gaze. "Don''t bother. This room is sealed. No more tricks, no more surprises."


    "Yeah?" Damian shot back, his voice dripping with defiance. "Well, I''ve got a few more surprises left."


    Malthus raised an eyebrow, clearly amused. "Do you, now? Let''s see."


    With a flick of his wrist, Malthus summoned the Umbra Devourer, the air around him darkening as the shadowy creature materialized beside him. Its grotesque form twisted and shifted, dozens of glowing eyes blinking in unison as it locked onto Damian. Its jagged mouth stretched into a sinister grin, and it let out a guttural hiss that echoed through the chamber.


    Umbra Devourer <Level 121>


    HP: ???


    MP: ???


    Skills: [Mana Leech], [Sleeping Injection], [Void Rend]


    Weakness: ???


    Damian''s stomach tightened at the sight of it. The last encounter with this thing had been bad enough, and now he was facing it head-on with no backup, no summons, and his mana suppressed.


    ''Think. There''s always a way out.''


    Malthus''s voice cut through his thoughts. "Do you know why I like the Umbra Devourer, Damian?" he asked, his tone conversational, as if they weren''t standing on the brink of another life-or-death fight. "It''s efficient. Precise. Relentless. Much like myself."


    "Great. You found your spirit animal," Damian shot back, trying to keep his voice steady even as his mind raced. "Now what? You''re gonna let it lecture me too?"


    Malthus smirked, waving the Umbra Devourer forward. "No need for lectures. You''ve already proven you''re full of potential. It''s almost a shame to take it from you. Almost."


    The Umbra Devourer surged toward Damian, its massive shadowy form moving with a speed that seemed impossible for something so grotesque. Its countless glowing eyes locked onto him, and its jagged teeth stretched into a wicked grin. Damian''s instincts screamed at him to move, and he didn''t hesitate.


    "[Shadow Step!]" he activated the skill, his body dissolving into darkness and reappearing several feet away in an instant. He landed in a crouch, his breathing sharp as he took in his new position.


    The Umbra Devourer''s attack missed, its claws tearing through the air where Damian had just been. It hissed in frustration, the sound low and guttural, as it turned toward him again.


    But Damian''s relief was short-lived. He was still in the same room¡ªthe glowing sigils on the walls practically mocking him as they pulsed with faint, rhythmic energy.


    "What the hell?" Damian muttered, glancing around in confusion. ''Why am I still here?''

 Chapter 108: Fight or Fall

    Warlock Ch 108. Fight or Fall


    Malthus''s laughter rang out, rich and mocking. "Ah, don''t look so surprised," he said, spreading his arms theatrically. "Those sigils you see? They''re not just for decoration. This room is designed for duels, competitions between mages. No one leaves until one of us loses."


    Damian''s jaw tightened as he processed the words. "A duel? You dragged me here for a duel?"


    Malthus smirked. "A duel. A game. A test. Call it what you like. But the rules are simple: you fight, or you fall."


    Damian''s heart pounded as he weighed his options. ''Great. Trapped in here with a guy who''s way out of my league and his pet shadow demon. Just my luck.''


    The Umbra Devourer lunged at him again, faster this time, its claws raking through the air. Damian activated [Spectral Surge], his body moving like a blur as he dodged to the side, leaving a faint afterimage in his place. The Devourer swiped through the illusion, its claws striking stone with a deafening crack.


    Damian took the opening to counter. "[Dark Bolt!]" he shouted, firing a concentrated blast of energy toward the creature''s side. The bolt struck, the impact creating a ripple of energy across the shadowy mass.


    [Umbra Devourer] took 210 damage.


    The creature recoiled slightly, but its form didn''t waver. It turned back to Damian, its glowing eyes narrowing in what could only be described as fury.


    "Not bad," Malthus said, his tone calm and condescending. "But you''ll need more than that to bring down the Umbra Devourer. It''s been devouring mages far stronger than you for centuries."


    Damian''s lip curled. "Guess I''ll have to ruin its perfect record, then."


    He darted around the room, keeping his distance as the Devourer pursued him relentlessly. Each step felt heavier, the oppressive energy of the sigils making it harder to move, harder to think. He fired another [Arcane Bolt], the energy chaining between the creature''s many eyes.


    [Umbra Devourer] took 180 damage.


    The creature roared, its massive form growing darker, denser, as if feeding off the room''s energy. Damian felt the weight of its presence pressing down on him, and his chest tightened as his mana reserves drained faster than usual.


    "Fenrith!" Damian summoned his servant. Yet another announcement appeared.


    [You can''t summon your servant in the middle of a duel!]


    "What the---"


    "Feeling it yet?" Malthus asked, his voice smooth as he watched from the sidelines, his hands clasped behind his back. "These sigils don''t just trap you. They siphon energy, feeding the room and making it harder for anyone but me to survive. Also... no one can summon their servants in my place. Only those with a higher rank than me can do it."


    Damian gritted his teeth, forcing himself to keep moving. "Sounds like a coward''s way to fight."


    Malthus chuckled. "Or a tactician''s. Depends on your perspective."


    The Umbra Devourer lunged again, its claws glowing faintly with dark energy as it activated [Void Rend]. The strike tore through the air, sending a shockwave that cracked the stone floor beneath Damian''s feet. He barely dodged, throwing himself to the side, the oppressive energy of the sigils making every movement feel sluggish. His breath came in ragged gasps, his heart pounding as the creature turned toward him once more.


    ''I can''t keep this up,'' Damian thought, frustration mounting with each failed attempt to gain the upper hand. His mana was draining too quickly, and the Umbra Devourer showed no signs of slowing down. Every strike he landed seemed to barely scratch it, while the creature''s attacks grew stronger, faster, more relentless.


    He fired another [Dark Bolt], the concentrated blast of energy slamming into the creature''s side.


    [Umbra Devourer] took 215 damage.


    The hit staggered it, but only for a moment. The creature hissed, its glowing eyes narrowing as it began to circle Damian like a predator toying with its prey.


    ''Think, Damian. Think!'' he urged himself, his mind racing for a solution. But no matter how he looked at it, he was outmatched. The room itself was working against him, draining his mana and making every spell he cast feel like a monumental effort.


    Then, like a whisper cutting through the chaos, a voice echoed in his mind.


    "You know what? If you can''t beat the servant, just go straight to the caster."


    The voice was calm, confident, and eerily familiar. It wasn''t the mocking voice of the Mana Core¡ªit was the same one that had helped him during training, the one that always appeared when he was at his lowest, offering cryptic but useful advice.


    "Just use melee combat mixed with your spells---"


    "---And aim straight for his face..."Damian couldn''t help but mutter the words aloud, finishing the sentence as if they were his own.


    Damian''s eyes widened as the realization hit him. His gaze flicked to Malthus, who stood at the edge of the room, watching the fight with that infuriating smirk on his face. ''The Umbra Devourer isn''t the real threat. It''s him.''


    The Umbra Devourer lunged at him again, but this time, Damian didn''t back away. He activated [Spectral Surge], his body moving in a blur as he dashed toward the creature. At the last second, he slid beneath its massive claws, the afterimage of his movement confusing it for a split second.


    That split second was all he needed.


    "[Dark Chains!]" Damian shouted, summoning ethereal chains that shot up from the ground and wrapped around the Umbra Devourer. The creature roared, thrashing violently as the chains bound its limbs, slowing its movements.


    [Umbra Devourer] is immobilized. Physical and magical power is reduced by 40%.


    "Stay put," Damian muttered, not waiting to see how long the chains would hold. He turned his attention to Malthus, his gaze narrowing as he charged toward him.


    Malthus raised an eyebrow, clearly amused. "Oh? Abandoning the fight already? How disappointing."


    Damian didn''t respond. He clenched his fists, his knuckles glowing faintly as he gathered what strength he could. He couldn''t afford to waste time or energy on banter¡ªnot when the stakes were this high.

 Chapter 109: Life and Death Battle

    Warlock Ch 109. Life and Death Battle


    "[Shadow Step!]" Damian called, his form dissolving into darkness before reappearing to Malthus''s side. The warlock''s smirk faltered slightly, just enough for Damian to exploit.


    "[Dark Bolt!]" Damian shouted, his fist crackling with dark energy as he drove it toward Malthus''s face. The punch landed clean, the impact resounding through the room like a thunderclap.


    [Malthus] took 940 damage.


    Malthus stumbled back, shock flashing across his face for the first time. He wiped his lip, his fingers coming away with a smear of blood. "Well," he muttered, his voice lower now, almost dangerous. "I didn''t see that coming."


    Damian didn''t let up. He surged forward, aiming another punch straight at Malthus''s jaw. This time, Malthus was ready. With a movement almost too fast to track, Malthus caught Damian''s fist in mid-air. The force of the impact sent a shockwave rippling outward, shaking the room, but Malthus remained steady, his grip unyielding.


    "Interesting," Malthus said, his smirk returning, though strain flickered in his arm. "You''re full of surprises, aren''t you?"


    "Plenty," Damian growled, summoning a [Hellfire Spear] in his free hand. The weapon appeared with a burst of heat, the flames licking hungrily at the air. Without hesitation, Damian launched the spear toward Malthus, aiming to cleave him in two.


    Malthus stepped back, narrowly dodging the strike. The spear''s flames grazed his robes, leaving scorch marks on the fabric and the floor where it struck. He glanced at the damage, a flicker of annoyance crossing his face. "You''re bolder than I expected," he said, his tone colder now. "But boldness alone won''t save you."


    Damian pressed the attack, activating [Spectral Surge] to blur his movements. Afterimages surrounded him as he launched into a flurry of strikes.


    "[Arcane Bolt!]" Damian shouted, releasing a point-blank blast aimed directly at Malthus''s chest.


    [Malthus] took 300 damage.


    The blast connected, pushing Malthus back a step. The smirk on his face faltered, replaced by a grim expression as he wiped another smear of blood from his lip. His eyes darkened, and the temperature in the room seemed to drop.


    "Impressive," he admitted, his voice quieter now, but no less menacing. "But you''re still out of your depth."


    Malthus raised a hand, dark energy crackling around him like a storm. The sigils on the walls flared brighter, their oppressive energy pressing down on Damian like a physical weight. His limbs felt heavy, his movements sluggish. It was like the very room was trying to crush him.


    ''Damn it,'' Damian thought, gritting his teeth as he struggled to stay on his feet. ''I have to finish this before he¡ª''


    A deafening roar cut through his thoughts. Damian''s eyes darted to the side just in time to see the Umbra Devourer breaking free of the chains he''d bound it with. The creature''s many glowing eyes burned with fury, its massive form charging toward him with renewed determination.


    "Back for round two?" Damian muttered, his eyes flicking between Malthus and the towering Umbra Devourer. The oppressive energy in the room was like a weight pressing down on his shoulders, but he refused to let it break him.


    The Umbra Devourer lunged again, its claws glowing with dark energy as it swiped at him. Damian dodged, activating [Spectral Surge] to blur his movements, leaving afterimages that confused the creature just enough to buy him time.


    ''I need to stop this thing before it overwhelms me,'' Damian thought, his mind racing. He didn''t have the power to defeat the Devourer outright¡ªnot in this place, not under these conditions¡ªbut he could slow it down.


    Damian''s warlock mark flared to life, glowing faintly as he raised his hand. "[Dark Dominion]!" he shouted, the room plunging into shadow as a wave of dark energy erupted from him, expanding outward and enveloping the Umbra Devourer.


    [Umbra Devourer is ensnared. Continuous damage applied: 45 per second.]


    [Umbra Devourer inflicted with Terror. Movement slowed by 20%.]


    The creature roared, its many glowing eyes blinking erratically as the dark energy surrounded it, pressing in on all sides. Its movements became sluggish, its form flickering as if struggling to maintain cohesion.


    ''It won''t hold for long, but it''s enough,'' Damian thought, turning his attention back to Malthus. The warlock was standing at the edge of the dark aura, his smirk unfaltering as he watched Damian with sharp, calculating eyes.


    "Impressive," Malthus said, his voice dripping with mockery. "You''ve managed to stall my pet. But what''s your plan now, little warlock? You can''t win this."


    "Plans are overrated," Damian shot back, summoning the [Hellfire Spear] once more. This time, he didn''t throw it like before. Instead, he gripped it tightly, the heat radiating from the weapon making his hands tingle. The spear wasn''t just a spell now¡ªit was his weapon.


    Malthus raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "Oh? Trying something new? How bold."


    Damian didn''t respond. Instead, he activated [Shadow Step] again, his form dissolving into darkness and reappearing behind Malthus in an instant. The warlock barely had time to react before Damian swung the [Hellfire Spear], its flaming edge cutting through the air.


    The blade connected with Malthus''s back, the searing heat tearing through his robes and burning into his flesh.


    [Malthus] took 1,250 damage.


    Malthus stumbled forward, his smirk finally faltering as pain flashed across his face. "You''re starting to annoy me," he growled, his tone colder now. He turned to face Damian, dark energy crackling around his hands.


    "That''s the idea," Damian said, gripping the spear tightly as he prepared for the next strike.


    Malthus lunged forward, his movements faster than Damian had anticipated. The two clashed in a flurry of blows¡ªMalthus''s dark energy meeting the fiery edge of Damian''s spear. Each strike sent shockwaves through the room, the sigils on the walls flaring brighter with every collision.


    "You''re persistent," Malthus said, his voice strained as he blocked another strike from Damian. "But persistence isn''t enough to¡ª"


    Damian cut him off with a swift kick to the chest, sending Malthus staggering backward. He followed up with a quick thrust of the spear, aiming for Malthus''s midsection.


    Malthus twisted, narrowly avoiding the attack. He retaliated with a blast of dark energy, forcing Damian to activate [Shadow Barrier] to absorb the hit.

 Chapter 110: Unfair Duel

    Warlock Ch 110. Unfair Duel


    Damian pushed forward, the barrier dissolving as he closed the gap. He swung the spear again, the flames casting flickering shadows across the room as the weapon arced toward Malthus.


    Malthus raised a hand, summoning a wall of dark energy to block the attack. The spear collided with the barrier, the impact sending cracks spider webbing across its surface. Damian gritted his teeth, pouring more strength into the strike.


    "You''re better than I thought," Malthus admitted, his voice calm despite the strain in his movements. "But this is where it ends."


    The Umbra Devourer roared behind Damian, its movements growing more frantic as it began to break free of [Dark Dominion]. Damian glanced over his shoulder, his heart sinking as he realized his time was running out.


    "Guess I''ll have to end this quick," Damian muttered, turning back to Malthus. He activated [Spectral Surge], his body moving in a blur as he launched into a final series of strikes, each one aimed to overwhelm Malthus before the Devourer could rejoin the fight.


    "Let''s see how you handle this!" Damian shouted, his spear blazing as he unleashed a powerful combo of melee strikes and spells, each one pushing Malthus closer to the edge.


    But even as Malthus stumbled under the onslaught, his smirk returned, colder and more dangerous than before. "You think you''ve cornered me?" he asked, his tone mocking. "You''ve barely scratched the surface of my power."


    Damian gritted his teeth, the [Hellfire Spear] in his hand flickering as his mana reserves dwindled. His chest heaved with every breath, his muscles burning from the relentless fight. He could feel exhaustion creeping in, his body screaming for rest, but he pushed it aside. Giving up wasn''t an option¡ªnot here, not now.


    "Good," Damian spat, his voice rough. "I''m not done yet."


    Malthus''s eyes narrowed, his smirk fading into a hard line. He raised his hands, dark energy swirling around him like a storm. The air grew heavy, charged with a malevolence that made Damian''s skin crawl.


    "Then let me show you what happens when you push too far," Malthus said, his voice low and dangerous.


    The energy around him intensified, crackling with power as he began to chant in a language Damian didn''t understand. The sigils on the walls flared brighter, their oppressive weight pressing down even harder.


    Damian''s eyes widened as he recognized the buildup of energy. It was the same spell explosion he''d seen Malthus use before, the one that had obliterated everything in its radius. His heart pounded as he realized what was about to happen.


    "Shit," Damian muttered under his breath. He forced himself to move, activating [Spectral Surge] to blur his form and increase his speed. He needed to close the distance before Malthus could finish the spell.


    But Malthus wasn''t making it easy. He thrust a hand forward, unleashing a wave of dark energy that tore through the air toward Damian.


    "[Shadow Barrier!]" Damian shouted, throwing up his shield just in time. The wave collided with the barrier, shattering it but leaving him unharmed. The impact sent him skidding backward, his boots scraping against the stone floor.


    His mana was running dangerously low. Every spell he cast felt like it was draining him dry, leaving him weaker with each passing second. His vision blurred at the edges, his body screaming at him to stop.


    ''I can''t stop. Not now.'' Damian pushed forward again, his steps faltering but determined. The [Hellfire Spear] reignited in his hand, the flames flickering weakly but still burning.


    Malthus''s chanting grew louder, the dark energy around him reaching a fever pitch. The sigils on the walls began to pulse in time with his words, the oppressive weight growing unbearable.


    "Just try to survive this," Malthus sneered, his hands glowing with a blinding light as he unleashed the spell.


    The explosion tore through the room, a wave of destructive energy radiating outward in all directions. Damian threw himself to the ground, activating [Shadow Barrier] again in a desperate attempt to shield himself.


    The impact was deafening, the force slamming into him like a freight train. His barrier cracked and shattered, the fragments dissolving into the air as the explosion subsided. When the dust cleared, Damian was still standing¡ªbut barely. His legs shook, blood trickling from a cut on his temple, and his breathing was ragged.


    Malthus, too, was wounded. His robes were scorched, his face smeared with blood and soot, and his movements slower than before. But his eyes burned with determination, the same fierce resolve that Damian felt in his own chest.


    "You''re still standing," Malthus said, his voice carrying a mix of annoyance and grudging respect. "Impressive. But you''re running out of time. Your mana''s nearly gone, and your body won''t last much longer."


    Damian''s hand tightened around the [Hellfire Spear], the flames sputtering weakly. He could feel his strength fading, his body on the verge of collapse. A voice in the back of his mind whispered for him to give up, to stop fighting, to let it end.


    But another voice, louder and more insistent, cut through the haze. ''Keep going. One more step. One more strike.''


    "You talk too much," Damian rasped, forcing a smirk on his face despite the pain. "If you wanted me dead, you should''ve finished the job already."


    Malthus''s lips curled into a snarl, the mocking amusement in his expression replaced by raw fury. "You arrogant little¡ª"


    Before Malthus could finish, Damian activated [Shadow Step] again. His form dissolved into darkness, and he reappeared not on the ground but mid-air above and behind Malthus. With a feral cry, he swung the [Hellfire Spear] vertically, the flames trailing like a comet''s tail as it came crashing down.


    The blade connected with Malthus''s shoulder, cutting through his robes and searing into his flesh with an audible sizzle. The force of the impact drove Malthus to his knees, a cry of pain ripping from his throat.


    [Malthus] took 1,530 damage.


    Damian landed with a heavy thud, his legs barely holding him upright. He was panting hard now, every muscle in his body screaming in protest, but he didn''t let up. He couldn''t.

 Chapter 111: Until The End

    Warlock Ch 111. Until The End


    Malthus staggered to his feet, his hand clutching his wounded shoulder as dark energy crackled around him. His face twisted into a mask of rage, his once-calm demeanor completely shattered. "You''ll regret that," he snarled, summoning another surge of power. The air around him shimmered with malevolence, the oppressive weight making it hard for Damian to breathe.


    "Bring it," Damian said, his voice hoarse but steady. He gripped the spear tightly, ready for whatever came next.


    Malthus didn''t hesitate. With a roar, he lunged forward, his hand glowing with dark energy as he reached for Damian''s chest. The intent was clear¡ªhe was going for the Mana Core. Damian''s heart pounded as he saw the fingers reaching for him, the dark energy radiating from them promising a slow, excruciating end.


    But Damian didn''t retreat. ''This is it,'' he thought, his grip on the spear tightening. ''If he wants my core, he''s going to have to take it the hard way.''


    He thrust the [Hellfire Spear] forward with everything he had, aiming straight for Malthus''s midsection. The blade burned brightly, the flames roaring as if responding to Damian''s resolve. The moment of impact was a blur¡ªa collision of heat and darkness as the spear drove into Malthus''s abdomen.


    [Critical Hit!]


    [Malthus] took 2,700 damage.


    Malthus let out a guttural cry, his body jerking from the force of the hit. The flames of the spear seared into him, the smell of burning fabric and flesh filling the room. But even as Damian''s attack landed, Malthus''s hand closed around his chest.


    Pain like Damian had never felt before tore through him as Malthus''s fingers sank into his flesh. It was as if the warlock was reaching not just for his Mana Core but for his very heart. Damian gasped, his vision blurring as blood dripped from the edges of Malthus''s grip.


    "You think... this is enough to stop me?" Malthus growled, his voice low and strained but still defiant. His hand tightened, and Damian could feel the pull, the sickening sensation of his Mana Core being wrenched from its place.


    Damian''s knees buckled, but he forced himself to stay upright, gritting his teeth against the overwhelming pain. "No," he managed to say, his voice barely more than a whisper. "But this is."


    With a burst of determination, Damian twisted the [Hellfire Spear] inside Malthus''s body, the flames surging as he channeled the last of his mana into the weapon. The blade flared brighter, the heat intensifying as it burned through Malthus''s defenses.


    Malthus''s eyes widened, his grip faltering for a split second. Damian used the moment to push forward, driving the spear even deeper.


    "Enough!" Malthus roared, his voice filled with both rage and pain. He released Damian, staggering backward as he clutched at the spear embedded in his body. The dark energy around him flickered, the sigils on the walls dimming as his focus wavered.


    Damian stumbled, barely catching himself as he dropped to one knee. Blood dripped steadily from the wound in his chest, the pain radiating through his body like fire. His breath came in ragged gasps, his vision blurring as exhaustion and pain dragged at him. He could feel his mana reserves dwindling, the last remnants flickering weakly within him.


    Behind him, the Umbra Devourer''s guttural roar echoed through the room. The massive shadow creature had broken free of [Dark Dominion], its many glowing eyes locked onto Damian as it prepared to lunge.


    ''I don''t have much left,'' Damian thought, gripping the [Hellfire Spear] tightly to keep himself upright. ''I can''t fight them both. Not like this.''


    The sound of splintering magic drew his attention. His blurry gaze shifted to the edge of the room, where the barrier shimmered and cracked under repeated blows. Beyond it, he could make out two familiar figures¡ªEvelyn and Cassius.


    "Damian!" Evelyn''s voice was filled with urgency, her hands glowing with magical energy as she slammed them against the barrier. Her expression was a mix of determination and worry.


    "Hold on, you idiot!" Cassius barked, his usual stoic demeanor giving way to something fiercer. He raised his hand, summoning a [Hellfire Spear] that slammed into the barrier, creating a web of cracks. "We''re getting you out of there."


    ''Raven... he managed to send the message,'' Damian thought, a flicker of relief breaking through the haze of pain. But the barrier was strong, and despite their combined efforts, it would take time to break through.


    Malthus''s dark laughter cut through the tension, drawing Damian''s attention back to his opponent. The warlock staggered but remained standing, his hand gripping the [Hellfire Spear] still embedded in his abdomen. Blood seeped through his robes, but his eyes burned with an unrelenting fury.


    "It''s too late..." Malthus muttered, his voice dripping with venom as he glared at Evelyn and Cassius. With a flick of his hand, he summoned a swarm of shadow servants. The creatures emerged from the walls outside the barrier, their glowing eyes and jagged claws flashing as they surged toward Cassius and Evelyn.


    "Stay back!" Cassius commanded, summoning his own servants to meet the attack. The two forces clashed in a chaotic battle, the sounds of magic and steel echoing through the room.


    Evelyn didn''t hesitate. She fired a barrage of spells at the barrier, each one cracking the shimmering surface further. "Damian, hold on!" she shouted, her voice tinged with desperation.


    But Damian knew they wouldn''t break through in time. He turned his attention back to Malthus, who had pulled the spear from his body and tossed it aside. The warlock''s aura flared with dark energy, the oppressive weight in the room growing even stronger.


    "Let''s finish this... Damian," Malthus said, his voice low and dangerous. He raised both hands, the energy around him coalescing into a massive sphere of crackling darkness. The air itself seemed to vibrate with the sheer power radiating from the spell.


    At the same moment, the Umbra Devourer lunged toward Damian, its massive form blotting out the dim light of the room.


    ''This is it,'' Damian thought, his grip tightening on the spear. His warlock mark flared to life, the faint glow spreading across his body as he gathered every ounce of strength he had left.

 Chapter 112: Floodgates of Memories

    Warlock Ch 112. Floodgates of Memories


    "[Dark Dominion]!" Damian shouted, the dark energy erupting from him in a massive wave that enveloped the room. The oppressive weight shifted, turning against Malthus and his creations as the aura expanded.


    The Umbra Devourer roared as it was caught in the field, its movements slowing as the energy pressed down on it.


    Damian raised the [Hellfire Spear], the flames roaring to life once more. He infused the spear with the power of [Dark Dominion], the two energies merging into a weapon of pure destruction.


    Malthus''s eyes widened as Damian lunged forward, his movements a blur of desperation and fury. The spear''s blade cut through the air, aiming straight for Malthus''s chest.


    "NO!" Malthus roared, releasing his spell in a desperate attempt to stop the attack. The explosion of dark energy tore through the room, but Damian didn''t stop. He pushed through the pain, the force of the explosion ripping at his body as he drove the spear home.


    The blade pierced Malthus''s chest, the combined energy of [Dark Dominion] and [Hellfire Spear] exploding outward in a burst of fire and shadow.


    [Malthus] took 2,300 damage.


    Malthus''s cry echoed through the chamber as the energy consumed him, his body disintegrating into ash. The Umbra Devourer let out one final roar before it, too, dissolved into nothingness, along with the swarm of shadow servants.


    The oppressive energy in the room faded, the sigils on the walls dimming and disappearing. The barrier shattered with a deafening crack, and Evelyn and Cassius rushed into the room just as Damian collapsed to his knees.


    The spear clattered to the floor as Damian leaned on it for support, his body trembling with exhaustion. His vision blurred, his chest aching with every shallow breath. He could see his system gave him some notifications about level-ups and such but his head was spinning to the point reading was a hard task.


    - Ba-thump!


    His heart pounded in his ears, the sound slow and heavy.


    Damian''s entire body was a battlefield, every muscle clenched with pain, every breath a struggle. He felt like a hundred anvils pressing down on his chest, his pulse thundering as if trying to escape the confines of his body. His head was splitting apart, like some invisible force was trying to tear him from the inside out. He gripped his skull, nails digging into his scalp as if it would somehow stop the chaos, but it only worsened.


    Something''s wrong... So wrong...


    He couldn''t focus on anything except the excruciating ache. It was like his very being was being unraveled, piece by piece. The voices¡ªthe voices¡ªthey were back. Not the voices of his current life, but something older, deeper, rooted in the past he couldn''t place. It was all a rush¡ªmemories, flashes of places and faces, of voices... too many voices. They echoed in his mind, crashing together like a storm. Those were the voices who always helped him in the battle.


    "C''mon, Cassius. The forest isn''t that far away!" the voice said, bright and full of energy.


    Damian''s grip tightened, his chest constricting as something he didn''t understand stirred within him.


    "Shhh! This is just our little secret! No one will know we read the forbidden book," the voice, a quiet, teasing whisper.


    A soft chuckle followed. "Cas! You should smile more! You won''t get a girlfriend if you act like that!" the voice laughed.


    ''What is this?'' Damian thought, his mind reeling with confusion, pain, and urgency.


    "Ha! Got you! That mud looks good on your face. That''s payback for spraying water on my face this morning!" the voice laughed, a playful snort ringing in Damian''s ears.


    He felt the ground shift beneath him, as if the very world around him was folding in on itself, the voices coming faster, louder. More memories. But none of them felt like Damian. They were from someone else¡ªsomeone important. Someone he needed to remember.


    "Huh... Why do we have to clean his house as punishment? He''s got a ton of shadow servants for that!" the voice complained, a frustrated but endearing tone.


    The pressure in Damian''s skull was growing unbearable. Sweat beaded on his forehead, his vision clouding.


    "Yeah, I''m also shocked I could become a good warlock," the voice said, the hint of pride underneath the casual tone.


    "Evelyn, huh? You surely have a nice name. OK, I can teach you one or two about magic, but I can''t be your mentor. I''m a warlock, not a witch."


    "Wait... I can... use Witch spells?"


    "Just keep this a secret, okay?"


    Damian''s heart stuttered.


    "Evelyn... Will you marry me?"


    The floodgates opened wide. Memories. Real memories. Fragments, but vivid recollections. Faces of people he knew¡ªCassius, Evelyn. Places he had been. Feelings that surged through him like waves. A life that had been... hidden. Kaelan Voidweaver.


    ''Ah... I remember now...''


    The name felt like a key turning inside him, unlocking something deep within his soul. Kaelan. That was who he had been. That was who he was.


    His breath caught, and he lifted his head with effort, blinking against the dizziness. The world around him spun in dizzying circles, but he managed to focus. His vision was a blur, but through it, he saw Cassius standing there, his face taut with concern, his usual icy composure faltering for the first time.


    Cassius''s eyes were locked on him, trying to understand. Trying to figure out what had happened. And, in that moment, it all clicked.


    Kaelan''s memories surged forward, rushing through him like a river breaking free of its dam. He had been a warlock, a powerful one. He had trained with Cassius, fought alongside him. And then there was Evelyn¡ªhis Evelyn. Not the stranger Damian had thought her to be, but his partner, his wife. His... everything.


    The pain in his chest intensified. His head throbbed like a drum, but the memories¡ªthe truth¡ªflooded his mind, flooding his soul, making him feel whole again.


    He could see it now. The faces of those who had shaped him, the bond he had with them. Cassius, his old friend, the one who had always been there. Evelyn, the love of his life. All of it.

 Chapter 113: Reborn Warlock

    Warlock Ch 113. Reborn Warlock


    He could feel it. He had been Kaelan¡ªa powerful warlock, yes¡ªbut also... something more. His past had been a complicated, tangled mess, but now it was making sense. All of it.


    He lifted his gaze, managing a weak grin. His body was trembling with exhaustion, but he didn''t care. He finally remembered who he was.


    "I''m back... Cas..." he said hoarsely, the words coming out ragged and strained.


    Evelyn, once she heard the words, her eyes widened, her breath catching in her throat. Before Damian could say another word, she rushed to him, her hands trembling as she took his face into her palms.


    "Kaelan..." she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. Her fingers brushed against his cheek, as if trying to make sure he was real, trying to make sense of what had just happened.


    Damian felt her touch, the warmth of her skin against his. It grounded him in a way nothing else could. It was all coming back to him¡ªthe love they had shared, the battles they fought together, the life they built.


    "Evelyn..." he whispered, his voice barely audible. His eyes fluttered, the last remnants of his strength giving way. He collapsed into Evelyn''s arms, feeling his body give in to the exhaustion that had built up over the past few hours.


    "I''m home..." His whisper was barely more than a breath as his world tilted and then darkened.


    "Kaelan!" The last thing he heard was Cassius scream his name, his voice laced with a mix of fear and relief before everything went black.


    His mind drifted into nothingness, but at that moment, he knew he had found his way back.


    -----


    Darkness swallowed Damian''s consciousness, pulling him into a void that felt both eerily familiar and deeply unsettling.


    When he opened his eyes, he was back in that strange, endless expanse. The void stretched infinitely around him, the space both suffocating and liberating. There were no walls, no floor, just an endless abyss of black and shimmering violet streaks that twisted like smoke. In the center of it all was the ancient artifact¡ªhis Mana Core.


    He approached it cautiously, the faint hum of its power resonating in the air around him. The closer he got, the heavier the weight in his chest felt. The artifact hovered in mid-air, spinning slowly, its intricate sigils glowing faintly. His warlock crest was etched into its surface, along with the sigils signifying the pacts he''d made with his servants¡ªFenrith, Bloodwing Raven, Stoneback Golem, and Spectral Serpent.


    Damian stared at it for a long moment, his hand hovering just above its surface. His chest tightened. This wasn''t just any Mana Core. It was his Mana Core, the same one he had when he was Kaelan. The power radiating from it, the structure¡ªit was unmistakable.


    But something was wrong.


    "This isn''t how it should look," Damian muttered, frowning. His Mana Core wasn''t supposed to have a physical shape like this. Mana Cores were formless, ethereal energy pools unique to each warlock, not solidified artifacts. Even when he was Kaelan, his Mana Core was no different from anyone else''s. It had been raw energy, not this... thing.


    He circled the artifact, his brow furrowed as he tried to piece it together. His memories of Kaelan were fragmented, incomplete, but certain truths stood out. He had learned like every other warlock¡ªthrough grueling study, countless mistakes, and the occasional punishment for recklessness. His growth had been steady, not the meteoric rise he had experienced after being reborn as Damian.


    "This doesn''t add up," he muttered. His mind whirled, picking apart every memory he could access, every lesson he had ever learned. Warlocks couldn''t be reborn. It was an immutable rule of their magic. Life, death, and the cycle between were beyond the grasp of even the strongest practitioners.


    "Rebirth is impossible," he said aloud, trying to convince himself. But the evidence was staring him in the face. He had been reborn, and not just as any random being¡ªhe''d been reborn with the same Mana Core. And not just any Mana Core, but one that had somehow transformed into this artifact.


    He took a step back, his heart pounding as the questions piled up in his mind. "Why do I still have my memories? Why do I still have my Mana Core?" he whispered, his voice barely audible in the void. "Rebirth should strip me of everything. I should have been... someone else. Something else."


    His gaze locked onto the artifact, its glow pulsing faintly as if it could hear him. A thought occurred to him, sharp and sudden.


    "Unless... this thing is bound to my soul," he said, the words heavy with realization. He tilted his head, staring at the artifact with a mix of suspicion and curiosity.


    "Bound to my soul..." he repeated, the idea taking root. It wasn''t impossible. There were legends of Soul Crystals¡ªrare and forbidden creations that could bind a person''s essence to something physical. But those were just stories. No mage had ever successfully made one, and even if they had, there was no record of it being tied to rebirth.


    "Could it be?" he muttered. His mind raced, the puzzle pieces shifting but refusing to fit together. Soul Crystals were more than just rare¡ªthey were theoretical, their existence debated even among the most knowledgeable mages. They were said to bind the very essence of a person¡ªtheir soul, their magic, their memories. If such a thing were real... it could explain why his Mana Core remained intact through his rebirth. Why his memories persisted.


    "But how would I have gotten one?" Damian said, his voice rising with frustration. "Or made one?" He ran a hand through his hair, pacing as he tried to piece it together. "They''re supposed to be impossible to create. Even if someone could make one, why would they use it on me?"


    The artifact pulsed faintly, its glow steady and unyielding as if mocking his confusion.


    "And why the hell do you look like that?" the artifact suddenly said, its voice dripping with sarcasm and disdain, as if it were more irritated by Damian''s existence than anything else.

 Chapter 114: You’re Stuck With Me, Just Like I’m Stuck With You.

    Warlock Ch 114. You''re Stuck With Me, Just Like I''m Stuck With You.


    Damian snapped his gaze up, his patience already worn thin. "Excuse me?" he retorted, glaring at the hovering artifact. "Look who''s talking! You''re supposed to be my Mana Core, not some weird, sentient bully with an ego problem."


    The artifact pulsed faintly, almost like a mocking shrug. "Well, you''re the one with all the questions, aren''t you? Maybe I''m just tired of your whining."


    Damian groaned, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Right, my bad... I forgot you have consciousness and could talk. And not just talk¡ªbe annoying as hell. Why can''t you just give me answers or act like a normal Mana Core?"


    "That''s because I''m not a normal Mana Core, genius," the artifact shot back. "And clearly, neither are you."


    Damian let out a sharp exhale, forcing himself to calm down. Instead, he crossed his arms, his gaze steady as he studied the artifact. "Fine," he said, his voice calmer now. "Let''s start with this, what the hell are you, exactly?"


    The artifact pulsed again, this time with what Damian could only describe as smugness. "Your Mana Core. Obviously."


    "Yeah, no kidding," Damian said, rolling his eyes. "But why do you talk? Why do you act like this? A Mana Core isn''t supposed to have a personality¡ªor consciousness. And it''s definitely not supposed to bully its owner."


    The artifact didn''t answer right away. It spun slowly, its glow shifting from faint violet to a brighter hue, as if it were mulling over what to say. Finally, it spoke, its tone calm but pointed. "It seems like your memories haven''t fully returned yet."


    Damian''s eyes narrowed. "Good, then," he said, his voice laced with suspicion. "So, you do know something."


    "I don''t know anything," the artifact replied flatly, but there was an edge to its voice, a defensive note that Damian didn''t miss.


    A smirk tugged at the corner of Damian''s lips. "Oh, you absolutely know something," he said, taking a step closer. "And that''s why you''ve been giving me those visions. Those memories¡ªthey''re connected to my past, aren''t they? They''re things I haven''t remembered yet."


    The artifact went silent, its glow dimming slightly.


    "Ha!" Damian said, pointing a finger at it. "I''m right! You do know it."


    The artifact scoffed, its light flaring briefly. "So what if I do?" it said, its voice dripping with mock indifference. "Doesn''t mean I''m going to tell you."


    Damian crossed his arms, tilting his head as he leaned closer. "C''mon, tell me what happened," he said, his tone coaxing. "You clearly know more about all of this than you''re letting on."


    "How do I know?" the artifact shot back. "I''m just your Mana Core, right? What do you expect me to know?"


    "Cut the crap," Damian said, his smirk widening. "You''re not just a Mana Core. You''re bound to my soul¡ªthat much I''ve figured out. So there''s something linking you to all of this, right?"


    The artifact pulsed faintly, its glow almost flickering. "Ha! As if I''ll tell you."


    Damian let out a short laugh, shaking his head. "You really enjoy being difficult, don''t you?"


    "Maybe I do," the artifact replied, its tone smug again. "What''s it to you?"


    "Here''s the thing," Damian said, stepping even closer. "You''re stuck with me, just like I''m stuck with you. If you don''t help me figure this out, we''re both going to be in the dark. And honestly? I don''t think you like not knowing what''s going on any more than I do."


    The artifact didn''t respond right away, its light dimming as if considering his words.


    "Besides," Damian continued, his tone softer now, "if you''re tied to my soul, then you''ve been with me this whole time¡ªthrough my past as Kaelan, through my rebirth, through everything I can''t remember. You''ve seen it all, haven''t you?"


    The silence stretched between them, heavy and tense. Finally, the artifact spoke, its voice quieter than before. "You''re more persistent than I thought."


    "I get that a lot," Damian said, crossing his arms. "So, are you going to help me, or do I have to figure all of this out on my own?"


    The artifact pulsed faintly, its glow flickering like a heartbeat. For a moment, Damian thought it might finally cooperate. Then it let out a laugh¡ªa smug, condescending sound that made his eye twitch in annoyance.


    "What am I supposed to do? Hold your hand?" the artifact said, its voice practically dripping with mockery. "Figure it out, warlock. You''ve got a brain, don''t you?"


    Damian''s fingers curled into fists at his sides. "This damn thing," he muttered under his breath. His patience was wearing thinner by the second. "You know, for something tied to my soul, you''re really good at being the worst."


    "What are you gonna do, huh? Beat me up like you did before? Oh, wait," the artifact said, its voice rising in pitch as it mocked him. "You can''t do that anymore. I''m your Mana Core now. Muahahahaha!"


    Damian froze, his eyes narrowing. "Hold up. What do you mean, ''beat me up like you did before''?" he asked, his tone sharp and probing.


    The artifact went silent, its glow dimming slightly. It spun in the air, almost like it was trying to avoid his gaze.


    A grin slowly spread across Damian''s face. "Oh, I see how it is," he said, stepping closer. "So, I did used to beat you up. That means you weren''t always part of my Mana Core, were you? You were something¡ªor someone¡ªI fought before."


    The artifact pulsed faintly, like a heartbeat skipping a beat.


    Damian''s grin widened. "I''m right, aren''t I?" he pressed, his voice laced with triumph. "You''re something I defeated in the past, and somehow, you got tied to my Mana Core. Or maybe my soul. Either way, you''re stuck with me."


    The artifact scoffed, its light flaring briefly. "How do I know? I''m just your Mana Core, remember?" it said, its voice flat and dismissive.


    "Oh, really?" Damian said, crossing his arms again. "You''ve been talking a lot for something that''s just a Mana Core."

 Chapter 115: Get Out!

    Warlock Ch 115. Get Out!


    The artifact didn''t respond, spinning slowly as its glow flickered like an irritated sigh. Damian stepped closer, his gaze sharp and unwavering. "You''re hiding something," he said, his voice steady but firm. "And I''m not letting this go."


    Still, the artifact remained silent, its light dimming as if it were retreating into itself.


    "Come on," Damian said, his tone coaxing. "You''ve already let a lot slip. You might as well tell me the rest. What are you so afraid of? It''s not like I''m going to throw you away. You''re literally stuck with me."


    No response.


    Damian groaned, running a hand through his hair. "Seriously? You''re just going to sit there and sulk?"


    The artifact pulsed faintly, almost like a mocking shrug.


    "Fine," Damian said, his voice tinged with frustration. "Let''s play it your way. If you won''t talk, I''ll just figure it out myself. And when I do, don''t come crying to me when you don''t like the answers."


    The artifact''s glow flickered, almost like it was laughing again, but it didn''t say a word. Damian turned away, his thoughts racing as he tried to piece together the fragments of memory and information he''d uncovered so far.


    ''If this thing really was something I defeated in the past... why is it tied to me now?'' he thought, his brow furrowing. And how does that connect to my rebirth?''


    He paused, glancing back at the artifact. It hovered silently, its light steady but faint, like it was waiting for something. Damian''s jaw tightened. He didn''t trust it¡ªcouldn''t trust it¡ªbut he couldn''t ignore it either. It was part of him now, whether he liked it or not.


    "All right," he muttered, his voice low. "If you won''t help me, I''ll find the answers myself. But don''t think for a second that I''m letting this go."


    A wicked grin spread across Damian''s face, one that even he didn''t entirely recognize. Something inside him stirred¡ªa mix of defiance, curiosity, and pure stubbornness. He extended his hand toward the artifact, his fingers crackling faintly.


    "And I''ll find out now," he said, his voice dripping with determination.


    The artifact''s light flared, pulsing wildly. "Get away from me!" it shouted, its tone bordering on panic.


    But it was too late. Damian''s hand connected with the artifact''s surface, and the world around him shifted violently. A surge of power rushed through him, and he felt like he was being pulled apart and put back together all at once.


    The void was gone.


    Damian found himself standing in a massive throne chamber, the air heavy with the stench of blood and death. The scene before him was gruesome¡ªpiles of corpses lay scattered across the marble floor. Warriors, mages, and creatures of all kinds¡ªdemons, humans, elves, fae¡ªwere strewn about like discarded dolls. Their weapons lay abandoned, coated in blood and ichor. The chamber''s walls were adorned with shattered banners and cracked stone, evidence of a battle so ferocious it had torn the place apart.


    The throne itself loomed at the far end of the room, a grotesque, spiked monstrosity that seemed to radiate malice. Sitting upon it was the Demon King, his towering form oozing an aura of power and darkness.


    This was just part two of what he was dreaming about last night. But this one was more vivid. He could see around him more clearly.


    "What the..." Damian whispered, his voice barely audible as his eyes darted around the room. He looked down at his hands and froze. They were coated in blood¡ªthick, crimson streaks that weren''t entirely his own. His arms trembled as he raised them, the faint sting of countless cuts making him wince.


    The pain in his body became sharper, more immediate. His muscles screamed with exhaustion, and his breath came in ragged gasps. His knees wobbled, threatening to give out. But what struck him the most was the overwhelming sense of de?ja? vu.


    ''When did this happen? Why don''t I remember it?''


    The Demon King''s laughter snapped him out of his thoughts. Damian''s gaze shifted, locking onto the monstrous figure on the throne. The Demon King''s body bore countless wounds¡ªdeep gashes and punctures that should have been fatal. Yet, before Damian''s eyes, the wounds began to close, flesh knitting together with unnatural speed.


    "You won''t be able to defeat me," the Demon King growled, his voice a mix of rage and amusement. "Never!"


    Damian''s eyes widened. The Demon King''s regenerative abilities were legendary, but this... this was something else. This speed of healing bordered on immortality.


    ''There''s no way I can beat him,'' Damian thought, his heart sinking.


    But then something shifted inside him. A spark of defiance ignited in his chest, drowning out the fear and doubt. His lips curled into a smirk, a glint of determination flashing in his eyes. "I''m not done yet!" he shouted, his voice carrying through the chamber.


    He tightened his grip on the weapon in his hand¡ªa long blade he hadn''t noticed before but felt eerily familiar. Its edge shimmered with dark energy, and he instinctively fell into a battle stance, ignoring the protests of his aching body.


    ''I have... a weapon?'' he thought in confusion.


    "Let''s go!" Damian roared, charging forward.


    The Demon King leaned forward, his crimson eyes narrowing as he raised a hand. Dark magic swirled around him, forming into a massive projectile that he hurled straight at Damian.


    ''Move!'' Damian''s instincts screamed. He dodged to the side, the blast missing him by inches and exploding against the chamber wall. The force of the impact sent shards of stone flying, but Damian kept moving, his feet pounding against the blood-slicked floor.


    Just as he closed the distance, raising his blade for a strike, a voice cut through the chaos.


    "Get out!"


    It wasn''t the Demon King''s voice. It was familiar yet foreign¡ªsharp and commanding.


    The sound startled Damian, his concentration faltering. His grip loosened, and he stumbled, his forward momentum carrying him dangerously close to the Demon King. The monstrous figure sneered, raising a massive clawed hand to strike.


    The voice came again, louder this time. "GET OUT!"

 Chapter 116: I’m Too Stubborn to Die

    Warlock Ch 116. I''m Too Stubborn to Die


    Damian opened his eyes and gasped, his chest heaving as he sucked in a shaky breath. Sweat dripped down his temples, soaking the bandages wrapped tightly around his torso. His vision was blurry at first, but as he blinked a few times, the room slowly came into focus. The familiar smell of herbs and medicine filled his nostrils, sharp and overwhelming.


    He frowned, glancing around. This wasn''t Malthus''s lair. No oppressive shadows, no blood-soaked floor. Instead, the soft golden glow of morning light filtered through lace curtains. His gaze swept across the room, lingering on the wooden furniture and the delicate carvings that adorned the walls.


    It was Evelyn''s room¡ªor rather, theirs.


    This was the house he''d built for her decades ago, back when he was Kaelan, her mentor, her husband. He remembered everything about this place. He''d poured his heart into its creation, crafting every detail with magic and care, hoping it would be a sanctuary for them. A home where they''d raise children. A place where they''d grow old together.


    He exhaled slowly, the weight of the memories pressing down on him. "Right... That''s my dream before," he whispered to himself, his voice hoarse. "But why did it suddenly turn so wrong? Why was I reborn? Why did I die? And why..." His voice trailed off, his brow furrowing. "Why was I fighting that Demon King?"


    The questions clawed at his mind, but no answers came. He pushed himself up, wincing as pain flared through his chest. The wound where Malthus had tried to rip his Mana Core from his body throbbed.


    His eyes landed on a mirror propped against the far wall. He squinted at his reflection, then grimaced. "Ew... I look dead," he muttered. His face was pale, his lips cracked, and dark circles ringed his eyes. Bandages covered his chest and arms, and the faint glow of enchanted salves lingered on his skin.


    The smell of Silverthorn Balm and Moonveil Poultice wafted through the air, unmistakable. The former was made from enchanted silverthorn plants, known for stopping bleeding and mending flesh. The latter, a glowing paste infused with moonlight essence, soothed pain and sealed deep wounds. Both were potent remedies, and by the smell of it, someone had slathered him in liberal amounts.


    ''Guess I needed it,'' Damian thought wryly, flexing his fingers to test his range of movement. He winced but managed to sit up further, propping himself against the headboard. His gaze drifted around the room again, taking in the untouched furniture, the faint scent of lavender that lingered in the air.


    ''Fifty years.'' That''s how long it had been since he''d last seen this room. Yet, everything looked exactly as it had before.


    A small chuckle escaped him, soft and bitter. "This reminds me of the first month we lived together..." he murmured.


    The memory was vivid, pulling a reluctant smile to his lips. He could still see Evelyn, blushing furiously as he teased her in the kitchen. They''d been insatiable back then, barely keeping their hands off each other. The bedroom, the desk, the sofa, the dining table¡ªthey''d turned the entire house into their playground.


    The kitchen, though¡ªthat had been his favorite. He loved sneaking up behind Evelyn while she was cooking, wrapping his arms around her and whispering teasing words that made her swat at him with a wooden spoon. Those moments were as intoxicating as they were fleeting.


    ''No one thought I''d settle down,'' Damian thought. ''Not with how I used to be.''


    As Kaelan, he''d been infamous¡ªa charismatic warlock with power to spare and a reputation for being a flirt. Women had thrown themselves at him, enchanted by his charm and his strength. For years, he''d reveled in it, moving from one conquest to the next. But everything had changed when he met Evelyn. She''d been different.


    He sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I guess that''s what made me the Warlock of Eternal Bonds, then..."


    The Warlock of Eternal Bonds was a legendary class, one that had only ever been whispered about in magical circles. It was said to be a dream class for any mage¡ªa class that allowed the warlock to gain skills and build a personalized skill tree based on their intimate connections with others. Each bond strengthened both the warlock and their partners, creating a mutually beneficial relationship.


    Damian smirked bitterly. "A dream class, huh?" he muttered. "Then why does it feel like a curse?"


    The memories, the gaps in his past, and the presence of that Demon King all weighed heavily on him. He clenched his fists, the bandages on his arms creaking as he flexed.


    "Why did I become this?" he whispered. "Why me? And why now?"


    His thoughts were interrupted by the faint sound of footsteps outside the door. A moment later, it creaked open, and Evelyn stepped inside. Her gaze locked onto him immediately, relief flooding her features.


    "You''re awake," she said softly, her voice trembling slightly.


    Damian''s smirk softened into a small smile. "Yeah," he said, his tone light despite the storm in his mind. "Guess I''m too stubborn to die."


    Evelyn crossed the room quickly, sitting on the edge of the bed. Her hands hovered over him, as if unsure whether to touch him or let him rest. "You shouldn''t be moving yet," she said, her tone firm but warm. "You''re still recovering."


    "I''ve been through worse," Damian said, though the stiffness in his body betrayed his words. His attempt to sound nonchalant wasn''t fooling anyone, least of all Evelyn, whose narrowed eyes practically screamed ''You''re full of it.''


    Before she could fire off a retort, the door creaked open again. Cassius stepped into the room, his imposing figure filling the doorway. His expression was as stoic as ever, but his voice carried the rough edge of frustration. "Yeah, he''s been through worse," Cassius said, his tone sharp. "And every damn time, it''s me who has to scramble to find him, drag his half-dead ass out of danger, and fix him."

 Chapter 117: Troublemaker

    Warlock Ch 117. Troublemaker


    Damian looked up, his grin spreading wide despite the pain still wracking his body. "Sorry, Cas," he said, flashing a toothy, innocent smile. "You''re the only one I can count on."


    Cassius rolled his eyes, stepping fully into the room and crossing his arms. "I still don''t understand why anyone bothers with a troublemaker warlock like you," he muttered, his words clipped. "You''re more headache than you''re worth."


    Damian shrugged, the motion making him wince slightly. "Don''t ask me," he said, leaning back against the headboard. "I''m just being me. I guess I''m just that charming." He ran a hand through his disheveled hair, tilting his head up and flashing what he probably thought was a winning smile.


    Cassius''s face contorted in disgust, his frown deepening. "You know you look like an undead corpse right now, don''t you?" he said, his voice dry as sandpaper.


    Damian blinked, then glanced at the mirror across the room. His smile faltered instantly. The pose¡ªmeant to exude effortless confidence¡ªlooked more like a shambling ghoul trying to flirt with its prey. His pale complexion, the dark circles under his eyes, and the bandages didn''t exactly scream "charming rogue."


    Lowering his hand with an exaggerated sigh, Damian muttered, "Right."


    Evelyn let out a soft laugh, shaking her head. "You''re both impossible," she said, her voice tinged with affection. She reached for a cloth and dabbed at Damian''s forehead, her touch gentle. "You should rest. You''re not going to heal overnight."


    "Resting is so boring," Damian grumbled. He waved a hand lazily at Cassius. "Besides, I''ve got bigger problems to deal with. Like, why the hell am I reborn? What''s the deal with that Demon King? And my Mana Core¡ªwhy does it look like some ancient artifact, can talk, and act like a total bully?"


    Cassius and Evelyn exchanged a glance in confusion. Finally, Cassius folded his arms and leaned against the wall, his sharp gaze locking onto Damian.


    "You don''t know?" Cassius asked, his voice calm but laced with suspicion.


    "No," Damian replied, sitting up a little straighter despite the protest of his wounds. "Do you?"


    Cassius let out a slow breath, his eyes narrowing. "You''re telling me you have no memory of any of it?"


    Damian tilted his head. "If I did, would I be asking?"


    Evelyn sighed, her expression softening as she sat on the edge of the bed. "Damian... You told me you turned your Mana Core into an artifact and bound it to your soul. You were very clear about that decision."


    Damian blinked, his brow furrowing. "I said that?"


    Evelyn nodded. "Yes. But you never explained why."


    He frowned, rubbing the back of his neck. "I don''t remember that at all. What about the system? Do you know anything about that?"


    Cassius''s lips twitched into something resembling a smirk. "Oh, I know plenty. Because you wouldn''t shut up about it. You were rambling for days about ''future discoveries'' and ''revolutionizing magic.'' You said it would help mages track their power and grow stronger and more efficiently. You even tested it on yourself."


    Damian''s jaw dropped. "I made the system?!"


    "Apparently," Cassius said with a shrug. "You explained it to me in excruciating detail¡ªhow it worked, what it could do, why it was important¡ªand then you had the audacity to make me explain it all back to you later. Like now."


    Evelyn couldn''t help but laugh softly. "That sounds exactly like you."


    Damian groaned, slumping back against the pillows. "I seriously don''t remember any of this. What about the rebirth? Why would I even attempt something like that?"


    Evelyn''s smile faded, and she shook her head. "We don''t know. You never told us why. All we got was a message¡ªshort, cryptic, and completely infuriating."


    Cassius nodded. "A magic message from you. You said you were going away for a while, disappearing from the wizarding world to Nullis. You said if you didn''t return within twenty years, we should start looking for you there."


    "That''s it?" Damian asked, incredulous.


    "Pretty much," Cassius said. "You added that you''d give us a sign if you needed help, and then you were gone."


    Evelyn chimed in, her voice soft. "You also sent me a box with the amulet you''re wearing now. You said it was important¡ªthat I should hold onto it until we met again, and only you could open it."


    Damian huffed, running a hand through his messy hair. "This keeps getting weirder and weirder. How about the Demon King? I don''t remember ever fighting him."


    Cassius''s eyes narrowed, and for the first time, there was a hint of something like irritation in his voice. "Oh, you remember," he said. "You not only fought him, but you killed him. And then you took over his throne and proclaimed yourself a Demon King."


    Damian blinked. "What?! No way¡ª"


    Cassius held up a hand. "Oh, it gets worse. You pissed off half the demon realm. There were clashes, uprisings, rebellions¡ªyou name it. You seriously went overboard."


    Damian opened his mouth to protest but stopped short, his brow furrowing as fragments of his visions came rushing back. He remembered standing in that blood-soaked throne room, his body aching and his hands trembling. He remembered the Demon King''s mocking laughter, his defiance.


    And then he remembered his own voice.


    "I guess I can give it a shot to be a king of your kin."


    His face turned a shade paler. "Okay... maybe that sounds like something I might''ve said," Damian admitted reluctantly. "But it was because the Demon King was a jerk. He was an arrogant bastard."


    Cassius gave him a flat stare. "Yeah," he said dryly. "And you, a self-proclaimed Demon King, were so much better, right?"


    Damian''s lips parted, a retort on the tip of his tongue, but he closed his mouth with a sulky expression. "I mean... I wasn''t that bad," he muttered, though he didn''t sound convinced.


    Cassius arched his brow. "Tell that to the half of the demon realm that rebelled against you."

 Chapter 118: Prodigies

    Warlock Ch 118. Prodigies


    Evelyn stifled a laugh, her hand covering her mouth as she glanced between the two men. Damian crossed his arms, his expression a mix of embarrassment and indignation.


    "Whatever," Damian said, trying to brush it off. But as his thoughts drifted, something surfaced in his mind¡ªa name. A memory. His expression turned serious, and he sat up straighter. "Wait. What about Aria?"


    Both Cassius and Evelyn turned toward him.


    "I saw her," Damian continued, his voice quieter now. "In my visions. We were fighting... and she looked furious with me. She was like a sister to me back then. But now... in the vision, she looked like she wanted to kill me."


    Aria Brightlight was like a sister to Kaelan. Their parents had been close¡ªwar comrades, magical prodigies, and, ultimately, casualties of a war they couldn''t win. When both sets of parents were gone, leaving Kaelan and Aria as orphans at just nine years old, it was only natural that they clung to each other. Together, they dreamed of following in their parents'' footsteps, of mastering magic and making their mark on the world.


    But life didn''t go as planned.


    When Aria was accepted into the prestigious magic academy, Kaelan was left standing outside the gates, rejected. They told him his magic didn''t align with the disciplined structure of magecraft. It wasn''t refined, they said¡ªit was chaotic, raw, leaning into the shadows where mages feared to tread. It wasn''t the path of a mage but of a warlock.


    While Aria thrived in the academy, Kaelan went searching for answers. That''s when he met Zyric Nightflame--a sharp-eyed warlock who didn''t coddle or sugarcoat. Zyric taught him what it meant to embrace his abilities together with his other apprentice, Cassius. Under Zyric''s tutelage, Kaelan flourished.


    Still, no matter how different their paths became, Kaelan and Aria remained close. Even as Kaelan''s name rose among the ranks of warlocks and Aria became celebrated as one of the strongest sorcerers of her generation, they never let the growing distance of their disciplines drive them apart.


    But the world had its own expectations. Whispers grew louder¡ªKaelan and Aria were perfect together. Both prodigies, both powerful, both single. It seemed inevitable. Marriage, they said, was the logical next step. Their union, people claimed, would produce the most gifted mages the world had ever seen.


    Kaelan had laughed it off, brushing aside the talk with his usual irreverence. To him, Aria wasn''t a potential bride¡ªshe was his sister in all but blood. But now, sitting in this room, fifty years removed from that life and staring down accusations he didn''t fully understand.


    Cassius stood by the window, his arms crossed as he stared out. His tone was sharp when he finally spoke. "Do you think Aria''s going to let a self-proclaimed Demon King like you wander around? Or do you think she''ll just leave you alone because you''re like a brother to her?"


    Damian pressed his lips together. He hated to admit it, but Cassius had a point. "Makes sense," he muttered reluctantly.


    "Yup," Cassius replied, turning back to face him with a dry smirk. "You, the famous warlock, suddenly pissed off everyone. What did you expect?"


    Damian threw his hands up in frustration. "I had my own reasons, you know?"


    Cassius raised an eyebrow. "Right. Then why don''t you enlighten us? Tell me the reason you killed Victoria''s husband."


    The room went deathly silent.


    Damian froze, his brain scrambling to process what he''d just heard. "Wait? What?" he stammered, his voice rising in pitch. "I killed her husband?!"


    Cassius nodded, his expression unchanging. "Yeah. And you made everyone think you were going to proclaim yourself the Vampire King right after."


    Damian''s jaw dropped, his mind reeling. "Wait, wait, wait!" he said, waving his hands as if trying to physically push the accusation away. "I have no reason to kill her husband! Demon King, sure! I had reasons for that. He was throwing the magical world into chaos, blaming everything on the demon race when it wasn''t their fault¡ªit was him. He disturbed the balance. But this? Victoria''s husband? That doesn''t make any sense!"


    Cassius shrugged, his tone maddeningly casual. "Don''t ask me why. You never said anything about it. You just did it. Then you disappeared. Poof. Gone. And the whole world started calling for your head."


    Damian groaned, burying his face in his hands. "Great. So now I''m the most wanted man in the magical world."


    "Yep," Cassius said with a smirk. "Congratulations."


    Damian dropped his hands, glaring at him. "You''re enjoying this way too much."


    Cassius shrugged again, the smirk never leaving his face. "Maybe."


    Damian turned to Evelyn, desperate for a lifeline. "And I left you?" he asked quietly, his voice tinged with guilt.


    Evelyn nodded, her smile faint but understanding. "You did," she said softly. "But don''t worry. I know you were going through something. You didn''t want to involve me because of your reputation. I never blamed you."


    Her words cut deeper than any blade. Damian felt his throat tighten, his chest aching¡ªnot from his injuries, but from her unwavering faith in him. "Evelyn..." he began, his voice breaking slightly. "I¡ªI don''t even remember why. Why I did any of it. Why I left. Why I¡ª"


    "It doesn''t matter," Evelyn interrupted, her tone firm but kind. "What matters is that you''re here now. We''ll figure this out together."


    Damian leaned back against the headboard, exhaling heavily. "This is a mess," he muttered. "I don''t even know where to start."


    "How about you start by remembering why you killed Victoria''s husband?" Cassius suggested dryly. "That might clear a few things up."


    Damian shot him a glare but didn''t respond. Instead, he closed his eyes, trying to dig through the murky fragments of his memories. Images flashed through his mind¡ªblood, fire, a throne room¡ªbut nothing concrete. Just vague impressions of chaos and regret.


    "I can''t," he finally said, his voice barely above a whisper. "I can''t remember."


    Cassius sighed, rubbing his temples. "Of course, you can''t."

 Chapter 119: Not My Ego

    Warlock Ch 119. Not My Ego


    Evelyn reached out, placing a comforting hand on Damian''s arm. "It''ll come back," she said gently. "We just need to be patient."


    Damian opened his eyes, looking at her with a mixture of gratitude and guilt. "Thanks," he said quietly. "For sticking with me. Even when I didn''t deserve it."


    Evelyn smiled softly, her hand lingering on his arm. "Always."


    Cassius, watching the exchange, rolled his eyes. "Touching," he said, his voice dripping with sarcasm.


    Damian turned to him, his expression shifting into a smug grin. "Of course, it''s touching. But you wouldn''t understand, Cas. A perpetually single guy like you? You should stop frowning so much. Smile a bit. Who knows, you might actually get a girlfriend someday."


    Cassius''s eyes narrowed into a death glare. "I wonder who keeps giving me a reason to frown every damn day, huh? How can I smile when you''re always the reason for my headaches?"


    Damian squared his shoulders, meeting Cassius''s glare with one of his own. The tension in the room felt sharp enough to cut, but then, just as suddenly, they both broke into smiles. Damian chuckled, leaning back against the pillows, and Cassius let out a small, reluctant huff that might have been a laugh.


    "I''m glad you''re alive," Cassius said, his tone softening.


    Damian''s grin widened. "And I''m glad you haven''t changed. Someone has to keep me grounded, right?"


    Cassius nodded, his expression turning mock-serious. "Well, someone has to. That ''almighty warlock'' attitude of yours could float you straight into the sun."


    "True," Damian admitted with a shrug. He looked down at his hands, his fingers flexing as if trying to grasp something intangible. "I''m not fully back yet. My memories... they''re still fractured. And my power... it''s not what it used to be."


    Evelyn, who had been quiet during their banter, placed a gentle hand on his arm. "Take your time, Damian," she said softly. "Your health comes first. Oh, wait. But now that you''ve started remembering... should I call you Kaelan again?"


    Damian hesitated. "No," he said finally. "Damian is fine. Kaelan... that name carries too much. If I start using it again, they''ll come after me. And worse, they''ll come after you."


    Cassius''s expression grew serious as he straightened, crossing his arms. "Speaking of your past, I have a few questions," he said, his voice steady but probing. "Now that you''ve heard what we know, do you think what you did back then was right? Do you think it was all a mistake? And... Do you think those decisions are why you chose to be reborn?"


    The room fell silent.


    Damian frowned, his gaze distant as he tried to piece together the fragments of his memory. Finally, he spoke, his voice quieter than before. "I don''t know," he admitted. "Maybe that''s part of it. Maybe I was running from my mistakes¡ªor trying to fix them. But... I don''t believe I made those decisions lightly. Or that I meant to hurt anyone. Like... becoming a self-proclaimed Demon King. I didn''t do that to stroke my ego. I did it because I thought it was the right thing to do."


    Cassius tilted his head, his expression skeptical. "But you made it worse."


    Damian shook his head firmly. "No. Something happened. Something or someone twisted my intentions and flipped the narrative. Look, I''m not naive. The demon king had a lot of followers, and I knew some demon lords wouldn''t take kindly to a warlock stepping into their territory. But leaving that throne empty? That would''ve been worse. It would''ve thrown their realm into absolute chaos. A war between the factions."


    "And you think your way stopped that?" Cassius asked, his tone challenging. "Wouldn''t the end result have been the same?"


    "No," Damian said with conviction. "The casualties would''ve been different. The scale of the destruction would''ve been different. With no leader, they would''ve torn each other apart. Cities, villages, innocent lives¡ªcaught in the crossfire. At least with me there, I could hold things together, even if only temporarily."


    Cassius leaned back against the wall, his expression unreadable. "That''s a hell of a gamble," he said finally.


    Damian let out a dry laugh. "Yeah, well, I''ve always been a betting man."


    Cassius snorted, his arms crossed. "And that''s exactly why you''re always in this kind of mess," he said, his tone cutting but not without a hint of grudging affection. "You make insane bets, and then I have to clean up the fallout. Honestly, it pisses me off."


    Damian smirked, throwing his hands up. "Hey, at least I keep life interesting for you, Cas."


    Cassius shot him a flat stare. "Interesting? I''d settle for boring."


    Evelyn placed a calming hand on Damian''s arm. "Take a rest, okay? You''ve been through enough. Cassius and I will prepare lunch for you."


    Damian perked up, his grin widening. "Oh, can I have Behemoth Steak Slabs and Dawn''s Vitality? Y''know, for the recovery." He blinked innocently.


    Cassius groaned, his glare sharpening. "You''re impossible."


    Damian clutched his chest dramatically, pretending to cough. "I''m hurt, ya know! I need nutritious food. I need to heal quickly. I''m just a lowly rank E warlock who somehow managed to defeat a rank B warlock and almost died."


    Evelyn tilted her head, her expression thoughtful. "Malthus was rank A."


    Damian froze mid-drama. "Wait. What?"


    "Malthus," Evelyn repeated, "was a rank A warlock."


    Damian stared at her, his brain struggling to catch up. "Rank A?" he echoed, his voice an octave higher than usual.


    She nodded. "Yes."


    He slumped back against the headboard, his eyes wide. "Oh, damn."


    Cassius smirked, shaking his head. "Told you, you''re an idiot."


    Damian ignored him, his thoughts racing. "I mean, I knew he was strong, but rank A? That''s... I shouldn''t even be alive right now."


    "You''re lucky you are," Evelyn said softly. "And you''re welcome, by the way."


    Damian grinned sheepishly, rubbing the back of his neck. "Yeah, yeah. Thanks, Evie. You''re the best."


    Cassius sighed, pushing off the doorframe. "Let me guess. You''re going to milk this for all it''s worth, aren''t you?"


    Damian''s grin turned mischievous. "What, me? Never."


    Cassius rolled his eyes. "Right. Behemoth Steak Slabs and Dawn''s Vitality it is. But if you complain about anything, I''m feeding you ration bars instead."


    Damian gasped, clutching his chest again. "You wouldn''t dare."


    Cassius didn''t respond, already heading down the hall. Evelyn followed, shaking her head with a fond smile.

 Chapter 120: Ow, ow, ow!

    Warlock Ch 120. Ow, ow, ow!


    Once the door clicked shut, Damian let out a breath, his grin fading into a thoughtful expression. His fingers traced the edge of the blanket as his mind drifted back to Malthus. ''Rank A...'' The realization hit him again, harder this time. He wasn''t ready. Not for opponents like that. Not yet.


    But he survived.


    His gaze drifted to his hands, his fingers clenching into fists. ''I need to get stronger. Fast.'' The memories, the visions, the fragments of his past¡ªthey all pointed to something bigger, something he couldn''t afford to ignore. And if Malthus was only the beginning, he needed to be ready for whatever came next.


    Damian sighed, pulling up his status screen with a flick of his fingers. "Status."


    The familiar translucent window appeared before him, its glowing text displaying everything he needed to know.


    Name: Damian Blackthorn


    Age: 23


    Class: Warlock of Eternal Bonds


    Rank: C


    Level: 60


    Partners: Evelyn Windward (Witch)


    Servants: Fenrith (Three-Headed Wolf), Bloodwing Raven (Blood Raven) Stoneback Golem (Earth Golem), Spectral Serpent (Ghost Snake)


    Stats:


    Mana Power: S


    Stamina: A


    Endurance: A


    Strength: S-


    Agility: S


    Magic Affinity: S-


    XP: 832/25,000


    Bond Points: 6


    [Skills:]


    [Dark Bolt Lv. 6: Fires a concentrated blast of dark energy, dealing very high damage and now inflicting Terror status on enemies for 6 seconds, causing them to flee or panic. +70% damage compared to Lv. 1, increased Fear effect duration to 6 seconds, with a higher chance of infliction.]


    [Arcane Bolt Lv. 5: Fires a bolt of pure arcane energy that chains between multiple enemies, dealing considerable magical damage to up to 5 targets. Chain lightning effect now strikes up to 5 enemies, increasing damage per chain.]


    [Dark Chains Lv. 5: Summons ethereal chains that bind and immobilize enemies within a 25-meter radius, reducing their physical and magical power by 40%. Can bind up to 7 enemies for 12 seconds, with an increased power reduction.]


    [Curse of Agony Lv. 5: Inflicts an agonizing curse that deals damage over time, with a chance to decrease enemy movement speed for the duration. Increased damage per second and a slight debuff to enemy speed.]


    [Shadow Barrier Lv. 6: Increases shield strength by 90% and absorbs up to 85% of incoming damage. Increased shield strength and duration, providing longer-lasting protection.]


    [Dark Dominion Lv. 6: Expands a dark aura around Damian for 30 seconds, dealing 60% more damage per second. Causes Terror to enemies upon activation. Range increased to 30 meters; duration extended to 40 seconds; Fear effect is more potent.]


    [Hellfire Spear Lv. 5: Forms a spear of intense, corrosive flame, capable of burning through magical barriers with an increased corrosive effect. Flame and corrosive power increased by 50%, reducing cooldown.]


    [Spectral Surge Lv. 5: Boosts speed, strength, and reflexes by 40%, with movements creating multiple afterimages to confuse enemies. Duration extended to 16 minutes, with a 25-second cooldown.]


    [Shadow Step Lv. 2: Allows the user to step through shadows, instantly teleporting to a nearby location. Cooldown: 30 seconds.]


    Damian studied the numbers and descriptions, a satisfied grin tugging at the corners of his lips. "Not bad," he muttered, his tone laced with a hint of pride. "For a newly awakened warlock, this is ridiculously fast progress."


    But the grin faded quickly as his thoughts caught up to him. "Still not fast enough," he said under his breath. He flicked the status screen away, staring at his hands as if the answers to his questions were hidden in his palms. "I don''t know how long I can keep this under wraps. How long before they figure out who I really am..."


    His fingers brushed the amulet hanging around his neck. "And why does the past me want to keep it a secret?" His brow furrowed as he stared at the intricate patterns carved into the amulet.


    "Damn it, Kaelan," he muttered to himself. "What the hell were you thinking?"


    With a tired groan, he let himself fall back onto the bed, only for pain to spike through his chest and limbs. "Ow, ow, ow!" he hissed, clutching his ribs. "Yep... still hurt."


    He laid there for a moment, breathing through the pain, his mind drifting to the past. He remembered something¡ªan ability that had baffled everyone around him, even Cassius. Potion-making. It wasn''t something warlocks were supposed to know. Alchemy and potion-making were domains reserved for witches and mages. But Kaelan¡ªno, he¡ªhad done it. He had been an anomaly even among the magical elite.


    ''If I could make potions again, I''d probably bounce back quicker.''


    Damian''s eyes narrowed as he stared at the ceiling. He was deep in thought. ''It started after I hit rank S,'' he thought, piecing the fragments of memory together. ''That''s when everything changed. I wasn''t just a warlock anymore. I could cast elemental spells like a wizard, brew potions better than a witch, and even heal people like a saint.''


    He frowned, the memories turning hazy. The why behind his abilities was still missing, an empty void in the puzzle of his past. ''Did I figure something out? Something no one else did? Or...'' His internal voice trailed off as a darker thought crept in. ''...did I steal it? Like what Malthus did.''


    He pushed it away, shaking his head. "No," he said firmly. "I wouldn''t have done that. There''s no way..." But the doubt lingered, a whisper at the back of his mind.


    He shifted on the bed, wincing as the motion pulled at his injuries. His gaze drifted to the side table, where a small jar of glowing blue paste sat. "Moonveil Poultice," he murmured. He recognized the herbaceous scent. He''d brewed them countless times in the past.


    "I was... normal before," Damian said to himself, his voice barely above a whisper. "Just a regular warlock, making my way up like everyone else. But then... I stopped being normal."


    He stared at his hands again, flexing his fingers as if he could feel the power that had set him apart. The memory of casting spells that shouldn''t have been possible, of performing feats that defied the laws of magic, came rushing back.


    "What happened when I reached that rank?" he asked the empty room.


    His hand tightened around the pendant. "You know, don''t you?" he whispered, his voice low and accusing.


    But the amulet remained silent, its intricate carvings offering no answers. Damian sighed, his grip loosening. "Guess I''ll just have to figure it out the hard way. Fast... Before they catch up to me. Before I lose the people I care about..."

 Chapter 121: You’re Lucky I Love You

    Warlock Ch 121. You''re Lucky I Love You


    Damian stared at the ceiling, his mind churning even as his body begged for rest. Every muscle ached, and his chest burned with phantom pain from where Malthus had tried to rip out his Mana Core. He sighed heavily, wishing he could just close his eyes and slip back into the dream.


    "Come on," he muttered to himself. "Let me back in. I''ve got a bone to pick with that annoying artifact."


    But no matter how much he willed it, sleep didn''t come. When he did drift close to unconsciousness, the pain in his body yanked him back to reality. He groaned, tilting his head to glance at the darkened room.


    He shifted slightly on the bed, only to wince and hiss. "Ow. Ow. Ow..." Every movement sent sharp reminders of his battle, but lying still wasn''t much better. His frustration bubbled.


    The soft sound of footsteps snapped him out of his thoughts. He turned his head¡ªor at least tried to¡ªand caught sight of Evelyn entering the room. She carried a tray with a bowl of steaming food and a mug of something warm. Her gentle smile made his chest ache in a different way.


    "You should be asleep," she said, setting the tray on the bedside table.


    "I tried," Damian replied with a half-smile. "But my body has other plans. And besides, how can I sleep when I know you''re sneaking in gourmet deliveries?"


    Evelyn chuckled softly, pulling a chair closer to his bedside. "Gourmet, huh? Behemoth Steak Slabs and Dawn''s Vitality."


    Damian grinned, his stomach already growling at the aroma. "Yes!" He sat up slowly, every movement accompanied by a wince or grunt. "Ow¡ªow, ow¡ªdamn it. Okay, I''m good."


    Evelyn watched him with a mix of amusement and concern. "You''re impossible," she said, handing him the plate.


    "And yet you''re still here," Damian teased, immediately digging into the food with no pretense of manners. He ate like a starved wolf, shoveling the steak into his mouth and savoring every bite. The flavor burst on his tongue, rich and hearty, paired perfectly with the revitalizing energy from the drink.


    "You''d think someone who just fought a rank A warlock would have a little more decorum," Evelyn remarked, raising an eyebrow.


    Damian looked up, his mouth full, and gave her an exaggerated thumbs up. "Decorum doesn''t heal wounds," he mumbled through a bite.


    She shook her head, a faint smile tugging at her lips. "You''re lucky I love you."


    Once he finished the last bite, Cassius strode in, his arms filled with a familiar stack of books. He placed them with a solid thud on the desk near the bed.


    "These are the books you brought before your little... adventure," Cassius said dryly. "Figured you''d want them back."


    Damian''s eyes lit up when he spotted the titles. Among them were the two he''d been most eager to read¡ªbooks written by his past self, Kaelan Voidweaver. "Thank you, Cas," Damian said, though his grin betrayed him. "Seriously, you''re a saint."


    Cassius snorted. "Hardly. I just want you to stay occupied so you don''t do anything stupid while you''re recovering."


    Damian smirked, wincing as he tried to shift closer to the books. "Cas, my guy, that hurts. You think I''d risk this peak physical condition just to do something reckless?"


    "Yes," Cassius and Evelyn said in unison.


    ''They knew me too well...'' Damian cringed internally, then shrugged. "Fair."


    Despite the ache in his muscles, he managed to grab one of the books and flip it open. The familiar handwriting brought a flood of emotions¡ªnostalgia, curiosity, and a strange sense of pride. He couldn''t help but grin as he skimmed the pages. "Man, past me was a genius."


    Cassius groaned, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Don''t let it go to your head."


    Evelyn gently placed a hand on Damian''s arm. "Before you dive in, let me reapply the medicine."


    Damian set the book aside, reluctantly baring his bandaged chest. The smell of herbs hit him immediately as Evelyn worked with practiced hands, dabbing the Moonveil Poultice onto his wounds. The cool paste stung at first, but the pain quickly gave way to soothing relief.


    "This stuff is amazing," Damian muttered, his voice lighter. "Top-tier Moonveil Poultice, huh? No wonder it reeks."


    Evelyn smirked. "You''re welcome."


    Once she finished, Damian leaned back against the pillows, letting out a contented sigh. "I give it a day. Two, max. I''ll be back at Cassius'' place training in no time."


    Evelyn shot him a pointed look. "Absolutely not. You''re staying in bed until you''re fully healed."


    Damian opened his mouth to argue, but Cassius cut him off. "For once, I agree with her. You''ve already defied death more times than I can count. Don''t push your luck."


    Damian leaned back against the pillow, his lips curling into a faint smirk. "Luck? Cas, come on. I don''t rely on luck. I rely on skill, charm, and maybe a little insanity." He winked, trying to defuse the tension, but Cassius'' and Evelyn''s stares pinned him down harder than Malthus''s curse.


    Evelyn crossed her arms, her piercing gaze making him feel like a scolded child. "Skill didn''t stop Malthus from almost killing you. And as for charm? You were one misstep away from losing your Mana Core. That''s not charming, Damian. That''s reckless."


    He opened his mouth to retort, but Evelyn''s glare was a silent threat ''try me''. Damian groaned and rubbed his temples. "Fine, fine. Point taken. But, it''s gonna be boring just sitting here, ya know? Besides..." His voice dropped slightly, a hint of seriousness breaking through his usual bravado. "I need more training. I mean... I''ve got my memories now."


    Cassius raised a brow, unimpressed. "Fragments of memories," he corrected.


    Damian''s grin widened, almost sheepish. "Yes, fragments of memories," he admitted. "But at least I know how this world works now. Who my enemies are. I know I should be careful and all that responsible crap," he added.

 Chapter 122: Chain Him to The Bed

    Warlock Ch 122. Chain Him to The Bed


    "This world has changed a lot since you left," Evelyn interrupted, her tone gentler but no less firm. "You should consider that. So have your enemies. They''ve gotten stronger, more organized."


    Cassius nodded, his expression grim. "Not to mention that those fragment memories of yours can''t guarantee anything. Hell, you don''t even remember why you killed Victoria''s husband."


    That one hit home. Damian''s shoulders tensed, his jaw tightening as he tried to formulate a comeback. But... they had a point. Both of them. He hated that they were right, but there it was. "Yeah," he muttered reluctantly, "kinda right."


    Cassius''s triumphant smirk made Damian want to throw a pillow at him. Instead, he settled for a flat, unimpressed stare. "Don''t look so smug," Damian grumbled.


    "Oh, I will," Cassius replied smugly, leaning back in his chair. "It''s a rare occasion when you actually listen to reason."


    Damian ignored him and turned his attention back to Evelyn. "Okay, fine. But at least let me make another pact with a servant. A low-level one. Shadows, maybe?"


    Cassius snorted. "The same Shadows that are notoriously slippery and difficult to catch? Yeah, great idea. Totally not risky at all."


    Damian''s mouth opened, then shut again. Damn it. He hated when Cassius made sense. "Alright," he conceded, throwing his hands up in mock surrender. "Fine. No Shadows."


    But then a thought struck him, and his eyes lit up. "Oh, right! Crystals and potions! I can use those to learn and adapt. Boost my skills and all that."


    Cassius crossed his arms, tilting his head slightly. "Are you sure about that? Just because you have the same Mana Core and rebirth doesn''t mean you''ll be able to replicate the same skills and abilities. You''re not Kaelan anymore. At least... not entirely."


    Evelyn''s expression turned worried. "And if you start dabbling in potions and crystals again, they might come after you even sooner. The last thing we need is for someone to find out you''re Kaelan."


    Damian placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder, his gaze steady. "Evelyn, trust me. If they find out, it won''t be because of the skills I learned. They''ll come for me regardless. It''s inevitable."


    Cassius''s face hardened. "They envy you. They always have. You''re someone they can''t control, someone who exists outside their systems of power. That''s why they''ll never stop hunting you."


    Damian''s lips quirked into a humorless smile. "You''re not wrong there."


    Cassius pushed off the wall, his tone turning sharper. "But it''s not just envy, Damian. Your actions in the past¡ªthe crimes, the chaos¡ªthey''ve made everything worse. Even Evelyn and I don''t know the full extent of the damage you caused."


    Damian frowned, his fingers drumming against the edge of the bed. "Crimes... Right." He stared at his hands, as if searching for answers in the faint scars that crisscrossed his skin. "I don''t remember why I did half of it. The demon king, sure¡ªI had my reasons. But Victoria''s husband? That doesn''t make any sense. I can''t imagine a reason why I''d do something like that."


    Evelyn knelt beside him, her voice gentle. "Maybe there''s more to the story than what we know. Memories or no, you''ve always had a reason for what you do. Even if no one else understands it."


    Cassius snorted. "Yeah, well, reasons don''t matter when you''re public enemy number one in the magical world. Everyone and their grandmother wants your head on a platter."


    Damian smirked faintly. "Good to know I''m still popular."


    Cassius rolled his eyes. "You''re insufferable."


    Damian leaned back against the pillows, wincing slightly. "Look, I don''t regret fighting the demon king. He was throwing everything into chaos, pitting races against each other, and letting his lords run wild. Someone had to stop him, and clearly, no one else was stepping up. But Victoria''s husband? That''s a blank. And until I figure out what happened, I can''t even start to fix the mess I left behind."


    Evelyn touched his arm lightly. "Then take it one step at a time. Rest first. Heal. The answers will come."


    Damian exhaled slowly, nodding. "Yeah. One step at a time." He glanced at Cassius, who was watching him with an unreadable expression. "You got something to add, old man?"


    Cassius smirked faintly. "Just wondering how long it''ll take before you ignore all our advice and do something reckless again."


    Damian grinned, a mischievous spark lighting up his eyes. "I won''t," he said, his tone dripping with mock innocence.


    Cassius didn''t even flinch. "I don''t believe you," he said flatly, crossing his arms like a disappointed father catching his kid sneaking out past curfew.


    "Hey!" Damian protested, throwing his hands up in mock offense. "What''s that supposed to mean?"


    Cassius turned to Evelyn, ignoring Damian entirely. "You better chain him to the bed for extra security," he said, deadpan.


    Damian blinked, momentarily stunned. Then he scowled. "I''m not into that, ya know!" he shot back, his voice rising an octave in indignation.


    Without a word, Cassius activated his teleportation skill, a ripple of dark energy swirling around him before he vanished, leaving behind only the faint crackle of residual mana.


    Damian stared at the empty space where Cassius had been, his expression blank. "Rude," he muttered under his breath. For a moment, he just sat there, his mind oddly quiet as he processed the interaction. Then, almost unconsciously, his gaze slid toward Evelyn.


    "Well..." he began, his voice trailing off as a thought took root in his mind. His lips twitched into a slow, devilish grin. "I never did that, though, so I wouldn''t know. Maybe we can try it out?"


    Evelyn froze, caught off guard for a split second before a chuckle escaped her lips. "See? You''re curious again. You like experimenting that much, don''t you?"


    Damian exhaled dramatically, his shoulders slumping like a man burdened by the weight of his own curiosity. "What can I say? I want to know about a lot of things."


    Evelyn shook her head, a soft smile playing on her lips as she crossed the room to sit on the edge of his bed. "You''re impossible, you know that?"

 Chapter 123: Let’s See If I Can Still Do This!

    Warlock Ch 123. Let''s See If I Can Still Do This!


    "So, I''ve been told," Damian replied, leaning back against the pillows with an exaggerated groan. "But seriously, Eve, it''s not just curiosity. It''s..." He hesitated, his grin fading into something more contemplative. "It''s like... this itch I can''t scratch. There''s so much I don''t remember, so much I don''t understand about myself, about what I did, and about what''s coming next. How am I supposed to sit here and do nothing?"


    Evelyn''s gaze softened, the teasing glint in her eyes replaced by genuine concern. "Damian, no one''s asking you to do nothing. We just want you to take a step back, recover, and think things through before you dive headfirst into danger again."


    He met her eyes, his expression uncharacteristically serious. "You think I don''t want that? I do, Evelyn. But sitting still isn''t just boring¡ªit''s dangerous. The longer I wait, the more time they have to move their pieces. I''m playing catch-up here, and every second counts."


    "You''re still healing," she pointed out gently. "And if you push too hard, too fast, you''ll end up right back where you started¡ªor worse."


    Damian sighed, raking a hand through his dark hair. "You''re right. I know you''re right. But it doesn''t make it any easier."


    Evelyn tilted her head, watching him with that calm, understanding gaze that always managed to pierce through his bravado. She didn''t say anything, just waited for him to continue, knowing he would. He always did.


    He exhaled deeply, his shoulders slumping against the headboard. "Curiosity could kill me, ya know?" His voice carried a hint of humor, but the bitterness beneath it was unmistakable. "My brain... it never wants to stop thinking. It''s like this endless loop of ''what ifs.'' What if I did this? What if I tried that? What if there''s a better way?" He paused, his lips curling into a rueful smile. "I think about it too much. Like, a lot."


    Evelyn moved closer, her presence grounding him in a way that nothing else could. She didn''t interrupt, letting him spill his thoughts into the quiet room.


    "I want to know everything," Damian continued, his voice quieter now. "Learn everything. Test boundaries, push limits. It''s this insatiable itch, Eve. And I guess... that''s what gets me into trouble."


    He smiled bitterly. The silence that followed was heavy, filled with the unspoken regrets and dangers that came with being who he was.


    Evelyn didn''t speak immediately. Instead, she wrapped her arms around him, pulling him into a gentle hug. Her warmth was a balm against the ache he didn''t realize he was carrying until that moment. She pressed a soft kiss to his temple before pulling back just enough to look into his eyes.


    "I know you," she said softly, her voice steady and full of affection. "And that curiosity¡ªthat drive to understand, to figure things out¡ªthat''s what makes you... you. It''s what made me fall in love with you."


    Damian blinked, caught off guard by her words. He wasn''t used to people meeting his flaws with anything other than criticism. Especially this.


    But Evelyn? She always managed to turn his chaos into something... human.


    She smiled and cupped his face, her touch as gentle as her tone. "But right now, you need to take a rest. Your brain isn''t going to solve everything overnight, and pushing yourself won''t bring the answers any faster."


    He wanted to argue, to point out all the reasons why rest wasn''t an option. But she was right...


    "Yeah, okay," he muttered, leaning back against the headboard. His voice carried a note of reluctance, but it lacked his usual fire. "You win. For now."


    Evelyn chuckled, the sound light and warm. She picked up the empty dishes from the bedside table, her movements as graceful as ever. "I always do," she teased, giving him a playful wink before heading toward the door.


    Damian watched her go, the corner of his mouth twitching upward in a faint smile. He couldn''t help but admire how effortlessly she balanced care and strength, how she always seemed to know exactly what to say to keep him grounded.


    Once the door clicked shut behind her, the room fell into a comfortable silence. Damian exhaled deeply. His gaze shifted to the stack of books Cassius had left behind, and his eyes locked onto one in particular¡ªthe journal he had written in his previous life.


    "Hello, old friend," he muttered under his breath, picking it up and letting his fingers trace the worn edges of the cover. Memories surged forward, fragments of a life filled with discoveries, power, and mistakes. Opening the journal, he flipped through the pages, the intricate diagrams, scrawled notes, and half-finished ideas staring back at him like ghosts of his past.


    A grin spread across his face. "Okay," he murmured, his tone brimming with determination. "Let''s see if I can still do this."


    The itch to experiment flared to life, and Damian leaned back, closing his eyes to focus on his Mana flow. It was still strange, feeling the energy swirl within him¡ªa reminder of the rebirth that had changed everything. He focused, visualizing the intricate process of channeling Mana, shaping it, bending it to his will.


    He could feel the threads of power weaving together, a familiar yet distant sensation. His mind raced through the memories he had recovered¡ªthe way Kaelan used to create potions, crystals, and magical items. The process was methodical yet intuitive. Could he replicate it?


    Then, it happened.


    [New skill unlocked!]


    [Create lv 1: Allows the user to craft low-level potions, crystals, and basic magical items. Efficiency and success rates improve with practice and Mana control.]


    Damian''s eyes snapped open, his lips curling into a smirk. "Bingo."


    The translucent notification hovered before him, the glowing text confirming what he already knew. He wasn''t just remembering who he had been. He was reclaiming it.


    "Well, looks like I''m back in business," he said, his tone half-joking but carrying a note of genuine pride. He flexed his fingers, the faint residual glow of Mana still clinging to his fingertips. "Let''s see what this baby can do."

 Chapter 124: Worth It!

    Warlock Ch 124. Worth It!


    He glanced around the room, his eyes landing on the small stash of materials Cassius had left behind. There were some basic ingredients¡ªherbs, shards of elemental crystals, and a couple of odd trinkets that looked like leftovers from Cassius'' latest experiments. Damian''s smirk deepened. "Alright, let''s put this to the test."


    He grabbed a handful of the herbs first, their faint earthy aroma filling the air. ''Right... a bit of Emberroot, Shadebloom Petals and Starshade Moss,'' he thought. He hummed. "Should I take more?" He paused to think. "Nah... I think it''s enough."


    The process wasn''t as straightforward as he remembered. Back in the day, this kind of thing came to him like second nature. Now, it felt like trying to re-learn a language he hadn''t spoken in years. Still, he had his instincts¡ªand a little bit of trial and error wouldn''t hurt.


    Damian placed the herbs on the bedside table and hovered his hand over them, channeling his Mana. The familiar glow of energy flickered around his fingers, the raw essence of his power shaping itself according to his intent.


    [Create Lv 1 Activated]


    [Attempting to craft: Lesser Restoration Potion. Combining basic herbs and low-tier Mana essence.]


    The herbs glowed faintly, their natural energy merging with his Mana. A small vial on the table vibrated, pulling the mixture into itself. Slowly, the liquid inside turned a faint green, shimmering faintly as if alive.


    [Item Created!]


    [Lesser Restoration Potion: Restores a small amount of health and stamina. Effective for beginners. Quality: Common.]


    Damian picked up the vial, turning it in his hand as he admired the result. "Not bad for being rusty," he muttered. But this was just the warm-up.


    Next, he grabbed one of the elemental crystal shards. It was a tiny thing, barely the size of a thumbnail, but it thrummed faintly with latent energy. He paired it with a strip of enchanted cloth he''d found among the materials, his mind already envisioning the possibilities. He focused his Mana again, this time pouring more precision into the process.


    [Create Lv 1 Activated]


    [Attempting to craft: Minor Flame Charm. Combining elemental crystal shard and enchanted cloth.]


    The shard and cloth glowed in tandem, their energies weaving together in a slow but steady dance. For a moment, Damian thought the process might fail¡ªthe shard pulsed erratically, threatening to destabilize¡ªbut he pushed through, steadying his focus.


    [Item Created!]


    [Minor Flame Charm: Emits a small, consistent flame. Can be used for basic illumination or fire-starting. Quality: Common.]


    Damian held the charm up, the faint flicker of flame dancing across its surface. "Two for two," he said, his confidence growing. "Still got it."


    But he wasn''t done yet. His mind raced with possibilities as he eyed the two items in his hands. Combining items had always been one of his specialties back in the day, pushing boundaries to create something greater. He set the potion and the charm down, closing his eyes to visualize the fusion process. This would take more Mana¡ªand more skill¡ªbut if it worked, it would prove that he still had what it took.


    [Create Lv 1 Activated]


    [Attempting to combine: Lesser Restoration Potion + Minor Flame Charm.]


    [Warning: High chance of failure. Insufficient skill level may result in degraded items.]


    Damian gritted his teeth, pouring more Mana into the process. The vial and charm vibrated violently, their energies clashing as they fought to merge. Sweat beaded on his forehead as he focused, refusing to let the attempt fail.


    Then, with a final pulse of light, the two items stabilized.


    [Item Created!]


    [Flame-Touched Healing Potion: Restores a small amount of health and stamina. Additionally imbues the user with minor fire resistance for 10 minutes. Quality: Rare.]


    [Skill Leveled Up!]


    [Create Lv 2: Can now craft intermediate-level potions, crystals, and magical items. Increased success rate for item fusion.]


    Damian held the new potion up, his grin stretching ear to ear. "Hell yeah!" he exclaimed, his voice loud enough to echo in the quiet room. "Still got the magic touch!"


    The door creaked open, and Damian froze. He turned his head slowly to see Evelyn standing in the doorway, arms crossed, her expression a mixture of suspicion and irritation.


    "I thought you said you were just going to read the book," she said, her tone sharp enough to cut through his excitement.


    Damian''s grin faltered. He opened his mouth, searching for an excuse, but all that came out was a weak laugh. "I, uh... did read the book. And then I thought about how I could apply what I read."


    Evelyn raised a brow, her piercing gaze pinning him in place. "Uh-huh," she said, clearly unconvinced. She stepped closer, her eyes flicking to the faint scorch marks on the table and the glowing potion in his hand. "And this? Just a little light reading?"


    Damian winced, setting the potion down carefully. "I mean, technically, it''s part of the learning process," he reasoned.


    "Technically," Evelyn repeated, her voice dripping with sarcasm. She shook her head, letting out a long-suffering sigh. "Damian, you''re supposed to be resting," she reminded him once again.


    "I remember," Damian said quickly. "But look, I leveled up my Create skill! I''m not just sitting around doing nothing. This is progress!"


    Evelyn didn''t look impressed. "Progress is great. Staying alive to enjoy it is better."


    Damian groaned, slumping back against the headboard. "I get it, I get it. I''ll rest. I promise."


    A long exhale came out of her mouth. "You better," she said, her tone softening slightly. She glanced at the potion on the table and added, "But... nice work on the potion. Just don''t push yourself too hard, alright?"


    Damian''s grin returned, smaller but genuine. "Thanks, Eve. I''ll behave. Probably."


    She gave him one last sharp look, her lips quirking in a faint smile as she left the room. Once the door closed behind her, Damian let out a breath and leaned back, staring at the glowing potion.


    "Worth it," he muttered to himself, a satisfied smirk on his face.

 Chapter 125: The Vampire Queen’s Excitement

    Warlock Ch 125. The Vampire Queen''s Excitement


    Victoria blinked awake, her crimson eyes glinting faintly in the dim light of the throne room. For a moment, she didn''t move, letting the silence wrap around her. She sat still, one leg elegantly draped over the other, her pale fingers lazily tapping against the armrest of the massive throne.


    The room felt heavy¡ªnot just from its towering walls or intricate stained glass windows, but from everything it held. Memories. Secrets. Losses.


    The castle was grand, yes, with its endless spires and carvings that whispered of wealth and power, but to her? It was a mausoleum. A monument to things she could never get back.


    Her gaze flicked to a corner of the room, her jaw tightening ever so slightly. That spot. That damned spot. The image came unbidden, sharp and vivid like it always did¡ªher ex-husband''s lifeless body sprawled on the marble floor, his blood pooling and staining the pristine white stone. Crimson on white. She could almost see it still, as though time had frozen in that corner, refusing to move on.


    And Kaelan was there... with his bloody hands, staring at her husband''s body coldly. He was also wounded. Quite badly. But he was too powerful. There was nothing she could do. She could remember the way Kaelan flicked his gaze to her and looked at her, at her helpless state since she was also heavily wounded. All she could do was lay there, in her own blood pool.


    But there was no anger in her now. No grief. Just... acceptance. Maybe a little curiosity, if she was honest with herself. Kaelan had always been fascinating. Powerful, unpredictable, maddening¡ªand when he acted, it was always with purpose. That night had been no exception.


    Her lips curved into the faintest of smiles. "He''s back, isn''t he?" she murmured, her voice soft but razor-sharp. It wasn''t really a question. She knew.


    Slowly, Victoria rose from the throne, her movements smooth, deliberate, every step radiating control. Her dark gown whispered against the floor as she trailed a hand over the throne''s arm, her crimson nails dragging faintly against the ornate wood. The moonlight filtering through the stained-glass windows painted her in silver, her shadow stretching long and distorted across the floor.


    "Kaelan," she said quietly, almost to herself, tilting her head as if tasting the name on her tongue. It was him. It had to be. She''d felt it¡ªthe ripple in the air, the faint shift in the magical currents. It wasn''t just her imagination. No, the power she''d sensed was unmistakable, though... different now.


    Her smile widened, her fangs glinting faintly in the light. "You always were full of surprises, weren''t you?"


    "Your Grace."


    The voice broke the silence, and Victoria didn''t bother turning. She already knew who it was. Henry. Loyal, predictable Henry, always lurking in the shadows like a good servant.


    "What is it?" she asked without looking, her voice calm but edged with impatience.


    He stepped forward, bowing low enough that she could hear the fabric of his coat rustle. "Shall I prepare the car? If you plan to go out, it would be wise to¡ª"


    "No," she interrupted, her tone sharp enough to cut him off mid-sentence. She finally turned to face him, her crimson eyes narrowing. "I don''t need a car."


    Henry hesitated, his expression flickering with confusion. "But, Your Grace, if it''s a matter of security¡ª"


    "It''s not." She waved a hand dismissively, silencing him. "And where I''m going, no car will follow. That will be all, Henry."


    "But¡ª"


    Her gaze snapped to his, and the room seemed to chill. "I said," she repeated, her voice dropping to a dangerous whisper, "that will be all."


    Henry stiffened, swallowing whatever argument he''d been about to make. He bowed again, murmuring, "As you wish, Your Grace," before retreating back into the shadows.


    Victoria turned away, letting out a small sigh. Servants. Always worrying about the wrong things.


    Her attention shifted to the massive mirror mounted on the wall near the doors. She walked toward it, her reflection¡ªor lack of one¡ªgreeting her as it always did. A faint smile tugged at her lips as she adjusted the ruby pendant at her neck, its faint glow like a heartbeat in the darkness.


    "Still invisible," she muttered, her tone laced with dry humor. She tilted her head, studying the empty mirror for a moment longer. "And yet... somehow, I''m the one everyone sees."


    ''It must be him,'' Victoria thought. ''That apprentice who was in Cassius'' place. I can feel it... in his blood.'' A smirk crept across her lips, cold and calculated, her fangs glinting faintly. ''And now... I can feel his power. There''s no mistaking it anymore.''


    "Kaelan," she murmured again, her tone almost amused now. "You really thought you could disappear, didn''t you?" She smirked, her fingers brushing her lips as if savoring the memory. "I''ve tasted your blood once. You''ll never hide from me."


    The thought sent a small thrill through her, but she quickly suppressed it. This wasn''t the time for indulgence.


    She turned on her heel, her gown sweeping dramatically across the marble as she made her way toward the double doors at the end of the room. Her steps echoed, slow and deliberate, and as she moved, the sconces along the walls flickered to life one by one, casting the hall in a warm, golden glow.


    The castle seemed to wake with her, its ancient magic stirring in response to her presence. For a brief moment, she hesitated, glancing up at the high, arched windows. The night sky stretched beyond them, vast and endless.


    "Cassius," she said softly, the name rolling off her tongue like a whisper. Her smirk faded, replaced by an expression of quiet determination. "I suppose it''s time for another visit. You''re going to love this."


    Without another word, she closed her eyes, and the air around her seemed to shift. A dark mist began to swirl at her feet, climbing upward as her form dissolved. It wasn''t a slow process¡ªone moment she was there, solid and unyielding, and the next, she was gone, replaced by a flurry of bats.

 Chapter 126: Good as New

    Warlock Ch 126. Good as New


    For two days, Damian''s life revolved around his bed, a pile of books, and Evelyn''s constant doting. There were at least thirty books stacked by his bedside¡ªeach as thick as a dictionary¡ªand while they weren''t exactly page-turners, they kept him company. If Cassius had intended to bore him into submission, mission accomplished.


    Evelyn, on the other hand, seemed determined to fatten him up with enough delicious food to feed a small village. Every few hours, she''d bring him something new¡ªstews, bread, cakes, even some kind of magical fruit that tasted like honey but gave him a weird tingling sensation in his fingertips. Damian couldn''t shake the feeling that they were trying to fatten him up like a pig ready for slaughter.


    "Are you two planning to eat me?" Damian muttered to himself as he poked at a plate of glazed ham Evelyn had just delivered. "Because if so, this feels like overkill."


    But hey, at least Evelyn hadn''t resorted to chaining him to the bed, and Cassius hadn''t used a paralyzing spell to keep him from wandering. That was progress, right? Of course, it was probably more miraculous that Damian actually stayed in bed. Or rather, stayed in the house. For two whole days, he fought the urge to sneak out, to move, to do something.


    Well, mostly.


    When boredom got the better of him, Damian found creative ways to occupy his time. With his Create skill, he couldn''t resist experimenting. He waited for moments when Evelyn was occupied¡ªlike during her long, luxurious showers¡ªand used Shadow Step to sneak into the kitchen. He grabbed whatever materials he could get his hands on: herbs, enchanted salts, even a few strange glowing orbs he found hidden in a cupboard.


    Back in his room, he tried crafting. Most of his creations were intermediate-level items, and a good number of them failed miserably. He ended up with an exploding vial that left a scorch mark on the wall, a crystal that melted into sludge, and a charm that emitted a terrible screeching noise instead of its intended calming hum.


    "Progress," Damian muttered sarcastically as he cleaned up the mess. Still, he knew he was improving. Every success, every failure¡ªit was all part of rebuilding what he''d lost.


    Evelyn didn''t seem to notice¡ªor, if she did, she didn''t say anything. She spent most of her time at home, reading or brewing her own potions. As a witch, money wasn''t a concern for her. Kaelan left her more than enough after all. Yeah, Kaelan was a rich warlock despite was a wanted man. She seemed perfectly content staying in, fussing over Damian and making sure he didn''t do anything reckless.


    But by the third day, Damian was starting to feel like his old self again.


    That morning, Evelyn sat on the edge of his bed, carefully removing the bandages from his chest. Her hands were steady, but her eyes narrowed as she inspected the once-raw wounds. Now, all that remained were faint scars, barely visible against his skin.


    "Well," she said, leaning back to look at him properly, "you heal fast. Too fast, honestly. If I didn''t know better, I''d think you were sneaking around and using magic to accelerate the process."


    Damian gave her his most innocent grin. "Me? Sneak around? Evelyn, I''m offended. I''ve been a model patient."


    She snorted, rolling her eyes. "Right. And I''m the Queen of Haven City."


    "Could be," Damian said with a wink. "You''ve got the charm for it."


    Evelyn ignored him, pressing lightly against his chest. "Does this hurt?"


    Damian winced but quickly masked it with another grin. "Not at all. I''m totally fine."


    Her sharp gaze told him she wasn''t buying it. "Uh-huh. And how about this?" She pressed again, a little harder this time.


    He clenched his teeth, holding back a hiss of pain. "Still fine."


    Evelyn raised an eyebrow. "Damian..."


    "Okay, okay," he admitted, leaning back against the headboard. "It aches a little. But it''s nothing I can''t handle."


    She sighed, standing up and crossing her arms. "You''re impossible. But fine. I''ll admit¡ªyou''re healing well. Just don''t overdo it."


    Damian stretched his arms experimentally, testing his range of motion. The ache was there, but it was manageable. More importantly, he felt strong. His Mana flowed through him smoothly, and his muscles no longer felt like they were made of lead.


    "See?" he said, standing up from the bed with a dramatic flourish. "Good as new."


    Evelyn watched him, unimpressed. "Don''t even think about it."


    "Think about what?" Damian asked innocently, already pulling on his jacket.


    "You know what." Her voice was firm, but there was a hint of exasperated affection in her tone. "You''re going to march straight to Cassius''s place, aren''t you?"


    He shrugged, flashing her a grin. "Gotta get back to training sometime. Can''t let all these gains go to waste."


    Evelyn pinched the bridge of her nose. "Damian, you just started healing. If you push yourself too hard¡ª"


    "I won''t," he interrupted, holding up his hands in mock surrender. "Promise."


    Her eyes narrowed. "You''re lying."


    "Only a little," he admitted with a smirk. "But seriously, Eve, I''m fine. A little training won''t kill me."


    Evelyn crossed her arms, her sharp gaze locking onto his like a predator sizing up its prey. "And what if it does? Damian, you barely just healed. You can''t just push your body like this and expect it to magically fix itself every time. Even you have limits."


    Damian sighed, running a hand through his messy dark hair. "I know my limits, Eve. I promise I won''t go too hard. I just need to get moving again, shake off the rust. You don''t get stronger by lying around all day, you know."


    "That''s exactly what someone about to collapse would say," Evelyn shot back, her tone laced with both concern and irritation. "You can''t keep gambling with your life like this."


    Damian stepped closer to her, his expression softening. "It''s not gambling," he said, his voice low. "It''s me trying to get back to where I was. To where I need to be."


    She shook her head, her frustration evident. "And what happens if you push too hard and something goes wrong? You think Cassius and I are going to sit here and pick up the pieces again?"


    He grinned, trying to lighten the mood. "Cassius might complain a little, but I think he secretly enjoys it."

 Chapter 127: Youre So Cute When Youre Flustered *

    Warlock Ch 127. You''re So Cute When You''re Flustered *


    "Damian," she said warningly, her eyes narrowing.


    "Okay, okay," he relented, holding his hands up in mock surrender. "How about this? Let me prove I''m fine. If I can convince you that I''m good to go, you let me train. Deal?"


    Evelyn arched an eyebrow, clearly unimpressed. "And how exactly do you plan to prove that? By running laps around the room? Doing push-ups? Because I can guarantee you that won''t convince me."


    Damian''s grin widened, a mischievous glint in his eyes. He stepped closer, closing the gap between them until they were nearly chest to chest. "I dunno," he said, his voice dropping to a playful murmur. "Maybe with something that''ll really grab your attention. Something that''ll make you moan and scream."


    Evelyn''s cheeks flushed, and she immediately stepped back, glaring at him. "Damian!" she hissed, though her voice wavered slightly.


    Before she could scold him further, Damian leaned in, silencing her with a kiss. His lips were firm yet gentle, and the tension in her shoulders melted away almost instantly. For a moment, the room was silent.


    Evelyn''s initial resistance faltered as she found herself leaning into him, her hands gripping the front of his shirt. Her mind raced, a mix of indignation and affection swirling together. She knew he was trying to distract her, to derail her argument, but damn it, he was good at it.


    Damian pulled back slightly, his forehead resting against hers as he smirked. "See? You''re already speechless. That''s gotta count for something."


    Evelyn let out a slow breath, her hands still clutching his shirt. "You''re insufferable, you know that?" she muttered, though there was no real heat in her words.


    "Yeah," Damian admitted, his grin not faltering for a second. "But you love me anyway."


    She rolled her eyes, though a faint smile tugged at the corners of her lips. "Unfortunately."


    "So... does that mean I win?" Damian asked, his tone teasing but hopeful.


    Evelyn narrowed her eyes, though the playful spark in them betrayed her. "You don''t win anything unless I say so, warlock."


    Damian''s grin widened, his mischievous energy practically radiating off him. "Great!" he declared, his tone full of mock enthusiasm. Without giving her a chance to protest, he took a step forward, caught her by the waist, and gently but firmly pushed her backward onto the bed.


    "Damian!" Evelyn yelped, her eyes widening as she landed softly against the plush blankets.


    "''Cause, I''m just getting started," Damian replied smoothly, leaning over her with a grin that was equal parts charming and infuriating.


    Her mouth opened, probably to deliver a sharp retort, but Damian cut her off by pressing a hand to the mattress on either side of her, caging her in. His dark eyes locked onto hers, and for a moment, the playful atmosphere shifted. There was an intensity in his gaze¡ªa hunger, but not the kind born of recklessness.


    The kind that made her heart beat faster and her breath caught in her throat.


    Damian leaned in, his voice barely more than a whisper as his lips brushed her ear.


    "Mphn..." Evelyn couldn''t help the small gasp that escaped her. Her face flushed, and her gaze darted away, but Damian cupped her cheek, gently guiding her face back to his. His fingers were calloused, his skin warm, and she found herself leaning into his touch despite her racing thoughts.


    "That voice... I love it," he murmured, his thumb tracing her jawline.


    She swallowed thickly, her eyes meeting his once more. The intensity of his gaze was overwhelming, and she could feel her heart pounding in her chest. Her hands instinctively gripped the front of his shirt, her fingers curling around the fabric.


    "You just love doing this... Teasing me," she murmured, her voice wavering slightly.


    "Well, you make it easy," he replied, his lips curving into a smirk. "You''re so cute when you''re flustered."


    She let out a shaky breath. She tried to think of some witty retort, some way to regain the upper hand, but the words died on her tongue as he leaned in and captured her lips in a kiss.


    It was soft and gentle, but the heat behind it was undeniable. He pulled away far too soon for her liking, and she couldn''t help the small sound of disappointment that escaped her.


    "Don''t worry," he murmured, his eyes dancing with mischief. "If I can''t finish this, I won''t go to Cassius'' place. Let''s think of it as a warm-up."


    With that, he leaned in again, his lips brushing against hers.


    Evelyn let her eyes fall shut as he deepened the kiss. It was a slow, languid exploration, his tongue sliding against hers as if they had all the time in the world. One of his hands tangled in her hair, the other moving to the small of her back, drawing her closer to him. She felt his warmth through the thin fabric of her dress, and she couldn''t help but press herself closer to him, desperate for more contact.


    She missed him so much...


    Their bodies were flush against each other, and she could feel his arousal pressing against her through the layers of their clothes. She couldn''t help but moan softly into the kiss.


    He broke the kiss, pulling away slightly to look at her.


    "Yes, that voice. I love that voice. " His voice was rough with desire, and his eyes burned with an intensity that made her heart skip a beat. He began to peel off her clothes.


    His hand roamed across her body, caressing every inch of exposed skin.


    "I''m going to show you how much I love you. How much you mean to me," he murmured, his fingers grazing her neck, her collarbone, her breasts.


    "No... You just want to show me that you are fine and let you continue your training." Her breathing was ragged, her body trembling with anticipation. She could feel her core throbbing with need, and she ached for him to be inside her.


    "Well, that too." His hands moved lower, his fingers brushing against the hem of her dress. In one smooth motion, he pushed the garment up, exposing her thighs.


    She gasped as his hand trailed across her inner thigh, his fingertips grazing her sensitive skin.


    He hooked his fingers around her underwear and slowly began to slide them down her legs.


    She shuddered as the cool air hit her skin, her pulse racing.


    He tossed the garment aside and positioned himself between her thighs, his eyes never leaving hers.


    "I love you," he murmured, his hands gently parting her legs.


    She was already wet, and he groaned as his fingers slid easily into her slick folds.

 Chapter 128: I Don’t Mind Proving Myself A Second Time **

    Warlock Ch 128. I Don''t Mind Proving Myself A Second Time **


    "You are so ready, aren''t you?" He began to circle her clit with his thumb, eliciting a moan from her.


    "Damian..."


    "Say it again," he commanded, his voice husky with desire.


    "I love you," she whispered, her words catching in her throat.


    His eyes burned into hers as he pressed his thumb against her clit, rubbing slow, torturous circles.


    "I love you," she breathed, her head falling back as waves of pleasure washed over her.


    "Say it again." His voice was low and rough, and his free hand grasped her thigh, pulling her legs further apart.


    "I love you, Damian. " Her voice was barely more than a breathless whisper as her body trembled under his touch.


    "Again." He dipped his head, his lips brushing against her ear as he pressed his fingers deeper inside her.


    "I love you, " she moaned, her back arching as she rocked her hips against his hand.


    "Very good" he growled, his thumb circling her clit with just the right amount of pressure. "Now, take my clothes off."


    Her hands shook as she fumbled with the buttons on his shirt. She was eager, but also nervous, unsure of herself.


    "That''s it."


    Finally, his shirt fell away, exposing his chiseled chest. Her fingers ghosted across his skin, tracing the contours of his muscles.


    She wanted to touch him everywhere, to explore every inch of him.


    He groaned as she raked her nails down his back.


    "Damian..." She whispered his name like a prayer as he continued to tease her, his fingers sliding in and out of her in a steady rhythm.


    Her hand went down his trousers, grabbing his cock.


    "Oh... That feels so good." He let out a low moan as she began to stroke him, his hips rocking against her palm.


    "I want you," she whispered, her teeth nipping at his earlobe.


    "I''m yours," he growled, his fingers curling inside her.


    She cried out, her body arching against his as he pushed her closer and closer to the edge.


    Impatiently, she pulled down his trousers completely and flipped their positions, pushing him back against the pillows.


    He grinned up at her, his eyes dark with lust.


    "Come on, then. "


    She straddled him, her knees sinking into the soft blankets. Her hands gripped his shoulders as she slowly lowered herself onto his cock.


    The sensation of him filling her was overwhelming, and she gasped, her head falling back.


    His hands roamed across her body, cupping her breasts, teasing her nipples.


    His fingers dug into her hips as she began to rock against him, taking him deeper inside her.


    Her hands fisted in the blankets, her hips rolling as she rode him.


    "You know what? I don''t mind being your horse..." He said, a smile appearing on his lips. "But I''m not a tame one. I''m a wild one."


    She gasped as he thrust his hips up, meeting her movements.


    "Oh God..." She moaned, her nails raking down his chest.


    "You''re so wet."


    He was buried deep inside her, his cock hitting just the right spot.


    "I''m close..." She gasped, her hips bucking wildly against his.


    "Let go, Evelyn. Let me see you come."


    She shuddered as her orgasm crashed over her, her body tensing and trembling with pleasure.


    "Damian!" she cried, her nails digging into his skin as she rode out the waves of her release.


    "Oh yes." He groaned, his hands gripping her hips tightly.


    His own release followed soon after, his body shuddering beneath hers as he came.


    [Witch''s Arcane Gift Lv. 2]


    [New Spells Unlocked!]


    [Void Rift Lv 1: The caster tears a small rift into the void, creating an unstable zone of swirling arcane energy. The rift pulls in enemies within a certain radius, slowing their movements and dealing periodic damage.]


    Damian kissed her once again. When he pulled back, his grin was equal parts smug and playful. "What do you think?" he asked, his voice low and a little rough. "Is that enough to prove I''m okay?"


    Evelyn''s cheeks flushed a deep red, her usual composure shaken by his boldness. She looked away, her fingers absently smoothing down her disheveled hair. "I still don''t want you to go," she murmured, her voice quieter now but no less resolute. "Rest is the most important thing for you right now."


    Damian tilted his head, his grin widening. "Does that mean I have to do it again?" he teased, already leaning closer. "Because, you know, I don''t mind proving myself a second time."


    "Wait, wait, wait!" Evelyn yelped, holding up her hands to stop him before he could close the gap again. Her face burned crimson, her usual sharpness dulled by his boldness. She shook her head, letting out a frustrated sigh. "Fine. Just... don''t push yourself, okay?"


    Damian chuckled, satisfied with her reluctant concession. "I promise I won''t overdo it," he said, though the mischievous glint in his eyes hinted otherwise. He sat up fully, stretching his arms over his head. "But seriously, Eve, you''ve gotta stop worrying so much. I''m not as fragile as I look."


    She gave him a deadpan stare. "You literally almost died three days ago."


    "Key word: almost," Damian shot back, his grin never faltering. He slid off the bed, testing his legs with a slight stretch. A faint ache still lingered in his muscles, but nothing he couldn''t handle. "See? I''m up and moving. Practically invincible."


    Evelyn rolled her eyes, crossing her arms over her chest. "You''re impossible, you know that?"


    "Yeah," Damian replied with a wink. "But you love me."


    She let out a huff, though the faint smile tugging at her lips betrayed her exasperation. "Just remember, if you collapse or hurt yourself again, I''m not going to heal you right away. You''ll have to live with your bad decisions for a while."


    Damian smirked, leaning down to press a quick kiss to her forehead. "Noted. Now, if you''ll excuse me, I''ve got a date with Cassius and a whole lot of training."


    Evelyn sighed, her shoulders slumping slightly in resignation. "Fine. But if you push yourself too hard, don''t say I didn''t warn you."

 Chapter 129: Tomato, Tomahto

    Warlock Ch 129. Tomato, Tomahto


    With her reluctant blessing, Damian grinned and leaned down to press a quick kiss to Evelyn''s forehead. "I understand, my love," he said softly, his tone carrying a rare sincerity that momentarily broke through his usual playfulness. "I''ll be careful. Promise."


    Evelyn sighed, clearly unconvinced but willing to let him go. "Just don''t make me regret this," she muttered, crossing her arms as she watched him get dressed.


    Damian quickly threw on his usual ensemble¡ªa dark shirt, jacket, and comfortable trousers that allowed for ease of movement. He grabbed the books he had been reading, tucked them in the bag, and slung his satchel over his shoulder. He made his way to the door and glanced back at her with a playful grin. "Don''t miss me too much."


    "Go already," Evelyn shot back, though the faint smile on her lips softened the retort. "And don''t forget¡ªtake it easy."


    With a mock salute, Damian was out the door and into the cool morning air. The crisp breeze felt invigorating against his skin, and for the first time in days, he felt like himself again. As he walked, his thoughts drifted. It was strange¡ªthis place, this city, felt more like home than he ever remembered it being. Maybe it was because he was starting to piece together his fragmented memories, or maybe it was the people he had surrounded himself with. Either way, the familiarity was comforting in a way he hadn''t expected.


    When he arrived at Cassius''s grand estate, a shadowy figure greeted him at the door. It was one of Cassius''s servants, a silent, humanoid form crafted entirely from shifting darkness.


    "Morning!" Damian barely spared it a glance as he dumped the books into its outstretched hands like he owned the place.


    "Where''s Cassius?" Damian asked, his tone casual as he stepped inside.


    Before the shadow servant could respond, Cassius materialized in front of him, his usual unamused expression firmly in place. His arms were crossed, and his flat gaze bored into Damian like he was already regretting letting him through the door.


    "Hi, Cas," Damian said with a wide grin. "You look well."


    Cassius raised an eyebrow. "Do I?" he replied dryly. "Because I feel like I''m about to deal with more of your nonsense."


    Damian clutched his chest in mock offense. "Come on, don''t be like that. I''ve been on my best behavior."


    Cassius''s expression didn''t change. "I''ll believe that when I see it. And..." He gestured to the bag now clutched in the shadow servant''s hands. "Oh, you have finished them?"


    "Yup. They were just some light reading for me. I decided to return them as soon as possible," Damian said nonchalantly. "You know, in case you get bored babysitting me."


    "Babysitting?" Cassius repeated, his tone clipped. "That''s what we''re calling training now?"


    "Tomato, tomahto," Damian quipped, brushing past him and into the training hall. "Speaking of which, are we getting started, or are you just going to stand there and glare at me all day?"


    Cassius let out a long-suffering sigh and followed him. "You''re awfully cocky for someone who almost got himself killed less than a week ago."


    "Hey, I''m alive, aren''t I?" Damian shot back, spinning on his heel to face Cassius. "That''s gotta count for something."


    "Barely," Cassius muttered, his sharp gaze sweeping over Damian as if assessing his condition. "And if you''re here to prove something, you''d better be ready to put in actual work. No shortcuts, no excuses."


    Damian smirked, rolling his shoulders in a lazy stretch. "Relax, Cas. I wouldn''t dream of slacking off. Besides, I''ve got a reputation to uphold."


    Cassius arched a brow. "A reputation for what? Being insufferable?"


    "Exactly," Damian said with a wink. "Can''t let you forget who you''re dealing with."


    Cassius pinched the bridge of his nose, muttering something under his breath about patience. "Let''s just get this over with."


    "Now that''s the spirit!" Damian said, clapping his hands together. "So, what''s on the agenda today? Combat drills? Spell refinement? Or are we going straight into the deep end?"


    Cassius''s eyes narrowed. "Don''t tempt me."


    Damian grinned, unbothered by the threat. "Oh, come on. You know you love pushing me to my limits."


    Cassius stepped closer, his presence radiating authority. "I do it because you need it, not because I enjoy it. And if you''re serious about training, you''d better be ready to focus."


    "I''m always focused," Damian said, though the glint in his eyes suggested otherwise.


    Cassius didn''t respond immediately. Instead, he turned and gestured toward the training hall direction. "Fine..."


    They went inside the training hall. At the center of the space was a large circle etched into the floor, the runes within it pulsing faintly like a heartbeat.


    Damian''s gaze fell to the glowing runes, his confidence wavering for a moment. "Uh, summoning circle?" he asked, eyeing it warily. His usual grin faltered, the unease creeping into his tone.


    "It''s a summoning circle, yes," Cassius replied, his voice calm and matter-of-fact. "This one is different from the kind you''re used to. It pulls monsters from random places. The kind you can''t make a pact with, so don''t bother trying."


    Damian''s brow furrowed as he studied the runes. He crouched down slightly, running a hand just above the surface without touching it. The energy radiating from the circle was intense, making the hairs on his arms stand on end. "So... this thing just keeps summoning monsters nonstop? Never heard of it before."


    Cassius nodded. "Exactly. It''s a testing ground and a new method of mine. The longer you last, the more it pushes your skills to their limits. If you''re as fine as you claim to be, it''ll show."


    Damian glanced up at him, his grin returning but tinged with nervous energy. "And if I''m not?"


    "Then we''ll know exactly how reckless you''re being," Cassius said simply, his expression unreadable.


    Damian let out a dramatic sigh, standing back up and brushing his hands on his pants. "You know, Cas, for someone who claims not to enjoy babysitting me, you sure have a knack for coming up with torturous ways to keep me in line."


    "I''m not torturing you," Cassius replied, his tone dry. "I''m training you. There''s a difference."

 Chapter 130: Sadist

    Warlock Ch 130. Sadist


    "Sure there is," Damian muttered under his breath before stepping into the circle. The moment his foot crossed the glowing boundary, the runes flared to life, a vibrant cascade of light shooting up around him like a cage. He glanced around, his nerves prickling as the air inside the circle grew heavier. "How long is this thing going to keep summoning monsters, anyway?"


    Cassius raised a brow, snapping his fingers. In an instant, a translucent barrier enveloped the room, sealing them inside. The faint hum of magic reverberated through the walls as the summoning circle''s glow intensified. "I don''t know," Cassius said casually. "You''ll just have to find out."


    Damian cringed, shooting him a flat look. "What a sadist."


    Cassius crossed his arms, his expression unchanging. "I''m giving you exactly what you wanted. A chance to prove yourself. Now focus. The first wave is about to begin."


    As if on cue, the runes at Damian''s feet blazed with brilliant light, and a low, guttural growl echoed through the hall. A shimmering portal appeared in front of him, its edges crackling with unstable energy. From within, a hulking beast emerged¡ªa six-legged creature with jagged scales and glowing yellow eyes that burned with primal fury. Its claws scraped against the stone floor, sending sparks flying as it let out a deafening roar.


    [Monster Summoned!]


    [Ravaging Scalespitter]


    Level: 40


    HP: 4,000/4,000


    MP: 300/300


    Skills: [Spitfire Barrage], [Ironhide Shell], [Savage Leap]


    Weakness: Ice-based attacks


    Damian''s grin faltered for just a second before he straightened, cracking his knuckles. "Okay, big guy. Let''s see what you''ve got."


    He reached out with his Mana, calling on his servants. "Come on, team," he muttered. "Let''s show Cassius how it''s done."


    The summoning circle within his mind flared to life, and he felt the familiar tether of his servants'' presence¡ªbut something was off. The energy flickered, unstable. Instead of the full force of his army, only two of his servants materialized in the room.


    [Servant Summoned!]


    Fenrith


    Bloodwing Raven


    Damian blinked at the sight of the two. Fenrith, his loyal three-headed wolf, growled low as each of its heads bared sharp fangs at the Scalespitter. Bloodwing Raven circled above, its crimson wings glowing faintly as it let out a piercing screech.


    "Right..." Damian muttered under his breath, his grin turning sheepish. "One step at a time." He remembered he was just a rank C warlock. A wounded rank C warlock to be precise. He still got his limitations.


    The Scalespitter snarled, lunging toward him with surprising speed for a creature of its size. Damian leaped back, activating [Shadow Step] to teleport a safe distance away.


    "Fenrith, keep it busy!" Damian commanded, his voice steady despite the adrenaline pumping through him. The massive wolf charged forward, its central head unleashing a deafening howl that seemed to ripple through the air.


    [Void Howl]


    [Ravaging Scalespitter] took a -20% defense debuff for 10 seconds.


    The Scalespitter recoiled slightly, shaking its head as Fenrith lunged, its claws raking against the beast''s armored shell. Sparks flew, but the attack barely left a scratch.


    "Figures," Damian muttered. "Bloodwing, hit it from above!"


    The raven swooped down, its wings glowing as it unleashed a barrage of crimson energy.


    [Bloodstorm]


    [Ravaging Scalespitter] took 300 damage!


    [Ravaging Scalespitter] was inflicted with Bloodstorm (damage over time: 50 HP per second for 5 seconds).


    The Scalespitter roared, swiping at the raven, but Bloodwing was too fast, weaving through the air with ease. Damian saw his chance.


    "Alright, my turn," he said, summoning a bolt of energy to his hand. He aimed carefully and unleashed a blast of pure darkness.


    [Dark Bolt!]


    The bolt struck the Scalespitter square in the chest, the dark energy exploding outward in a burst of shadow. The beast let out a guttural roar, its movements faltering as the Terror effect took hold. It stumbled back, its glowing eyes wide with fear.


    [Ravaging Scalespitter] took 720 damage!


    [Ravaging Scalespitter] was inflicted with Terror for 6 seconds!


    "Perfect," Damian said with a grin. "Fenrith, go for the legs!"


    The three-headed wolf darted forward, its claws slashing at the Scalespitter''s lower limbs.


    [Ravaging Scalespitter] took 210 damage!


    Cracks began to form in the armored shell, and Damian saw an opportunity to finish the job.


    "Let''s turn up the heat," he muttered, summoning a spear of crackling flame in his hand.


    [Hellfire Spear]


    [Ravaging Scalespitter] took 1,200 damage!


    He hurled the spear with precision, and it struck true, piercing through the weakened shell. The Scalespitter let out one final, agonized roar before collapsing in a heap, its body smoldering from the attack.


    [Monster Defeated!]


    Damian wiped the sweat from his brow, glancing at Fenrith and Bloodwing Raven. "Nice work, you two," he said, giving them a nod. But the victory was short-lived. The summoning circle flared again, and a new portal began to form.


    "Seriously?" Damian muttered, bracing himself as the air grew heavy with magic once more. From the portal emerged not one, but two creatures¡ªtwin serpentine beasts with shimmering, scale-covered bodies and glowing blue eyes.


    [Monsters Summoned!]


    [Frostfang Serpents]


    Level: 38


    HP: 3,200/3,200


    MP: 230/230


    Skills: [Frostbite Coil], [Icy Breath], [Glacial Barrier]


    Weakness: Fire-based attacks


    Damian''s heart pounded as he assessed the new threats. "Alright," he said, his voice steady despite the tension in his chest. "Let''s keep this party going." He glanced at Fenrith and Bloodwing. "We''re going to need to hit these things hard and fast. Ready?"


    Fenrith growled, and Bloodwing let out a piercing cry. Damian smirked, his confidence returning. "Good. Let''s show Cassius what we''re made of."


    With a flick of his wrist, Damian summoned another [Hellfire Spear], the fiery weapon crackling in his grasp. As he prepared to launch the attack, he couldn''t help but glance at Cassius, who stood outside the circle with his arms crossed, a faint smirk on his face.


    "Enjoying the show, Cas?" Damian called out, his voice dripping with sarcasm.


    Cassius raised an eyebrow. "You''re still standing. Color me impressed."


    "Don''t worry," Damian shot back. "I''ll give you plenty more to be impressed about."


    With that, he hurled the spear toward the nearest Frostfang Serpent, the battle far from over.

 Chapter 131: Let’s Give You Something to Chew On

    Warlock Ch 131. Let''s Give You Something to Chew On


    [Hellfire Spear Activated!]


    [Frostfang Serpent] took 890 damage!


    The serpent hissed, writhing as flames licked across its icy scales, melting patches of its armor-like hide. It recoiled, but Damian didn''t let up.


    "Fenrith, finish it off!" Damian commanded.


    The three-headed wolf leapt forward, each head snapping and biting with feral precision.


    [Savage Bite]


    [Frostfang Serpent] took 410 damage!


    [Frostfang Serpent] took 350 damage!


    Bloodwing Raven, circling above, unleashed a barrage of crimson energy. Its shrieking cry echoed through the chamber as it dove in for the attack.


    [Bloodstorm]


    [Frostfang Serpent] took 780 damage over time!


    The serpent''s movements slowed as the blood magic siphoned its life force, weakening it further. Damian saw his chance.


    "Alright, let''s end this!" He summoned a bolt of arcane energy to his palm, its crackling light illuminating his determined expression.


    [Arcane Bolt Lv. 5]


    The bolt arced from his hand, striking the weakened serpent before chaining to the second Frostfang Serpent.


    [Frostfang Serpent] took 540 damage!


    [Second Frostfang Serpent] took 420 damage!


    The first serpent let out a final, pained screech before collapsing into a heap of smoldering scales. The second serpent hissed angrily, rearing back to strike, its icy breath swirling in the air.


    Damian sidestepped, activating [Spectral Surge] to boost his speed.


    He moved like a blur, his afterimages making it nearly impossible for the serpent to land a hit. It lunged, its jaws snapping shut where he''d been just seconds before.


    "Too slow!" Damian taunted, appearing behind it with a smirk. He summoned another Hellfire Spear and drove it straight into the creature''s side.


    [Hellfire Spear]


    [Frostfang Serpent] took 970 damage!


    The serpent hissed, writhing in agony as the corrosive flames spread across its body. Fenrith lunged again, delivering the final blow.


    [Void Howl]


    [Frostfang Serpent] took 480 damage!


    [Frostfang Serpent Defeated!]


    Damian let out a breath, wiping sweat from his brow. "That was fun," he muttered, but his moment of respite was short-lived. The summoning circle flared again, its glow intensifying as the air crackled with energy.


    "You''ve got to be kidding me," Damian muttered, bracing himself as three towering figures emerged from the portal.


    [Monsters Summoned!]


    [Flameborne Minotaur]


    Level: 50


    HP: 5,000/5,000


    MP:344/344


    Skills: [Infernal Charge], [Molten Slam], [Flame Aura]


    [Voidstalker Wraith]


    Level: 50


    HP: 4,800/4,800


    MP: 660/660


    Skills: [Shadow Lash], [Shadow Rift], [Ethereal Blink]


    [Thunderfang Alpha]


    Level: 50


    HP: 4,500/4,500


    MP: 400/400


    Skills: [Lightning Fang], [Storm Howl], [Thunder Dash]


    Damian grimaced. "Alright, this just got interesting."


    Knowing Fenrith and Bloodwing Raven weren''t suited for this fight, Damian recalled them with a flick of his hand. "Thanks for the assist, you two. Now, let''s bring out the heavy hitters."


    [Servants Summoned!]


    Stoneback Golem


    Spectral Serpent


    The ground trembled as the massive Stoneback Golem materialized, its rocky body exuding an aura of unyielding strength. The Spectral Serpent slithered into existence, its ghostly form shimmering with an otherworldly light.


    "Golem, hold the Minotaur!" Damian ordered. "Serpent, keep the Wraith busy. I''ll deal with the Alpha."


    The Golem let out a low rumble, charging toward the Flameborne Minotaur. The two collided with a thunderous crash, their sheer weight shaking the ground.


    [Earthquake Stomp]


    [Flameborne Minotaur] took 680 damage!


    The Spectral Serpent hissed, unleashing a cloud of venomous mist that engulfed the Voidstalker Wraith.


    [Venomous Mist]


    [Voidstalker Wraith] took 520 damage over time!


    Meanwhile, Damian faced off against the Thunderfang Alpha. The beast snarled, its fangs crackling with electricity as it lunged at him with blinding speed.


    Damian activated [Shadow Barrier], a protective shield materializing around him just in time to absorb the impact.


    "Nice try," Damian growled, countering with a [Dark Bolt] that struck the Alpha head-on.


    [Thunderfang Alpha] took 1,050 damage!


    [Inflicted Terror for 6 seconds!]


    The Alpha staggered, its movements erratic as the Terror effect took hold. Damian didn''t waste the opportunity. Activating [Spectral Surge], he darted forward, his afterimages confusing the beast as he landed a series of quick strikes.


    [Arcane Bolt]


    [Thunderfang Alpha] took 640 damage!


    Across the hall, the Golem and Minotaur continued their brutal clash, each trading heavy blows. The Minotaur''s [Molten Slam] sent chunks of the Golem''s rocky armor flying, but the Golem retaliated with a barrage of sharp rock shards.


    [Flameborne Minotaur] took 850 damage!


    The Spectral Serpent weaved around the Voidstalker Wraith, its spectral form making it difficult for the Wraith''s attacks to land. The serpent coiled tightly, attempting to bind the Wraith in place.


    [Soul Bind]


    [Voidstalker Wraith] immobilized for 8 seconds!


    Damian grinned, exhilarated despite the chaos. "Alright, let''s finish this!" He conjured another [Hellfire Spear], the flames burning hotter than ever as he aimed for the Alpha''s exposed flank.


    The spear struck true, and the beast let out a deafening roar as it collapsed to the ground.


    [Thunderfang Alpha Defeated!]


    "Two more to go," Damian muttered, turning his attention to the others. The fight was far from over, but the adrenaline coursing through his veins made him feel unstoppable.


    Damian''s heart pounded in his chest, but his focus was razor-sharp. The Thunderfang Alpha was down, but the other two monsters were far from finished. Across the room, the Flameborne Minotaur clashed with the Stoneback Golem, their sheer power sending shockwaves through the hall. Meanwhile, the Spectral Serpent coiled tightly around the Voidstalker Wraith, its spectral body shimmering as it fought to keep the elusive creature contained.


    Damian darted between them, assessing the battlefield. "Alright, time to turn up the heat," he muttered, flames already sparking at his fingertips. He locked his gaze on the Minotaur first¡ªits glowing molten form a clear threat to the Golem''s rocky defenses.


    "Let''s give you something to chew on," Damian growled, summoning another [Hellfire Spear]. The fiery weapon crackled in his hand, its corrosive flames burning brighter as he poured more Mana into the attack.


    [Hellfire Spear]


    [Flameborne Minotaur] took 1,120 damage!


    The spear struck the Minotaur''s chest, the flames spreading across its molten armor and forcing it to stumble back. The creature roared in fury, its Flame Aura flaring to life as it charged forward, molten cracks forming in the ground beneath its hooves.

 Chapter 132: The Kaelan I Know is Rich in Tricks And Wit

    Warlock Ch 132. The Kaelan I Know is Rich in Tricks And Wit


    Damian smirked, activating [Shadow Step] to teleport out of its path.


    The Minotaur''s charge slammed into the Golem instead, the impact sending shards of rock flying. But the Golem retaliated with a powerful stomp, shaking the ground and destabilizing the Minotaur''s footing.


    [Earthquake Stomp]


    [Flameborne Minotaur] took 790 damage!


    "Nice work, big guy," Damian called out to the Golem before turning his attention to the Wraith. The Voidstalker Wraith was attempting to break free of the Serpent''s binding coils, its shadowy form flickering as it lashed out with tendrils of dark energy.


    [Shadow Rift]


    [Spectral Serpent] took 600 damage!


    Damian grimaced, realizing the Wraith wasn''t going down easily. "Alright, let''s even the odds," he muttered, summoning a swirling rift of his own. The air around him darkened as he tore open a rift in space, unstable arcane energy crackling within.


    [Void Rift]


    [Voidstalker Wraith] took 520 damage!


    [Voidstalker Wraith] slowed by 30%!


    The Wraith let out an unearthly screech as the rift''s gravitational pull slowed its movements, giving the Serpent an opening to tighten its grip. Damian capitalized on the moment, firing an [Arcane Bolt] at the Wraith, the chain lightning effect jumping between the shadowy tendrils.


    [Arcane Bolt]


    [Voidstalker Wraith] took 670 damage!


    The Wraith recoiled, its form flickering as it struggled to maintain cohesion. Damian moved in closer, activating [Spectral Surge] to close the gap in an instant.


    With his enhanced speed, Damian landed a series of precise strikes, his movements creating afterimages that confused the Wraith further.


    [Voidstalker Wraith] took 450 damage!


    "Stay down!" Damian growled, summoning a final [Dark Bolt] to finish the job. The bolt struck the Wraith''s core, the burst of shadow energy tearing through its unstable form.


    [Voidstalker Wraith] took 1,080 damage!


    [Voidstalker Wraith Defeated!]


    As the Wraith dissolved into nothingness, Damian turned his attention back to the Minotaur. The Golem was holding its ground, but cracks were spreading across its rocky exterior from the relentless attacks.


    "Golem, fall back!" Damian commanded, stepping into the fray himself. The Minotaur roared, molten cracks glowing across its body as it prepared another charge. But Damian was ready.


    He activated [Dark Dominion], a shadowy aura erupting around him and spreading across the battlefield. The oppressive energy caused the Minotaur to falter, its movements slowing as the aura''s effects took hold.


    [Dark Dominion]


    [Enemies within 30 meters take 60% damage per second and are inflicted with Terror.]


    [Flameborne Minotaur] took 920 damage!


    The Minotaur roared in defiance, but Damian didn''t give it a chance to recover. Summoning another [Hellfire Spear], he launched it directly into the creature''s chest, the flames exploding on impact.


    [Hellfire Spear]


    [Flameborne Minotaur] took 1,200 damage!


    "Almost there," Damian muttered, his voice steady despite the adrenaline coursing through him. He dashed forward, his afterimages surrounding the Minotaur as he landed a flurry of quick strikes.


    [Flameborne Minotaur] took 450 damage!


    The creature staggered, its molten aura flickering as its strength waned. Damian summoned one final [Hellfire Spear], the flames blazing brighter than ever as he poured the last of his Mana into the attack.


    "This is for making me break a sweat," he growled, hurling the spear with all his might. It struck the Minotaur''s core, the flames consuming it entirely as it let out a final, earth-shaking roar.


    [Flameborne Minotaur Defeated!]


    Damian exhaled, wiping the sweat from his brow as the battlefield finally fell silent. "Not bad," he muttered, glancing at the smoldering remains of his opponents. "Guess I''m not as rusty as I thought."


    From the edge of the room, Cassius clapped slowly, his expression unreadable. "You''re still alive," he said. "That''s something."


    Damian grinned, his aching body overshadowed by the satisfaction of victory. "Told you I was fine. Now, what''s next?"


    Cassius shrugged, his calm demeanor completely unfazed by the chaos of the room. "Dunno. You should ask the summoning formation, not me."


    Before Damian could retort, the summoning circle glowed brighter than ever. The air in the room thickened, the oppressive weight of high-level magic pressing down on him. His grin faded as a towering figure began to emerge from the portal.


    The creature stepped fully into the room, its presence radiating power. It was massive, easily twice the size of the Flameborne Minotaur, with dark, spiked armor that seemed to shimmer with an otherworldly light. Its red, glowing eyes locked onto Damian, and a guttural growl rumbled from its throat.


    [Monster Summoned!]


    Abyssal Titan


    Level: 100


    HP: 15,000/15,000


    MP: 700/700


    Skills: [Abyssal Strike], [Void Eruption], [Titan''s Endurance]


    Weakness: Unknown


    Damian grimaced, instinctively taking a step back. "Uh... Cas, is this too early for me? I mean, I''m still a rank C warlock. This thing is level 100."


    He tried to calm his racing heart, taking deep breaths, but it wasn''t working. He knew the gap between a level 100 monster and himself was insurmountable. Rank C? He might as well be a rankless fledgling for all the good it would do here.


    Meanwhile, Cassius, unbothered as usual, flicked his wrist, and a comfortable armchair appeared out of nowhere. He sat down, crossing his legs casually. A shadow servant materialized beside him, placing a cup of tea on a small table that had also appeared. He picked up the cup and took a slow, deliberate sip, his calm gaze fixed on Damian.


    "A rank E warlock couldn''t beat a rank A warlock either," Cassius said, his voice calm, as if they weren''t in the same room as a monstrous titan. "But three days ago, you managed to do it. You even made it to rank C because of it. So, no, I don''t think this is a big deal."


    Damian''s frustration bubbled to the surface. He threw his hands up in disbelief. "This is a big deal! Also, why do you suddenly have tea? You should be more worried about me! What kind of mentor are you?"


    Cassius lowered his teacup, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "If you were just Damian, only Damian, I might be more worried. But you''re not. You''ve regained part of your memory. You''re no longer a fledgling warlock stumbling through the dark. While you might not be as strong as before, you''ve retained the intelligence that belongs to Kaelan. And the Kaelan I know is rich in tricks and wit. I believe you can handle this."

 Chapter 133: Lame Excuse

    Warlock Ch 133. Lame Excuse


    Damian made a face that could only be described as ''What kind of lame excuse is that?'' But before he could voice his irritation, Cassius continued.


    "Besides," Cassius said, setting his cup down neatly, "you''re the one who forced yourself here in the first place. You''re not fully healed¡ªI know your body must still ache. And I''d wager you did something to Evelyn to make her let you leave. So, instead of complaining, I suggest you prove your words."


    Damian cringed inwardly. ''He knows me too well...'' He could already hear Evelyn''s voice in his head, scolding him for rushing into things yet again.


    Cassius leaned back calmly. "Oh, and one more thing, Damian," he added, his voice calm but pointed. "You shouldn''t take your eyes off your enemy for too long."


    Damian''s smirk widened. "I know."


    The Abyssal Titan roared, its massive form closing the distance between them in seconds. Its glowing red eyes locked onto Damian, and dark energy crackled around its gigantic fist as it prepared to strike. The [Abyssal Strike] came down with terrifying force, aiming to crush Damian where he stood.


    But Damian was already moving. Just as the attack was about to land, he activated [Shadow Step], his body dissolving into dark mist and reappearing behind the Titan¡ªin mid-air.


    "Not bad," Damian muttered to himself as he summoned his [Hellfire Spear]. The fiery weapon materialized in his hand, the intense heat radiating from it causing the air around him to shimmer. This time, he didn''t throw it. He gripped the spear tightly, aiming for a devastating close-range strike.


    The Titan began to turn, its massive frame surprisingly agile. Damian''s eyes widened in realization¡ªthere was no time to land a direct melee attack.


    "Damn it!" he hissed, shifting his grip and throwing the spear with all his strength. The flaming projectile soared through the air, slamming into the Titan''s chest with a thunderous explosion.


    [Abyssal Titan] took 1,120 damage!


    The Titan roared in fury, dark energy crackling along its armor as the flames seared its massive form. Its red eyes burned brighter as it turned its attention fully to Damian. With a guttural growl, it swung its enormous arm toward him in a wide, punishing arc.


    "Uh-oh," Damian muttered, raising his hands and summoning his [Shadow Barrier] just in time. The massive hand collided with the barrier, the impact sending Damian flying backward like a ragdoll.


    The barrier cracked under the strain, its shimmering surface barely holding together. Damian''s body was flung across the hall, but before he could collide with the wall, the Stoneback Golem stepped in. Its massive, rocky arms caught him mid-air, absorbing the momentum and setting him back on his feet.


    "Thanks, big guy," Damian muttered, wincing as he steadied himself. The ache in his ribs reminded him of how fragile he still was. But there was no time to dwell on the pain¡ªthe Titan was already charging again, its massive footsteps shaking the ground.


    "No mercy, huh?" Damian growled, his hands lighting up with dark energy. "Fine by me."


    He extended his arms, summoning a swirling, oppressive aura that expanded outward in a wave of shadowy energy. The room darkened as his [Dark Dominion] activated, the Titan''s movements slowing as the aura took hold.


    [Skill Activated: Dark Dominion ]


    [Enemies within 30 meters take 60% damage per second and are inflicted with Terror.]


    [Abyssal Titan] took 920 damage!


    The Titan roared, its glowing red eyes flickering with unease as the Terror effect began to set in. Its movements became sluggish, its massive frame hesitating as the oppressive energy weighed it down.


    "Yeah, you feel that?" Damian taunted, his confidence returning. He summoned another [Hellfire Spear], the flames burning even hotter this time. "Let''s see how much you like round two!"


    He hurled the spear with precision, the fiery projectile slamming into the Titan''s shoulder and exploding on impact.


    [Abyssal Titan] took 1,150 damage!


    The Titan stumbled, its massive hand reaching for the wound as molten flames licked across its armor. But it wasn''t out of the fight yet. With a guttural growl, it raised both fists, slamming them into the ground.


    [Void Eruption]


    The ground beneath Damian and the Golem cracked and splintered, dark energy erupting in a violent shockwave.


    The Stoneback Golem took the brunt of the attack, its rocky form absorbing the worst of the damage.


    [Stoneback Golem] took 1,240 damage!


    Damian, using his boosted reflexes from [Spectral Surge], managed to leap out of the danger zone, his afterimages making it appear as if multiple versions of him were scattering across the battlefield.


    "Not bad," Damian muttered, landing safely on the other side of the Titan. "But you''re gonna have to do better than that."


    The Spectral Serpent hissed, slithering forward to assist. It unleashed a cloud of [Venomous Mist], the toxic cloud engulfing the Titan and seeping into its wounds.


    [Abyssal Titan] took 640 damage over time!


    Damian capitalized on the distraction, summoning a [Void Rift] beneath the Titan''s feet. The swirling arcane energy pulled at the massive creature, further slowing its movements and dealing periodic damage.


    [Abyssal Titan] took 580 damage!


    [Abyssal Titan] slowed by 30%!


    The Titan roared in frustration, its massive form struggling against the combined assault. Damian grinned, his adrenaline surging as he prepared his next move. The [Void Rift] below the Titan crackled, its arcane energy slowing the creature''s movements, but Damian knew he couldn''t rely on that alone. The monster''s sheer resilience was on a level far beyond anything he''d faced before.


    He summoned another [Hellfire Spear], the flames swirling around his hand with a furious intensity. "Alright, big guy, let''s see how you like this one!" he shouted, hurling the spear directly at the Titan''s chest.


    [Abyssal Titan] took 1,150 damage!


    The spear struck true, exploding against the Titan''s armored core and sending shards of molten metal flying. The creature roared, its glowing eyes narrowing as it turned its attention back to Damian.


    "Yeah, that''s right," Damian muttered under his breath, sweat dripping down his temple. "Focus on me, ugly."

 Chapter 134: Too Slow

    Warlock Ch 134. Too Slow


    The Titan raised its massive fist, dark energy pooling around it as it prepared another [Abyssal Strike]. Damian tensed, readying himself to dodge, but a thought flickered in his mind.


    ''This is too slow.''


    His [Hellfire Spears] were doing damage, sure, but the cooldown and preparation time left too many openings. He needed something faster, something more relentless. His memories as Kaelan stirred¡ªa vivid recollection of conjuring multiple projectiles at once, raining destruction on his enemies like a fiery storm.


    "What if..." he muttered, his voice trailing off. He closed his eyes briefly, focusing his Mana. The warmth of the [Hellfire Spear] flickered in his mind, but he didn''t stop there. He visualized not just one, but many¡ªan arsenal of blazing javelins ready to strike.


    His Mana surged, and the air around him grew hot. He could feel the spell forming, new and unstable, but powerful.


    [New Skill Unlocked!]


    [Infernal Javelins Lv. 1: Summon multiple spears of intense, corrosive flames, designed for rapid throwing. Each javelin pierces magical barriers with enhanced corrosive effects. The number of javelins summoned increases with each level, and flame and corrosive power are amplified by 30% per spear. Cooldown is reduced as the skill levels up.]


    Damian''s eyes snapped open, a wild grin spreading across his face. "Bingo."


    He stretched his hands outward, summoning a series of fiery javelins that hovered in the air around him, their flames crackling with raw energy. The Titan''s eyes glowed brighter as it sensed the new threat, but Damian didn''t give it a chance to react.


    "Let''s see how you like this!" he shouted, launching the first javelin. It shot through the air like a blazing comet, slamming into the Titan''s shoulder.


    [Abyssal Titan] took 920 damage!


    Before the first explosion had even settled, Damian hurled the second, third, and fourth javelins in rapid succession. Each one struck with precision, the combined force tearing into the Titan''s defenses.


    [Abyssal Titan] took 880 damage!


    [Abyssal Titan] took 930 damage!


    [Abyssal Titan] took 870 damage!


    The Titan roared in pain, its massive body stumbling backward as the relentless assault continued. But Damian wasn''t done yet. He summoned another volley of [Infernal Javelins], his Mana surging as the air around him shimmered with heat.


    "Golem, keep it distracted!" Damian commanded.


    The Stoneback Golem charged forward, its massive rocky form colliding with the Titan''s legs in a thunderous crash. The impact sent shockwaves through the ground, momentarily unbalancing the Titan.


    [Earthquake Stomp]


    [Abyssal Titan] took 740 damage!


    The Spectral Serpent seized the opportunity, slithering around the Titan''s legs and releasing another cloud of toxic mist. The venom seeped into the Titan''s wounds, compounding the damage.


    [Venomous Mist]


    [Abyssal Titan] took 680 damage over time!


    Damian grinned, raising another javelin. "You''re not looking so tough now, are you?" he taunted, launching the fiery spear directly at the Titan''s core.


    [Abyssal Titan] took 1,120 damage!


    The Titan let out an enraged roar, its red eyes burning brighter as it unleashed its ultimate move. Dark energy erupted from its core, spreading outward in a devastating shockwave that sent both the Golem and the Serpent flying.


    [Void Eruption]


    [Stoneback Golem] took 1,240 damage!


    [Spectral Serpent] took 1,400 damage!


    Damian staggered, barely managing to maintain his footing as the shockwave washed over him. His [Shadow Barrier] flickered to life just in time, absorbing the brunt of the attack.


    He gritted his teeth, the force of the attack leaving him momentarily winded. "Damn," he muttered, shaking his head to clear the ringing in his ears. The Titan was on its last legs, but so was his team.


    "Alright," Damian growled, summoning another volley of [Infernal Javelins]. The fiery spears hovered around him, their heat distorting the air. "Let''s finish this."


    He launched the first javelin, aiming for the Titan''s chest. It struck with a deafening explosion, the flames consuming the creature''s core.


    [Abyssal Titan] took 1,200 damage!


    The second and third javelins followed in quick succession, each one finding its mark. The Titan stumbled, its massive frame barely holding together.


    [Abyssal Titan] took 1,100 damage!


    Damian summoned one final javelin, pouring the last of his Mana into the attack. The spear burned brighter than any before it, its flames a blinding white-hot inferno.


    "This is for all the crap you put me through," Damian muttered, hurling the javelin with all his strength.


    The javelin struck the Titan''s core, the explosion engulfing the creature in a massive fireball. Its roar was drowned out by the sound of the flames, and when the smoke cleared, nothing remained but smoldering ashes.


    [Abyssal Titan Defeated!]


    Damian collapsed onto his back, letting out a long, ragged breath as he stared up at the flickering lights of the training hall ceiling. His body felt like it had been hit by a runaway train.


    [Congratulations! Level Up!]


    Name: Damian Blackthorn


    Level: 65


    Class: Warlock of Eternal Bonds


    Rank: C


    [Skill Level Up!]


    [Spectral Surge Lv. 6: Boosts speed, strength, and reflexes by 50%, with movements creating multiple afterimages to confuse enemies. Duration extended to 18 minutes, with a 20-second cooldown.]


    [Shadow Step Lv. 4: Allows the user to step through shadows, instantly teleporting to a nearby location. Cooldown: 20 seconds. Increased range and precision.]


    [Void Rift Lv. 3: The caster tears a more stable rift into the void, creating a larger zone of swirling arcane energy. The rift pulls in enemies within a wider radius, slowing their movements and dealing higher periodic damage.]


    [Servant Level Up!]


    Fenrith <Level 35>


    HP: 1,700/1,700


    MP: 300/300


    Skills: [Savage Bite], [Triple Roar], [Void Howl], [Lunar Blessing]


    Bloodwing Raven <Level 46>


    HP: 2,200/2,200


    MP: 400/400


    Skills: [Life Siphon], [Bloodstorm], [Screech of Terror]


    Stoneback Golem <Level 50>


    HP: 3,200/3,200


    MP: 250/250


    Skills: [Earthquake Stomp], [Stone Skin], [Rock Shard Barrage]


    Spectral Serpent <Level 52>


    HP: 2,900/2,900


    MP: 500/500


    Skills: [Venomous Mist], [Ghostly Glide], [Soul Bind]


    The summoning formation dimmed. A sign that the time was up.


    Damian chuckled weakly. "Not bad," he muttered, wincing as he tried to sit up. His muscles screamed in protest, and he immediately regretted the decision.


    Cassius, still lounging in his chair with the now-empty teacup, raised an eyebrow. "You look like death."

 Chapter 135: You Were The One Sipping Tea While I Was Getting Slapped Around By a Titan!

    Warlock Ch 135. You Were The One Sipping Tea While I Was Getting Slapped Around By a Titan!


    "Feel like it, too," Damian replied, grinning despite the pain. "But I''m alive, and that''s what matters."


    Cassius stood, his long cloak billowing slightly as he approached. "Barely. That was reckless, even by your standards."


    "Yeah, yeah," Damian waved him off, propping himself up against the golem. "You were the one sipping tea while I was getting slapped around by a Titan."


    Cassius smirked. "And yet, you''re stronger because of it. Maybe you should be thanking me."


    Damian rolled his eyes, but a part of him couldn''t deny it. The fight had pushed him to his limits and beyond. He''d unlocked a new skill, leveled up multiple times, and even his servants had grown stronger. Still, the ache in his body and the gnawing emptiness in his stomach reminded him that, powerful or not, he was still human¡ªor close enough to it.


    He glanced over at Cassius, who stood a few paces away with his arms crossed, his ever-present look of disapproval firmly in place. "I''ll admit," Damian said, stretching out his sore limbs, "you might''ve been onto something with this whole ''trial by fire'' thing. But if you really want me to thank you, there''s only one way to earn it."


    Cassius raised an eyebrow, his expression unreadable. "Oh? And what would that be?"


    "Let me have another servant," Damian replied, his tone casual, but there was a gleam of mischief in his eyes.


    Cassius narrowed his gaze. "Another servant? You do realize you''re still a rank C warlock, right?"


    Damian waved a hand dismissively. "Details. Come on, Cas, think about it. I just took down a level 100 Titan. I''m practically an A-rank already."


    Cassius snorted. "Not even close. The only reason you survived that fight is because you were creative enough to compensate for your lack of raw power."


    "Exactly why we should do this now," Damian argued, leaning forward slightly. "I''m riding the high of victory. What better time to make a good impression?"


    Only A-rank warlocks could summon servants to make a pact. Not because lower-rank warlocks weren''t able to, but because most servants just didn''t bother showing up for someone weak. They didn''t care enough to answer the summons, so it rarely ever worked for anyone below A-rank. So he could only rely on Cassius for this and this was the reason why a warlock needed a mentor to develop his or her power.


    Cassius stared at him for a long moment, his lips pressing into a thin line. Finally, he sighed. "Fine. But don''t expect me to hold your hand if it blows up in your face."


    Damian grinned, his energy perking up despite his battered body. "I knew you''d see the reason."


    Cassius reached into his coat, pulling out a small vial of shimmering blue liquid. The summoning potion glowed faintly in the dim light of the hall.


    "Wait!" Damian exclaimed, holding up a hand. Cassius paused, his expression flickering between annoyance and curiosity.


    "What now?" Cassius asked, his voice edged with impatience.


    "After I eat," Damian said, his tone as innocent as he could muster.


    Cassius froze, his fingers tightening slightly around the vial. "You''re joking."


    Damian gave him the most pitiful look he could manage, complete with wide, pleading eyes. "I''m hungry, Cas. And it''s lunch time already."


    Cassius''s gaze flicked to the clock on the wall. Sure enough, it was nearly noon. His jaw tightened as he shifted his sharp stare back to Damian.


    Damian, sensing the opportunity, quickly clutched his side and groaned dramatically. "Ah... My body hurts. My Mana... it''s completely drained. I need sustenance. Something nutritious. Something... extravagant. Like, uh, Starlight Caviar."


    Cassius blinked. "Starlight Caviar?" His voice was flat, but there was a dangerous edge to it. "The kind that costs more than a Behemoth''s hind leg?"


    Damian nodded earnestly. "Exactly. You get me."


    Cassius pinched the bridge of his nose. "Or you could just take a Mana potion and a stamina potion like a normal person."


    Damian let out a series of exaggerated coughs. "No, no, no. It has to be Starlight Caviar. It''s a known fact that it replenishes Mana faster than any potion. I need it..."


    Cassius glared at him, his voice dripping with disdain. "No kidding. Act your age, will you? You''re more than five hundred years old. Try behaving like it."


    Damian smirked, unbothered. "Actually, I''m twenty three. I still count as a child compared to you, old man."


    Cassius''s sharp stare could''ve cut glass.


    Damian responded with a wide, innocent grin, knowing full well how irritating it was.


    After a moment, Cassius huffed and muttered, "You acted like this before you were reborn. Fine. We''ll take a break and have lunch."


    "Yes!" Damian cheered, pumping a fist into the air. "You''re the best, Cas."


    "I''m regretting this already," Cassius muttered, striding toward the hall''s exit.


    Lunch was served in a spacious, lavishly adorned dining room that seemed far too grand for two people. It was the real dining room, not the usual one. The long table was covered in an assortment of dishes, each one more extravagant than the last. True to his word, Starlight Caviar was prominently featured, its shimmering, star-like beads resting in a crystal dish.


    Damian didn''t waste any time. He grabbed a spoon and dug in, letting out a contented sigh as the rich flavor hit his tongue. "Now this," he said between bites, "is the real reward for defeating a Titan."


    Cassius sipped his tea, his expression as unreadable as ever. "You''re insufferable."


    "I know and I don''t care," Damian said with a grin, shoveling another spoonful of Starlight Caviar into his mouth. The rich, buttery flavor practically melted on his tongue, and he let out a satisfied groan. "See? This is the kind of treatment a warlock of my caliber deserves."


    Cassius gave him a withering stare from across the table, his fingers resting lightly on his teacup. "The only thing you deserve is a lesson in humility."


    "Humility doesn''t taste this good," Damian shot back, popping another spoonful caviar into his mouth. "You should try it sometime. Might help with the whole ''permanent scowl'' thing."


    Cassius sighed, setting his cup down with a measured clink. "Tch! You''re impossible."


    "And yet, here I am, eating caviar on your dime," Damian said, his grin widening.

 Chapter 136: Progress is Progress

    Warlock Ch 136. Progress is Progress


    Damian scooped another spoonful of shimmering Starlight Caviar. The triumph in his voice was as rich as the delicacy on his plate. "Honestly, Cas, this might be the best perk of being in your care."


    Cassius leaned back, his piercing gaze steady. "Yeah, that''s seriously something."


    Damian chuckled. "You know what¡ª" He didn''t get to finish.


    Cassius flicked his fingers, and Damian''s mouth snapped shut with an audible click. His eyes widened as he realized he couldn''t speak. Worse, the spoonful of caviar hovering near his lips was now useless.


    [Spell Activated: Silence]


    [You have been silenced. Speech and vocal incantations are disabled until the spell is lifted.]


    "Mmm!" Damian glared at Cassius, jabbing a finger at his mouth as he tried to protest. His muffled grunts were met with a calm, smug look from his so-called mentor.


    Cassius sipped his tea leisurely, the very picture of composure. "What''s the matter? Is the reincarnation of the great Kaelan Voidweaver unable to cancel a simple Silence spell?"


    Damian''s eyes narrowed, his expression practically shouting ''Are you serious?'' He jabbed a finger at Cassius, his other hand clutching the spoon as if it were a weapon. He gritted his teeth. Then he nodded repeatedly, accepting the challenge.


    ''Fine. You want to play this game? Let''s play.''


    Setting the spoon down carefully, Damian closed his eyes and concentrated. He took a deep breath, feeling the flow of Mana in his body. The Silence spell was a clever piece of work, designed to suppress vocal magic and disrupt the connection between a mage''s will and their voice. Breaking it required precision, focus, and¡ªannoyingly¡ªmore power than he currently had at his disposal as a rank C Warlock.


    ''But I''ve done this before,'' he thought, his mind racing. ''I mastered this trick when I was a rank B warlock. The principles haven''t changed. I just have to... remember.''


    The flow of Mana around his throat was tangled, like a knot in an otherwise smooth thread. He carefully unraveled it in his mind, channeling his Mana to counter the spell. Sweat beaded on his forehead as he worked, every moment sharpening his focus. The key wasn''t brute force¡ªit was finesse.


    [New Skill Unlocked!]


    [Dispel Lv. 1: Breaks the effect of specific spells and debuffs on the caster or an ally. Effectiveness depends on the caster''s level and Mana control. Cooldown: 60 seconds.]


    Damian''s eyes snapped open, and he grinned. With a flick of his hand, he activated the newly unlocked skill.


    [Dispel]


    [Status effect removed: Silence.]


    "Ah!" Damian gasped as his voice returned, his grin growing even wider. He picked up his spoon and dramatically stuffed the caviar into his mouth before turning his victorious smirk on Cassius. "Looks like your little trick didn''t last long."


    Cassius raised an eyebrow, a faint smirk tugging at the corners of his mouth. "Impressive. I didn''t think you''d figure it out so quickly. Then again, you are Kaelan."


    Damian leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms smugly. "Damn right I am. Silence spells? Please. I''ve dealt with worse in my sleep."


    Cassius chuckled softly, his amusement evident despite his stoic demeanor. "Perhaps, but don''t get cocky. You still needed this ''challenge'' to unlock Dispel, didn''t you?"


    Damian''s grin faltered for half a second. "Hey, progress is progress," he said defensively, though his pride still swelled at the accomplishment. "Besides, you''re the one who threw me into a Titan fight and then hit me with a prank spell. I''m just adapting."


    Cassius gave a small, approving nod. "Adaptation is a good quality for a warlock. Overconfidence, however..." His gaze sharpened. "That will get you killed."


    Damian waved a hand dismissively, reaching for another bite of food. "Yeah, yeah, I get it. Don''t get cocky. Respect my enemies. Eat my caviar. Life lessons noted."


    Cassius shook his head, though the faint smirk lingered. "You''re impossible."


    "You just said that twice. Evelyn said the same thing before and you wouldn''t have it any other way," Damian quipped, enjoying the moment of levity between them.


    After lunch, Damian pushed back his chair with a satisfied sigh, patting his stomach. "Alright, Cas, I''m recharged. Let''s get back to business. You still owe me a summoning session."


    Cassius arched an eyebrow. "You think you''re ready for that after eating your weight in caviar?"


    Damian shot him a mock-serious look. "I''m not just ready. I''m eager."


    But then, Cassius paused abruptly. The faint flicker of amusement on his face faded, replaced by something colder. He straightened, his expression unreadable.


    "We have a guest," Cassius said flatly.


    Damian tilted his head, the playful energy draining from the room. "A guest? Who?"


    Cassius''s gaze darkened. "Victoria."


    The name hit Damian like a slap. His grin froze before slipping away completely. The room fell silent.


    "She probably realized it was you," Cassius continued, his tone even, though his eyes betrayed concern. "That you''re Kaelan."


    Damian''s jaw tightened. "If she does," Damian said slowly, "then why was the one who kidnapped me Malthus, and not her?"


    Cassius crossed his arms, his face thoughtful. For once, he didn''t have an immediate answer. The silence between them grew heavy.


    "So," Cassius said at last, "should I throw her out? Or do you want to try meeting her?"


    Damian didn''t answer right away. His mind raced, weighing the options. Victoria, a powerful vampire matriarch, was dangerous in every sense of the word. If she held a grudge, things could escalate quickly. But if she was here for a reason other than revenge... What reason could that possibly be?


    And then there was the question Damian couldn''t shake. ''Why did I kill her husband?'' He couldn''t remember. As far as his fragmented memories went, he had no vendetta against vampires or their faction. Yet the fact remained... he had done it.


    Damian exhaled slowly, meeting Cassius''s gaze. "Let her in."


    Cassius raised a brow, his skepticism clear. "Are you serious?"


    Damian nodded. "I''m not sure she knows I''m Kaelan. Maybe she just... senses something. Either way, I want to know why she''s here. And to be honest¡ª" he hesitated, his voice dropping slightly¡ª"I want to know what happened. Why I did it? Why I was so..." His voice trailed off before he forced the word out. "Evil."

 Chapter 137: Power-hungry Warlock

    Warlock Ch 137. Power-hungry Warlock


    Cassius studied him carefully, his sharp eyes probing. "What do you expect to find, Damian? What if it turns out it was your fault? That you killed her husband for no reason? That you were just some power-hungry, bloodlusted warlock who didn''t care about the consequences?"


    Damian swallowed hard, Cassius''s words pressing down on him. For a long moment, he didn''t speak. Then he shook his head. "I don''t know," he admitted. His voice steadied as he met Cassius''s gaze. "But I know me. You know me. I might be tricky, reckless, cunning¡ªwhatever you want to call it. But I''m not the type to do things without a reason. I want to know why."


    Cassius held his gaze for a beat longer before letting out a low sigh. "Fair enough. We''ll meet her. But¡ª" He flicked his fingers sharply, and before Damian could protest, his voice was gone.


    [Spell Activated: Silence]


    [You have been silenced. Speech and vocal incantations are disabled until the spell is lifted.]


    Damian glared at him, mouthing a silent ''Seriously?'' as he pointed furiously at his throat.


    Cassius smirked, his calm demeanor returning. "I''ll do the talking. You still need to pretend to be my apprentice, and your mouth has a way of ruining perfectly good plans."


    Damian crossed his arms, his glare burning into Cassius. Still, he nodded reluctantly.


    The two of them made their way to the living room. Cassius waved a hand, activating an intricate barrier spell that shimmered faintly across the walls before fading into invisibility.


    [Barrier Activated: Enhanced Anti-Magic Field]


    [Prevents hostile magic and surveillance within the enclosed area.]


    "Extra protection," Cassius said calmly, more to himself than to Damian. "No more surprises."


    A shadow servant glided into the room. "Your guest has arrived," it intoned in a voice like wind rustling through dead leaves.


    Moments later, the doors opened, and Victoria stepped inside. Damian immediately felt the air shift¡ªcooler, heavier, as if her very presence demanded attention. Her eyes, sharp and calculating, swept over the room before landing on Cassius.


    "Hello again," she said smoothly, her voice a perfect blend of charm and authority. "I see you''ve been keeping busy, Cassius."


    Cassius inclined his head slightly, his expression neutral. "Victoria. Always a pleasure."


    Her lips curved into a faint, teasing smile. "Is it? I seem to recall you weren''t too pleased the last time I visited."


    Cassius''s gaze sharpened. "I seem to recall a couple of little spies you left behind. Care to explain?"


    "Ah," she said lightly, waving a hand as though dismissing the accusation. "An accident, I assure you. Curious little creatures have a way of wandering off, don''t they?"


    Cassius crossed his arms. "No more tricks."


    Victoria chuckled softly, her laughter carrying a musical edge. "Oh, I wouldn''t dare. Besides, you''ve already activated your barrier spells, haven''t you? Thorough as ever, Cassius."


    She turned her gaze to Damian, her piercing eyes studying him intently. Damian straightened instinctively, his jaw tightening under her scrutiny.


    "There''s something... off about your apprentice today," she said, her tone laced with amusement. "He seems unusually quiet."


    Cassius didn''t miss a beat. "I punished him."


    "Hmm," Victoria mused, her lips twitching as if suppressing a smile. "A shame. He has such an interesting presence. I was hoping for a conversation."


    Damian glared at her, his hands twitching as if he were seconds away from breaking something. Cassius shot him a warning glance, as if to say ''Don''t you dare.''


    Victoria glided to one of the chairs and sat down gracefully, her movements deliberate and commanding. "Let''s skip the formalities, shall we? I didn''t come here to trade pleasantries. I need your help, Cassius."


    Cassius arched an eyebrow, his expression skeptical. "My help? That''s unexpected."


    She leaned back, crossing her legs elegantly. "There''s a rogue vampire faction threatening my power. They''ve grown bold¡ªtoo bold. Normally, I''d handle such matters myself, but their leader is... problematic."


    "And why should I care?" Cassius asked bluntly.


    Victoria''s smile didn''t falter. "Because if this faction succeeds, they won''t stop with me. They''ll destabilize the entire magical hierarchy. That includes your precious little sanctuaries."


    Cassius considered her words carefully, his eyes narrowing. "And you expect me to clean up your mess?"


    "Hardly," she said, her tone cool but not unkind. "I expect you to assist me. You, of all people, know the value of maintaining balance. Besides¡ª" Her gaze flicked to Damian again, lingering this time. "You have an apprentice eager to prove himself, don''t you?"


    Damian bristled, his fists clenching at his sides.


    Cassius held up a hand to forestall any outburst. "I don''t make decisions lightly, Victoria. If you want my help, you''ll need to be more forthcoming. Who is this leader, and why are they such a problem?"


    Victoria''s smile faded slightly, her expression turning serious. "He calls himself Varak Bloodshade. Once a loyal general under my command, but he''s become... ambitious. He''s rallied disillusioned vampires and other rogue factions to his side, promising them power and freedom from traditional rules. He''s dangerous not just because of his strength, but because he knows my tactics."


    "And why does this concern me?" Cassius asked, his voice cold.


    "Because he also knows yours," Victoria said quietly. "He''s studied both of us. He''s planning something bigger than a simple coup, and I can''t risk him succeeding."


    Damian''s mind raced, even as he fumed silently. A rogue vampire faction? A power-hungry leader with insider knowledge? This wasn''t just a political skirmish¡ªit sounded like a prelude to war. And if Victoria was desperate enough to ask for help, the situation had to be dire.


    Cassius leaned back in his chair, his gaze calculating. "You expect me to send my apprentice into a conflict that could expose him to the magical world''s most dangerous elements?"


    Victoria''s gaze hardened. "I expect you to recognize the stakes, Cassius. This isn''t just my problem¡ªit''s ours. Help me deal with Varak, and I''ll owe you."


    Cassius''s eyes flicked to Damian, who stared back defiantly. Silence hung in the room, heavy and charged, before Cassius finally spoke. "We''ll consider it."

 Chapter 138: An Argument With a Stone

    Warlock Ch 138. An Argument With a Stone


    Victoria''s lips curved into a faint smile. "That''s all I ask." Her tone was cool and poised, but there was no mistaking the tension underlying her words. Damian''s sharp eyes caught it, even as he continued to bristle silently under her scrutiny. ''I hate this spell,'' he thought bitterly, ''but damn, does she know how to play the room.''


    Cassius leaned back in his chair, his expression as unreadable as ever. "Considering something doesn''t mean agreeing to it," he said, his voice calm but firm. "You''ll have to offer more than vague promises and veiled threats if you want my aid."


    Victoria''s smile didn''t waver, but her eyes flashed with something sharper¡ªamusement? Annoyance? It was hard to tell. "Veiled threats? Oh, Cassius, you wound me. I''m simply making an appeal to your sense of pragmatism. Surely you don''t want a rogue vampire faction destabilizing your comfortable little corner of the magical world."


    "My corner is well-fortified," Cassius said coolly. "But your concern is noted."


    Damian couldn''t help but smirk, even if the silence spell kept him from making some quip. He''d seen Cassius handle countless tense situations, but the way he toyed with Victoria now was masterful. ''This guy could win an argument with a stone.''


    Victoria shifted slightly in her seat, her crimson gown catching the light. "Let''s be honest, Cassius," she said, her voice soft but laced with steel. "You know I wouldn''t come to you unless the situation were dire. Varak isn''t just a nuisance¡ªhe''s a threat to the balance we both value. And I know how much you hate chaos."


    Cassius raised an eyebrow, his gaze sliding toward Damian for a brief moment before returning to Victoria. "You''re right about one thing¡ªI do hate chaos. But me and my apprentice aren''t ready for this. He''s strong, yes, but sending us into a den of rogue vampires led by someone who knows your tactics? That''s suicide. Well, not suicide for me, but for my apprentice."


    Damian stiffened.


    Victoria''s gaze shifted to Damian as well, her eyes narrowing slightly as if studying him anew. "He doesn''t look entirely incapable," she mused. "In fact..." She leaned forward slightly, her voice dropping to a near-purr. "There''s something intriguing about him. He has an edge, doesn''t he? A spark of something... familiar."


    Cassius''s face darkened. "Careful, Victoria."


    Her smile returned, this time more genuine. "Relax. I''m not here to pick at your secrets. But I can''t help noticing your apprentice has potential. Perhaps more than you''re willing to admit."


    Damian fought the urge to roll his eyes. ''She''s laying it on thick, but she''s not wrong. I could handle this. Probably... If I''m still Kaelan. Thank you for your compliment by the way.''


    Cassius let out a slow breath, his fingers tapping lightly on the arm of his chair. "Even if I were inclined to help, I''d need more details. What exactly are we walking into? Numbers, strengths, locations¡ªif you want my aid, I need everything."


    Victoria nodded, her expression turning serious. "Varak''s base of operations is hidden in the Crimson Veil¡ªa pocket dimension accessible only through vampire magic. He''s gathered an army of outcasts¡ªvampires, blood mages, and even some demons. His forces are well-armed, and his knowledge of our tactics makes him unpredictable."


    Cassius''s eyes narrowed. "And you expect us to waltz into the Crimson Veil and take him out?"


    Victoria''s smile returned, sharper this time. "Oh, I wouldn''t dream of making it that simple. But with your skills¡ªand your apprentice''s¡ªour chances improve significantly. Besides..." Her gaze flicked to Damian again, lingering. "He seems eager for a challenge."


    Damian''s silence felt like a muzzle.


    Cassius, for his part, seemed unfazed. "We''ll discuss it," he said curtly. "I''ll let you know."


    Victoria rose gracefully, smoothing her gown as she did. "Very well. I''ll await your decision. But don''t take too long, Cassius. The longer we wait, the stronger Varak becomes."


    As she moved toward the door, she paused, her eyes meeting Damian''s once more. "You have an interesting apprentice," she said softly, her voice laced with something almost teasing. "I''ll be watching him closely. Also... if this mission is successful," she added, her tone light but deliberate, "I will give you anything. Grant any request. You can ask me anything and demand anything."


    With that, she swept out of the room, escorted by the shadow servant.


    Cassius flicked his fingers, and Damian''s voice returned in an instant. "Finally!" he snapped, the pent-up frustration spilling out all at once. "You know, Cas, I could''ve actually been helpful back there if you hadn''t decided to gag me like some kind of delinquent."


    Cassius remained seated, his expression calm but his eyes sharp. "Your definition of ''helpful'' often involves reckless comments and impulsive decisions. I was sparing us both the embarrassment."


    "Right..." Damian threw up his hands, pacing the room. "As expected... she''s suspicious, but she doesn''t know for sure."


    Cassius leaned back, his gaze following Damian''s restless movements. "Suspicious enough to plant spies and test the waters with this mission. It''s convenient, don''t you think? A rogue faction threatening her power, and suddenly she needs our help?"


    Damian stopped. "You think it''s a trap."


    "It smells like one," Cassius said bluntly. "Especially for you."


    Damian''s teeth ground together, his mind racing. "I know," he admitted, his voice low. "But..."


    Cassius arched an eyebrow. "But?"


    Damian hesitated, the words catching in his throat. Finally, he exhaled sharply and said, "That last offer... it''s tempting."


    "Her vague promise of granting anything?" Cassius asked, his tone skeptical.


    "No," Damian said, shaking his head. "The chance to ask her. To know what happened. To find out why I¡ªwhy Kaelan¡ªdid what he did. Why I killed her husband."


    Cassius was silent for a moment, studying Damian carefully. "And what do you expect to hear?" he asked finally. "Was it justified? That you had some noble reason buried under all the bloodshed?"


    "I don''t know," Damian said, his voice tight. He met Cassius''s gaze, his eyes burning with frustration. "But I need to know. I can''t keep carrying this shadow around without understanding it. If I don''t figure it out, how can I move forward? How can I be sure I''m not still... him?"

 Chapter 139: Dangerous Path

    Warlock Ch 139. Dangerous Path


    Cassius sighed, standing slowly. "That''s a dangerous path, Damian. Digging into your past might not bring the answers you want. It might only bring more questions¡ªor worse, more enemies."


    "I get that," Damian said firmly. "But if there''s even a chance I can get answers, I''ll take it."


    Cassius tilted his head, his sharp eyes narrowing. "You''d risk walking into a trap, exposing yourself to a faction that already wants you dead, just to satisfy your curiosity?"


    Damian smirked faintly. "You make it sound like I''m reckless or something."


    Cassius sighed heavily. "You are reckless."


    "Yet you are here with me," Damian quipped, though his smile faded quickly. "Look, I get it. This mission might be a setup. But we can''t ignore it. If this rogue faction is as dangerous as she says, it''s only a matter of time before they come for more than just her. And if I can kill two birds with one stone¡ªstop them and get my answers¡ªwhy wouldn''t I?"


    Cassius crossed his arms, his sharp eyes narrowing. "Because you''re assuming we''ll even get the chance to ask those questions. Varak isn''t someone to underestimate, and neither is Victoria. Walking into this without preparation is suicide."


    Damian leaned back against the wall, folding his arms across his chest. "Well, I don''t expect us to go in blind. At least send your spies to confirm what''s going on, right?"


    Cassius flicked his gaze to Damian, arching an eyebrow. "You want me to send my shadows?"


    "Yeah," Damian replied, gesturing casually. "I mean, I don''t have shadow servants like you. Besides¡ª" He shot Cassius a pointed look. "You wouldn''t let me get one, remember?"


    Cassius sighed, the faintest smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. "Fair enough. I''ll send them tonight."


    "Tonight?" Damian raised an eyebrow. "Why not now?"


    "One of my servants is already following her," Cassius said, his tone matter-of-fact. "I want to focus on that first. No point dividing their attention."


    Damian clicked his tongue but eventually shrugged. "Right. But the sooner we get intel, the better."


    Cassius studied Damian for a moment before tilting his head slightly, his expression turning thoughtful. "You know," he said slowly, "instead of relying on her, why don''t you focus on finding those memories yourself?"


    Damian blinked, caught off guard. "What?"


    "Evelyn mentioned you''ve been having strange dreams," Cassius continued, his tone even but probing. "Dreams tied to your past. That''s where you should start. Your memories aren''t lost¡ªthey''re buried. If you dig deeper, you might uncover them without needing to risk a confrontation."


    Damian huffed, running a hand through his dark hair. "Did I mention my Mana Core is an absolute asshole?"


    Cassius frowned, the sudden shift in tone catching his attention. "Yeah. You did."


    "I mean it''s like it''s hiding something from me," Damian said, his voice tinged with frustration. "My memories, my past¡ªit''s all locked away, and the damn thing has its own agenda. Like it''s waiting for the ''right moment'' to reveal something or... it doesn''t want to give me more than breadcrumbs."


    Cassius''s gaze sharpened. "You''ve interacted with it directly?"


    Damian nodded. "Yeah. I''ve tried to meditate, focus on it, even provoke it. But every time, it''s like it''s toying with me. The last time I touched it, all I got was some random memory of when I was still an apprentice. Back when I was learning alongside with you. It didn''t give me anything useful¡ªjust some nostalgic flashbacks."


    "Nothing about Victoria?" Cassius pressed.


    "Nothing," Damian said, his jaw tightening. "No answers about why I killed her husband, no clues about what drove me to become... whatever Kaelan was. Just meaningless fragments. It''s like the Mana Core is deliberately avoiding the real questions."


    Cassius narrowed his eyes, his brow furrowing in thought. "That''s not normal. A Mana Core is supposed to be a reflection of its wielder''s will. If it''s acting independently, that raises questions about what kind of connection you have with it¡ªand why."


    Damian ran a hand through his hair, his frustration evident. "Yes! I know that. But for some reason, my Mana Core is... alive. It''s not just some magical tool or reservoir¡ªit has its own will, its own agenda. That''s what really frustrates me."


    "And you''re sure it''s hiding something important?" Cassius asked, his tone sharp, probing.


    "I''m certain of it," Damian replied firmly. "Every time I try to access my past, it feels like it''s deliberately steering me away from the truth. Like there''s some big secret it''s keeping locked up."


    Cassius''s expression remained unreadable, but there was a flicker of something in his eyes¡ªcuriosity, perhaps. Or concern. "And are you absolutely sure you didn''t kill Victoria''s husband out of power hunger? Or something equally petty?"


    Damian met Cassius''s gaze head-on, his voice steady. "No. I''m pretty sure I didn''t."


    The room fell into silence for a moment. Damian''s confident declaration hung there, unanswered, until he broke it with a quieter, more hesitant voice. "It might sound stupid to you, but... my gut says no. I''m not that kind of guy."


    Cassius watched him intently, his expression giving nothing away. Finally, he let out a low huff, leaning back slightly. "Then," he said, his voice suddenly lighter, almost teasing, "what if you killed him because you had a crush on Victoria?"


    Damian''s head snapped toward Cassius, his eyes wide with disbelief. "What?!" He cringed, his face twisting in horror. "No. Absolutely not. That''s not possible."


    Cassius''s lips curved into a smug smile. "Are you sure? Kaelan was a bit of a Casanova, you know. Always charming, always leaving a trail of broken hearts. Maybe you''ve conveniently forgotten that part of yourself."


    Damian''s cringe deepened, the thought burrowing into his mind despite his best efforts to push it away. "No kidding... There''s no way I would do something that horrible, right? I mean, there''s no way I''d stoop that low, right?" His voice trailed off, his disbelief turning inward.


    Cassius grinned, clearly enjoying himself. "Looks like I''ve hit a nerve. I guess you''re not as confident about your past as you thought."


    Damian glared at him, but the uncertainty lingered. The idea gnawed at him, unwanted but impossible to ignore. Had he really been that kind of person? Had his actions been driven by something so... shallow?

 Chapter 140: Kindergarten Class

    Warlock Ch 140. Kindergarten Class


    Cassius stood, brushing invisible dust from his coat. "Well, now that I''ve successfully pushed your buttons, we should get back to training."


    Damian groaned, dragging a hand down his face. "You''re insufferable, you know that?"


    "Yet you are here with me," Cassius said, his smirk widening, repeating Damian''s answer.


    "Ugh!" Damian grunted.


    Cassius and Damian made their way back to the training hall. Cassius walked ahead, his steps calm and deliberate, while Damian followed, rolling his shoulders and flexing his fingers in preparation.


    "You owe me a summoning session," Damian reminded, his voice tinged with both excitement and wariness.


    Cassius stopped in the center of the hall and turned to face him, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "And I always pay my debts."


    From the folds of his coat, Cassius let out a small, dark bottle. The glass shimmered faintly, as though shadows danced just beneath its surface. Damian''s eyes narrowed as he studied the potion. It was an Obsidian Whisper, a spectral, misty potion that opened a portal to the shadow plane, allowing shadow beings to cross into this world.


    "You want shadow servants, right?" Cassius asked, his tone casual but with a hint of mischief. "Well, let''s see how you handle them."


    Before Damian could respond, Cassius uncorked the bottle and poured its contents onto the floor. The liquid spread out unnaturally, forming intricate, glowing runes in the shape of a summoning circle. The air around them grew heavier, colder, as a portal began to form in the center of the circle. It was dark¡ªdarker than any shadow Damian had ever seen¡ªits edges swirling with chaotic energy.


    From the portal emerged figures, one after another, each moving with unnerving speed. The shadows poured out in droves, their forms amorphous and flickering like living silhouettes. They moved erratically, darting across the floor and walls, their movements almost playful. Yet there was an edge to their presence, a restless energy that hinted at mischief¡ªor worse.


    [Shadows Summoned!]


    Shadow Minion (Level 3)


    Mischievous Shade (Level 7)


    Agile Wraith (Level 10)


    Stalker Phantom (Level 15)


    Damian''s eyes widened as he counted the shadows¡ªmore than a dozen, each one moving independently. They were small, fast, and annoyingly difficult to track, their forms blending seamlessly into the dark corners of the room.


    Cassius''s smirk grew as he watched Damian''s reaction. "There. Happy?"


    "Khh!" Damian grunted, swatting at the small shadow clinging to his head like an overly excited squirrel. Its dark, featureless form chittered in a soundless laugh as it tugged on his hair. Another darted around his legs, weaving through his stance so quickly it almost tripped him.


    A dozen more shadows flitted about the training hall, moving with impossible speed and agility. They climbed the walls, disappeared into the faintest traces of darkness, and reemerged to pull at his coat or poke at his sides.


    "Cassius!" Damian shouted, his voice a mix of irritation and desperation. "When I said I wanted shadow servants, I didn''t mean this! What am I supposed to do with a whole swarm of these... these gremlins?!"


    Cassius, sitting comfortably in a conjured chair that looked far too regal for the chaos unfolding around him, smirked as he crossed one leg over the other. "You wanted shadows, and now you have them. Congratulations."


    Damian groaned, his hands moving in rapid gestures to ward off the tiny pests. "I wanted one or two. Not a freaking kindergarten class!"


    Cassius tilted his head and moved to sit in his chair, folding his legs comfortably. "So this time, the great Kaelan Voidweaver is complaining about a few low-level shadows?"


    Damian swatted at the shadow tugging his hair, glaring at Cassius. "Kaelan Voidweaver wouldn''t complain about this because he had half a dozen area-of-effect skills that could clear this hall in seconds. But Damian Blackthorn¡ª" he gestured to himself, his tone dripping with sarcasm, "¡ªis a rank C warlock with two AoE skills. Two. And, as I recall, rank C warlocks are normally given, what, three shadows max for one battle?"


    Cassius shrugged indifferently, his expression unreadable. "You asked for shadow servants. I assumed you were ready for this."


    Damian clicked his tongue in annoyance, his sharp gaze tracking the shadows as they darted around the room. One shadow, an Agile Wraith, darted close, swiping at him with claw-like appendages before disappearing into a nearby wall. Another, a Mischievous Shade, jumped onto his back, its form shifting to wrap around his torso like a living scarf. Their annoying laugh echoed, and it only pissed Damian off even more.


    "You little¡ª" Damian muttered, grabbing at the shade as it giggled¡ªa faint, ethereal sound that only made his frustration grow. He managed to pull it off, tossing it to the ground, where it melded seamlessly with the floor and disappeared.


    More shadows circled him now, their movements erratic but coordinated enough to be a challenge. Damian activated his [Spectral Surge], the familiar rush of energy coursing through him, boosting his speed and reflexes.


    [Spectral Surge Activated!]


    [Speed, strength, and reflexes increased by 50%. Afterimages confuse enemies. Duration: 18 minutes.]


    With his enhanced speed, Damian darted to the side, avoiding an attack from a Stalker Phantom as it lunged at him. His movements created blurred afterimages, making it harder for the shadows to land a hit. Even so, their numbers and speed kept him on edge.


    "Fine," Damian muttered through gritted teeth. "If this is the game, I''ll play."


    He darted forward, the energy from [Spectral Surge] humming through his veins. His movements blurred, leaving afterimages that confused the shadows closing in on him. A Mischievous Shade lunged at him, its shadowy claws aimed at his face. Damian twisted mid-step, dodging the attack, and countered with a well-placed [Dark Bolt].


    [Mischievous Shade] took 210 damage!


    [Critical Hit!]


    [Mischievous Shade has been defeated!]


    The shadow dispersed with a faint hiss, its form disintegrating into wisps of darkness. Damian barely had time to enjoy the small victory before three more shadows swarmed him, their chaotic movements forcing him to stay on the defensive.

 Chapter 141: Babysitting on Steroids

    Warlock Ch 141. Babysitting on Steroids


    "Great," he grumbled, his focus split between dodging attacks and preparing his next spell. "This is exactly what I needed today."


    Cassius''s voice rang out from behind him, calm and smug as ever. "You''re doing fine, but I''d hurry if I were you."


    Damian spared a quick glance at his so-called mentor. "What are you talking about now?" Damian snapped, his tone strained as he deflected a swipe from an Agile Wraith.


    Cassius gestured lazily toward the portal, the dark swirling vortex still active in the center of the room. "The summoning portal," he explained casually, "will remain open for another five minutes. So, you know, there might be a few more joining the fun."


    "What?!" Damian whipped his head toward the portal just in time to see two more shadows emerge¡ªboth Stalker Phantoms.


    Damian''s eye twitched as he fought to keep his composure. "CASSIUSSS!!" he roared, his voice echoing through the hall.


    Cassius sipped his tea calmly, a faint smile playing on his lips. "You asked for shadow servants, remember? Consider this a learning experience."


    For the next half hour that felt like an eternity, Damian fought the shadows, the room a chaotic blur of motion and noise. Every time he eliminated one, two more seemed to leap from the dark portal, their erratic movements testing every ounce of his focus. He summoned Fenrith and Bloodwing Raven to assist him¡ªtheir agility proving invaluable against the slippery shadows. Fenrith''s [Void Howl] sent rippling waves of disorientation through the swarm, while Bloodwing Raven''s [Bloodstorm] scattered clusters of shadows like leaves in a storm.


    But still, it wasn''t enough to make it easy. The shadows darted and leapt, their manic energy like a sugar rush gone horribly wrong. They tugged at his hair, tripped him up, and occasionally swiped at his legs or arms, their mischievous giggles grating on his nerves. The portal spawned more every few seconds¡ªalways two, sometimes three¡ªand Damian was barely keeping up.


    By the time he finally subdued them all and completed the pacts, sweat dripped from his brow and his muscles screamed for rest.


    Cassius, of course, wasn''t done.


    "Well done," Cassius said, his tone far too casual for someone who had just orchestrated a half-hour nightmare. "You handled that... adequately."


    "Adequately?" Damian barked, his voice hoarse. He gestured to his dirt-smeared clothes, his disheveled hair sticking in every direction. "I just wrangled a horde of shadows that acted like caffeinated ferrets, and all you''ve got is ''adequate''?"


    Cassius smiled faintly. "It''s important to keep your standards high."


    Damian shot him a glare. "Standards? Cas, that portal was spawning new shadows every thirty seconds! This wasn''t training¡ªit was babysitting on steroids."


    "And yet, you managed," Cassius said with an infuriatingly calm shrug. "Now, about that pact. You''ve got your shadows. Congratulations," he said, his tone almost bored. "You''ve passed the second part of today''s training."


    Damian blinked at him, his hands still braced on his knees as he tried to catch his breath. "Second part? You mean that wasn''t it?"


    Cassius smirked, gesturing lazily toward the summoning circle. "We''re just getting started."


    A few hours later, after another intense training, Damian slumped into a chair in the study, his clothes dirty, his hair a tangled mess, and his face set in a permanent scowl. He looked like an overworked parent who''d been wrangling eight unruly toddlers all day.


    Name: Damian Blackthorn


    Age: 23


    Class: Warlock of Eternal Bonds


    Rank: B


    Level: 74


    Partners: Evelyn Windward (Witch)


    Servants: Fenrith (Three-Headed Wolf), Bloodwing Raven (Blood Raven), Stoneback Golem (Earth Golem), Spectral Serpent (Ghost Snake), Shadow Minion, Mischievous Shade, Agile Wraith, Stalker Phantom


    Stats:


    Mana Power: S+


    Stamina: A


    Endurance: A


    Strength: S


    Agility: S


    Magic Affinity: S


    XP: 8903/80,000


    Bond Points: 7


    Cassius, meanwhile, was the picture of calm as he placed an imposing stack of books on the table in front of Damian. The tower of tomes loomed over him, mocking him with their sheer volume.


    "Right," Cassius said, patting the top of the stack. "This is your homework. I expect you to read it all by tomorrow."


    Damian stared at the books, his eye twitching. "What the heck? You''ve got to be kidding me."


    Cassius arched an eyebrow. "Do I look like I''m kidding?"


    Damian gestured wildly at the stack. "This is insane! I just spent the last hour fighting literal living shadows, and now you want me to¡ªwhat? Read the Encyclopedia of Magical Torture?"


    Cassius shrugged. "You''re the one who wants to help Victoria, remember? If you''re going to face Varak and his faction, you need to be prepared. That includes knowledge."


    Damian groaned, running a hand through his messy hair. "I already know this stuff! I''m a reborn warlock, for crying out loud. Or have you forgotten the whole ''Kaelan Voidweaver'' thing?"


    "Your memories are fragmented," Cassius pointed out calmly. "You might recall bits and pieces, but there''s still plenty you''ve forgotten¡ªor haven''t unlocked yet. These books will help."


    Damian slumped in his chair, glaring at the stack as if he could make it disappear. "I''m dead... I''m so dead... Even before the mission..."


    Cassius smirked faintly. "Consider it multitasking. Besides, you need the basics refreshed. It''s been centuries since you''ve been in the field properly."


    "Centuries for Kaelan," Damian shot back. "I''ve only been alive for twenty-three years."


    Cassius ignored him, his expression unreadable. "If you don''t want to be blindsided by rogue factions¡ªor Victoria¡ªyou''ll read those books. Or do you want to walk into this unprepared?"


    Damian opened his mouth to retort but stopped. Cassius had a point, damn him!


    As much as Damian hated to admit it, he did need to be ready. And if these books held the answers he needed, he couldn''t afford to slack off.


    Damian groaned, running a hand through his hair. "When do I actually get to do something instead of slogging through your boot camp of horror?" he muttered.


    Cassius smirked, clearly enjoying himself. "This ''boot camp,'' as you call it, is what''s keeping you alive, Damian."


    Damian jabbed a finger at the books. "At least spread it out over a week! Give me some time to, I don''t know, sleep?"

 Chapter 142: Sleep is For The Weak

    Warlock Ch 142. Sleep is For The Weak


    "Sleep is for the weak," Cassius said, folding his arms. "Warlocks make sacrifices. You know that better than anyone."


    "Sacrifices? Sacrifices?" Damian pointed at the books again. "This isn''t a sacrifice; this is punishment! You''re punishing me for surviving that ridiculous shadow gauntlet!"


    Cassius tilted his head thoughtfully. "Would you prefer another round with the shadows?"


    Damian froze, his mouth opening and closing as he tried to decide whether it was worth continuing the argument. Finally, he groaned and grabbed the top book from the stack. "Fine. But if I pass out tomorrow, it''s on you."


    Cassius smirked, clearly unfazed. "If you pass out, I''ll simply wake you. Warlocks don''t quit."


    Damian muttered something distinctly unflattering under his breath. His disheveled appearance, combined with his grumbling, made him look less like a warlock and more like an overworked parent wrangling a group of unruly children.


    "Don''t forget to write notes," Cassius called after him.


    Damian shot him a glare over his shoulder. "You''re the worst, you know that?"


    "I know. But, here you are," Cassius replied, settling back into his chair with a satisfied smile. "Still learning, still growing. You''re welcome."


    Damian didn''t bother responding, instead dropping into the chair with a dramatic sigh. He stared at the first cover, the elegant script almost mocking him.


    "Great," Damian muttered to himself. "Just another day in the life of Kaelan Voidweaver''s reincarnation-slash-punching bag. Can''t wait for tomorrow." Damian shot Cassius a withering look. "Fenrith."


    The three-headed wolf appeared in a swirl of shadowy mist, his fur still a mess from the earlier chaos. The shadows'' relentless tugging and mischievous antics had left the usually majestic Fenrith looking more like an overworked draft animal. His middle head growled low, while the left head snapped at the air as if to chase off lingering annoyances. The right head simply huffed, exuding exhaustion and irritation.


    "Don''t worry, buddy," Damian said, rubbing the wolf''s three heads affectionately. The tension in Fenrith''s posture eased slightly, though his middle head still looked like it wanted to bite something. "I didn''t summon you to fight this time. We''re just going for a walk."


    Cassius, who was sitting cross-legged on his conjured chair, raised an eyebrow. "A walk? You mean you summoned him to carry your books."


    Damian turned toward him, glaring. "Oh, shut up, you sadistic mentor! Let me live."


    He stuffed the books into a bag, muttering complaints under his breath about how the stack was taller than Fenrith''s legs. Once the bag was secured, he slung it over Fenrith''s broad back. The wolf didn''t protest, though his right head let out a resigned sigh. Damian patted his flank. "Thanks, pal. You''re the best."


    Cassius leaned back, his eyes gleaming with amusement. "Aren''t you interested in talking about Victoria or Varak first?"


    Damian adjusted the straps on Fenrith''s load, his expression sharpening slightly. "Got something for me?"


    "About Victoria?" Cassius replied, his voice calm. "Yes. I''ve found out where she is, where she stays, and what she''s currently doing."


    Damian smirked, unable to resist a jab. "Do you know if she''s taking a bath or not?"


    Cassius flicked his gaze toward Damian, his expression unreadable for a moment. "What? Do you want to peek at her taking a bath?"


    Damian''s smirk froze. He straightened, his face a mix of shock and indignation. "You know about that?!"


    Cassius snorted, his tone dry as a desert. "Of course not. Does it even matter?"


    Damian exhaled loudly, waving off the comment. "Fine. What about the other thing? You know, the whole ''is this a trap'' question?"


    Cassius''s tone grew serious, though his eyes still carried a faint glint of mischief. "I was just about to send my shadow spies to investigate. Wanna come with me?"


    Damian caught the faint smirk tugging at the corners of Cassius''s lips. It was a familiar look, one that he hadn''t seen in what felt like lifetimes. The smirk that meant trouble. The smirk that meant they were about to do something dangerous¡ªand probably fun. It reminded Damian of their old days.


    A matching smirk spread across Damian''s face. "Count me in. I''ve got a bunch of shadow servants now. Might as well put them to good use."


    Cassius stood, his cloak billowing slightly as he flicked his fingers. Two shadows materialized at his sides, their forms sleek and sharp. Damian, meanwhile, called upon one of his own¡ªthe Stalker Phantom he''d recently bonded with. The creature emerged from the floor, its dark, misty form blending seamlessly with the dim lighting of the hall.


    "Only one?" Cassius teased, raising an eyebrow. "I expected more from the great Damian Blackthorn."


    Damian rolled his eyes. "I''m still getting used to this, alright? Long-run summoning drains me, and I''m not about to collapse from overexertion because you dared me."


    Cassius chuckled. "Fair enough. Let''s move."


    Damian watched them vanish, then turned to Cassius. "Alright, my part''s done. Now if you''ll excuse me, I''m heading home before you find another ''learning opportunity'' to throw at me."


    Cassius gave a mockingly solemn nod. "Don''t strain yourself, apprentice."


    Damian rolled his eyes, then gestured for Fenrith to follow him. The wolf padded after him, his three heads alert as they left the hall and stepped into the crisp evening air.


    The walk back to Damian''s home was slow and leisurely, a welcome break after the chaos of the day. Fenrith carried the bag of books without complaint, though his middle head occasionally growled when a low-level shadow servant darted too close. Damian patted his side reassuringly.


    "Thanks for putting up with this, buddy," Damian said, his voice softer now that they were alone. "I know it''s been a rough day."


    Fenrith huffed, his right head turning to nuzzle Damian''s arm in a rare display of affection. The gesture made Damian smile despite himself.


    "You know," he said, shooting a look at Fenrith, "sometimes I swear Cassius just gets a kick out of watching me suffer. I mean, I know he means well... but let''s be real, he''s definitely throwing a bit of payback my way for all the times I teased him."


    Fenrith''s middle head gave a low growl of agreement, and Damian chuckled. "Yeah, I thought you''d feel the same. Still, he''s not wrong. If I''m going to take on Varak¡ªor deal with Victoria¡ªI need to be ready."


    They passed a small park, the sound of rustling leaves and distant water soothing his nerves. For a moment, Damian let his mind wander, his thoughts returning to the fragments of memory he''d been chasing. The questions still gnawed at him. ''Why did I kill Victoria''s husband? Was it really me, or was it something else?''


    He sighed, shaking his head. "One step at a time," he muttered, echoing the mantra he''d been repeating all day.


    Fenrith''s left head barked softly, as if in agreement, and Damian smiled. Whatever the answers were, he''d find them. For now, he was just grateful for the quiet¡ªand the company.


    The peaceful walk was exactly what he needed after the day''s chaos. But, as always, peace didn''t last long for Damian.


    "We meet again, warlock."

 Chapter 143: Like A Sister

    Warlock Ch 143. Like A Sister


    The voice was smooth and confident, laced with a familiarity that made his chest tighten. Damian froze mid-step, his head snapping toward the source of the voice. There she was, trailing behind him¡ªAria.


    Her striking features hadn''t changed at all, at least from what he remembered. High cheekbones, piercing eyes that seemed to see right through him, and a presence that demanded attention.


    Damian''s mind raced. ''Aria.'' She had been a sister¡ªor something close to it¡ªwhen he was Kaelan. But now, he couldn''t afford to acknowledge that connection. He was Damian Blackthorn, a newly minted rank B warlock, not the infamous Kaelan Voidweaver.


    He forced a smile, playing the part. "Yes?" he said, his tone light but guarded.


    Aria''s eyes narrowed slightly as she approached, her movements fluid and purposeful. "You look like you''ve had a long day," she observed, her voice carrying a hint of amusement.


    Damian chuckled, scratching the back of his head. "Yeah, you could say that. My mentor''s a bit... sadistic."


    Aria tilted her head, studying him intently. "Cassius, right?" she said, her tone laced with curiosity. "I heard he took a new apprentice recently. That''s why I''m here. I was curious."


    Damian chuckled again, his mind working overtime to keep his facade intact. "Never knew my mentor was that famous for it. Does he have a fan club or something?"


    Aria''s lips twitched into a faint smile, though her eyes remained sharp. "Something like that. Cassius has a reputation, you know. Taking on an apprentice isn''t something he does lightly."


    "Lucky me, I guess," Damian said, shrugging. "Though I''m not sure if it''s luck or a curse."


    Her gaze flicked briefly to Fenrith, who growled low, his middle head baring teeth. She didn''t flinch, meeting the wolf''s stare with the same unwavering confidence she directed at Damian. "And you," she said, her voice soft but commanding, "must be one of his servants."


    "Fenrith," Damian supplied quickly, giving the wolf a calming pat. "He''s been with me for a while now. Good company. Mostly."


    Fenrith huffed, his right head snapping at the air as if to protest the insult. Damian grinned, but his focus never wavered from Aria. She was watching him too closely, and he needed to tread carefully.


    "You don''t look like a typical apprentice," she said after a moment, her tone probing. "There''s something... different about you."


    Damian raised an eyebrow, feigning confusion. "Different how? I''m just a guy trying to survive Cassius''s sadistic training sessions."


    Her eyes narrowed slightly, but her smile remained. "If you say so. But I can''t help wondering... what makes you worth his time?"


    Damian felt his pulse quicken, though he kept his expression calm. "No idea. Maybe I''m just persistent. Or maybe he got bored and decided to pick the first warlock he saw."


    Aria laughed softly, though the sound lacked warmth. "Perhaps. Or perhaps there''s more to you than you let on."


    Damian shrugged again, maintaining his relaxed fac?ade. "You''re giving me too much credit."


    "Maybe," she said, her tone thoughtful. She took a step closer, her eyes locked onto his. "But I''ve learned that Cassius doesn''t do anything without a reason."


    Damian held her gaze, refusing to flinch under her scrutiny. ''She knows something,'' he thought, his mind racing. ''But how much?''


    "So," he said, forcing a casual tone, "was your curiosity satisfied, or do you plan to interrogate me all night?"


    Aria smiled, though it didn''t reach her eyes. "I think I''ve seen enough for now. But I''ll be keeping an eye on you, warlock."


    "Great," Damian said, flashing her a lopsided grin. "Nothing like a little extra pressure to keep me motivated."


    She chuckled, stepping back into the shadows. "Until next time."


    And just like that, she was gone, disappearing as quickly and silently as she had arrived.


    Damian stood there for a moment, staring at the spot where Aria had gone. Fenrith growled softly beside him, the wolf''s agitation mirroring his own. Damian''s mind raced, and a deep frown tugged at his lips.


    "She''s got her attention on me..." he muttered under his breath. "This is bad."


    The rest of the walk home was quiet, but his thoughts were anything but. Aria''s appearance had thrown him off balance. Her probing gaze, the way she seemed to be testing him¡ªit all felt too deliberate. Too much like she was looking for cracks in his disguise.


    ''Does she know?'' he wondered. ''No... she doesn''t. Not yet. But she''s suspicious.''


    His thoughts drifted back to the memories he''d managed to recover¡ªfragments of a time when he and Aria had been close. Back then, life had been simpler. They were like siblings, inseparable in their youth. He could almost hear the echoes of their laughter in his mind, feeling the closeness they had shared.


    He remembered the days when he was just an ambitious warlock apprentice, and she was a gifted young sorcerer. People had whispered about them back then, the way they complemented each other so perfectly. Some admired them, while others envied them.


    A faint smile tugged at Damian''s lips as he recalled those days. The way she had always managed to surprise him with her raw talent, her sharp wit. For a moment, the memory felt like a balm to the chaos in his mind.


    But then his smile faded, replaced by a shadow of uncertainty. His thoughts turned darker, twisting as they often did when he tried to piece together the fragments of his past. The dreams came rushing back, vivid and unrelenting. His own voice echoed around him.


    "You have no right to judge me!"


    He had roared, his tone a volatile mix of anger, sadness, and bitterness. He had felt a searing rage, the kind that made his blood boil. But beneath that rage was something far more painful¡ªdisappointment. Not just in others, but in himself. He couldn''t place the context, but the feelings lingered like a stain on his soul.


    Damian stopped in his tracks, his hand brushing Fenrith''s fur for comfort. The wolf''s middle head nudged him gently, sensing his unease. "Was I in denial?" Damian whispered to himself. "Was I... evil?"

 Chapter 144: Hex Him!

    Warlock Ch 144. Hex Him!


    Fenrith let out a low growl, and Damian glanced at him, almost as if expecting an answer. The wolf simply stared, his eyes steady and unwavering.


    Damian sighed, his shoulders slumping. "Or did she just... misunderstand me?" he muttered, more to himself than anyone else. The memories felt incomplete, jagged like broken glass. He couldn''t reconcile the person he was now with the fragments of Kaelan he remembered. The anger, the arrogance, the power¡ªit all felt foreign, like wearing someone else''s skin.


    "What am I supposed to do, Fenrith?" Damian asked, his voice barely above a whisper. "I can''t ignore the past, but the more I dig, the worse it feels. What if Cassius is right? What if I was just a monster who thought he was justified?"


    Fenrith''s middle head growled softly, while the left one nudged Damian''s knee. It wasn''t much, but it was enough to pull Damian out of his spiral, if only slightly.


    "Thanks, buddy," Damian said, managing a faint smile as he gave Fenrith''s right head an affectionate rub. "At least you don''t think I''m completely hopeless."


    The three-headed wolf huffed in response. The middle head let out a low growl, and the left head nudged Damian''s shoulder. It wasn''t much, but it was enough to keep him grounded, to keep the storm in his head from swallowing him whole.


    The walk back to the house was quiet, almost serene¡ªif he ignored the fact that Damian''s thoughts were spinning like a hamster on caffeine. The fresh air helped, though. He could feel the tension slowly bleeding out of his shoulders. Fenrith padded beside him, his massive frame steady and reassuring. At least someone in this mess had their life together.


    By the time they reached the house, Damian let out a long breath, pushing open the door. The scent of herbs and something sweet wafted out, immediately soothing his frayed nerves.


    "Welcome back!" Evelyn''s cheerful voice rang out from the kitchen. A moment later, she appeared in the doorway, a dish towel slung over her shoulder. Her smile was as bright as ever, but her eyes scanned Damian like a worried mom checking her kid for bruises after a playground fight.


    "Hey," Damian said, forcing a grin as he stepped inside. He tugged at his dirt-smudged shirt, trying to look a little less like he''d just gone twelve rounds with caffeinated shadows. "We''re back."


    Evelyn''s gaze shifted to Fenrith, who was still carrying the bag of books on his back like a very grumpy pack mule. "And what happened to you two? You look like you got dragged through a battlefield."


    "Close enough," Damian said with a laugh, scratching the back of his head. "Cassius had... let''s call it a ''passionate training session.''"


    Evelyn''s brow furrowed, and she crossed her arms. "Passionate, huh? Did it involve throwing you into another gauntlet of death?"


    Damian chuckled nervously. "Define ''death.''"


    Evelyn let out an exasperated sigh, reaching out to ruffle his already messy hair. "Should I talk to him?"


    "Or you can hex that smug mentor of mine," Damian teased, dropping the bag of books onto the floor with a heavy thud. Fenrith let out a relieved huff and padded off by the fireplace.


    Despite the teasing grin on his face, Damian could feel Evelyn''s eyes boring into him. She always saw through his act, but she didn''t push¡ªnot yet, anyway. Instead, she waved him toward the couch.


    "Go sit. I''ll make you some tea," she said, already heading back to the kitchen.


    Damian collapsed onto the couch with a groan, his head falling back against the cushions. His muscles screamed for rest, but his brain? Oh, it was wide awake, spinning in circles like a hamster hyped up on energy drinks.


    He rubbed his face with both hands, trying to scrub away the weight of the day.


    Evelyn came with the tea and handed it to Damian, her brows knit in quiet concern. "Is everything okay? Except Cassius'' training?" she asked, her voice calm but probing.


    Damian took the mug, letting the warmth seep into his hands. He sighed and stared into the tea as if it might hold some answers.


    "I just met Aria," he said finally, his voice quiet.


    Evelyn froze. She perched on the arm of the couch beside him, her posture tense but her face calm. "Did she hurt you?" she asked, her tone steady but laced with an edge.


    Damian shook his head, a bitter smile tugging at his lips. "No. Not yet, anyway."


    Evelyn''s gaze sharpened, her eyes searching his face for something unspoken. "What do you mean ''not yet''? What happened?"


    "She doesn''t know who I am," Damian admitted, his smile turning grim. "At least, I don''t think she does. But if she ever figures it out..." His voice trailed off, and he took a slow sip of tea, letting the warmth calm his frayed nerves. "If she knew, Evelyn, she''d kill me. No hesitation."


    Evelyn didn''t say anything, but the slight flicker in her expression told him enough. She didn''t deny it, and that silence hit harder than any words could have. She wasn''t the type to sugarcoat things¡ªnot when it mattered. And right now, her lack of denial felt like confirmation.


    "Great," Damian muttered, his voice tinged with sarcasm. "That''s exactly the kind of reassurance I needed."


    Evelyn frowned, reaching out to place a hand on his arm. "You don''t know that for sure, Damian. Aria might not¡ª"


    "She would," Damian cut her off, his voice sharper than he intended. He sighed and set the mug down on the table, rubbing his temples. "Trust me, Evelyn. If she finds out Kaelan Voidweaver is alive and kicking, she''s not going to stop until I''m six feet under. And honestly? I wouldn''t blame her."


    Evelyn''s lips pressed into a thin line. "You''re not Kaelan anymore. You''re Damian Blackthorn. That matters."


    "Does it?" Damian shot back, his tone raw. "To you, maybe. But to Aria? To the people Kaelan wronged? I''m just wearing a new name, Evelyn. The sins don''t disappear just because I got a second chance or rebirth."

 Chapter 145: You’re Not Invincible

    Warlock Ch 145. You''re Not Invincible


    The room fell into a heavy silence, thick with unspoken fears and half-formed thoughts. Evelyn didn''t argue, but the look in her eyes was enough to tell him she wasn''t giving up on him¡ªnot yet, anyway.


    He picked up the mug again, taking another sip of tea. The warmth did little to ease the cold knot in his chest. "There''s more," he said after a long pause, his voice quieter now.


    Evelyn''s eyes narrowed slightly. "More?"


    "Victoria," Damian said, the name hanging in the air like a storm cloud. "She came to Cassius'' place this afternoon. Again."


    Evelyn tensed immediately, her grip on the arm of the couch tightening. "Victoria," she repeated, her tone flat but heavy with meaning. "What did she want?"


    Damian let out a long sigh, setting the mug down and leaning forward, elbows on his knees. He rubbed the back of his neck, feeling the day pressing down on him. "A vampire named Varak Bloodshade," he began, his tone laced with frustration. "Once a loyal general under her command, but he''s become... ambitious."


    Evelyn''s eyes narrowed, her expression unreadable as she waited for him to continue.


    "He''s rallied disillusioned vampires and other rogue factions to his side," Damian explained, his voice gaining a bitter edge. "Promising them power and freedom from traditional rules. According to her, he''s dangerous¡ªnot just because of his strength, but because he knows her tactics. Hell, he probably knows her better than I do."


    "So what does she want?" Evelyn asked, crossing her arms tightly across her chest.


    "She wants my help," Damian said, his lips curling into a sardonic smile. "Mine and Cassius'', to ''take care'' of him."


    Evelyn''s response was immediate and sharp. "Sounds like a trap."


    Damian let out a dry chuckle, nodding in agreement. "Yeah, no kidding. That''s why Cassius and I sent our servants out to dig up some intel. I''m not about to waltz into something blind¡ªnot again."


    She relaxed slightly but didn''t let go of the tension entirely. "So, you haven''t given her your answer yet?"


    He shook his head, leaning back against the couch and letting his gaze drift toward the ceiling. "No. Not yet."


    Evelyn tilted her head, her sharp eyes catching his. "But you want to take the mission, don''t you?"


    Damian flicked his gaze to her, caught off guard by the bluntness of her question. He hesitated, his lips pressing into a thin line before he finally asked, "Are you going to be mad at me if I say yes?"


    Evelyn sighed, her shoulders slumping slightly as the tension in her posture shifted. "No," she said softly, though her tone carried an unmistakable weight. She exhaled deeply, meeting his gaze with a seriousness that made his chest tighten. "If your memory hadn''t started coming back... maybe I wouldn''t let you."


    Damian blinked, raising an eyebrow. "You wouldn''t let me?"


    Evelyn gave him a look, one that said she was deadly serious despite the absurdity of the statement. "You heard me. But your memory has come back¡ªsome of it, anyway. And I know you, Damian. You''re unpredictable, stubborn as hell, and when you want something..." She paused, her eyes softening just enough to make her words hit harder. "You''ll get it."


    He opened his mouth to protest, but the words died in his throat. She wasn''t wrong, and they both knew it.


    "Victoria..." Evelyn continued, her voice quieter now, almost reluctant. "She might know something we don''t. Something about her husband''s death. And I know you, Damian. That''s the kind of thing you won''t let go of."


    Her words struck a nerve, and Damian''s jaw tightened. He looked away, his hands curling into fists on his knees. "You think I want answers that badly?" he muttered, his voice low.


    "I know you do," she said simply, her tone unwavering. "And I don''t blame you. But Damian..." She placed a hand on his arm, her touch gentle but firm. "Be careful. Whatever happened back then¡ªit''s not just about you anymore. If Victoria''s involved, this could spiral into something we can''t control."


    Damian let out a bitter laugh, shaking his head. "When has anything in my life been under control, Evelyn?"


    She smiled faintly, her fingers tightening on his arm. "Fair point. But that doesn''t mean you have to make it worse."


    He turned to look at her, his expression softening despite the turmoil churning inside him. "You''re worried about me."


    "Of course, I''m worried about you," Evelyn said, her tone exasperated but warm. "You have this habit of throwing yourself into the fire and assuming you''ll come out unscathed. Newsflash, Damian: you''re not invincible. Even warlocks break."


    Damian let out a dry laugh, leaning back against the couch and rubbing his temples. "Yeah, well, breaking seems to be my specialty these days."


    Evelyn didn''t laugh. She just watched him, her sharp eyes softening with something between worry and frustration.


    "Is that why you didn''t want to explain anything to me before I got my memory back?" he asked, his voice quieter now.


    She stiffened slightly, the question clearly hitting a nerve. After a long moment, she nodded. "Yes," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "I was afraid."


    "Afraid of what?" Damian pressed, his brow furrowing.


    "That I''d lose you again," Evelyn said, her voice trembling slightly as she forced the words out. "That you''d only repeat Kaelan''s fate... And I don''t want that, Damian. I can''t watch you go down that path again."


    Her words hit him like a punch to the gut, and for a moment, he couldn''t find anything to say. He just stared at her.


    "That''s why," she continued, her tone steadying even as her eyes glistened with unshed tears, "I let fate¡ªand you¡ªchoose your own path. Whether the memories came back to you or not, it had to be your choice. Not mine. Not anyone else''s."


    Damian swallowed hard, his throat tightening. "You really thought I''d¡ª"


    "I didn''t know what to think," Evelyn interrupted, her voice sharp but not unkind. "You never told us your goal for your rebirth. You came back, but you kept everything so close to the chest. What was I supposed to do? Push you? Risk pushing you away?"

 Chapter 146: How to Handle Reincarnation

    Warlock Ch 146. How to Handle Reincarnation


    He opened his mouth to argue, but the look in her eyes stopped him. She wasn''t angry¡ªnot really. She was scared. Scared of losing him.


    "I didn''t know about my goal either," Damian admitted after a long pause, his voice raw. "I mean, how could I? What I know... One day, I was Kaelan Voidweaver, a warlock of nightmares. The next, I was some random bartender named Damian Blackthorn. It''s not like I got a handbook for how to handle reincarnation."


    Evelyn''s lips twitched, a faint, bittersweet smile tugging at the corners. "I would''ve paid to see you read that handbook."


    Damian snorted, the tension in his chest easing just a little. "Yeah, well, it probably would''ve been written by Cassius. Which means it''d be useless."


    Her smile widened, though her eyes remained serious. "So what now?" she asked softly. "Do you have a goal now, Damian? Or are you still figuring it out?"


    He hesitated, the question hitting harder than it should''ve. Did he have a goal? Was there some grand plan, some higher purpose driving him? Or was he just drifting, clinging to whatever scraps of meaning he could find?


    After a long pause, Damian exhaled. "For the time being... my goal is to get my power back," he said finally, his voice steady but laced with an undercurrent of determination. "I mean... I''m everyone''s target, right? Kind of hard to stay alive when you''ve got a giant metaphorical bullseye on your back."


    Evelyn stayed quiet, her eyes fixed on him, waiting for him to continue.


    "My other goal," Damian went on, his voice dropping slightly, "is to find out what happened to me in the past. Why I did... all those things. The crimes, the chaos¡ªeverything. There''s got to be a reason, right?"


    He glanced at her, his expression softer now, more vulnerable. "And also..." He hesitated for a moment before continuing, his gaze locking onto hers. "I want to know why I didn''t tell you or Cassius anything. Not a damn thing."


    The room fell into a heavy silence. Evelyn''s lips parted slightly, but no words came. She just looked at him, her expression unreadable. For a moment, it felt like time itself had paused.


    Damian let out a bitter huff, leaning back into the couch as he raked a hand through his hair. "Well... judging by what you''ve told me and my personality, I''m betting the situation was so bad I couldn''t handle it. So bad that I decided it was better for me to fall alone than drag you guys down with me."


    His lips twisted into a sardonic smile, but there was no humor in it. "Seems fair, right? Since I''m probably going to do the same thing if it happens to me again."


    Before he could say more, Evelyn moved. Suddenly, without warning, she wrapped her arms around him, pulling him into a tight embrace. The action startled him, and he froze, his body stiff as her warmth pressed against him.


    "Please don''t," she whispered, her voice trembling.


    Damian blinked, his mind scrambling to process what just happened. "Evelyn..." he began, his tone awkward and unsure.


    "Please don''t do this," she repeated, her arms tightening around him as if she could physically hold him back from the path he was considering. "Don''t throw yourself away like that. Don''t try to take everything on alone."


    He swallowed hard, his throat suddenly dry. "I''m not¡ª"


    "You are," she interrupted, pulling back just enough to look him in the eye. Her gaze was fierce, a fire burning behind the tears threatening to spill over. "You think you''re protecting us, but all you''re doing is shutting us out. You don''t have to carry this alone. You''re not alone."


    The words hit him harder than any spell. For a moment, all he could do was stare at her, his chest tight and his mind racing.


    "I don''t know how not to," he admitted quietly, his voice cracking slightly. "I don''t know how to let people in. To my problem."


    "Then learn," she said simply, her tone firm but not unkind. "Let us help you. Let me help you."


    He opened his mouth to argue, to push back, but the look on her face stopped him. She wasn''t just asking¡ªshe was pleading.


    "I''ll try," he said finally, the words feeling foreign and awkward on his tongue. "I can''t promise anything, but... I''ll try."


    Evelyn smiled faintly, her grip on him loosening slightly. "That''s all I ask."


    Damian chuckled softly, the sound surprising even himself. Maybe, just maybe, things didn''t have to be as hopeless as they seemed. Maybe, with people like Evelyn by his side, he could face his past without losing himself. The thought brought a rare flicker of hope to his otherwise chaotic mind.


    But, of course, Damian being Damian, he couldn''t let the moment stay quiet for too long. A smirk spread across his face, mischievous and unmistakably his. He leaned closer, his eyes gleaming with that spark of playful confidence she knew all too well.


    "You know," he said, his voice low and teasing, "moments like this... they kinda get me excited."


    Evelyn raised an eyebrow, her mouth opening to ask what he meant, but before she could say anything, his hands found her waist and pulled her closer. His smirk widened, his fingers trailing up her sides before landing firmly.


    "Damian!" she yelped, her cheeks flushing as his hands boldly groped her.


    "Hmm?" Damian tilted his head innocently, though the smirk on his face betrayed him. "What? I thought this was part of the whole ''letting people in'' thing."


    Evelyn blinked at him, her expression a mix of shock and disbelief, before she let out a breathless laugh. "You''re impossible," she muttered, lightly swatting at his hands.


    But before Damian could respond, a soft growl interrupted them. Both of them turned to see Fenrith sitting a few feet away, all three of his heads watching them intently. The middle head cocked slightly, while the left head let out a curious whine.


    Damian stared at the massive wolf, his smirk fading into a flat stare. "Really?" he deadpanned, gesturing at Fenrith. "You''re just gonna sit there and judge me?"


    Fenrith huffed, his right head tilting as if to say, ''I''m just here to supervise.''

 Chapter 147: My Own Damn Summon Turn Into a Third Wheel

    Warlock Ch 147. My Own Damn Summon Turn Into a Third Wheel


    "Right... ''Return!''" Damian said dryly, glaring at the wolf.


    With a swirl of shadowy mist, Fenrith vanished, leaving the room eerily quiet. Damian leaned back, shaking his head. "Can''t even get a moment alone without my own damn summon turning into a third wheel."


    Evelyn shook her head, still laughing softly. "You know, for someone who''s supposed to be this big, bad warlock, you get flustered way too easily."


    "Flustered?" Damian shot her a mock-offended look. "Please. I don''t get flustered. I''m the picture of composure."


    Evelyn smirked, crossing her arms. "Sure, Mr. Composure. But before you try anything else..." She pointed at him, her tone suddenly shifting into something more practical. "You need to take a bath. You''re a mess."


    Damian blinked, glancing down at himself. His shirt was smeared with dirt and sweat, his hair sticking out in every direction like he''d been caught in a tornado. "I''m not that bad," he muttered, though even he didn''t sound convinced.


    "You are," Evelyn said firmly, standing and placing her hands on her hips. "And I still need to cook your dinner. Speaking of which..." She cocked her head, her expression softening into a teasing smile. "I can hear your stomach grumbling from here."


    Right on cue, a low growl echoed from Damian''s midsection. He froze, his eyes narrowing as if his stomach had betrayed him. "Traitor," he muttered under his breath, earning a laugh from Evelyn.


    "Go," she said, shooing him toward the bathroom. "Shower, clean up, and let me handle dinner. You''ve had a long day."


    Damian sighed, pushing himself up from the couch. "Fine, fine. But don''t think this means I''m letting you off the hook."


    "Hook?" Evelyn arched an eyebrow, her smile turning sly. "Is that what we''re calling it now?"


    Damian smirked, leaning closer as he passed her. "You''ll see what I mean later."


    Evelyn rolled her eyes, though her cheeks flushed again. "Go. Before I put something in your dinner that''ll knock you out until morning."


    Damian smirked, his eyes gleaming with mock defiance. "Oh, please, have mercy on me," he said, his tone dramatically pleading. "I still have books to read tonight. Cassius might actually kill me if I don''t."


    Evelyn tilted her head, her lips curving into a teasing smile. "Then you''d better act nicely, or I''ll make sure that sleep lasts longer than you planned."


    He chuckled, giving her a mock salute as he started walking toward the bathroom. "Yes, ma''am. Anything to avoid death by soup."


    Her laughter followed him down the hallway, light and warm, as he pushed open the bathroom door.


    The bathroom was quiet, save for the soft hum of the overhead light and the faint drip of the faucet. Damian turned the shower on, letting the sound of rushing water fill the room. Steam began to rise. He leaned against the sink, staring at his reflection in the foggy mirror. His messy hair, tired eyes, and faint smudges of dirt and ash across his face painted a picture of someone who''d been through the wringer¡ªand then some.


    "Some warlock," he muttered to himself, running a hand through his hair before stripping off his dirty clothes and stepping into the shower.


    The hot water hit his skin, washing away the grime and tension, and for a moment, he just stood there, letting it cascade over him. His muscles relaxed, and he felt a flicker of relief, but his mind was far from quiet. As the water ran down his arms, his eyes drifted to his hands.


    They looked normal enough, but to him, they held a history¡ªone of destruction, power, and decisions he still didn''t fully understand. He flexed his fingers, water dripping from his fingertips, and an old memory surfaced, unbidden.


    The memory of controlling the elements. The rush of fire roaring to life in his palm, the ground shaking beneath his feet, the wind bending to his will. It had been second nature to him as Kaelan, like breathing. And now?


    Damian exhaled slowly, his jaw tightening. The urge to try it again gnawed at him, like an itch he couldn''t scratch. His wet hands glistened under the light, the droplets catching and refracting like tiny prisms. It reminded him of manipulating water, shaping it with nothing more than a thought and a spark of Mana.


    "Let''s see..." he murmured to himself, closing his eyes and taking a deep breath. The steam around him thickened as he reached inward, searching for the well of Mana he knew was there.


    Focus. Control. Breathe.


    He concentrated, willing his Mana to respond. He imagined the water bending to his will, swirling and twisting around his hands like living ribbons. It was something only high-level magi were supposed to do¡ªcreating a skill from scratch, shaping raw energy into something tangible. But he wasn''t just any warlock. He remembered how it worked, even if the specifics were fuzzy. It was muscle memory, buried deep but undeniable.


    The air around him seemed to hum with potential, the faintest flicker of energy dancing at his fingertips. His heart raced, anticipation building as he pushed harder, reaching for the connection he knew should be there.


    And then... nothing.


    The flicker snuffed out like a candle in the wind, leaving him with nothing but the sound of the water and the bitter sting of failure.


    [You cannot access elemental skills before reaching Rank S or forming a bond with a sorcerer.]


    Damian groaned, slamming his palm against the tile wall. "Great. Thanks for the reminder, genius," he muttered, his voice dripping with sarcasm.


    He leaned back against the wall, his wet hair plastered to his forehead. "It''s still there," he muttered to himself, staring at his hands again. "I know it is. Some part of me remembers... but not enough."


    "Rank S," he repeated bitterly, running a hand through his wet hair. "Or a sorcerer... Aria..." He scoffed bitterly. "That''s the same as suicide."


    He let out a humorless laugh, turning his face up toward the showerhead and letting the water cascade over him. The frustration didn''t fade, but the heat of the water helped dull its edges.

 Chapter 148: Power Isn’t Just a Tool

    Warlock Ch 148. Power Isn''t Just a Tool


    After a few more minutes, he turned off the shower and stepped out, wrapping a towel around his waist. The mirror was completely fogged up, but he didn''t bother wiping it clean. He didn''t need to see his reflection to know what he''d find: a guy caught between who he was and who he wanted to be.


    As he dressed in clean clothes, a familiar voice echoed in his mind¡ªhis own, from a time long past.


    "Power isn''t just a tool, Kaelan. It''s a responsibility. And if you can''t handle it, it''ll destroy you."


    The irony wasn''t lost on him. He didn''t even know if he believed that anymore. Power had destroyed him once, and yet here he was, chasing it again like a moth to a flame.


    By the time he returned to the living room, Evelyn was bustling around the kitchen, the smell of something savory filling the air. She glanced up as he entered, her eyes flicking over him briefly before returning to her work.


    "Feel better?" she asked, her tone light.


    "Better than I did," Damian admitted, plopping down onto the couch. He watched her for a moment, his thoughts still tangled but quieter now. "Thanks, Evelyn."


    She looked over her shoulder, raising an eyebrow. "For what?"


    "For keeping me grounded," Damian said simply, a small smile tugging at his lips. He leaned back into the couch, watching Evelyn as she moved between the stove and the counter, her movements fluid and practiced.


    Evelyn gave him a sidelong glance, her lips twitching into a faint smile. "Someone has to," she said lightly, stirring something in a pan. "You''d probably implode without supervision."


    "Rude," Damian shot back, though his grin widened. "I''d like to think I''m at least semi-functional on my own."


    "Sure," Evelyn said, her tone dripping with sarcasm. "That''s why you keep coming back here looking like you''ve been dragged through hell and back."


    "Hey, that''s on Cassius," Damian said, raising his hands in mock surrender. "The guy''s idea of training is basically sanctioned torture."


    Evelyn chuckled, shaking her head as she plated the food. "Well, you''re in luck. Tonight''s menu isn''t torture. I made something you used to like."


    At the mention of food, Damian perked up, his stomach growling on cue. "Something I used to like, huh? Now I''m curious."


    Evelyn brought the plates to the table, setting them down with a flourish. "Ta-da. Dragonfire Chicken with Magma Root Chunks and Mystic Herb Reduction you always raved about."


    Damian''s eyes lit up as he sat down at the table, the aroma alone enough to make his mouth water. "You''re kidding," he said, staring at the plate. "You remembered this?"


    "Of course I did," Evelyn said, sitting across from him. "Even if you''ve forgotten some things, I haven''t."


    For a moment, Damian just stared at her, a mix of gratitude and something softer flickering in his eyes. "Thanks, Evelyn. Really."


    "Don''t get mushy on me," she teased, though her smile was warm. "Just eat."


    He didn''t need to be told twice. Damian dug in with enthusiasm, the familiar flavors sparking a rare sense of comfort.


    As they ate, Evelyn glanced at him, her expression turning curious. "So... how are your shadow? Have they returned yet?"


    Damian shook his head, swallowing a bite of chicken. "Not yet. I figured they''d report back in the morning."


    Evelyn nodded thoughtfully, resting her chin on her hand. "And how''s your condition? Your body? Are you still hurt? Is it still aching?"


    "I''m fine," he started, then paused. His brow furrowed slightly as he thought back to the morning''s training with Cassius. His fork hovered over his plate as he replayed the day in his mind. When he''d met Cassius for the first session, the ache in his muscles had been noticeable¡ªsharp, even. But over time, as the day wore on, the ache had dulled... and then disappeared entirely.


    "I mean, I''m tired," Damian continued, his voice slower now, more thoughtful. "Exhausted, even. But the ache... it''s not there anymore."


    Evelyn''s fork clinked against her plate as she set it down, her brows knitting together. "What do you mean it''s not there? How is that possible?"


    Damian leaned back in his chair, his fingers drumming against the table. "I don''t know. Let me check something first."


    He set his utensils aside and closed his eyes, his breath evening out as he reached inward. He focused on his Mana, letting it shimmer and flow within him like a current. His concentration deepened, and for a moment, the world around him faded away.


    [New skill unlocked!]


    [Observation Lv 1: Allows the user to analyze their physical and magical state, as well as basic details about targets within range.]


    Damian''s eyes snapped open as the system notification appeared in his mind, the words glowing faintly in his vision. "Observation?" he murmured, his voice tinged with curiosity.


    "What is it?" Evelyn asked, leaning forward slightly.


    "I just unlocked a new skill," Damian said, his tone distracted as he activated it. A faint pulse of Mana spread through his body, and information began flooding his mind.


    [Physical State: Recovered. Fatigue present. No injuries detected.]


    [Mana Levels: 87% capacity. Regeneration stable.]


    [Recent anomalies: Residual traces of divine energy detected. Source unidentified.]


    Damian frowned, his thoughts racing. "Divine energy?" he muttered under his breath.


    Evelyn''s eyes widened. "Divine energy? Are you serious?"


    "That''s what it says," Damian replied, his tone laced with confusion. "But that doesn''t make any sense. The only divine energy I''ve come across was from that damn caviar Cassius gave me, and that shouldn''t still be affecting me. There''s no way it''s affecting me."


    Evelyn tilted her head, her expression thoughtful. "Could it be something else? Maybe something tied to your past?"


    "Maybe," Damian said, his voice distant as he stared at his hands. "Or maybe it''s tied to... Aria?"


    Evelyn frowned, her fork paused mid-air. "Aria? But she''s a sorcerer, not a healer or saint. Divine energy isn''t exactly her specialty."


    "That makes it even more confusing," Damian admitted, his brow furrowing. He leaned back in his chair, his gaze fixed on the faint shimmer of his hands under the dim light. The unanswered questions churned in his mind, refusing to settle.

 Chapter 149: Not Normal

    Warlock Ch 149. Not Normal


    The silence between them stretched, thick with unspoken thoughts. What bothered Damian even more wasn''t just the traces of divine energy¡ªit was the other anomaly. His Mana regeneration.


    "My Mana''s at 87%," he said suddenly, breaking the quiet. "Which doesn''t make sense. I''ve been training all day, Evelyn. By all accounts, I should be drained, or at least hovering around 50%. But no¡ª87%. And stable."


    Evelyn''s frown deepened. "Stable is good, isn''t it?"


    "Sure," Damian replied, his tone tinged with frustration. "Except it''s too stable. Too fast. This isn''t normal."


    "You think it''s the artifact?" Evelyn asked, her voice careful but curious.


    Damian picked up his fork again, staring at his plate as if the answers might be hidden there. "I guess. That''s the only thing that makes sense lately. But throwing all the blame on something I can''t explain..." He hesitated, his grip tightening on the fork. "It feels irresponsible. Like I''m one of those people who just pointed at me and called me a criminal without ever asking why."


    He shoved a bite of food into his mouth, chewing mechanically. After a long pause, he muttered, "It sounds pathetic, doesn''t it?"


    Evelyn''s expression softened, and she leaned forward slightly. "No, it doesn''t," she said firmly. "It sounds like someone trying to figure out a mess they didn''t create. If the artifact''s involved, then blaming it isn''t pathetic¡ªit''s logical. But you need more than guesses, Damian. You need answers."


    Damian snorted softly, a bitter smile tugging at his lips. "Answers. Right. Got any spare ones lying around?"


    Evelyn chuckled lightly, shaking her head. "Sorry, fresh out. But I do know one thing¡ªyou''ll figure it out. You always do."


    Her confidence in him was oddly reassuring, even if he wasn''t sure he deserved it. He nodded, finishing his meal in silence.


    Later, after dinner, Damian hauled his heavy bag upstairs to his room. His arms strained under the weight, and he couldn''t help but grumble as he kicked the door open. "Seriously, who is the sadistic mentor who gives this many books to his tired apprentice?"


    Cassius, apparently. The answer was always Cassius.


    He dropped the bag onto his desk with a loud thud, the impact causing a small dust cloud to puff into the air. Unzipping the bag, he began unpacking the books, stacking them into a neat but intimidating tower on the desk. Each tome was thick, worn, and absolutely brimming with advanced magical theory.


    Damian cringed as he eyed the stack. "I love books," he muttered to himself, "but not like this. Not this much. And definitely not all in one night."


    He pulled out the last book and placed it on the pile, stepping back to take in the sheer size of it. It loomed over him like a judge ready to sentence him to hours of academic misery.


    "I hate it," he said bitterly, a faint, sardonic smile tugging at his lips. "But I know I need it."


    There was no way around it. If he wanted to take Victoria''s mission¡ªand survive¡ªit wasn''t just about power or skill. It was about knowledge. And knowledge, unfortunately, was buried in these ridiculous tomes.


    Damian sighed, dragging his chair over and collapsing into it. He rested his elbows on the desk, his head in his hands as he let out a long, tired exhale. "Just endure it," he muttered under his breath, his voice barely audible. "You got this."


    With that, he grabbed the first book from the stack, its leather cover creaking faintly as he opened it. The dense script stared back at him, each line a wall of text that demanded his full attention. He focused, letting the words and diagrams pull him in, his mind sharpening as he tapped into his Mana to aid his concentration.


    -----


    In the kitchen, Evelyn wiped her hands on a dish towel, her mind elsewhere. She knew Cassius had loaded Damian up with another mountain of books tonight. It wasn''t a hard guess¡ªCassius operated with one speed. Relentless. And while Evelyn respected the man''s knowledge and dedication, she couldn''t help but frown at how hard he was pushing Damian.


    The sound of water boiling on the stove brought her back to the present, but her thoughts still lingered on Damian.


    ''He hasn''t even been a warlock for a week,'' she thought, shaking her head slightly. ''He''s already Rank B, but... is it too fast?''


    It wasn''t that she doubted Damian''s abilities. She knew better than anyone how capable he was. His rebirth had given him a second chance, and even without all of Kaelan''s memories, he had instincts and power that most warlocks could only dream of. But that didn''t mean he was ready. Power and instinct weren''t enough to navigate this world¡ªnot when it was full of betrayals, politics, and enemies who thrived on exploiting weakness.


    She stirred the pot absentmindedly, her brow furrowing.


    ''The more he gains as a warlock, the closer he gets to... ''She didn''t finish the thought. She didn''t want to. But the shadow of Kaelan''s fate hung over her. Damian''s rebirth was his choice, his path. She had to respect that. Yet the fear lingered. What if history repeated itself?


    "No," she murmured aloud, shaking her head as if to dispel the thought. "That was his choice. His path."


    Still, none of them truly understood why Damian had chosen to be reborn. What was the driving force behind it? What did he hope to accomplish? The questions gnawed at her, but they remained unanswered. Damian himself didn''t seem to know.


    Evelyn let out a sigh, her gaze drifting to the pantry. If she couldn''t stop Cassius from pushing Damian, she could at least help him in her own way. She opened the pantry, her fingers deftly selecting a handful of herbs and ingredients. She was going to make Dawn''s Vitality again. It wasn''t a cure-all, but it would help ease Damian''s exhaustion and sharpen his focus. If nothing else, it was her way of supporting him without interfering.

 Chapter 150: That’s What Makes Him… Him

    Warlock Ch 150. That''s What Makes Him... Him


    The kitchen filled with the warm, soothing aroma of the potion brewing on the stove. The herbs steeped in the water, releasing their essence into the liquid, which shimmered faintly with a soft golden hue. Evelyn moved, adding each ingredient in measured amounts. Her mind was focused, yet part of her kept drifting back to Damian.


    ''He''s so stubborn,'' she thought with a faint smile. ''But that''s also what makes him... him.''


    She poured the finished drink into a mug before placing it on a tray alongside a small plate of biscuits. She knew Damian wouldn''t ask for help¡ªhe never did¡ªbut that didn''t mean he didn''t need it. Evelyn had learned to read between the lines with him, to pick up on the subtle signs of his exhaustion. He could be as stubborn as a mule, but even Damian had limits.


    And knowing him, he''d push himself right to the edge before admitting he was tired. Maybe not even then. So she decided to intervene, just a little, and headed upstairs with the tray.


    Once she approached his room, she paused at the door, raising her hand to knock. But the sound of flipping pages stopped her. Not just flipping¡ªrapid flipping. Her brow furrowed, curiosity overriding her intent as she pushed the door open slightly.


    What she saw made her freeze in the doorway, stunned.


    Damian sat at his desk, surrounded by a fortress of books. But he wasn''t just reading¡ªhe was devouring the information. His movements were fluid yet fast, almost mechanical. His eyes, faintly glowing with the energy of his Mana, darted across the pages at a speed that shouldn''t have been possible. Each time he finished a page, his hand shot out to flip it.


    To anyone else, it might have looked like he was playing around, flipping through books aimlessly. But Evelyn knew better. She could see the intensity in his expression, the focus in his glowing eyes. He wasn''t skimming¡ªhe was absorbing.


    It reminded her of someone.


    ''Kaelan.''


    Kaelan had read like this too¡ªlike a man possessed. He had always been an anomaly, a fast learner with a seemingly endless capacity for knowledge. What had made him truly dangerous wasn''t just his power but his ability to take in information faster than anyone else and apply it with unnerving precision.


    And now, here Damian was, doing the same thing.


    ''He was, he is'', she thought, a bittersweet smile tugging at her lips. No matter how much he changed, there were parts of Kaelan that would always be part of Damian.


    Evelyn hesitated, unsure whether to interrupt. She didn''t want to break his concentration¡ªnot when he was so engrossed, so completely in his element. Instead, she leaned against the doorframe, watching him with a mix of admiration and concern.


    His Mana swirled faintly around him. She could feel the energy in the room, almost like a hum in the air. It wasn''t chaotic or wild. It was controlled, disciplined. Yet it was intense enough to be almost overwhelming.


    ''How does he do this?'' she wondered. ''How does he push himself so far without burning out?''


    She stayed there for what felt like an eternity, the tray still in her hands. She didn''t call out to him, didn''t move closer. She just watched, silently hoping he would notice her. Because she knew that when he did¡ªwhen his concentration broke¡ªit would mean he''d hit his limit.


    Damian flipped another page, his mind racing to keep up with the flood of information. It was almost too much, but he didn''t let himself stop. The theories, the spells, the intricate diagrams¡ªthey were all pieces of a puzzle he couldn''t afford to leave unfinished.


    His Mana thrummed inside him, sharp and steady, fueling his focus. He wasn''t just reading; he was learning, piecing together fragments of knowledge with a speed that surprised even him.


    But even as he pushed forward, a faint voice in the back of his mind whispered caution.


    ''Slow down. You''re pushing too hard.''


    He ignored it, flipping another page. There was too much at stake to slow down. Victoria''s mission, Cassius'' training, the shadows lurking in the background¡ªit all demanded more from him. More focus, more strength, more everything.


    But then he felt it¡ªa presence. Warm, familiar, and unmistakable. His focus wavered for just a moment, his eyes darting to the side.


    There she was.


    Evelyn stood in the doorway, a tray in her hands, her expression soft but watchful. She didn''t say a word, but the concern in her eyes was clear.


    Damian blinked, the glow fading from his eyes as his concentration broke. He let out a breath he hadn''t realized he was holding, leaning back in his chair. His body felt heavier than it had moments ago, the fatigue catching up to him all at once.


    "Evelyn," he said, his voice rough from disuse. "How long have you been standing there?"


    "Long enough," she replied, stepping into the room. Her tone was light, but there was an undercurrent of worry in her voice.


    Damian ran a hand through his hair, offering a tired smile. "Guess I got carried away."


    Evelyn set the tray down on the desk, her eyes scanning his face. "You think?" she said dryly, though her lips twitched into the faintest of smiles. "Damian, you look like you''ve been through a hurricane and decided to rebuild the city single-handedly."


    Damian chuckled softly, reaching for the mug on the tray. The warmth seeped into his hands, grounding him. "I''m fine," he said automatically, his voice casual but tired.


    "Uh-huh," Evelyn said, crossing her arms and giving him a pointed look. "You''ve been sitting here, flipping through books faster than anyone I''ve ever seen. That''s not exactly ''fine,'' Damian."


    He took a sip of the drink, the flavors hitting his tongue like a soothing balm. It was sweet and herbal. "This is good," he murmured, avoiding her gaze.


    "You''re deflecting," she said, leaning against the edge of the desk. "You do that a lot, you know."

 Chapter 151: Necessary Sacrifice

    Warlock Ch 151. Necessary Sacrifice


    Damian sighed, setting the mug down and running a hand through his hair. "I''m not deflecting. I''m just... I''m focused, okay? There''s too much to do, too much riding on this."


    "I get that," Evelyn said, her tone softer now. "But you''re not a machine. You can''t just keep pushing yourself like this. Even warlocks have limits."


    "Maybe," Damian said, leaning back in his chair. "But I can''t afford to slow down. Not with everything happening."


    Evelyn shook her head, her expression a mix of exasperation and concern. "You''re so stubborn."


    "And you''re so... you," Damian shot back, smirking faintly. "Always looking out for me, even when I don''t ask for it."


    "Someone has to," she replied, her voice light but edged with sincerity. "Because if it were up to you, you''d probably work yourself into the ground and call it a ''necessary sacrifice.''"


    Damian laughed, though the sound was more tired than amused. "Yeah, well... maybe I would. But it''s not like I have much of a choice."


    Evelyn frowned, her arms uncrossing as she leaned forward. "What do you mean by that?"


    "I mean..." Damian hesitated, his fingers drumming against the edge of the desk. "I mean I''ve got Victoria breathing down my neck, Cassius pushing me to my limit, and a past that keeps clawing its way back into my head. I don''t have time to slow down. If I do, I''m dead."


    Her expression softened, and she reached out, placing a hand on his arm. "Damian, you''re not in this alone. You''ve got me. You''ve got Cassius¡ªeven if he has the emotional range of a rock. You don''t have to carry this by yourself."


    He looked at her, his eyes meeting hers for a long moment. "I know," he said quietly. "It''s just... hard to let go, you know? I feel like if I don''t handle everything, it''s all going to fall apart."


    "You''re not Kaelan anymore," Evelyn said firmly. "You''re Damian. And Damian doesn''t have to shoulder the world alone."


    He smirked faintly, the tension in his shoulders easing just a little. "You always know what to say."


    "Of course I do," she said, grinning. "It''s one of my many talents."


    Damian picked up the mug again, taking another sip. "I should probably get back to it."


    Evelyn didn''t respond immediately. Instead, she reached over and picked up one of the books, flipping through it briefly before setting it back down. "Damian," she said, her tone calm but amused. "I think you''re done."


    He blinked, his brow furrowing. "Done? What do you mean?"


    "I mean," she said, gesturing to the desk, "you''ve read all the books. Look at the stack¡ªit''s empty."


    Damian''s eyes widened, and he turned to look at the desk. Sure enough, the once-towering pile of books on the left was gone.


    "When did I¡ª?" he started, but the words died in his throat as realization dawned.


    "You didn''t even notice, did you?" Evelyn said, her smile widening. "You were so focused, you powered through the whole stack without even realizing it."


    Damian leaned back in his chair, running a hand through his hair as a stunned laugh escaped him. "I guess," he said, still marveling at the sight of his cleared desk. "But, damn, I didn''t expect to finish that fast."


    Evelyn tilted her head, her arms crossed as she watched him with an amused smile. "Fast doesn''t even begin to cover it. Two hours, Damian. You tore through a mountain of advanced magical texts in two hours. Even for you, that''s impressive."


    He turned toward the clock on the wall, his brow furrowing as he confirmed what she''d said. Two hours. That was all it had taken. Faster than he''d ever managed before¡ªeven when he''d been Kaelan.


    His lips pressed into a thoughtful line, and he leaned forward, resting his elbows on the desk. "I want to put the blame on the artifact again," he admitted, his tone half-joking, "but I guess it''s helping me more than I realized."


    Evelyn chuckled softly, shaking her head. "Well, if it''s giving you super-speed reading powers, I won''t complain. Maybe Cassius will let up on you for a day or two if he thinks you''re this efficient."


    "Doubt it," Damian muttered, a wry grin tugging at his lips. "He''ll probably just see it as an excuse to double the workload."


    "Probably," she agreed with a laugh. "But hey, at least you can rest early tonight."


    "I guess..." Damian said, trailing off as he sipped from the mug she''d brought him. But as he set the empty mug down, a mischievous glint sparked in his eyes.


    "But..." he started, leaning back in his chair again. "I''m more interested in a bit of a workout before bed."


    Evelyn raised an eyebrow, her expression shifting to one of suspicion. "A workout? You want to train again?"


    "Yeah," Damian said, his tone casual but carrying a subtle undercurrent of something else. He leaned forward, resting his elbows on the desk as his gaze locked onto hers. "A bit."


    Evelyn sighed, her hands finding her hips as she gave him a pointed look. "Damian, you just finished a mental marathon. Now you want to push your body too? Don''t you ever stop?"


    "Oh, I stop," Damian said, his voice dropping slightly, the faintest hint of a smirk curling his lips. "But what I meant by ''workout'' isn''t exactly... training."


    Evelyn''s brows furrowed, confusion flickering across her face for a moment. "Then what¡ª?"


    Before she could finish, Damian stood, closing the distance between them in a few slow, deliberate steps. His height allowed him to loom just slightly, his presence dominated her as he leaned in closer, his hands braced on the edge of the desk on either side of her.


    "What I mean," he said, his voice low and teasing, "by ''workout'' is, of course... you."


    Evelyn blinked, her cheeks immediately flushing a deep shade of red. "Damian!" she exclaimed, her voice caught somewhere between outrage and embarrassment.

 Chapter 152: You Deserve Some Attention

    Warlock Ch 152. You Deserve Some Attention


    "What?" Damian asked innocently, though the playful grin on his face betrayed him. "It''s not like I''m suggesting anything unreasonable. You''ve been standing there all night, worrying about me. Don''t you think you deserve some... attention?"


    "You''re impossible," Evelyn muttered, her voice flustered as she turned her head slightly, avoiding his gaze.


    "And yet," Damian said, tilting his head to catch her eyes again, "you''re still here."


    Her lips pressed into a thin line, though the corners twitched upward despite her best efforts. "You think you''re so charming, don''t you?"


    "Not think," Damian corrected, his smirk widening as he leaned just a fraction closer. "Know."


    Evelyn groaned, though the sound lacked any real conviction. "I should have put something in that drink to knock you out."


    "Should''ve," Damian said with a chuckle. "But you didn''t. Which means you secretly enjoy this."


    "Enjoy what?" she shot back, though her voice lacked its usual sharpness. "Watching you turn into a smug flirt after burning through your entire reading list?"


    "No," Damian said, his tone softening just slightly. "Enjoying the fact that you don''t have to worry about me for a little while. At least, not tonight."


    Evelyn''s expression faltered, the teasing edge slipping away as she met his gaze. There was something in the way Damian looked at her¡ªintense, unwavering, and dangerously sincere. Her heart skipped a beat, and she cursed silently at how easily he got under her skin.


    "Damian," she began, her voice softer than she intended. "You can''t just¡ª"


    "I can''t just what?" he interrupted, his tone teasing but laced with that same earnestness. He moved closer, his presence filling the space between them, and Evelyn felt her pulse quicken.


    "You know what I mean," she muttered, looking anywhere but at him. It was a mistake. The moment she glanced away, Damian leaned in, his lips curving into that maddening smirk of his.


    "I said it, didn''t I?" Damian murmured, his voice dropping to a low, almost hypnotic timbre. His hand brushed her arm gently, his fingers trailing down in a way that sent a shiver through her. "I wouldn''t let you off the hook. And I meant it."


    Her knees felt weak, her resolve crumbling under his stare. ''Ah, there it is,'' she thought. That voice. That stare. The ones that always managed to undo her, no matter how much she tried to resist.


    "Damian..." she tried again, but her voice betrayed her, coming out as more of a breathy whisper.


    He chuckled softly, the sound low and warm, as his hands moved to her waist. Before she could protest¡ªor even process what was happening¡ªhe scooped her up effortlessly, lifting her off the ground as if she weighed nothing.


    Evelyn gasped, her hands instinctively grabbing his shoulders for balance. "What do you think you''re doing?"


    "Taking you somewhere more comfortable," Damian said casually. "You''ve been on your feet all day. You deserve a break."


    "I don''t need¡ª" she began, but he cut her off with a playful grin.


    "Relax," he said, his voice soft but commanding. "I''ve got you."


    Evelyn hated how her heart fluttered at those words, but there was no denying the effect he had on her. She let out a resigned sigh, though her grip on his shoulders didn''t loosen.


    "You''re beautiful tonight," Damian shot without missing a beat, the sincerity in his tone catching her off guard.


    She blinked, her cheeks flushing despite herself. "I didn''t wear anything special today."


    "Doesn''t make it any less true," he said as he gently set her down on the edge of the bed, his hands lingering on her waist for just a moment longer than necessary.


    Evelyn tried to muster a retort, but the way he looked at her¡ªlike she was the only thing in the world that mattered¡ªmade it impossible. She swallowed hard, her gaze darting away as she tried to gather her thoughts. "You''re insufferable, you know that?"


    Damian chuckled, sitting down beside her and leaning in close. "And yet, you''re still here."


    She rolled her eyes, but the fondness in her expression betrayed her. "You''re lucky I am."


    "I know," he said simply, his voice softer now as he reached out to brush a strand of hair from her face. His fingers lingered, tracing the curve of her jaw with a tenderness that made her heart ache.


    Evelyn''s breath hitched, and she looked at him, really looked at him. The playful smirk was still there, but beneath it was something deeper¡ªsomething raw and unguarded.


    "You''re doing it again," she murmured, her voice barely audible.


    "Doing what?" he asked, his thumb brushing against her cheek.


    "Making it impossible to stay mad at you," she admitted, her lips curving into a reluctant smile.


    Damian grinned, his eyes gleaming with triumph. "Good. Because I don''t plan on giving you a reason to be mad nor keep your composure."


    He leaned in closer, his voice dropping to a whisper. "Not tonight."


    The intimacy of his words, the closeness of his presence¡ªit was too much and not enough all at once. Evelyn felt her resolve slip further, her defenses crumbling like sand under the tide.


    "Damian..." she began, but he silenced her with a gentle brush of his lips against her temple. The touch was soft, almost reverent, and it sent a warmth spreading through her that she couldn''t ignore.


    "Shh," he murmured, his voice low and steady, carrying that familiar teasing edge that always left her simultaneously flustered and intrigued. "You talk too much, you know that?"


    Evelyn felt her cheeks heat, a retort dying on her tongue as she struggled to gather her thoughts. His proximity was intoxicating, the faint scent of the herbal drink he''d just finished still lingering on his breath. It made her pulse quicken, her resolve wavering under the weight of his presence.


    Without fully realizing what she was doing, her hand reached out, her fingers brushing against his jawline. The stubble there was rough but warm, grounding her in the moment. She trailed her touch upward, cupping his cheek gently as her thumb grazed over the curve of his cheekbone.

 Chapter 153: I Will Give You What You Need *

    Warlock Ch 153. I Will Give You What You Need *


    Damian''s grin widened, his eyes gleaming with a mixture of amusement and something deeper. He chuckled softly, the sound rich and full of warmth. "Now this," he said, his voice dropping to a near whisper, "is what I want." He caught her wrist lightly, his grip firm but careful, as though he didn''t want to break the fragile moment between them. "I mean," he said, his tone taking on a teasing lilt, "I know you''ve been holding yourself back."


    Her brow furrowed, her confusion evident. "What are you talking about?" she whispered.


    "You," he said simply, his thumb brushing over the inside of her wrist. "You''ve been so focused on taking care of me, on making sure I don''t burn out or fall apart, that you''ve been ignoring what you want. What you need."


    Evelyn opened her mouth to protest, but Damian shook his head, his smirk softening into something more sincere. "Don''t deny it," he said, his voice quieter now. "You''ve been holding yourself back while taking care of me, haven''t you?"


    Her breath hitched, and for a moment, she couldn''t find the words to respond. His gaze locked onto hers, steady and unrelenting, as if he could see straight through the walls she tried so hard to keep up.


    "I..." she started, but the vulnerability in his eyes stopped her. Her hand, still resting on his cheek, trembled slightly as her resolve faltered. "I don''t know what you''re talking about," she pretended.


    "Yes, you do," Damian said gently, leaning into her touch. His voice was calm, but there was an edge of conviction that made her chest tighten. "You''re always so busy taking care of me¡ªmaking sure I''m okay, making sure I don''t overdo it¡ªthat you forget about yourself."


    She bit her lip, her gaze dropping as a faint blush crept across her cheeks. "It''s not like that," she murmured, though the words felt weak even to her.


    "It is," Damian insisted, his hand lifting to cover hers, holding it against his face. "And it''s not fair." His grin widened.


    Her eyes snapped back to his, startled. "Not fair?"


    "Not fair to you," he said softly. "You don''t have to hold back, Evelyn. Not with me."


    The sincerity in his voice was her undoing. The tension in her shoulders melt away, replaced by a warmth that spread through her like a flame. Her thumb brushed over his cheekbone again, her touch feather-light as she leaned closer.


    "Damian," she whispered, her voice barely audible.


    He didn''t say anything. He didn''t need to. Instead, he closed the remaining distance between them, his lips capturing hers in a kiss that was as gentle as it was consuming. Her eyes fluttered shut, her hand sliding from his cheek to his neck as she leaned into him, her heart pounding in her chest.


    Damian''s hand slid to her waist, pulling her closer as the kiss deepened. His other hand rested lightly on her jaw, his thumb brushing against her skin with such care it made her chest tighten. There was no teasing now, no smirks or sarcastic quips. Just him, raw and completely unguarded, pouring everything he felt into the kiss.


    Evelyn''s breath hitched as Damian pulled back slightly, his hands trailing down her arms with deliberate slowness. He stood at the edge of the bed, his movements unhurried as he began to remove his shirt. She watched, transfixed, as the fabric peeled away to reveal his body¡ªlean, muscular, and scarred from his last battle.


    Her eyes traveled over him, lingering on the faint marks etched into his skin. Her chest tightened, her heartbeat quickening. Her gaze flicked up to meet his, and for a moment, she forgot how to breathe. His eyes burned with an intensity that made her feel exposed, vulnerable in a way that wasn''t frightening but exhilarating. She swallowed hard, her lips parting as she tried to find her voice.


    "Damian..." she whispered, her tone caught between awe and anticipation.


    He smirked, the faintest curve of his lips that was equal parts playful and predatory. "You keep saying my name like that," he murmured, his voice low and rough, "and I might start thinking you like what you see."


    Evelyn''s cheeks flushed, but she didn''t look away. Instead, her fingers reached out, tracing the faint line of a scar that ran across his chest.


    "I do," she admitted softly, her voice barely audible. "Every part of you."


    The teasing smirk faded from Damian''s face, replaced by something deeper, more raw. He leaned down, his hands bracketing her hips as he pressed her back onto the mattress. His weight above her was grounding and electrifying all at once.


    Evelyn''s heart pounded as he dipped his head, his lips brushing against the sensitive skin of her neck. He moved with purpose, his kisses trailing downward. His hands roamed her body, exploring with a confidence that made her feel like she was the only thing that mattered in that moment.


    Her thoughts blurred, the only clarity being the way he touched her¡ªfirm but reverent, as though she were something precious. Her fingers tangled in his hair, pulling him closer as he continued to map her skin with his mouth.


    When his hands slid beneath the hem of her shirt, her breath hitched again, her body arching instinctively into his touch. There was no hesitation in the way he undressed her.


    Evelyn couldn''t stop the soft gasp that escaped her lips as he pulled back briefly, his gaze sweeping over her with an intensity that made her pulse race. She felt exposed, but not in a way that made her want to hide.


    "Beautiful," Damian said, the word rough and unfiltered as it left his lips. His hands moved to her waist, holding her steady as he leaned down to kiss her again. This time, there was nothing soft about it. The kiss was hungry, demanding, leaving her dizzy and eager for more.

 Chapter 154: Powerless *

    Warlock Ch 154. Powerless *


    Her body responded to him instinctively, her hands roaming over his back, tracing the planes of his muscles and the scars that marked his journey. She wanted to memorize every inch of him, to lose herself in the connection that burned between them.


    Damian''s dominance was undeniable. He took control, his movements confident and assertive, guiding her into a rhythm that left her breathless. Every touch, every kiss, every whispered word made her feel like she was on fire, her thoughts dissolving into the haze of sensation.


    He murmured her name like it was a prayer. Evelyn had never felt so completely consumed, so utterly powerless in the best way possible.


    His cock entered her body, gliding smoothly inside her as Evelyn''s muscles tightened around him, gripping him like they never wanted to let go. Damian pushed deeper, making her back arch off the bed.


    "Ahnn..." she moaned, her voice a breathy whisper. She could feel every inch of him, the heat of his skin against hers.


    Damian leaned down, his breath hot against her ear. "I love that voice," he murmured, his voice rough with his own desire.


    Evelyn''s hands clawed at his back, pulling him closer. "Don''t stop," she gasped out, lost in the sensation that was building inside her.


    The bed creaked under them. Damian''s pace quickened, his movements becoming more deliberate as he angled his hips, finding that sweet spot that made Evelyn cry out.


    "OH!" She could feel her climax building, a rush of heat that threatened to overtake her senses. "Damian!" she called out, her voice echoing off the walls.


    He responded with a groan, his thrusts becoming uneven as he neared his own release. Evelyn felt the shudder run through his body, his grip tightening on her as he reached his climax with her.


    By the time they finally collapsed together, their breaths were coming in ragged gasps.


    ''He did it again...'' She curled against him, her head resting on his chest as she listened to the steady rhythm of his heartbeat.


    "You good?" he murmured, his voice soft.


    "More than good," Evelyn replied, her voice low and content. She tilted her head to look up at him, a small smile tugging at her lips. "That was..."


    "Intense?" he offered, raising an eyebrow.


    "Perfect," she corrected, her fingers tracing along his jawline.


    Damian chuckled softly, the sound vibrating through his chest. "I''m glad," he said, squeezing her gently. "You know I¡ª"


    "I know," Evelyn interrupted, pressing a finger to his lips. "You don''t have to say it. I know."


    They fell into a comfortable silence, the kind that only comes with a deep, easy familiarity.


    Eventually, sleep began to pull at them. Damian''s arm tightened slightly around Evelyn as her breathing evened out, her warmth nestled against him. But even as her presence anchored him.


    Before he knew it, the world around him faded, melting into the black void he''d visited before. The familiar sensation of stepping into the realm where his Mana Core, the ancient artifact, resided washed over him.


    He opened his eyes to find himself standing in the void once more, the artifact gleaming faintly in the distance. It still resembled the jagged, crystalline structure he''d seen before, but something about it was different now. It looked... newer, stronger. The once-fractured surface appeared smooth, as though time itself had healed it.


    ''This thing... is also getting stronger like me.''


    Damian folded his arms, his steps deliberate as he approached the artifact. His gaze was sharp, his jaw set with determination. He stopped a few paces away, tilting his head as he studied it.


    "Hey," he called out, his tone steady but edged with irritation. "I know you''re awake. I want to speak."


    The artifact remained silent, its faint glow pulsing steadily as if taunting him with its indifference.


    Damian''s brow furrowed, his patience wearing thin. "Hey, don''t act stupid. I know you can hear me!"


    This time, the artifact responded, its voice cutting through the void with its signature arrogance. "I heard you the first time, you goddamn warlock. What do you want to ask?"


    Damian''s lips curled into a faint smirk, though his eyes remained sharp. "Victoria," he said bluntly. "What happened to her in the past? Is it true that I killed her husband?"


    The artifact paused, its glow flickering slightly as if weighing its response. "What answer do you expect from me?" it asked, its tone dripping with disdain. "Do you expect me to say you didn''t kill him at all? That it was an accident? Or maybe you want me to justify it with some noble, ''good reason.''"


    Damian''s smirk faded, replaced by a steely glare. "You better tell me," he said, his voice firm. "For the past two days, you''ve only given me fragmented flashbacks¡ªbits and pieces of my past with Cassius and Evelyn. If you''re so eager to remind me of who I was, then stop holding back. Give me more. And don''t think I didn''t notice how you blocked me when I tried to remember my fight with the demon king."


    The artifact''s glow dimmed slightly, its silence stretching for a moment that felt like an eternity. When it finally spoke, its voice was colder, more serious. "That demon king... you know the consequences of defeating him and taking his power, don''t you?"


    Damian raised an eyebrow, his tone laced with sarcasm. "Enlighten me."


    "You were cursed," the artifact said bluntly. "By taking his power, you didn''t just defeat him¡ªyou disrupted the balance of this world. That''s why you became a target. You shouldn''t have done it in the first place."


    Damian let out a short, humorless laugh. "Really? That''s the excuse you''re going with? Because honestly, it doesn''t feel like a curse. It feels more like you''re covering something up."


    The artifact''s glow flared briefly, as if offended by the accusation. "Watch your tone, warlock."


    "No, you watch yours," Damian shot back, stepping closer. "You''ve been withholding information from me since day one."


    The artifact''s silence stretched again, its glow flickering erratically as though struggling with an internal conflict. "The curse is real," it said finally, its voice quieter but no less sharp. "It marks you as an anomaly, a threat to the natural order. That''s why you''re hunted."


    "Still not buying it," Damian said, his tone dismissive. "If this curse is so damning, why haven''t I felt it? Why do I feel like there''s more to this than you''re letting on?"


    The artifact hesitated, its glow dimming once more. "Because some truths are better left buried."


    Damian''s eyes narrowed, his frustration boiling over. "Not for me, they''re not. Whatever you''re hiding, it''s tied to everything¡ªVictoria, the demon king, even my rebirth. If you think I''m going to stop digging, you don''t know me at all."


    Damian''s eyes narrowed, his frustration boiling over. "Not for me, they''re not. Whatever you''re hiding, it''s tied to everything¡ªVictoria, the demon king, even my rebirth. If you think I''m going to stop digging, you don''t know me at all."


    The artifact pulsed faintly, its glow flickering like a dying ember. Then, with a sharp burst of arrogance, it replied, "Pfft! As if I care."

 Chapter 155: It Reminds Me of Someone

    Warlock Ch 155. It Reminds Me of Someone


    Damian hissed through his teeth, his fists clenching at his sides. "You little¡ª"


    "Ha!" the artifact interrupted, its voice smug and mocking. "What''re you gonna do, huh? Destroy me? Go ahead. If you do, you''ll be a powerless warlock. A pitiful shell of what you are now. Muahahaha!"


    Damian stared at the artifact, his frustration giving way to a cold, calculating look. He folded his arms, tilting his head slightly as his mind began to work through the puzzle in front of him. The artifact''s mocking laughter echoed in the void, but Damian tuned it out, focusing instead on the pieces of the puzzle that were slowly falling into place.


    "You know..." he began, his voice measured, "I''ve been watching you for a while now, and something about you feels... familiar."


    The artifact''s laughter faltered slightly, its glow flickering. "Familiar? Don''t flatter yourself, warlock. I''m unique."


    Damian''s lips curled into a faint smirk, though his eyes remained sharp. "Familiar," he repeated, his tone unrelenting. "Your arrogance, your attitude... it reminds me of someone."


    The artifact didn''t respond immediately, its glow dimming as if waiting for him to continue.


    "No," Damian said, his voice steady as realization began to take shape. "Not remind me. You are someone. Someone I''ve faced before." His smirk widened, a glint of triumph flashing in his eyes. "You''re the demon king, aren''t you?"


    For a moment, the void was silent. Then the artifact let out a short, stammering laugh, its earlier confidence noticeably shaken. "W-What are you talking about? That''s absurd."


    Damian''s expression hardened, his gaze piercing. "Is it? Let''s review the facts. You''ve been blocking my memories of the fight¡ªthe one where I defeated the demon king. You claim I''m cursed, but you''ve been vague about what that curse actually is. And then there''s my Mana Core¡ªdifferent from any other warlock''s, shaped more like... you."


    The artifact pulsed erratically, as if struggling to maintain its composure. "You''re grasping at straws, warlock. Your theories are ridiculous."


    Damian stepped closer, his voice dropping to a dangerous whisper. "Am I? Or are you just afraid that I''ll figure out the truth? That when I defeated you and took your power, your soul came along for the ride. That you are the so-called curse. That you are the reason my Mana Core is the way it is."


    The artifact''s silence was deafening, its glow dimming to a faint flicker. Damian''s smirk deepened, his suspicions solidifying into certainty.


    "That''s it, isn''t it?" Damian pressed, his tone sharper now. His arms folded across his chest as he stared at the artifact.


    The artifact''s glow pulsed violently, as if reacting to the accusation. Its voice, usually calm and mocking, now wavered slightly. "You have no idea what you''re talking about, warlock. Don''t presume to know my nature."


    "Oh, I think I''m getting a pretty good idea," Damian said, stepping closer. His grin widened, sharp and triumphant. "Or maybe... I did this to you on purpose. Maybe I locked you away in my Mana Core because of your ridiculous regeneration skills. I couldn''t kill you outright, so I made sure you couldn''t come back."


    The artifact''s glow flickered erratically, and its voice stammered as it replied, "Th-That''s nonsense! Ridiculous!"


    "Is it?" Damian''s grin grew more wicked, his confidence bolstered by the artifact''s obvious distress. "You said it yourself¡ª''we''re stuck with each other.'' If I''m wrong, then explain why my Mana Core is so different from everyone else''s."


    The artifact hesitated, its glow dimming as though shrinking under his scrutiny. "That''s because¡ª"


    "Don''t even try to lie to me," Damian cut in, his voice sharp. He leaned in closer, his eyes gleaming with a dangerous edge. "You know some of my memories have returned. I''m not the clueless Damian you''ve been toying with. I''ll know if you''re lying, demon king."


    At that, the artifact exploded with a burst of light, its voice roaring through the void. "You arrogant little warlock! You dare to accuse me of such things?!"


    The space around them trembled, the void itself seeming to ripple with the artifact''s fury. Damian didn''t flinch, standing his ground even as the pressure in the air grew suffocating. The artifact''s glow surged brighter, its energy lashing out like wild tendrils of flame. And yes, it was the same arrogant voice as what he heard in his vision when he fought the demon king.


    "You think you''re clever?" the artifact snarled, its voice booming with rage. "You think you''ve pieced it all together, but you know nothing! NOTHING! You''re just a reckless fool, dabbling in powers you can''t possibly understand!"


    Damian''s smirk didn''t waver, though he could feel the raw energy pressing against him, threatening to overwhelm him. But it was his energy and it couldn''t destroy him. "You''re getting awfully defensive for someone who claims I''m wrong."


    "Defensive?!" the artifact roared. "You''ve forced my hand, you insolent wretch! I should''ve destroyed you the moment you dared to challenge me!"


    "Destroy me?" Damian laughed, the sound cutting through the artifact''s tirade like a blade. "You can''t destroy me, remember? You''re stuck with me, just like I''m stuck with you. That''s what''s got you so mad, isn''t it? That I beat you and left you like this."


    The artifact''s glow flared brighter, its rage palpable. "You don''t know the first thing about what you''ve done! Do you think locking me away was a victory? Do you think you''re safe because I''m bound to you? FOOL! You''ve doomed yourself!"


    "Doomed myself?" Damian echoed, his tone dripping with mockery. "If I''m so doomed, then why haven''t you taken control? Why haven''t you overpowered me? Could it be that you can''t?"


    "ENOUGH!" the artifact bellowed, its energy surging toward Damian like a tidal wave. The force slammed into him, but he managed to stay on his feet. He didn''t even budge since it was all his power. The void around them seemed to ripple violently.


    Damian gritted his teeth, his Mana flaring instinctively as he braced against the onslaught. "Oh, hit a nerve, did I?"

 Chapter 156: Double Mana And Power

    Warlock Ch 156. Double Mana And Power


    "You don''t understand what you''re dealing with," the artifact hissed, its voice lower now but no less menacing. "You think you''re in control, but you''re not. You''re just a pawn in a game far bigger than you."


    Damian''s grin widened, sharp and defiant. "Really? You''re pissed off, so I think that makes this my win. And I think I''ve figured something else out."


    The artifact pulsed violently, its glow erratic, like a heart beating too fast. "Oh, do enlighten me, genius."


    Damian stepped closer, his confidence radiating despite the oppressive energy pressing down on him. "You''re upset because it''s me leeching your power and Mana, not the other way around. Am I right? I have double Mana and power."


    The artifact''s energy flared, lashing out in a furious burst that hit Damian square in the chest. He stumbled back.


    "SHUT UP!" the artifact bellowed, its voice echoing like thunder. Before Damian could regain his footing, the world around him shifted, the black void dissolving into a vivid, chaotic scene.


    Damian blinked, disoriented as he found himself standing in a grand, regal courtroom. The walls were lined with glowing runes, their light casting an ominous glow over the vast space. The air buzzed with raw magic, the tension palpable.


    He looked down at himself and froze. His hands, his body¡ªthey weren''t his. Not Damian''s. This was Kaelan''s form. His hair was longer, styled in a sharp wolf cut that framed his face with a feral elegance. His attire was regal, a black and crimson robe embroidered with intricate golden patterns that screamed power and authority. It wasn''t just a warlock''s outfit¡ªit was proof that he was an SSS-ranked warlock.


    ''Oh shit...'' Damian thought, his heart sinking as he took in the scene around him.


    He was standing at the center of the room, behind the suspect''s podium. Alone. The courtroom loomed around him, packed with figures of power and influence. Senators, mages, warlocks, and representatives from every major magical faction were present. Their faces were a mixture of anger, disappointment, and fear.


    Directly in front of him sat the tribunal¡ªa panel of the strongest warlocks and mages. At their center was Aria, her expression cold and unreadable. But her eyes... her eyes burned with disappointment, a sharp contrast to the warmth he remembered from his fragmented memories.


    "Kaelan Voidweaver," one of the tribunal members began, his voice echoing through the hall. "Do you understand why you stand here today?"


    Damian, still adjusting to the shock of the vision, instinctively opened his mouth to reply, but it wasn''t his voice that came out. It was Kaelan''s¡ªcalm, steady, and defiant. "I understand perfectly."


    "Then you know the consequences of your actions," another tribunal member said, his tone sharp and accusing. "You killed the demon king. You disrupted the balance of magic itself. And worse still¡ª"


    "You dared to take his power for yourself," Aria interjected, her voice cutting through the room like a blade. Her tone was controlled, but there was an undercurrent of anger that made Damian''s¡ªor Kaelan''s¡ªspine straighten. "You didn''t just kill him, Kaelan. You claimed his title."


    Murmurs rippled through the room, the gathered mages exchanging uneasy glances. Damian felt their eyes on him.


    "Is it true?" another senator demanded, leaning forward in his seat. "Did you proclaim yourself the new Demon King?"


    Kaelan¡ªor rather, Damian¡ªgritted his teeth, the words spilling from his mouth before he could stop them. "Yes. I did."


    The courtroom erupted into chaos. Voices overlapped, accusations and disbelief echoing off the walls. Some mages recoiled in horror, while others stared at him with a mixture of awe and revulsion.


    "Order!" Aria''s voice rang out, silencing the room with its authority. Her gaze locked onto Damian''s, and he felt a pang of guilt that wasn''t entirely his own. "Kaelan, do you have any idea what you''ve done? You''ve unleashed chaos."


    "And for what?" another tribunal member demanded. "For power? For your own ego?"


    Damian smirked, the expression more bitter than triumphant. "For survival," he said, his voice unwavering. "The demon king was a threat to all of us. He was going to destroy everything we''ve built. I did what had to be done."


    "You didn''t stop at doing what had to be done," Aria countered, her tone icy. "You absorbed his power. You''ve become something far worse¡ªa being of unchecked might, with no one to hold you accountable."


    "I hold myself accountable," Damian snapped, the fire in his voice surprising even Damian. "And I''ll tell you this¡ªI''m not apologizing for what I did. The demon king''s power is mine now, and I''ll use it to protect what matters. Whether you approve or not."


    The room fell into a tense silence. Damian could feel the mix of emotions radiating from the tribunal¡ªfear, anger, disbelief. But beneath it all, there was something else. A sliver of respect.


    "You''ve made your choice clear," Aria said finally, her voice softer but no less resolute. "But know this, Kaelan¡ªyour actions have consequences. You''ve set yourself on a path that cannot be undone."


    "I know," he replied, his tone quieter now. "And I''ll face those consequences. But don''t expect me to regret what I''ve done."


    Aria''s expression didn''t soften, but there was a flicker of something else in her eyes¡ªsomething that wasn''t entirely condemnation. Was it doubt? Or perhaps a sliver of understanding? Damian couldn''t tell. Her silence lingered for a moment too long, and the tension in the courtroom was thick enough to choke on.


    "You always were reckless, Kaelan," she finally said, her voice softer but no less resolute. "Always pushing boundaries, testing limits. But this time..." She exhaled slowly, shaking her head. "This time, you''ve gone too far."


    "Have I?" Damian shot back, his voice steady but carrying an edge of defiance. "Or am I the only one willing to do what needs to be done? You call me reckless, but what have you done to stop the chaos? Sat behind your podiums, hiding behind laws and bureaucracy while the world burns?"

 Chapter 157: Scapegoat

    Warlock Ch 157. Scapegoat


    Aria''s gaze hardened, her hands gripping the edge of the table in front of her. "You think we''re hiding? You think we haven''t fought to maintain balance? You''ve seen the sacrifices we''ve made. But you¡ª" She gestured toward him, her voice rising slightly. "You decided to take it all into your own hands, as if you''re above the rest of us. As if the rules don''t apply to you."


    "The rules are what got us here in the first place," Damian retorted, his voice sharp. "The demon king was a threat you weren''t willing to face. I was. And now, because of me, he''s gone."


    "And replaced by you," another tribunal member interjected, his voice dripping with disdain. "A self-proclaimed demon king with the power to destroy us all. Tell me, Kaelan¡ªwhat makes you different from the monster you defeated?"


    "I''m here," Damian replied, his tone cold. "Standing in front of you, answering your questions. I didn''t hide. I didn''t run. That''s what makes me different."


    The murmurs in the room swelled again, a mix of fear, anger, and uncertainty rippling through the crowd. Damian stood tall, refusing to flinch under their scrutiny. He could feel their judgment, their hatred, but he wouldn''t give them the satisfaction of seeing him falter.


    "Enough," Aria said, her voice cutting through the noise. The room fell silent once more as she straightened in her seat, her gaze locked onto Damian''s. "You''ve made your position clear. But your words don''t erase the damage you''ve done."


    Damian''s lips pressed into a thin line, his eyes never leaving hers. "I never expected them to."


    Aria''s jaw tightened, her gaze searching his as if trying to find some trace of the man she once knew. "Then you leave us no choice," she said, her voice heavy with finality. "The tribunal will deliberate. Until then, you are to be detained and your powers suppressed."


    The words hit like a blow, but Damian didn''t flinch. He nodded once, his expression unreadable. "Do what you need to."


    Guards stepped forward, their hands glowing with the faint shimmer of suppression spells. Their eyes trained on him as if he were a caged beast ready to pounce. The energy in the room shifted, growing heavier with anticipation as the tribunal members watched from their elevated seats.


    Damian stood perfectly still. He felt the hum of their magic as they approached, the suppression spells swirling with intent, ready to lock down his power.


    One of the guards, a tall elf with sharp features, reached out first. His fingers brushed against Damian''s arm, the suppression spell flaring to life in a bright burst of blue. For a moment, the air seemed to crackle with energy, the spell wrapping around Damian like chains.


    But then, without warning, the spell shattered.


    The blue light flickered, then burst apart in a shockwave that sent the elf guard flying backward. He hit the ground hard, skidding across the polished floor as gasps echoed through the courtroom. The other guards froze, their eyes widening in disbelief.


    Damian tilted his head, a slow, deliberate smirk spreading across his lips. "What''s the matter?" he drawled, his tone dripping with mockery. "You can''t even manage a basic suppression spell? I thought you were professionals."


    The room fell into stunned silence. The remaining guards exchanged uneasy glances, their confidence clearly shaken. But they pressed forward, their hands glowing brighter as they cast stronger suppression spells, layering them one over another in an attempt to overwhelm him.


    Damian didn''t move. He didn''t lift a finger. He didn''t need to.


    The spells hit him in unison, their magic shimmering and sparking as they tried to take hold. But every time, the result was the same. The spells fractured and broke, their energy rebounding in bursts that sent the guards staggering back.


    One by one, the guards fell. Some were thrown across the room by the force of the broken spells; others simply collapsed, their energy drained from the futile effort. Damian stood in the center of the chaos, his smirk growing wider, more dangerous.


    "Is that all you''ve got?" he said, his voice cutting through the silence like a blade. "I expected more from the so-called elite."


    The tribunal members stirred, their expressions a mix of shock and anger. Aria was the first to rise, her hand gripping the edge of the table as she glared down at him. "Enough," she said sharply, her voice carrying the weight of authority. "Guards, fall back."


    "But, Lady Aria¡ª" one of the guards began, his voice trembling.


    "I said fall back," Aria repeated, her tone leaving no room for argument.


    The remaining guards hesitated, then retreated, their expressions pale and shaken. Damian watched them go, his smirk never faltering. He could feel the eyes of the entire courtroom on him.


    Aria stepped forward, her gaze locked onto his. "You think this is a game, Kaelan? You think this display of power proves anything?"


    "It proves plenty," Damian said, his voice calm but laced with an edge of amusement. "It proves that none of you can stop me."


    Her jaw tightened, her hands glowing faintly as she summoned her own magic. "You underestimate us."


    "I don''t underestimate anything," Damian replied, his smirk fading into a cold, calculating expression. "I''m simply stating the obvious. You''re all afraid. Afraid of what I''ve become. Afraid that you can''t control me."


    At that, the other tribunal members stood, their magic flaring to life in a dazzling array of colors and energies. They cast a suppression spell, their combined power creating a storm of magic that surged toward Damian with a force that made the walls of the courtroom tremble.


    The spells hit him, their energy swirling and twisting around him. For a moment, it seemed as though they might succeed. The air crackled with the intensity of their magic, the light blinding as the spells tightened around him.


    And then, just as suddenly, they shattered.


    The energy exploded outward, a shockwave rippling through the room that knocked the tribunal members back into their seats. The gathered mages and senators cried out, shielding themselves from the blast as Damian remained standing in the center, untouched.

 Chapter 158: I’m The One Who Holding All the Cards

    Warlock Ch 158. I''m The One Who Holding All the Cards


    He let out a soft chuckle, his gaze sweeping over the stunned faces of the tribunal. "Is this the best the great tribunal has to offer?" he said, his tone mockingly casual.


    Aria''s eyes burned with fury as she straightened, her hands clenching into fists. "You''re walking on thin ice, Kaelan."


    Damian''s smirk returned, sharper than before. "Oh, I know. But the difference is, I''m the one holding all the cards."


    The room fell into a heavy silence. For the first time, Damian¡ªno, Kaelan¡ªfelt truly untouchable. And he wasn''t sure whether that terrified him or thrilled him. The power surging within him was undeniable, a heady mix of his own abilities and the stolen essence of the demon king. It made him feel like he could do anything¡ªlike no one in this room, or even in the world, could stop him.


    But it also painted a target on his back, one he couldn''t ignore. The way they all looked at him¡ªAria, the tribunal, the guards¡ªit was a mix of fear, hatred, and begrudging awe. Not a single one of them looked at him like an ally. They didn''t see a warlock who had made a tough call to save their world. They saw a monster.


    Damian''s smirk faltered slightly as he scanned the room. He''d known this would happen. Power like his was a double-edged sword. Everyone wanted it, but the moment someone had it, everyone else wanted them gone.


    He exhaled, loud enough to cut through the oppressive silence. "So," he began, his voice calm but carrying an edge of defiance. "What''s the plan now? Are you all going to sit there, glaring at me? Or do you actually have something to say?"


    The tribunal exchanged uneasy glances, their silence stretching for a moment too long. Finally, it was Aria who broke the tension, her voice cold and steady. "You''ve made your point, Kaelan. We can''t suppress you. But don''t mistake that for immunity."


    "Oh, I''m not mistaking anything," Damian replied, his smirk returning. "I know exactly where I stand. You can''t touch me, and you hate it. Admit it¡ªevery single one of you is seething because you can''t control me. Because you can''t own me."


    The senators bristled, their expressions hardening. One of them, an older man with a sharp, angular face, rose to his feet. "You think this is about control?" he snapped. "You think we care about owning you? This is about protecting the balance of the magic world. You''ve disrupted it with your arrogance, and now we''re left to clean up your mess."


    Damian raised an eyebrow, his tone dripping with mockery. "The balance? Is that what you call hiding behind your laws while the demon king ran unchecked? Because last I checked, I''m the one who actually did something about him."


    "You replaced him!" another tribunal member interjected, his voice rising with anger. "You didn''t destroy a threat¡ªyou became one."


    "And you''re all just mad because I''m better at it than he ever was," he shot back, his voice laced with venom. "Let''s not pretend this is about morality or justice. This is about fear. You''re afraid of me because I''m not one of your obedient little pawns."


    "Enough!" Aria''s voice cut through the rising tension, sharp and commanding. She stood, her gaze locked onto Kaelan with an intensity that made even him pause. "We''re not afraid of you, Kaelan. We''re afraid of what you represent. Power without accountability. A force that answers to no one. You''re not invincible, no matter how much you believe it."


    Damian tilted his head, his smirk softening into something more calculating. "You''re right about one thing," he said, his tone quiet but steady. "I don''t answer to anyone. And I''m not about to start now."


    Aria''s jaw tightened, her fists clenching at her sides. "Then you leave us no choice."


    "Really?" Damian asked, his eyes narrowing. "And what''s that choice, exactly? Are you going to exile me? Lock me in some magical prison? Because if you think that''ll work, you haven''t been paying attention."


    The older senator from before stepped forward, his voice low and menacing. "You underestimate the lengths we''re willing to go to maintain order."


    "And you underestimate how little I care about your order," Damian shot back, his Mana flaring around him in a subtle but unmistakable display of power. "The world isn''t some delicate balance you get to control. It''s chaos, and the sooner you accept that, the better off you''ll be."


    Aria''s expression darkened, her voice quieter now but no less resolute. "You''re playing a dangerous game."


    Damian laughed, the sound echoing through the chamber. "Dangerous? Maybe. But it''s my game, and I make the rules."


    The silence that followed was deafening. Damian felt their stares, the unspoken judgments hanging heavy in the air. He knew what they thought of him. A threat. A rogue element. A monster.


    And maybe they were right. Maybe he was a monster. But he''d rather be a monster than a tool.


    Finally, he straightened, his smirk fading into a calm, unreadable expression. "So what''ll it be?" he asked, his voice steady. "Are we going to keep playing this little game of who''s more powerful? Or are you going to admit that you can''t control me and move on?"


    Aria didn''t answer immediately. Her gaze remained locked onto his, a silent battle of wills playing out between them. Finally, she spoke, her voice quieter but no less firm. "This isn''t over, Kaelan."


    "It never is," he replied, his tone almost bored. "But for now, I think we''re done here."


    Without waiting for a response, Damian turned on his heel and walked toward the massive doors of the courtroom. The tension in the room was suffocating, but he didn''t look back. He didn''t need to. He could feel their hatred, their fear, and their powerlessness in every step he took. The power coursing through him wasn''t just the demon king''s¡ªit was his own, honed and unyielding. And it was enough to remind them all who he was and what he had become.

 Chapter 159: A Silent Beg

    Warlock Ch 159. A Silent Beg


    Still, as the doors opened loudly due to his telekinesis, something tugged at him. A memory he couldn''t shake. Against his better judgment, he shot a glance back over his shoulder. His eyes locked with Aria''s, her expression a mix of anger, disappointment, and something deeper¡ªsomething that twisted the knife in his chest.


    They had been so close once. He could remember her smile, her laughter, the way she always pushed him to be better. But now... now all that remained was a chasm he couldn''t cross. Her gaze wasn''t just condemning¡ªit was pleading. A silent beg for him to stop, to turn around and give in.


    But he couldn''t. He wouldn''t. The moment he gave them an inch, they''d take everything. His power, his life¡ªit would all be stripped away, leaving him vulnerable, helpless. And if there was one thing Damian knew, it was that vulnerability in their world was a death sentence.


    His face didn''t betray the turmoil in his heart. Instead, he let his smirk return, as sharp and cold as ever, before stepping through. The heavy sound of the doors closing behind him echoed in the vast courtroom.


    Damian''s eyes snapped open, his breath catching as reality reasserted itself. He was back in his room, the familiar comfort of his bed grounding him after the intensity of the vision. For a moment, he lay there, his chest rising and falling as he processed what he''d just relieved.


    Turning his head to the side, he reached out instinctively, only to feel the cool, crumpled sheets where Evelyn should''ve been. His fingers brushed over the fabric, the faintest trace of warmth lingering, telling him she hadn''t been gone long. Sunlight streamed through the window, casting a soft glow across the room. Morning, then. Another deep breath filled his lungs as he tried to push the memories of the courtroom to the back of his mind.


    But they wouldn''t go. They clung to him, vivid and unrelenting.


    "Yeah," he muttered to himself, his voice low and tinged with bitterness. "I remember that one."


    He sat up slowly, running a hand through his hair as his gaze drifted to the window. The sunlight seemed almost mocking, too bright for the heaviness in his chest. That courtroom scene¡ªit wasn''t just a memory. It was a turning point. The moment everything had shifted.


    "It was after I took the demon king''s power," he said softly, his words more for himself than anyone else. "After I claimed his authority, his title."


    He could still see it clearly: the senators, the tribunal, the guards¡ªall of them ready to tear him down. But what burned the most was Aria''s gaze. That look of betrayal mixed with silent desperation. She hadn''t wanted this. She had wanted him to surrender, to bow his head and let them strip him of everything.


    But giving up would''ve been death. They''d have executed him, whether by spell or sword, and left his name to rot in infamy. He''d had no choice. None that he could live with, anyway.


    A bitter smile tugged at his lips as he stared out the window. "I was in a tough spot, wasn''t I?"


    The sunlight flickered through the curtains, and for a moment, Damian let himself simply sit there, his memories pressing against him. The choices he''d made as Kaelan weren''t simple, nor were they entirely justified. But they were his. And they''d kept him alive.


    He exhaled deeply, the sound heavy with thought. "Maybe that''s why I chose rebirth," he mused aloud. "To start over. To find another way. Maybe that''s why Cassius and Evelyn have been so tight-lipped about my past."


    It made sense. They didn''t want him to follow in Kaelan''s footsteps. To make the same mistakes, take the same risks. And if he was being honest with himself, he couldn''t entirely blame them. Even he wasn''t sure if he could resist the pull of that power.


    "But then again..." Damian''s gaze hardened as his thoughts turned inward. "There''s still so much I don''t know. So many unanswered questions."


    What had Kaelan done with the demon king''s power after that? Was there something more? And what had made his past self decide that rebirth was the only way forward? And why has he chosen to erase his own memory? Or was it the side effect of the rebirth process itself?


    He shook his head, a faint smirk tugging at his lips despite the heaviness in his chest. "Typical. Leave me with all the mess to clean up."


    His thoughts were interrupted by the soft creak of the door opening. He turned to see Evelyn standing in the doorway, a tray in her hands with what looked like breakfast. Her eyes softened when they met his, her lips curving into a small smile.


    "You''re awake," she said simply, stepping into the room.


    "Yeah," Damian replied, his voice quieter now. He watched as she set the tray on the bedside table, her movements careful and deliberate. "You didn''t have to bring me breakfast, you know."


    Evelyn arched an eyebrow, her smile turning wry. "Someone has to make sure you eat."


    Damian chuckled softly. "You''re not wrong."


    Evelyn sat on the edge of the bed, her gaze searching his face. "You look like you''ve been thinking too hard again."


    "Can''t help it," Damian said, leaning back against the headboard. "It''s kind of my thing."


    "More memories?" she asked gently.


    He nodded, his expression turning serious. "Yeah. The courtroom. The trial after I... well, after Kaelan took the demon king''s power."


    Evelyn''s smile faded, her eyes darkening slightly. "That''s a hard one."


    "Tell me about it," Damian muttered, running a hand through his hair. He paused, his gaze meeting hers. "Evelyn... Do you think I made the right choice? Back then?"


    She hesitated, her lips pressing into a thin line. "I think," she said slowly, "you did what you thought was necessary. And maybe... maybe that''s all any of us can do."

 Chapter 160: You Compare The Demon King to a Bad Roommate

    Warlock Ch 160. You Compare The Demon King to a Bad Roommate


    For a moment, Damian let her words settle. Then he nodded, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "Yeah. Maybe."


    Evelyn''s eyes lingered on him, searching for something he wasn''t ready to say. She picked up the tray and placed it on his lap, careful not to let the tea slosh or the sandwich shift too much. "Eat," she said softly but firmly, her tone leaving no room for argument. "You''ll feel better."


    Damian nodded again, his movements almost automatic. He picked up the sandwich, taking a bite without much thought. The flavors hit his tongue¡ªfresh bread, perfectly cooked eggs, and a hint of spice¡ªbut they barely registered. His mind was still tangled in the courtroom, in the piercing look Aria had given him, and in the damning silence of the tribunal.


    Evelyn watched him closely, her hands folded neatly in her lap. Her gaze didn''t waver, and after a few moments, Damian looked up at her with a quirked eyebrow. "What?" he asked, his tone flat but not unkind.


    "You know," she said, tilting her head slightly, "every time you feel down, you''re like this. Quiet. You can''t answer me with any jabs, and you can''t even joke around."


    Damian let out a soft, humorless laugh. "The dream left a bad taste in my mouth," he admitted, taking another bite of the sandwich. The simplicity of the statement was enough to explain everything.


    Evelyn reached out, her fingers brushing lightly over his arm. The touch was warm, grounding, and Damian felt the weight in his chest lift slightly. "I know," she said gently.


    He tried to smile, though it felt more like a grimace. "But at least I got one new clue," he said, his voice gaining a bit of its usual edge.


    Evelyn perked up slightly, her curiosity evident. "What is it?"


    Damian put the sandwich down, wiping his hands on the napkin beside the tray. "The demon king''s soul," he said, his tone dropping. "It''s trapped in my Mana Core. I think that''s why it can talk¡ªand why it acts like such an asshole."


    Evelyn''s eyes widened, and she pulled back slightly, her hand falling from his arm. "W-what? How?" she stammered, her voice rising in alarm.


    Damian shook his head, leaning back against the headboard. "I don''t know for sure," he admitted, his voice heavy with thought. "But I think Kaelan did that because it was the only way to defeat him. He couldn''t win in a normal fight, so he locked the demon king''s soul up and took over his power instead."


    Evelyn''s mouth opened, but no words came out. She stared at him, her mind clearly racing as she tried to process what he''d just said. After a long moment, she finally spoke, her voice soft but trembling. "Damian... do you realize what that means?"


    "Yeah," he said simply, picking up the tea and taking a sip. "It means I''m not just some warlock with a special Mana Core. I''m walking around with a piece of the demon king inside me. And judging by how chatty he''s been lately, he''s not thrilled about it," he huffed, taking another bite of his sandwich.


    Evelyn exhaled sharply, her hands gripping the edge of the bed. "This isn''t just about him being chatty, Damian. If his soul is in your Mana Core, then his influence¡ªhis essence¡ªit could be affecting you."


    "Probably," Damian said, his tone unnervingly casual. He took another sip of tea before adding, "But it''s not like I can do anything about it. If I try to rip him out, I lose all the power that came with it. And if I leave him there... Well, I just have to deal with his attitude."


    Evelyn frowned, her worry evident. "And what if he tries to take control?"


    Damian met her gaze, his expression unyielding. "He won''t."


    "How can you be so sure?" she pressed, her voice rising slightly.


    "Because he already tried," Damian said, his tone sharp enough to cut. "And he failed. Whatever power he has, whatever influence he thinks he can exert, it''s not enough to override me. Not now. Not ever."


    Evelyn''s eyes softened slightly, but the worry didn''t leave her face. "You''re sure?"


    Damian nodded, his expression softening slightly. "I''m sure. He might be strong, but so am I. And as much as he hates it, he''s stuck with me just as much as I''m stuck with him."


    Evelyn let out a shaky breath, her shoulders relaxing a fraction. "This is... a lot," she admitted. "Even for you."


    "Tell me about it," Damian said, picking up the sandwich again. He took a bite, chewing thoughtfully before adding, "But it explains a lot, doesn''t it? The weird shape of my Mana Core. The regeneration. The fact that I keep hearing his voice like an annoying roommate who doesn''t pay rent."


    Evelyn let out a weak laugh, the sound tinged with both amusement and exhaustion. "Leave it to you to compare the demon king to a bad roommate."


    "Well, he kind of is," Damian said with a shrug. "Except instead of eating my food or stealing my stuff, he just insults me and tries to mess with my memories."


    They fell into a comfortable silence, the conversation lingering but no longer suffocating. Damian finished the sandwich, setting the tray aside before leaning back against the headboard once more. He stared out the window, the sunlight filtering through the curtains casting soft patterns on the floor.


    "So, what now?" Evelyn asked quietly, her voice breaking the silence.


    Damian exhaled, his gaze distant. "Now? I need to figure out what Kaelan was trying to do. The method he used to lock the demon king''s soul away. And why he thought rebirth was the only option."


    Evelyn nodded slowly, her eyes searching his face. "And if you don''t like the answers?"


    Damian''s smirk softened, a hint of something more vulnerable creeping into his expression. "Then I''ll deal with it. Just like I always do."

 Chapter 161: I Need Power

    Warlock Ch 161. I Need Power


    Evelyn''s fingers lingered on his for a moment longer before she pulled away. Her gaze held his, a mix of worry and quiet determination. "Just don''t forget you don''t have to deal with it alone."


    "I know," he said simply, though his tone carried something that indicated that he was someone who was used to carrying more than his share.


    "But yeah," Damian added after a moment, his voice shifting to something more resolute. "First things first... Power. I need it. Aria''s already found me," Damian explained, his tone sharp and focused. "Even if she''s not entirely sure I''m Kaelan, she''s circling close enough to make me nervous. I''m buying time, but it won''t last forever."


    Evelyn frowned, her worry returning. "You think she''ll make a move?"


    "I think it''s inevitable," Damian said bluntly, draining the last of his tea and setting the cup on the tray. He turned to her with a small, genuine smile. "Thank you for the food. It was delicious."


    Evelyn snorted softly, shaking her head. "You ate it without a single expression, but now you say it''s delicious?"


    Damian chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck. "Sorry."


    She picked up the tray, leaning down to press a kiss to his cheek. "Go take a bath," she said, her voice lighter now. "You''ve got to head to Cassius'' place, right? Training and getting reports from your shadow servant?"


    Damian nodded, already shifting to get up. "Yeah."


    Evelyn stood, balancing the tray in her hands. "Do you want to request anything for dinner?"


    Damian paused, his gaze softening slightly as he thought back. "Dumpling soup," he said after a moment. "You used to make it for me when I was sick in the past. I want it."


    Her lips curved into a gentle smile. "Dumpling soup, then. Got it."


    With that, she left the room, the faint sound of her footsteps disappearing down the hall. Damian let out a deep breath, running a hand through his hair before forcing himself to his feet. The lingering memories threatened to pull him back into bed, but he pushed it aside. He had things to do.


    Getting a shower, the hot water was a welcome distraction, soothing the tension in his muscles and clearing his mind. By the time he was dressed and ready, the heaviness in his chest had eased, replaced by a steady determination. He packed his bag with the books, but the moment he lifted it, he grimaced.


    "Too damn heavy," he muttered, shaking his head. Without a second thought, he summoned a Shadow Minion, the inky figure materializing at his side. "Here, make yourself useful."


    The minion took the bag without complaint. Damian adjusted his cloak and stepped out into the bright morning, his Shadow Minion trailing behind him. The walk to Cassius'' place was uneventful, the city bustling with its usual activity. But as he approached the familiar door, he froze.


    Aria was there, standing in front of Cassius'' door.


    Damian''s heart skipped a beat, and he instinctively stepped back, ducking into the shadow of a nearby building. He pressed himself against the wall, his mind racing as he watched her. She looked the same as always¡ªpoised, commanding, her presence impossible to ignore. But there was something in her stance, a tension in the way she stood, that made him uneasy.


    ''What the hell is she doing here?'' Damian thought, his eyes narrowing. He hadn''t expected to see her again so soon after yesterday, let alone here, at Cassius'' doorstep.


    She raised her hand to knock but hesitated, her fingers hovering inches from the door. Damian''s breath caught as he watched the subtle conflict play out on her face. Was she here for Cassius? Or had she somehow pieced together the truth and come looking for him?


    Aria finally knocked, the sound sharp and deliberate. Damian held his breath, his mind already calculating his options. If she went inside, he''d have to wait. But if she stayed outside for too long, she might notice him. Either way, the timing couldn''t be worse.


    The door opened, and Cassius appeared, his expression as unreadable as ever. Damian''s eyes narrowed as he focused on their lips, trying to read their conversation even from a distance. "Aria," he greeted, his tone calm but carrying a faint edge of curiosity. "This is... unexpected."


    "I need to speak with you," Aria said, her voice steady but underscored with urgency. Her sharp gaze flicked past Cassius for a brief moment, scanning her surroundings before returning to him.


    Cassius leaned casually against the doorframe, his posture relaxed, though Damian¡ªhidden nearby¡ªcould sense the subtle shift in his energy. "About?" Cassius asked, his tone light, almost bored, betraying none of the tension Damian himself felt.


    "It''s about Kaelan," Aria said bluntly, her eyes narrowing. There was no hesitation, no softening in her words. "Or rather... someone who might be him."


    Damian''s stomach twisted, a cold weight settling in his gut. He clenched his fists, forcing himself to stay still in the shadows. His heart raced, but his breathing remained measured. ''She''s onto me,'' he thought grimly, his mind already spinning with contingency plans. ''Damn it.''


    Cassius, on the other hand, didn''t so much as blink. His expression remained impassive, his tone smooth and controlled. "Interesting," he said, drawing out the word. He stepped back slightly, gesturing for her to enter. "Come in."


    Aria hesitated for a split second before stepping inside, her movements deliberate, calculated.


    Cassius closed the door behind her with a soft click, his demeanor calm but his posture guarded. Whatever was about to be said, Damian knew it wouldn''t stay within those walls.


    Hidden in the shadows across the street, Damian exhaled sharply, running a hand through his hair. He couldn''t stay here, not like this. The tension coiled in his chest. The idea of Aria and Cassius talking about him¡ªabout Kaelan¡ªbehind closed doors made his stomach twist.


    He gritted his teeth, his mind racing. ''How long am I supposed to wait? An hour? More? I can''t just stand here like some idiot.'' His eyes darted to the surrounding streets, looking for a place where he could bide his time without drawing attention. But just as he was about to slip away, something shifted in the shadows around him.

 Chapter 162: Get In And Act Well

    Warlock Ch 162. Get In And Act Well


    Damian froze, his senses sharpening as a familiar presence made itself known. From the darkness at his feet, a shadow stretched upward, elongating into a sleek, humanoid figure. The inky form solidified. It was one of Cassius'' shadow servants.


    "Well, isn''t this a surprise," Damian muttered under his breath, crossing his arms as he regarded the figure with a wary glare. "Let me guess¡ªhe sent you to babysit me?"


    The shadow tilted its head, its featureless face somehow managing to convey a sense of disdain. Its voice echoed in Damian''s mind, smooth and cold like Cassius himself. "Babysit? Hardly. I''m here to deliver a message."


    Damian rolled his eyes. "Of course you are. Let me guess, Cassius wants me to stay out of trouble?"


    The shadow ignored his sarcasm, stepping closer. "Master is aware you''re here, as always. And he wants you to get in."


    Damian frowned, his expression twisting in disbelief. "Pardon me? Get in? Isn''t he with Aria right now?"


    The shadow nodded, its form rippling slightly like a restless flame. "Master said to get in. And act well."


    Damian let out a long exhale, running a hand through his hair as he muttered under his breath, "Right. Can''t hide forever." He nodded repeatedly, trying to convince himself more than the shadow. "Fine. I''ll go in. Just an apprentice. Act normal."


    But he couldn''t shake the weight in his chest. The problem wasn''t walking into Cassius'' place; it was walking into Aria''s scrutiny. Would she buy the act? Would she see right through him? A thousand scenarios played out in his head, each one ending worse than the last.


    Still, he knew this was the best move. Aria was sharp, but her greatest weakness was her adherence to logic. If he played the part of a clueless apprentice convincingly enough, it might just keep her suspicions at bay.


    "Tell Cassius I''ll come," Damian finally said, his tone resigned.


    The shadow gave a slight nod before dissolving into the air, leaving Damian alone once again. He turned to his Shadow Minion, gesturing for the bag. "I''ll take that now. Return."


    The minion handed him the bag without a sound before fading into the void. Damian adjusted the strap, taking a deep breath to steady himself. He needed to sell this. No Fenrith, no unnecessary spells¡ªjust a lowly apprentice answering his master''s call. The thought of calling Cassius "Master" made him cringe inwardly, but it was a small price to pay.


    "Alright," Damian muttered, steeling himself. "Time to put on the show."


    Cassius'' house loomed ahead. Damian pressed the bell, the sound echoing faintly before the door swung open, revealing a shadow servant. The creature gave him a blank, unblinking stare before stepping aside, motioning for him to follow.


    Damian stepped inside, immediately hit by the sensation of powerful magic pressing down on him. The air shimmered faintly, the unmistakable signature of a high-level barrier. It wasn''t just any barrier¡ªit was designed to nullify all servants except Cassius''. Damian suppressed a grimace. ''Of course. Nothing less from him.''


    The shadow led him through the dimly lit halls, the silence punctuated only by the faint creak of the floor beneath his boots. Damian''s thoughts raced as they approached the living room. He had to be convincing¡ªcasual, obedient, completely unassuming. But how convincing could he be when the person waiting inside had known him as Kaelan?


    The shadow stopped at the threshold, motioning for Damian to enter. He adjusted the strap of his bag, squared his shoulders, and stepped through the door.


    The atmosphere in the living room was thick. Cassius sat in his usual chair, his posture relaxed, a steaming cup of tea in his hand. Across from him sat Aria, her back straight, her expression unreadable but her sharp eyes locking onto Damian the moment he stepped in.


    "There you are," Cassius said, his tone as calm as ever. He gestured lazily toward Damian. "You are late, Damian."


    "Apologies, Master," Damian replied, forcing himself to say the word without hesitation. He kept his voice steady, bowing his head slightly for good measure. "I studied the books you gave me yesterday and overslept."


    Cassius raised an eyebrow, the faintest hint of amusement flickering across his face. "How diligent."


    Aria didn''t say anything, but her gaze lingered on Damian, dissecting every detail. He felt her eyes rake over him, taking in his attire, his posture, his every movement. It took everything he had not to flinch under her scrutiny.


    Damian set his bag down near the wall, turning his attention back to Cassius. "Is there something you need me to do, Master?"


    Cassius took a slow sip of his tea before replying, "Not at the moment. But since you''re here, allow me to introduce you." He gestured toward Aria. "This is Aria. She''s an old acquaintance of mine."


    Damian turned to Aria, giving a respectful bow. "A pleasure to meet you."


    Aria''s eyes narrowed slightly, her lips pressing into a thin line. "So, you''re his apprentice," she said, her tone neutral but carrying an undercurrent of skepticism.


    "Yes," Damian replied smoothly, meeting her gaze but not holding it for too long. "I''ve been training under Master Cassius for a while now."


    "And how''s that going?" Aria asked, her voice sharp enough to cut.


    Damian forced a small, sheepish smile. "Challenging, but rewarding. Master Cassius doesn''t go easy on me, but I''ve learned a lot."


    Cassius let out a soft chuckle, setting his cup down on the table. "That''s one way to put it."


    Aria''s gaze didn''t waver, her eyes narrowing slightly. "You seem... competent. For an apprentice."


    Damian shrugged lightly, keeping his tone humble. "I still have a long way to go."


    There was a brief pause. Damian could feel Aria''s scrutiny, the way her mind was working to piece together a puzzle she didn''t yet have all the pieces for.


    Cassius broke the silence, his tone casual. "Well, now that my apprentice is here, perhaps we can continue our discussion."


    Aria''s gaze flicked back to Cassius, her expression hardening. "This isn''t something to discuss in front of him."

 Chapter 163: Game On

    Warlock Ch 163. Game On


    Cassius tilted his head, his lips curling into a faint smirk. "Oh? And why not? He''s my apprentice. Anything you have to say to me, you can say in front of him."


    Damian''s stomach tightened, but he kept his expression neutral, his hands clasped behind his back. He wasn''t sure whether Cassius was testing him or just enjoying the chaos, but either way, he wasn''t about to slip up.


    Aria''s jaw tightened, her frustration evident. "Fine," she said after a moment, her tone clipped. "But don''t blame me if he learns more than he should."


    Cassius'' smirk widened slightly. "I''ll take that risk."


    Damian resisted the urge to glare at Cassius. ''Of course you will,'' he thought bitterly. ''Because you''re not the one she''s trying to expose.''


    But outwardly, he remained composed, ready to play the role Cassius had set for him. The game was on, and Damian was determined to win.


    The silence in the room was heavy, pressing against Damian''s chest like an invisible weight. He stood at attention, feigning deference while his mind raced. Every instinct told him to tread carefully, to pick up every thread of the conversation and weave it into the facade he needed to maintain.


    Aria''s sharp gaze shifted between him and Cassius, clearly weighing her next words.


    Damian knew her well enough¡ªknew that she wasn''t the type to mince words or waste time. Whatever she was about to say would cut straight to the bone.


    Cassius, of course, looked utterly unbothered. He lounged in his chair with his usual air of smug superiority, one hand resting lightly on the armrest while the other toyed with the edge of his teacup. The faintest hint of amusement played on his lips, as if this entire situation was just another one of his games. And maybe it was. Damian wouldn''t put it past him.


    Aria''s voice broke the silence like a blade through glass. "I''ll be blunt."


    Her tone was as sharp as the look in her eyes, and Damian felt the air shift, his pulse quickening. But he kept his face carefully neutral, his stance that of a diligent apprentice caught in a conversation far above his station.


    "I''ve been following leads," Aria continued, her words deliberate. "Rumors, whispers¡ªabout Kaelan."


    Damian''s heart thudded painfully against his ribs, but he didn''t so much as blink. Instead, he shifted slightly, as if uncomfortable at the mention of the name, hoping it would read as ignorance rather than guilt.


    Cassius tilted his head slightly, his expression a mask of polite curiosity. "And?" he prompted, his tone light but his gaze unyielding.


    "And I''ve found enough to know he''s not gone," Aria said, her voice steady and cutting. Her eyes narrowed, focusing on Cassius like a predator sizing up its prey. "You can''t expect me to believe you don''t know anything, Cassius. If Kaelan is out there, alive or waiting for the right moment to come back, you''d be one of the first to know."


    Cassius didn''t flinch, didn''t react at all. He simply took a slow sip of his tea, as if her accusation were no more pressing than a mild inconvenience. "Interesting theory," he said finally, setting his cup down with a soft clink. "But what makes you so certain he''s still around? The last time I checked, Kaelan was a name relegated to history."


    Aria''s gaze darkened, her voice sharpening. "Don''t play coy with me, Cassius. You and I both know he wouldn''t go down that easily. Kaelan was... is... an anomaly. And anomalies don''t just disappear."


    Damian''s fingers curled slightly, hidden behind his back. His stomach churned at her words, but he kept his expression carefully blank. He risked a glance at Cassius, silently praying the man wouldn''t do something reckless¡ªor worse, something helpful.


    Cassius leaned back in his chair, his smirk deepening. "You sound almost impressed," he said, his tone practically dripping with amusement. "It''s rare to hear you speak about Kaelan with anything other than disdain."


    "Don''t twist my words," Aria snapped, her composure slipping just enough to show the raw edge of her frustration. "You know as well as I do that Kaelan was dangerous. Too dangerous. If he''s back, the balance is at risk¡ªagain. And this time, it might not recover."


    Cassius shrugged lightly, as though the world she was describing was little more than a feather on his shoulder. "And yet, all you have are rumors and whispers. Hardly enough to go on."


    "I have more than that," Aria countered, her gaze narrowing further. "I''ve seen signs. Traces of his power¡ªunmistakable. He''s out there, Cassius. And if you''re hiding him, if you''re protecting him¡ª"


    "Then what?" Cassius interrupted, his voice calm but carrying an edge that silenced her immediately. His eyes met hers, and for the first time, there was something sharp and dangerous in his expression. "What exactly do you plan to do, Aria?"


    The tension in the room was suffocating, and Damian fought to keep his breathing steady. He shifted again, this time letting a faint frown touch his face, as if the conversation were making him uncomfortable.


    Aria straightened, her tone hardening. "I plan to stop him. Whatever it takes."


    "And yet," Cassius said smoothly, leaning forward slightly, "you''re here. Talking to me. Hoping for what? That I''ll hand him over if he exists? That I''ll betray someone I might or might not even know?" He chuckled softly, the sound more cutting than kind. "You''re grasping, Aria. And you know it."


    Damian''s pulse quickened as Aria''s eyes flicked toward him briefly, then back to Cassius. "And what about him?" she asked, her voice sharp. "Your apprentice. What''s his connection to all of this?"


    Cassius raised an eyebrow, his smirk returning. "My apprentice? He''s a promising young warlock, eager to learn and far from ready to be dragged into whatever conspiracy you''ve cooked up. Isn''t that right?" He turned his gaze to Damian, his expression unreadable.


    Damian straightened, bowing his head slightly. "Yes, Master. I''m only here to learn from you. I don''t know anything about... Kaelan." He let the name linger awkwardly, as if it were unfamiliar to him.

 Chapter 164: Accusations

    Warlock Ch 164. Accusations


    Aria studied him for a long moment, her gaze piercing. Damian fought the urge to shift under her scrutiny, keeping his stance as neutral as possible.


    "He doesn''t seem particularly convincing," Aria said finally, her tone cold.


    Cassius chuckled, waving a hand dismissively. "He''s not supposed to. He''s an apprentice, not a politician. You''re wasting your time dissecting his every word."


    Aria didn''t respond immediately, her gaze lingering on Damian for a moment longer before she finally turned back to Cassius. "If I find out you''re hiding something," she said quietly, her tone dangerous, "I won''t hesitate to act."


    Cassius smiled faintly, the kind of smile that was as much a shield as it was a weapon. He swirled the tea in his cup, the casual motion contrasting sharply with the tension in the room. "You surely have some nerve, Aria," he said, his tone calm but with a sharp edge. "To keep treating me this way. I''ve chosen the path of peace. I didn''t even lift a finger when you and the senators hunted down Kaelan. I stayed neutral, didn''t take his side, and yet... here you are, accusing me of hiding him."


    Aria''s jaw tightened, her eyes narrowing as Cassius continued, his voice steady and deliberate. "This isn''t the first time, either. Back then, you and the senators accused me and Evelyn of harboring him. You imprisoned us in our own home, Aria. And yet, despite all your self-righteous certainty, none of your accusations were ever proven."


    Damian, standing silently by the wall, watched the exchange with a mix of fascination and apprehension. Cassius was good. Too good. ''Nice act, Cas,'' Damian thought, biting the inside of his cheek to keep from smirking.


    Cassius leaned back in his chair, setting the cup down with a soft clink. "Kaelan cut ties with us a long time ago. You know that. But even after everything, you still come here, pointing fingers."


    Aria pressed her lips into a thin line. "I wouldn''t have to, Cassius, if you weren''t so secretive. If you weren''t so¡ª"


    "Secretive?" Cassius interrupted smoothly, arching an eyebrow. "For years, I had no interest in taking on any apprentices. None. Do you know why? Because of you. Because of the senators. Because I didn''t want an innocent apprentice dragged into your relentless stupid hunts."


    Aria''s gaze flickered, but she said nothing, her silence speaking volumes.


    Cassius exhaled, his tone softening just enough to sound almost weary. "And yet, despite my best efforts, the rumors persisted. ''Cassius is hiding something.'' ''That''s why he won''t take an apprentice.'' It didn''t matter what I did or didn''t do¡ªyour suspicions never wavered."


    He leaned forward slightly, his eyes locking onto hers. "And now, decades later, I''ve finally decided to take on an apprentice. Someone with promise, someone eager to learn. And what happens? You walk through my door and start accusing him of being connected to Kaelan."


    Cassius chuckled softly, though there was no humor in the sound. "It''s almost funny, isn''t it? No matter what I do, you always find a way to drag me back into your endless obsession."


    Aria''s fists clenched at her sides, her composure fraying at the edges. "This isn''t about obsession, Cassius," she said sharply. "It''s about responsibility. About ensuring that Kaelan¡ª"


    "Kaelan," Cassius interrupted again, his voice firmer now, "is gone. Dragging my apprentice into your paranoia won''t change anything."


    Damian couldn''t help but marvel at how effortlessly Cassius turned the tables. It was almost artful, the way he painted himself as the victim of unwarranted suspicion while subtly undermining Aria''s authority. It was the kind of performance that made Damian both impressed and uneasy.


    Aria''s gaze shifted to Damian, her eyes narrowing. "And what about him?" she asked, her tone sharp. "You''ve barely taken him on, and yet you''re so quick to defend him."


    Cassius'' smirk returned, sharper than before. "Because I know potential when I see it. Unlike you, I don''t waste time tearing down people who haven''t earned it."


    Aria''s lips parted, a retort forming, but Cassius held up a hand, silencing her. "Enough, Aria. If you have proof¡ªactual proof¡ªof anything, then bring it to me. But until then, stop dragging my name through the mud. And stop dragging my apprentice into your endless search for ghosts."


    The room fell silent, the tension thick enough to cut. Aria''s eyes burned with frustration, but she said nothing, her jaw clenched tightly. Damian shifted slightly, keeping his expression neutral but his mind racing.


    Finally, Aria exhaled sharply, her frustration palpable as she glanced between Cassius and Damian. The silence stretched just long enough for Damian to think they might finally be done. But then, she turned back to Cassius, her gaze sharp and unyielding.


    "Let me test him," Aria said suddenly, her tone firm.


    Damian blinked, caught completely off guard. "Huh?"


    Cassius'' smirk vanished instantly, replaced by a scowl. His teacup hit the table with a soft clink, his jaw tightening as he glared at Aria. "Don''t you dare¡ª"


    But Aria didn''t wait for permission. She flicked her wrist, a wave of energy rippling outward as the room shifted. Damian felt the familiar hum of magic as a barrier skill overlapped the space, cutting off any escape routes. The air grew heavier, crackling with tension.


    "Hey, wait¡ª" Damian began, but his words were cut off as Aria lunged toward him, her hand crackling with a thunder skill that radiated dangerous energy.


    His instinct screamed at him to use [Shadow Step], his body already preparing for the teleportation skill that would take him safely out of her range. But he stopped himself at the last moment.


    ''No,'' he thought, gritting his teeth. ''[Shadow Step] is a high-level skill. No apprentice would have it.''


    Forced to think fast, Damian raised his hand and shouted, "[Barrier Lv 1!]" He used level 1 on purpose.


    A faint, shimmering shield appeared in front of him just in time to intercept Aria''s attack. The barrier held for less than a second before shattering like glass, the force of the thunder skill breaking through without resistance. The impact sent Damian stumbling back, but instead of landing a blow, Aria pushed him against the wall, pinning him there with her other hand.

 Chapter 165: I’m Not Laughing

    Warlock Ch 165. I''m Not Laughing


    Her thunder sphere hovered dangerously close to his chest, the energy humming with barely-contained power. Damian flinched, his hands raised in a defensive posture, but he forced himself to hold back. He couldn''t use any high-level skills, couldn''t do anything that would give him away. All he could do was react like a novice¡ªand hope she bought it.


    Aria''s gaze bore into his, searching for something. Then, as abruptly as she''d attacked, she pulled back slightly, the sphere of thunder still crackling in her hand. "Your reflexes are not bad," she said, her tone begrudgingly approving. "You have potential. But your skills are weak. Barely passable."


    Damian resisted the urge to roll his eyes, focusing instead on keeping his breathing steady. "T-Thanks, I guess?" he muttered.


    Cassius, still seated and leisurely sipping his tea as if nothing had happened, raised an eyebrow. "Satisfied now, Aria?" he asked, his tone dripping with amusement. "Can you let him go, or do you need to break more of my furniture?"


    Aria didn''t lower her thunder sphere, her gaze still fixed on Damian. "I will," she said, her voice calm but edged with suspicion. "But first..." She glanced down, her expression shifting slightly. "Can you cancel your skill?"


    Damian followed her gaze and froze. The floor beneath her feet had darkened, the polished wood giving way to a swirling pool of shadows. Tendrils of darkness writhed and reached upward, brushing against the edges of her boots like they were testing her resolve, ready to drag her to the abyss.


    Cassius leaned back in his chair, his smirk returning as he set his cup down. "Ladies first," he said smoothly.


    Aria''s lips thinned, her expression hardening as she glared at him. "This isn''t funny, Cassius."


    "Oh, I''m not laughing," he replied, though the glint in his eyes suggested otherwise. "But you did invade my home, trigger your own barrier, and attack my apprentice without warning. Consider this... insurance."


    Aria glanced back at Damian, her thunder sphere still hovering ominously close. "I never thought you would go this far," she said sharply.


    Cassius shrugged, his tone light. "Perhaps if you''d asked instead of lunging at him like a maniac, we could''ve had a proper conversation."


    Damian bit back a laugh, though his nerves were still buzzing from the encounter. He felt the shadows beneath Aria respond to Cassius'' words, the tendrils growing more insistent as they brushed against her. The air in the room seemed to grow colder, heavier.


    "Fine," Aria said finally, dissipating the thunder sphere with a flick of her wrist. She stepped back, her movements deliberate as she extricated herself from the reach of the shadows. "You win this round, Cassius."


    The moment she withdrew, the shadows receded, vanishing as quickly as they had appeared. The tension in the room eased slightly, though the undercurrent of hostility remained.


    Cassius gestured toward a nearby chair, his smirk unrelenting. "Care to sit and discuss this like civilized people now?"


    Aria ignored him, her attention shifting back to Damian. "You''re lucky," she said, her tone clipped. "Most apprentices wouldn''t have reacted that quickly. But don''t let that go to your head. You still have a long way to go."


    "N-Noted, ma''am," Damian replied in a fake stammering voice.


    Cassius clapped his hands lightly, breaking the tension. "Well, now that we''ve established my apprentice isn''t a secret Kaelan clone, can we move on?"


    Aria gave him a withering look but said nothing. Instead, she turned on her heel and headed for the door. "This isn''t over," she said over her shoulder.


    "It never is," Cassius replied, his tone bordering on sing-song.


    Once the door closed behind her, Damian let out a long breath, running a hand through his hair. "Finally," he muttered, slumping into the nearest chair like a puppet whose strings had been cut.


    Cassius smirked, his casual demeanor back in full force as he leaned against the table. "You can stop pretending now," he said, waving a hand dismissively. "Seeing you all stammering and meekly disgusts me."


    Damian huffed, narrowing his eyes at the warlock. "I''m disgusted too, but hey, you''re the one who asked me to play the part. I just followed your orders."


    Cassius chuckled, pouring himself another cup of tea. "Fair enough."


    Damian glanced at the door, his fingers drumming against the armrest of the chair. "This is going to be a long game," he said, his voice tinged with frustration.


    Cassius sighed, leaning back. "Yeah. Let''s just hope she buys your act."


    "You think she will?" Damian asked, his gaze flicking to Cassius. There was a genuine unease in his tone.


    Cassius shrugged, his expression unreadable. "What do you think? Isn''t she like... a sister to you?"


    Damian''s lips pressed into a thin line. "She was. In the past. Now? I don''t know. I hope she does, but I''m not holding my breath."


    "Well," Cassius said, setting his cup down with a soft clink, "we''ll find out soon enough. But for now, shall we get back to our business?"


    "Yeah," Damian said, straightening in his chair. He shifted his focus. "Let''s get this over with."


    Cassius snapped his fingers, and the shadows in the room stirred. One by one, shadow servants emerged from the corners of the room. The energy in the air shifted. One of the servants was Damian''s.


    "They''re back," Cassius said, his tone neutral but his eyes gleaming with curiosity. "Let''s see what they''ve got for us."


    The shadow servants gathered before them. Damian''s servant stepped forward first, bowing slightly before speaking. "The rebellion is real."


    Damian''s stomach tightened, though he kept his expression calm. "Details," he said, his tone sharper than he intended.


    The shadow inclined its head. "Varak Bloodshade has indeed rallied forces. Vampires and other rogue factions have aligned with him, their numbers growing steadily. His promises of power and freedom from traditional rules have gained traction among the disillusioned."


    Damian leaned forward, his brows furrowing. "And Victoria? Did she exaggerate the threat?"


    "No," the shadow said, its tone unyielding. "If anything, she downplayed it. Varak is indeed dangerous and he was once her general."

 Chapter 166: No Lunch Break

    Warlock Ch 166. No Lunch Break


    "So, it''s true." Cassius hummed thoughtfully, his fingers steepled as he leaned back in his chair. "This complicates things."


    Damian shot him a look. "Complicates? That''s putting it lightly."


    Another shadow servant stepped forward, this one belonging to Cassius. Its voice was deeper. "We also uncovered evidence that Varak has secured alliances with outside forces. Other clans, even a few rogue mages, have pledged their support. He''s building an army."


    "An army," Damian repeated, his voice low. "Great. Just what we needed."


    Cassius glanced at him, his expression calm but his eyes sharp. "If Varak succeeds, it won''t just be Victoria who''s in trouble. The balance of power in the magical world will be shattered. And you, my dear apprentice, will find yourself in the crossfire again since they will blame Kaelan."


    "Like I''m not already," Damian muttered, rubbing his temples. "What about his plans? Any specifics?"


    "Not yet," Cassius'' shadow replied. "But his movements suggest an attack is imminent. He''s been rallying his forces near the borderlands, a location strategically advantageous for striking multiple territories."


    Damian exhaled, leaning back in his chair. His mind raced, piecing together what this meant for him¡ªand for the world at large. "So, we''re dealing with a rogue vampire general, a growing army, and alliances that could tip the scales in his favor. Fantastic."


    Cassius chuckled softly, though there was no humor in the sound. "Welcome to the big leagues, apprentice."


    Damian shot him a glare but didn''t argue. Instead, he turned back to his shadow servant. "And Victoria? Does she really expect me to take this on?"


    "She believes you and Cassius are her best chance," the shadow said. "Her forces are stretched thin, and she''s unwilling to trust anyone else."


    "Of course," Damian muttered, his tone bitter. "Because why not throw the guy with a target on his back into the mix?"


    Cassius stood, his posture as relaxed as ever, though his eyes betrayed a calculating edge. His gaze shifted to Damian, sharp and probing. "So, do you still want to take it or not?"


    Damian let out a frustrated huff, leaning back in his chair. "Of course, I''ll take it. Do you think I have another choice?"


    Cassius arched an eyebrow, his smirk faint but unmistakable. "You do have a choice."


    Damian shot him a pointed look, his jaw tightening. "No, I don''t. I want to know the truth about my past¡ªabout why I killed her husband or whether I even did it. So yeah, I''ll accept it."


    Cassius nodded, seemingly satisfied. He stood, dismissing the shadow servants with a flick of his wrist. Their forms dissolved into the air. "Fine," he said, brushing invisible dust from his sleeve. "But only if you become a rank A warlock today."


    Damian blinked, his head snapping up to stare at Cassius. "Excuse me?"


    Cassius turned to him, his expression unbothered. "Am I not clear?"


    "No, I heard you," Damian said, standing abruptly. "But rank B to rank A isn''t that easy. I''m level 74 right now. To reach rank A, I need a minimum level of 100. That''s 26 levels! Do you know how much grinding that requires?"


    Cassius tilted his head slightly, his smirk growing. "Then we''ll get those 26 levels today."


    Damian blinked, his mind struggling to catch up. "What? That''s insane."


    Cassius started walking toward the door, his movements calm and deliberate. "Follow me."


    Damian hesitated before waving off his shadow servant, watching as it disappeared into the ether. He grabbed his bag and jogged after Cassius. "Even if I manage to reach level 100," Damian began, catching up to him, "I still have to take the rank A test. You know that''s not a walk in the park. It''s not like leveling up to rank C or B."


    Cassius halted abruptly, turning on his heel to face Damian. "I know," he said, his tone low and sharp. "And I have my way for it."


    Damian opened his mouth to argue further, but the look in Cassius'' eyes made him pause. He pressed his lips together, frowning as he tried to process what Cassius had in mind. Before he could ask, Cassius stepped closer, his gaze piercing.


    "Stop wasting your energy," Cassius said, his voice cutting through Damian''s thoughts. "It''s your choice whether you want to or not. But like it or not, I am your mentor. And you can''t accept this mission without my permission."


    Damian clenched his fists. He hated to admit it, but Cassius was right. Technically, he could accept Victoria''s offer, but doing so would only make her suspicious. After all, Damian was still supposed to be a lowly apprentice.


    He let out a long breath, raising his hands in mock surrender. "Okay, fine. I''ll shut my mouth and shut up, Master."


    Cassius'' smirk returned, though it didn''t quite reach his eyes. "Good." He turned on his heel, his cloak sweeping behind him as he continued walking. "Let''s get started."


    They walked toward the training hall in silence. Damian''s mind raced as he tried to piece together what Cassius had planned. Leveling up 26 times in a single day? It was absurd, even for someone with his abilities. And then there was the rank A test¡ªa grueling trial that most warlocks spent months, if not years, preparing for.


    Cassius, of course, looked utterly unbothered, his steps deliberate and his expression unreadable. Damian knew that look. It meant trouble. The man wasn''t just confident¡ªhe was certain. And that certainty made Damian''s stomach churn.


    Finally, they stopped in the center of the vast training hall.


    Cassius flicked his wrist, and a shimmering barrier materialized, enclosing the space. The energy crackled faintly, and Damian swore he saw a glint in Cassius'' eyes that made his skin crawl.


    "Alright," Cassius said, his tone calm but carrying a sinister edge. "Today will be a full training session for you, genius."


    Damian cringed. His instincts screamed that this wasn''t going to be an ordinary training session. "Define ''full,''" he muttered, though he wasn''t sure he wanted the answer.


    "No lunch break," Cassius continued, ignoring the question. "I''ll provide you with energy drinks, stamina potions, and mana potions as needed. If that''s not enough, I have ration bars."

 Chapter 167: Fight Smart And Don’t Die

    Warlock Ch 167. Fight Smart And Don''t Die


    "Ration bars? You mean the kind soldiers eat in long wars?" Damian asked, raising an eyebrow.


    Cassius smirked. "Exactly."


    Damian let out a resigned sigh, shaking his head. "You''ve really thought this through."


    "I don''t want to hear any complaints," Cassius added, his tone firm. "Not a single one. You wanted power, didn''t you?"


    Damian muttered something under his breath but didn''t argue. Complaining would only make things worse, and he wasn''t in the mood to give Cassius the satisfaction of winning that argument.


    Then, without warning, Cassius reached into his cloak and pulled out a parchment. It was old, the edges frayed and the surface covered in intricate magical inscriptions. When he unrolled it, Damian''s eyes widened as he recognized the summoning formation drawn on it.


    "No way," Damian muttered, his voice barely above a whisper. His heart raced as he pieced it together. This wasn''t just any summoning formation¡ªit was designed to summon high-level monsters. Monsters with levels above 100.


    "You''ve gotta be kidding me," he said, louder this time, his voice tinged with disbelief.


    Cassius smirked, a glint of amusement in his eyes. "Do I look like I''m kidding?"


    Before Damian could protest, Cassius threw the parchment into the air. "Summon," he said simply.


    The parchment glowed as it floated in midair, its runes blazing with an intense light. The summoning formation expanded, casting a brilliant glow across the room. Damian instinctively stepped back, his heart pounding as he watched the magic take shape.


    The formation pulsed once, twice, and then a massive shape began to emerge from its center. The glow intensified, and a deafening roar echoed through the hall as the creature fully materialized.


    Behemoth <Level 105>


    HP: 25,000/25,000


    MP: 2,000/2,000


    Skills: [Crushing Charge], [Stone Skin], [Earthquake], [Roar of Despair]


    Damian stared, his jaw practically on the floor. The Behemoth was enormous, its hulking form covered in rocky plates that shimmered with an earthy glow. Its eyes burned with primal fury, and each step it took shook the ground beneath their feet.


    "Are you insane?" Damian shouted, his voice echoing in the hall. "That thing''s a level 105 monster! You can''t be serious!"


    Cassius crossed his arms, his smirk never faltering. "Dead serious. If you want to reach rank A today, this is your ticket."


    "I''m a level 74!" Damian snapped, his mind racing as he calculated his odds of survival. "That thing will crush me!"


    "Not if you fight smart," Cassius said calmly. "Use your skills. Think strategically. And don''t die."


    "Great advice," Damian muttered. His mind raced as he scanned the Behemoth, analyzing its strengths and weaknesses. He knew he couldn''t take it head-on, not with its sheer size and power. He needed to play this carefully.


    The Behemoth roared, the sound reverberating through the hall like a shockwave.


    "F this!" Damian cursed, preparing to fight. His hands crackled with energy, his mind racing as he formulated a plan. The Behemoth growled, its massive form bearing down on him, the floor trembling under its weight.


    "Let''s see how you handle this," Damian muttered under his breath.


    He raised his hand, summoning his first ally. "Raven!" A dark swirl of energy appeared, and out came the raven, its blood-red wings flaring as it screeched, the sound echoing through the training hall.


    "Go for its weak spots," Damian commanded, his voice sharp. The raven cawed in acknowledgment, darting toward the Behemoth''s vulnerable joints.


    "Golem!" Damian shouted next, summoning the sturdy creature to the field. The ground cracked and shifted as the golem emerged, its rocky form towering and impenetrable.


    "Buy me some time!" Damian ordered, pointing toward the Behemoth. The golem charged forward, meeting the Behemoth head-on with a resounding crash. The impact shook the room, but the golem held its ground, its [Stone Skin] absorbing the brunt of the attack.


    "Serpent!" Damian called out, summoning his third ally. A shimmering, ghostly snake coiled into existence, its glowing eyes fixed on the Behemoth.


    "Distract it!" Damian commanded. The serpent slithered around the Behemoth with impossible speed, releasing a cloud of [Venomous Mist] that caused the monster to roar in frustration.


    The Behemoth roared in rage and threw Golem. It then lunged at Damian as if it knew Damian was their master, its claws tearing through the air. Damian cursed and activated "[Shadow Step!]" vanishing into the shadows just before the attack could connect. He reappeared behind the Behemoth, his hands already glowing with energy.


    "[Dark Dominion!]" he roared, unleashing a wave of dark energy that spread across the room. The aura surrounded him, crackling with power, and the Behemoth hesitated, its movements slowing as the Terror effect took hold.


    [Behemoth] took 500 damage.


    The Behemoth roared in defiance, its massive claws slamming into the ground in a wild attempt to break free from the oppressive aura.


    "Now!" he shouted to his servants.


    The Bloodwing Raven unleashed [Bloodstorm], a whirlwind of crimson energy that tore into the Behemoth''s hide. The Stoneback Golem followed up with [Rock Shard Barrage], pelting the creature with jagged stones that cracked its armor. The Spectral Serpent struck with [Soul Bind], its ghostly energy wrapping around the Behemoth and sapping its strength.


    [Behemoth] took 1,000 damage.


    The Behemoth roared again, the sound shaking the entire hall. It lashed out with [Earthquake], sending a wave of destructive energy rippling outward.


    Damian gritted his teeth, raising a hand to cast "[Shadow Barrier!]" The barrier absorbed most of the shockwave, but the impact still sent him stumbling.


    "Dammit," Damian hissed, wiping blood from the corner of his mouth. "This thing''s tougher than I thought."


    The Behemoth turned its glowing eyes toward him, its rage palpable. Damian steadied himself, his heart pounding as he prepared for the next assault.


    The Behemoth charged, its claws raised to strike. Damian''s mind raced, his options narrowing as the massive creature bore down on him. "Come on, Damian," he muttered under his breath. "Think."


    The battle was far from over, and the Behemoth wasn''t going down without a fight.

 Chapter 168: Ticket to Rank A

    Warlock Ch 168. Ticket to Rank A


    The battle raged on. Damian fought like a man possessed, his body moving with the efficiency of hard-earned instincts and the desperation of someone who knew the stakes. The Behemoth was a mountain of fury, its massive claws tearing through the air with deadly intent, its earth-shaking roars sending tremors through the hall. Every moment felt like a knife''s edge, a thin line between survival and oblivion.


    Damian''s muscles screamed in protest, his mana reserves dipping as he unleashed spell after spell, each one landing with varying degrees of success. The gap between their levels was like a chasm. It was a hard reminder that no matter how skilled he was, sheer power often trumped experience.


    The Behemoth shrugged off attacks that would have leveled lesser creatures, its health bar seeming to mock Damian''s efforts. Every time he thought he''d gained an advantage, the Behemoth countered. A swipe of its claws narrowly missed his torso, the wind from the strike alone enough to stagger him. His foot slipped, his balance momentarily faltering, and he barely managed to recover in time to evade the follow-up. He knew it was only a matter of time before his luck ran out.


    Cassius stood at the edge of the hall, his posture uncharacteristically tense, his usual smug demeanor replaced by something far graver. His sharp eyes never left Damian, watching every movement, every spell, every near miss. Damian knew Cassius wasn''t just observing¡ªhe was calculating, his mind working as fast as Damian''s body. And when the Behemoth''s attack came dangerously close, Cassius intervened.


    It wasn''t dramatic or showy. There was no sudden teleportation, no heroic shield raised at the last second. Instead, a barrier flickered into place, invisible until the Behemoth''s claws slammed against it with a deafening crack. The shield absorbed the blow, shimmering faintly before dissipating. Damian shot a glance at Cassius, but there was no time for gratitude. The Behemoth roared again, its attention snapping back to him, and the fight resumed.


    Damian understood the truth. Without Cassius'' subtle interference, this battle wouldn''t have been just hard¡ªit would have been impossible. Even with his reborn warlock status, his past life''s experience, and his arsenal of powerful skills, the level gap was too great. One solid hit from the Behemoth would have left him critically wounded, and while potions could heal flesh and restore mana, they couldn''t fix everything. A wound like that would end the training, and neither he nor Cassius wanted that. Not when this was only the beginning.


    The fight dragged on, seconds stretching into an eternity. Damian''s movements grew more calculated, his spells timed with razor-sharp precision. He used every trick in his arsenal, summoning his servants to aid him, weaving between their attacks and the Behemoth''s.


    Bloodwing Raven darted through the air, its [Bloodstorm] tearing into the beast''s hide. Stoneback Golem weathered its crushing blows, countering with [Rock Shard Barrage]. Spectral Serpent coiled around the Behemoth''s legs, releasing clouds of [Venomous Mist] that sapped its strength.


    Despite their combined efforts, the Behemoth remained an indomitable force. It retaliated with devastating [Earthquake] attacks that sent shockwaves rippling through the hall, forcing Damian to activate his [Shadow Step] to avoid being caught in the destruction. His stamina stretched thin, but he refused to give up.


    Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the Behemoth let out a final, earth-shattering roar before collapsing. Its massive body hit the ground with a resounding crash, the glow in its eyes fading as it dissolved into the ether. Damian stood over its remains, his chest heaving, his body trembling with exhaustion. His hands shook as he wiped sweat from his brow, but there was no time to celebrate.


    The summoning formation flared to life again, its runes glowing ominously as the air grew heavy with magic. Another beast emerged, its level even higher than the last. Damian cursed under his breath, his grip tightening as he prepared for the next fight.


    And so it continued. Beast after beast emerged from the formation. The only reprieve Damian got was the brief moments between battles, during which Cassius tossed him potions and ration bars. The potions restored his health and mana, and the ration bars kept his energy up, but they did nothing to ease the growing ache in his muscles.


    The training hall became a battlefield, its floors scorched and cracked, its air thick with the stench of burning mana and sweat. Damian''s movements grew sharper, his focus narrowing to a fine point as he adapted to the new challenge. He didn''t have the luxury of hesitation or fear.


    And when the evening came he did it... He reached level 100...


    Name: Damian Blackthorn


    Age: 23


    Class: Warlock of Eternal Bonds


    Rank: B


    Level: 100


    Partners: Evelyn Windward (Witch)


    Servants: Fenrith (Three-Headed Wolf), Bloodwing Raven (Blood Raven), Stoneback Golem (Earth Golem), Spectral Serpent (Ghost Snake), Shadow Minion, Mischievous Shade, Agile Wraith, Stalker Phantom


    Stats:


    Mana Power: S++


    Stamina: A+


    Endurance: A+


    Strength: S+


    Agility: S+


    Magic Affinity: SS


    XP: 95,000/100,000


    Bond Points: 10


    Skills:


    [Dark Bolt Lv. 8]: Fires a devastating blast of dark energy, dealing immense damage and inflicting Terror for 8 seconds. +100% damage boost, higher Fear infliction rate, and extended range.


    [Arcane Bolt Lv. 7]: Launches a pure arcane energy bolt chaining up to 7 targets, dealing high damage. Increased chain range and amplified damage per bounce.


    [Dark Chains Lv. 7]: Summons chains to immobilize up to 10 enemies, reducing their power by 50% for 15 seconds. Expanded radius to 30 meters and increased debuff potency.


    [Curse of Agony Lv. 7]: Inflicts a curse that deals heavy DoT and reduces enemy movement speed by 30%. Improved damage scaling.


    [Shadow Barrier Lv. 8]: Absorbs 95% of incoming damage, with extended shield strength and duration. Enhanced against magical attacks.


    [Dark Dominion Lv. 9]: Creates an aura dealing massive damage per second and inflicting Terror. Lasts 60 seconds with a 90-meter radius. Fear effects are crippling at this level.


    [Hellfire Spear Lv. 7]: A burning spear that ignores magical barriers. +70% flame and corrosion power, with a lower cooldown and improved AoE impact on detonation.


    [Spectral Surge Lv. 8]: Boosts speed and strength by 70%, with extended afterimage effects for 20 minutes. Reduced cooldown to 15 seconds.


    [Shadow Step Lv. 6]: Teleports instantly to a wider range, now including an AoE burst of Terror upon arrival. Cooldown: 15 seconds.


    [Void Rift Lv. 7]: Creates a massive void rift, slowing enemies within a 50-meter radius and dealing periodic void damage. Damage output and pull effect significantly enhanced.


    [Infernal Javelins Lv. 7]: Summons up to 10 flame-spears with enhanced piercing and corrosive effects. Increased throw speed and AoE damage.


    [Dispel Lv. 5]: Removes spells and debuffs on multiple allies. Effectiveness and cooldown scale with the caster''s Mana control. Cooldown: 45 seconds.


    [Observation Lv. 3]: Analyzes both the user''s and the target''s states, revealing detailed stats, elemental affinities, and weaknesses.


    Servants Status and Skills:


    Fenrith <Level 60>


    HP: 3,400/3,400


    MP: 600/600


    Skills: [Savage Bite], [Triple Roar], [Void Howl], [Lunar Blessing], [Moonlit Fury]


    Bloodwing Raven <Level 68>


    HP: 4,200/4,200


    MP: 800/800


    Skills: [Life Siphon], [Bloodstorm], [Screech of Terror], [Crimson Dive]


    Stoneback Golem <Level 75>


    HP: 5,000/5,000


    MP: 500/500


    Skills: [Earthquake Stomp], [Stone Skin], [Rock Shard Barrage], [Titanic Slam]


    Spectral Serpent <Level 78>


    HP: 4,800/4,800


    MP: 1,000/1,000


    Skills: [Venomous Mist], [Ghostly Glide], [Soul Bind], [Ethereal Coil]

 Chapter 169: I’m at My Limit

    Warlock Ch 169. I''m at My Limit


    Damian''s legs gave out, his body collapsing to the floor in a heap. His breath came in ragged gasps, his chest heaving as if he''d just run through hell barefoot. Sweat dripped from his forehead, soaking through his clothes until they clung to his skin like a second, uncomfortable layer. He felt like he''d just drowned in his own effort. His muscles screamed in protest, and even lifting a finger felt like a monumental task.


    His summons were gone, their forms dissipated into wisps of magical energy after being pushed to their limits. The training hall was eerily silent now. The monsters he''d defeated were gone too, their forms returned to whatever plane they''d been summoned from.


    The summoned monsters weren''t like the ones found in the wilderness. Summoned monsters had a purpose¡ªeither to be defeated or, in some cases, to be bound in a pact. But once they were defeated, they vanished without a trace. Wilderness monsters, by contrast, left behind corpses, their remains harvested by hunters and adventurers for profit. This was different. Cleaner, maybe. But no less brutal.


    Cassius stood a few feet away, his arms crossed and a smug smirk on his face. He looked utterly unbothered, as if the last few hours of carnage had been little more than a warm-up session for him. "See? I told you, you could do it," he said, his tone laced with that infuriating blend of mockery and pride.


    Damian wanted to snap back at him, to unload every ounce of his frustration and exhaustion, but his energy was too limited for sarcasm. Instead, he let out a long, ragged breath and muttered, "I did... but they also almost killed me."


    He wasn''t exaggerating. Several times during the endless onslaught, he''d felt death''s cold breath at his back. If it hadn''t been for Cassius'' timely barriers, he wouldn''t be sitting here now¡ªor rather, lying here, half-dead or really dead.


    "But they didn''t, did they?" Cassius replied, his smirk widening as if that fact alone was some kind of victory.


    Damian groaned, rolling onto his back and staring up at the glowing runes on the ceiling. "Yeah, thanks for the barriers," he muttered, his voice dripping with reluctant gratitude. He was too spent to argue, too drained to even muster his usual biting wit.


    Cassius chuckled softly, clearly enjoying himself. "Should we start your rank A test now?"


    Damian''s head snapped toward him¡ªor rather, lolled slightly in his direction, because even that small movement took more effort than he cared to admit. "Let me take a break for a moment, Cas," he said, his tone more serious than usual. "I mean it. I''m at my limit."


    Cassius studied him for a moment, his sharp gaze scanning Damian''s sprawled form. For once, the usual sarcasm and amusement in Cassius'' expression faded, replaced by something more calculating. He could see it¡ªthis wasn''t one of Damian''s usual complaints. This wasn''t him whining about a tough session or grumbling about the lack of snacks. Damian was serious. He was done. Pushing him further now wouldn''t just be counterproductive¡ªit could be dangerous.


    "Fine," Cassius said finally, his tone clipped but not unkind.


    Damian let out a breath of relief, his body relaxing slightly against the cool stone floor. "Bed... or couch... either''s fine for me..." he muttered, closing his eyes.


    Cassius'' sharp gaze flicked to him, and Damian cracked one eye open, noting the slight twitch of annoyance in his mentor''s jaw. "I''m not joking," Damian added, his voice weak but firm.


    Cassius let out an exasperated sigh, but instead of dragging Damian out of the training hall¡ªor worse, leaving him there to rot¡ªhe gestured to the shadows. A handful of shadow servants materialized at his command, their dark forms rippling as they awaited orders.


    "Bring a couch," Cassius instructed, his tone as commanding as ever. The shadow servants bowed slightly before vanishing, and a few moments later, they returned, carrying an ornate couch between them.


    Damian blinked at the sight, his tired mind struggling to process it. "Seriously? You brought the couch here?" he mumbled, his voice thick with exhaustion.


    Cassius shrugged, his smirk returning. "You said you needed a break. I''m accommodating."


    The shadow servants set the couch down near Damian, and he dragged himself toward it with all the grace of a half-dead slug. Every movement was agony, but the thought of lying on something softer than the stone floor was motivation enough.


    He collapsed onto the couch, letting out a sigh that was half relief, half exhaustion. The cushions were far from luxurious, but compared to the unforgiving ground, they felt like heaven. "You''re not as heartless as I thought," Damian muttered, his eyes already closing.


    "Don''t push it," Cassius replied, though there was a faint hint of amusement in his voice.


    Damian didn''t respond. He was too tired to care, too drained to think about what came next. All he knew was that he needed this moment.


    Cassius glanced down at Damian sprawled on the couch, his exhaustion so palpable it was almost contagious. "I''ll get more potions for you," Cassius said, his voice calm but edged with the usual commanding tone.


    Damian didn''t respond.


    Cassius frowned, turning slightly. "Did you hear me?" he asked, but still no answer came.


    Cassius'' gaze shifted to Damian''s face. His eyes were closed, his breathing steady but shallow. "Passed out already, huh?" Cassius muttered to himself, shaking his head. "Figures."


    With a sigh, he left the training hall, heading toward his storage room to retrieve the potions. His steps echoed through the quiet corridors, his mind already running through the inventory. Energy potions, stamina potions, and perhaps a revitalizing tincture¡ªit would take all of them to get Damian back into fighting condition.


    By the time Cassius returned, a tray of potions hovered effortlessly around him, he was already considering how to push Damian further without breaking him completely. But as he stepped back into the training hall, the sight that greeted him made him stop cold.

 Chapter 170: Not Dead, Not Dying

    Warlock Ch 170. Not Dead, Not Dying


    A swirling vortex of dark and blue mana enveloped Damian''s body. It moved in a slow, rhythmic pattern, as if breathing, wrapping around him in a protective cocoon. Cassius froze, his sharp eyes narrowing as he studied the phenomenon. The tray in his hands lowered slightly, his thoughts racing.


    "It happened again," Cassius muttered under his breath, his voice carrying a mix of fascination and concern.


    The first time he''d seen this, it had been with Evelyn. Damian had fought Malthus, a battle that should have killed him. The wound on his chest had been catastrophic¡ªjagged, deep, and fatal. Cassius and Evelyn had been certain they were about to lose him. Yet, just as they''d prepared for the worst, the same swirling mana had appeared, wrapping around Damian like a lifeline.


    That day, it hadn''t healed him completely. The wound had still been there, raw and ugly, but it had stabilized him. He hadn''t died. Against all odds, they''d taken him home, treated him with everything they had¡ªSilverthorn Balm, Moonveil Poultice, and every high-quality remedy in their arsenal. But none of it explained what had happened. Damian should have been in a coma for weeks, if not months. Instead, he''d woken up the next day.


    And now, it was happening again.


    Cassius set the tray down on a nearby table, his eyes never leaving Damian. The swirling energy pulsed faintly, almost like a heartbeat, and Cassius felt the familiar chill creep up his spine. This wasn''t normal magic. This wasn''t even advanced warlockery. This was something else entirely.


    "The demon king''s power..." Cassius whispered, his voice barely audible. "It''s still in him."


    He had suspected as much ever since Damian''s rebirth, but this was confirmation. Whatever Kaelan had done to defeat the demon king, it hadn''t been clean. The power hadn''t just been taken¡ªit had been absorbed, integrated into Damian''s very being. And now it was showing itself, surfacing in moments of extreme need, like some ancient instinct refusing to let its host die.


    Cassius crossed his arms, his expression unreadable as he watched the mana swirl around Damian. The faint glow highlighted the exhaustion etched into Damian''s face, even in unconsciousness. "You really are something, aren''t you?" Cassius said softly, though there was no trace of his usual mockery.


    The energy began to dissipate, its rhythm slowing until it finally faded entirely. Damian''s chest rose and fell steadily, his breathing deeper now, more even. The color had returned to his face, and while the exhaustion hadn''t left him completely, he no longer looked like he was teetering on the edge of collapse.


    Cassius exhaled. "Not dead, not dying," he muttered. "But that doesn''t explain what the hell that was."


    He stepped closer, his sharp eyes scanning Damian''s body for any signs of residual magic. There were no visible injuries, no lingering traces of the mana that had just enveloped him. It was as if the whole thing had never happened.


    Cassius reached for one of the potions on the tray, uncorking it with practiced ease. He leaned down, tapping Damian''s cheek lightly. "Wake up, genius," he said, his tone firm but not unkind.


    Damian stirred, his brow furrowing slightly before his eyes fluttered open. "What..." he croaked, his voice hoarse.


    "Drink this. You''re going to need it," Cassius said, holding the potion out to him.


    Damian sat up slowly, his movements sluggish. He took the potion, downing it in a single gulp before wiping his mouth with the back of his hand. "What happened?" he asked, his voice stronger now.


    "You tell me," Cassius repeated, his gaze piercing. "What the hell''s going on with your regeneration?"


    Damian frowned, his mind sluggish from exhaustion but trying to catch up. He shifted slightly on the couch, his muscles protesting every movement. "You mean... my Mana Core?" he asked cautiously.


    Cassius nodded, his expression serious. "Yeah. I''m guessing it''s related. Either your Mana Core or something you took from the demon king in the past."


    Damian sat up straighter, wincing as his body screamed in protest. He forced himself to focus, his fatigue momentarily pushed aside. "The Mana Core¡ªit''s not just different because of its shape or the way it feels. It''s like it has... a will of its own." Somehow he couldn''t think straight.


    Cassius arched an eyebrow, leaning forward slightly. "You already told me that. ''A will of its own''¡ª that''s mean the demon king''s soul, right?" he bet Damian repeated the statement due his fatigue and dizziness.


    "Yeah... And it''s noisy," Damian said bluntly, running a hand through his damp hair. "I mean, not literally. It''s... chaotic, like there''s something inside it that''s constantly moving, shifting." He hesitated, then sighed. "I guess the demon king''s soul indeed the source of all this... Weird regeneration thing."


    Cassius'' expression didn''t change, but Damian could feel the shift in his energy. "You''ve been holding onto that theory for a while, haven''t you?" Cassius asked, his voice calm but probing.


    Damian shrugged, the movement making him wince. "It''s not just a theory. I''m pretty sure at this point. Whenever I push myself too hard, or when I''m on the brink, that''s when it acts up. Like it''s trying to keep me alive."


    "That''s... convenient," Cassius said, his tone dry but his eyes sharp. "So you''re saying the demon king''s soul is babysitting you."


    Damian scoffed, running a hand through his hair as he leaned back on the couch. "Babysitting? Ew... no. He''s living rent-free inside my Mana Core, and he''s got that cocky, arrogant attitude to go with it. Trust me, it''s not convenient¡ªit''s infuriating."


    Cassius smirked faintly, the edge of amusement tugging at his lips. "Sounds like he''s got a nice setup. Power, immortality, and a front-row seat to all your failures."


    Damian shot him a glare. "Yeah, laugh it up. You''re not the one stuck with his constant commentary. Do you know how annoying it is?''"


    Cassius chuckled, clearly enjoying himself. "Sounds like he''s keeping you humble."


    "Humble?" Damian threw up his hands. "It''s not humility, it''s harassment!"

 Chapter 171: Don’t Die Unless You Want To

    Warlock Ch 171. Don''t Die Unless You Want To


    Cassius smirked. "Well, it makes you stronger. And, let''s face it, every mage in this world probably envies you. I guess that''s why the higher-ups dislike you so much¡ªthey know they can''t control you, and that terrifies them. So, they make you a target."


    "Thanks, Cas," Damian deadpanned, shooting him a withering look. "That''s not exactly comforting. Knowing that my survival depends on the same power that made me a target in the first place isn''t what I''d call a pep talk."


    Cassius chuckled, unfazed. "Comforting or not, it''s reality. And it''s a hell of an advantage, whether you like it or not."


    Damian sighed, letting his head fall back against the couch. "True."


    Cassius gave him another potion. "Here," he said, handing it over.


    Damian eyed the bottle for a moment before unscrewing the cap and downing it in one go. The stamina potion burned slightly as it went down, but the warmth that followed was a welcome reprieve. "Like beer after a bad game," he muttered in a sarcastic tone.


    Cassius slid into the seat beside him, his posture relaxed, as if they were two best friends unwinding after a long day.


    "So," Damian began, "this rank A exam. How are you going to make me take it?"


    Cassius'' smirk widened, that telltale glint of mischief flashing in his eyes. Damian knew that look. It was the look Cassius always gave when he had a plan¡ªone that usually ended with Damian wishing he''d never asked.


    "Don''t worry about it," Cassius said breezily. "I have my own ways."


    Damian''s brow furrowed as he studied his mentor. "Why do I feel like your ''ways'' are going to throw me into another ''dead or alive'' situation?"


    "Because they will," Cassius replied, his smirk unchanging.


    Damian huffed, leaning forward with his elbows on his knees. "Right. Of course. How silly of me to expect anything else."


    Cassius laughed, the sound low and amused. "Relax. You won''t die. Not unless you let yourself die."


    "Wow, comforting," Damian said, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "Let me just go into battle with that on my mind: ''Don''t die unless you want to.'' Truly inspirational."


    Cassius shrugged, his tone turning serious. "You have the demon king''s power inside you. That makes you harder to kill than most, but it also means you can''t afford to let your guard down. If you survive this exam, you''ll be stronger for it. If you fail... Well, let''s not dwell on that."


    Damian shot him a glare. "You''re really selling it, Cas. I feel so motivated."


    "You''ll thank me later," Cassius said with a smirk.


    Damian didn''t bother responding. Instead, he leaned back against the couch, letting his mind wander. The rank A exam wasn''t just about proving himself¡ªit was about survival. Once he took the test, he''d be officially registered with the magic government, a step that came with both benefits and risks. It would give him autonomy, the ability to accept missions and apprentices without needing the mentor''s approval. But it would also put him on everyone''s radar.


    He was already an anomaly, his rapid rise in power far beyond what was considered normal. Taking the rank A exam so soon would only make that more obvious. And if the senators¡ªor worse, Aria¡ªcaught wind of it, things could get messy fast.


    Cassius, as usual, seemed unfazed by the potential fallout. "You''re overthinking it," he said, breaking the silence.


    "Am I?" Damian shot back. "Because last I checked, taking the rank A exam means standing in front of the same people who already want me dead. How do you think they''re going to react when they see I''ve jumped ranks faster than anyone in history?"


    "They''ll be impressed," Cassius said simply.


    "Or they''ll see me as a bigger threat," Damian countered. "You''ve seen how they operate, Cas. They don''t want real mages¡ªthey want tools. And I''m not exactly the cooperative type."


    Cassius leaned forward, his sharp gaze locking onto Damian''s. "That''s exactly why you need to take the exam. If you keep hiding, they''ll come for you anyway. This way, you control the narrative. You show them you''re not just some anomaly¡ªthey''ll see you as someone they can''t afford to mess with."


    Damian let out a long breath, his mind turning over Cassius'' words. "And what if they try to take me out during the test?"


    Cassius smirked. "Then you take them out first."


    Damian rolled his eyes. "Great. Let''s add political assassination to the to-do list."


    Cassius chuckled, the sound low and infuriatingly smug.


    Damian turned to him, narrowing his eyes. "Right, laugh it up. You know I''m right."


    Cassius smirked, leaning back like they were discussing the weather instead of life-or-death warlock battles. "Well, this is funny because if this were the old you¡ªthe Kaelan you¡ªyou''d think exactly the way I do now. But I guess with your memories still patchy, you''re stuck playing catch-up."


    Damian frowned, sitting up straighter despite his exhaustion. "What did you just say? I thought you wanted me to register properly, like the others. I mean..." His voice trailed off as he pieced it together. "When I was Kaelan, I used the same loopholes. We both did."


    Cassius shrugged. "Yeah. But there''s one crazy theory you floated back then¡ªhalf-joke, half-serious. You said that a mage or warlock could prove their rank not through bureaucracy but through combat. That if someone defeated a higher-ranked mage, they deserved that rank themselves."


    Damian''s eyes widened as the memory clicked into place. It had been one of those late-night discussions, born out of frustration with the rigidity of the magical system. "That wasn''t just a theory," Damian muttered, more to himself than to Cassius. "It was... a possibility."


    "Exactly," Cassius said, his smirk widening. "And after your fight with Malthus, it''s clear that theory holds weight. You took him down and your rank raised up. But the catch is, it''s unofficial. Unauthorized. You''d be a rank A warlock without the government''s blessing."

 Chapter 172: (Un)fair Challenge

    Warlock Ch 172. (Un)fair Challenge


    Damian leaned back and deep in thought. It wasn''t illegal, but it wasn''t exactly legal either. It was a gray area¡ªone that offered him power without exposing him to the magical government''s bureaucracy and scrutiny. He could avoid their endless paperwork and sidestep the senators'' constant surveillance. For someone in his position, it was perfect.


    A grin spread across his face, slow and mischievous. "Damn it, Cas. I didn''t know you were planning on doing that. So, who''s the unlucky warlock I''m supposed to fight?"


    Cassius'' smirk turned into a full-blown grin. "Me."


    Damian blinked. "What?"


    "You heard me," Cassius said, his tone casual but his eyes glinting with challenge. "If you want to prove you''re rank A, you''ve got to take me down."


    Damian let out a disbelieving laugh. "Right. Because fighting my smug, overpowered mentor sounds like a fair challenge."


    Cassius stood, brushing imaginary dust off his cloak. "Fairness has nothing to do with it. You''ve got the power. I''ve seen it. But the question is¡ªcan you use it when it counts?"


    Damian frowned, leaning forward. "You''re serious about this?"


    "As serious as I ever am," Cassius replied, which wasn''t exactly comforting.


    Damian ran a hand through his hair, his mind racing. Taking on Cassius wasn''t just about brute strength. It was about strategy, resourcefulness, and timing. Cassius wasn''t just a mentor¡ªhe was an SSS ranked warlock with years of experience. Beating him wouldn''t be easy.


    "You know," Damian said after a moment, "this feels like one of those dead-or-alive scenarios you love throwing me into."


    Cassius smirked. "Because it is. But don''t worry¡ªyou won''t die. Not unless you let yourself."


    "Oh, great. Super reassuring," Damian muttered, but there was a spark of determination in his eyes. He stood, shaking out his tired limbs and forcing himself to ignore the dull ache in his muscles. "Fine. Let''s do this. But don''t cry when I win."


    Cassius barked out a laugh, a genuine one. "Cry? Please. I''ll be too busy laughing at how long it takes you to figure out my tricks."


    Damian rolled his shoulders, a smirk tugging at his lips. "Tricks, huh? You better bring your best, old man. I''m not going easy on you."


    Cassius'' expression sharpened, his smirk fading into something more serious. "Good. Because I''m not going easy on you either."


    The air between them shifted, heavy with anticipation. This wasn''t just a test¡ªit was a battle. A proving ground.


    No matter what it took.


    Damian exhaled, steadying himself as the training hall buzzed with energy. The faint hum of magic filled the air. His gaze flicked to Cassius, who stood at the opposite end of the room, his posture as relaxed as ever but his sharp eyes glinting with anticipation.


    "So, no servants?" Damian asked, already knowing the answer but needing to hear it.


    Cassius smirked, snapping his fingers. Shadow servants appeared, collecting the couch and hauling it out of the hall as if to emphasize the point. "No servants," he confirmed, his voice calm but commanding.


    Damian rolled his shoulders, trying to loosen the tension building in his muscles. "Reminds me of the past, huh?" he muttered, his tone lighter than he felt.


    Cassius nodded, a faint smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. "Yeah. We used to fight like this to see who was strongest. You always wanted to prove something."


    Damian returned the grin, though it didn''t quite reach his eyes. "Guess some things never change."


    Cassius reached into his cloak, pulling out a barrier crystal¡ªthe kind used for high-stakes duels and exams. Without a word, he tossed it into the air. It shattered, and shimmering walls of magic rose around them, enclosing the space in a protective dome. The barrier thrummed with energy, its countdown timer appearing in golden numbers.


    [Time Limit: 30:00.]


    "Half an hour," Cassius said, his tone casual. "Defeating doesn''t mean killing, but we''ll count attacks landed, mana drained, and health lost. Let''s see if you''ve still got it, genius."


    Damian smirked, though his heart pounded in his chest. "Right. Let''s do this."


    The countdown hit zero, and Cassius struck first, raising a hand and unleashing a torrent of glowing shards that streaked toward Damian like a meteor shower.


    [Crystal Barrage]


    "[Shadow Step!]" Damian shouted, disappearing into a swirl of shadows just as the shards exploded against the floor where he''d been standing. The impact sent a shockwave rippling through the hall, but Damian reappeared several meters away, his body flickering with afterimages from his Spectral Surge.


    "Still fast," Cassius remarked, not bothering to turn around. "But predictable."


    Damian didn''t respond. He raised a hand, summoning a blazing spear that crackled with fiery energy. "[Hellfire Spear!]" he roared, hurling it directly at Cassius.


    The spear tore through the air, its heat distorting the space around it, but Cassius waved a hand lazily. A shimmering wall of crystal sprang up before him. Despite it didn''t counter the spear fully, it absorbed the spear''s impact with a deafening crack.


    [Crystalline Ward]


    "Is that all you''ve got?" Cassius taunted, his smirk widening.


    Damian gritted his teeth. "Not even close." He raised both hands, dark chains erupting from the ground and snaking toward Cassius. "[Dark Chains!]"


    The chains glowed with malevolent energy, their jagged edges shimmering as they lunged for Cassius. He dodged the first two, but the third wrapped around his arm, locking him in place.


    "Nice trick," Cassius said, unfazed. "But you''ll need more than that." His free hand glowed with blue energy as he snapped his fingers, shattering the chains with a burst of raw mana.


    Damian didn''t wait for the counterattack. He slammed a hand to the ground, summoning a swirling void beneath Cassius'' feet. "[Void Rift!]" he shouted.


    The rift expanded, pulling at Cassius with an invisible force. The ground around him cracked as the void dragged at everything within its radius, its dark energy seeping into the air.


    Cassius frowned, his composure slipping for the first time. "[Momentum Surge!]" he commanded, his body glowing with a brilliant light as he propelled himself out of the rift''s pull and into the air.


    "Damn it," Damian muttered, raising his hands again. "[Infernal Javelins!]"

 Chapter 173: You Really Don’t Hold Back, Do You?

    Warlock Ch 173. You Really Don''t Hold Back, Do You?


    Flaming javelins materialized around him, their tips glowing with corrosive energy. He hurled them in rapid succession, each one streaking toward Cassius like a comet.


    Cassius smirked midair, snapping his fingers. "[Shadow Step]," he said smugly. "Still playing with fire, I see," he said as he appeared in another place.


    Damian''s eyes narrowed. "[Dark Dominion!]" he roared, activating his ultimate. A dark aura exploded outward, filling the hall with oppressive energy. Cassius'' smirk faltered as the aura pressed against him, its Terror effect causing the barrier to flicker.


    "That''s more like it," Cassius said, his voice quieter but no less composed. "Let''s see how long you can hold it."


    The next few minutes were a blur of spells and counterattacks. Cassius launched volley after volley of crystal and light-based magic. Damian danced through the chaos, his Spectral Surge keeping him just ahead of Cassius'' strikes.


    Damian retaliated with everything he had¡ªDark Bolts that screamed through the air, Arcane Bolts that chained between the shards of Cassius'' defenses, and even his Shadow Barrier, which absorbed several of Cassius'' more powerful attacks.


    But the gap between them was undeniable. Cassius wasn''t just a rank A or S¡ªhe was SSS. His power was on par with Damian''s past self.


    Still, Damian refused to give in.


    His breath came in ragged gasps as the timer ticked down to the ten-minute mark. He could feel his mana draining, his body screaming for rest, but he pressed on. "Not... giving up," he muttered, his voice barely audible.


    Cassius grinned, his eyes gleaming with approval. "Good. Because I''m not done either."


    Damian didn''t have time to reply before Cassius made his move. A surge of crystalline energy erupted from the ground beneath Damian, forcing him to leap back. The jagged spikes of glowing crystal pierced the air where he''d just been standing, their edges shimmering dangerously. Damian hit the ground in a roll, barely keeping his footing.


    "Fighting dirty already, huh?" Damian called out, his voice laced with a mix of irritation and adrenaline.


    "Always," Cassius replied, his tone maddeningly calm. He raised his hand, and the shards turned, floating midair before launching toward Damian like missiles.


    "[Shadow Step!]" Damian barked, his body dissolving into a swirl of shadows. He reappeared several meters to the side, skidding to a stop as the crystal missiles embedded themselves into the barrier behind him, sending shockwaves through the dome. The ground trembled under his feet.


    Cassius didn''t let up. With a flick of his wrist, a massive arc of blue energy surged toward Damian, splitting the air with its intensity. "[Luminous Slash]," he intoned, his voice like steel.


    Damian clenched his teeth and threw up his hands. "[Shadow Barrier!]" The dark shield materialized just in time, absorbing the brunt of the slash. But even with its reinforced strength, the barrier cracked, the force pushing Damian back several steps.


    "Damn it, Cas!" Damian growled, lowering his arms as the barrier shattered into fragments. His breathing was heavy, his body aching, but he wasn''t about to quit. "You really don''t hold back, do you?"


    Cassius smirked. "Wouldn''t be much of a test if I did."


    Damian''s lips twitched into a grin despite himself. "Fine. Let''s make it a real fight then." He slammed his hand into the ground, and a void of swirling darkness erupted around him. "[Dark Dominion!]"


    The oppressive aura expanded, its radius engulfing Cassius. The air thickened with malevolent energy, and the ground seemed to darken as if the light itself was being consumed. For a moment, Cassius'' smirk faltered, his body freezing as the Terror effect gripped him.


    "You''re getting better," Cassius admitted, his voice strained as he forced himself to move. "But you''re still not there yet."


    "We''ll see about that," Damian shot back, his hands moving in rapid succession as he unleashed a flurry of attacks. "[Infernal Javelins!]" he shouted, summoning flaming spears around him. He hurled them one after the other.


    Cassius simply used [Shadow Step] and teleported to another place.


    "Not bad," Cassius said, his tone amused. "But you''ll have to do better than that."


    "Oh, I''m just getting started," Damian replied, his voice low and confident. He raised his hands again, the air around him crackling with energy. "[Arcane Bolt!]"


    The bolt shot forward, chaining between the remains of the javelins and the crystal shards still lingering from Cassius'' earlier attack. The chain lightning effect created a web of destruction, forcing Cassius to retreat several steps.


    "You''re making me work for it," Cassius said, his grin widening. "I''m impressed."


    "Don''t get used to it," Damian quipped, his voice tight with concentration. He extended his hand, summoning another void beneath Cassius'' feet. "[Void Rift!]"


    The rift expanded rapidly, its gravitational pull dragging Cassius off balance. For a moment, it seemed like Damian had the upper hand. But Cassius slammed his foot into the ground, creating a shockwave of light energy that disrupted the rift''s pull.


    "Nice try," Cassius said, his tone sharp. "But you''ll need more than tricks to beat me."


    Damian gritted his teeth, his mind racing as he calculated his next move. He could feel his mana draining. But he wasn''t about to give up. Not when he''d come this far.


    He raised a hand, summoning a spear of pure, searing darkness that crackled with corrosive energy. "[Hellfire Spear!]" he roared, gripping the weapon tightly. He kept it in his hand, shifting his stance into one that felt both defensive and offensive.


    Cassius raised an eyebrow at the change in approach. "You should stop doing that. You are a warlock, not a battle mage," he called, his tone mocking yet intrigued.


    "I''m everything," Damian shot back, his voice strained but steady. He charged forward, the spear trailing dark energy that scorched the ground beneath his feet. Cassius moved to counter, summoning a wave of crystalline shards that shot toward Damian like daggers.


    Damian twisted his body, using the spear like a staff to deflect the incoming shards. Each impact sent vibrations up his arms, but he pressed on, closing the gap between them. Cassius sidestepped his first swing, the spear slicing through the air with a hiss. Damian followed up with a quick jab, forcing Cassius to block with his own Hellfire Spear.

 Chapter 174: Think Outside The Box

    Warlock Ch 174. Think Outside The Box


    Their weapons clashed, dark and light colliding in a burst of energy that shook the room. Damian gritted his teeth as he pushed against the shield, his muscles straining. Cassius smirked, his superior strength evident as he shoved Damian back with ease.


    "You''re resourceful," Cassius admitted, his tone almost approving. "But you''re still thinking too small."


    Damian stumbled but caught himself, spinning the spear in his hands. "Small, huh?" he muttered, his mind racing. He knew Cassius was right. His current skills weren''t enough. If he wanted to win, he needed to think outside the box¡ªto create something new. But how? His rank limited his mana pool, his power output, and even the complexity of the spells he could cast. Yet... wasn''t he known for breaking the rules?


    He dodged another wave of light projectiles, the spear glowing faintly in his hands as an idea began to form. What if he could modify the Hellfire Spear? Not just as a weapon to throw or swing, but something... more. He needed to blend his current skills, to push the limits of what was possible without stepping into forbidden territory. His eyes narrowed as he recalled how his mana reacted differently since his rebirth, how the demon king''s power lingered in his core like an untapped reservoir.


    He ducked under another blast from Cassius, sliding across the ground before springing up and driving the spear forward. Cassius dodged again, his movements infuriatingly fluid.


    "You''re distracted," Cassius taunted. "Losing focus will get you killed."


    "Or," Damian countered, a smirk tugging at his lips, "it might just give me the upper hand."


    Cassius chuckled, clearly entertained. "Let''s see it, then. Show me what you''ve got."


    Damian didn''t reply. Instead, he focused his energy into the spear, feeling the flames intensify as his mana flowed freely into it. The Hellfire Spear pulsed, the dark energy flickering in a way it hadn''t before. Damian grinned. He was onto something.


    He lunged at Cassius again, his movements sharper and more precise. Cassius deflected the first strike but stumbled slightly at the second, the spear''s enhanced energy catching him off guard. Damian pressed the advantage, spinning the spear in a rapid arc that forced Cassius to step back.


    "Interesting," Cassius muttered, his eyes narrowing. "You''re improvising."


    "That''s what I do best," Damian shot back, his confidence growing. The spear burned brighter, its edges sharper, as Damian''s mana surged. He let the weapon lead him, its energy flowing in tandem with his thoughts. This wasn''t just a spear anymore¡ªit was an extension of his will.


    Damian leaped into the air, twisting his body mid-flight as he brought the spear down in a powerful arc. The impact sent a shockwave through the room, the ground cracking beneath them. Cassius barely managed to dodge, the attack grazing his side and leaving a faint scorch mark on his otherwise immaculate cloak.


    "You''re getting reckless," Cassius said, his voice tinged with amusement.


    "Or maybe you''re getting slower," Damian quipped, landing lightly on his feet. He spun the spear again, the weapon feeling lighter and more responsive in his hands. This was it¡ªthis was how he''d win. But he needed something more to tip the scales completely.


    As Cassius prepared another spell, Damian closed his eyes briefly, letting his instincts guide him. He thought about his skills, his mana, and the limitations he faced. And then he remembered something from his past life, a technique he''d theorized but never tried. It was risky, but it might just work.


    When he opened his eyes, they glowed faintly with dark energy. "Let''s see how you handle this," he muttered under his breath. He raised the spear high, channeling mana into it until it pulsed with unstable energy. The ground beneath him trembled, cracks forming as the raw power of his mana surged outward. This wasn''t just Hellfire Spear anymore¡ªit was something far greater, something new.


    Damian focused, letting his instincts guide him. He drew on the oppressive aura of [Dark Dominion], infusing it into the already blazing energy of the spear. At the same time, he activated [Spectral Surge], his body vibrating with speed and precision as the afterimages of his movements distorted his position. The three abilities merged, their energies harmonizing into something that felt impossibly powerful.


    [New Skill Unlocked!]


    [Shadow Inferno Strike: The user channels the destructive force of [Dark Dominion], the searing intensity of [Hellfire Spear], and the agility-enhancing properties of [Spectral Surge] into a single, devastating attack. The user propels forward at blinding speed, leaving behind a trail of flames and darkness, before delivering an explosive strike that deals massive AoE damage, inflicts Terror, and reduces enemy defenses by 50% for 10 seconds. Cooldown: 3 minutes.]


    Damian grinned as the notification flashed across his mind. He didn''t have time to revel in the moment. Cassius was already on the offensive, a wave of crystal shards racing toward him with deadly precision.


    "No more playing defense," Damian growled. "[Shadow Inferno Strike!]"


    His body moved faster than his mind could process, blurring into motion as he launched forward. The hall filled with an ear-splitting roar as a trail of dark flames erupted in his wake, consuming the incoming shards in an instant. Cassius'' eyes widened slightly, the first hint of surprise breaking through his calm exterior.


    [Time Limit: 09:32]


    Damian closed the gap in a heartbeat, his spear glowing with a combination of searing flames and suffocating darkness. He swung it downward with all his strength, the impact creating a shockwave that rippled through the room.


    Cassius raised his arms, summoning a crystalline barrier. "[Prismatic Dome!]" The dome materialized just in time, but it cracked under the force of Damian''s strike. The ground beneath Cassius splintered, the sheer intensity of the attack forcing him back several steps.


    "You''ve been busy," Cassius said, his voice steady but edged with genuine interest. "I didn''t expect you to evolve mid-battle."


    Damian smirked, already moving for his next attack. "That''s the thing about me, Cas. I''m full of surprises."


    The flames trailing behind Damian reignited, spreading like wildfire across the training hall. The oppressive aura of [Dark Dominion] still lingered, sapping Cassius'' defenses even as he counterattacked. He unleashed another wave of mana, but Damian weaved through it effortlessly, his movements enhanced by [Spectral Surge].

 Chapter 175: Restless (Review Bonus)

    Warlock Ch 175. Restless


    "Admit it," Damian taunted, his voice brimming with confidence. "I''m getting under your skin."


    Cassius chuckled, brushing dust off his cloak as if Damian''s relentless assault was no more than a passing inconvenience. "Under my skin? Hardly. But I''ll give you this¡ªyou''ve improved."


    "Improved enough to corner you?" Damian lunged forward, his movements enhanced by [Spectral Surge], his spear burning with dark flames and corrosive energy as he launched himself toward Cassius.


    The energy emanating from Damian''s attack sent shockwaves across the room, the ground cracking beneath his feet as he propelled forward. Cassius barely had time to summon a barrier. "[Prismatic Dome!]" he barked, his voice sharp with concentration. The shimmering dome materialized just in time to absorb the brunt of Damian''s attack, but even the powerful barrier strained under the force and shattered.


    The collision was catastrophic. The impact sent a massive shockwave through the hall, shaking the foundation of the building and leaving cracks spiderwebbing across the barrier. Cassius gritted his teeth, his usually calm demeanor faltering for a split second. He summoned another [Hellfire Spear] to counter Damian''s. Both spears clashed. But while Damian held it like a weapon, Cassius simply held it with his Telekinesis power.


    Damian''s spear burned brighter, the dark energy swirling around it like a living entity, pushing harder against Cassius''.


    "I can see it!" Damian shouted, his voice raw with adrenaline. "You''re struggling, Cas! You can''t hold this forever!"


    Cassius'' smirk returned, albeit faintly. "And yet, here I am... still standing." With a flick of his wrist, he sent a burst of concentrated dark fire energy outward, forcing Damian to disengage. The explosion sent both of them skidding back, the force leaving a crater where they had collided.


    Damian barely managed to stay on his feet, his breath coming in ragged gasps. His body ached, his mana reserves dwindling, but he couldn''t stop now. He glanced at Cassius, who stood at the edge of the crater, his usually pristine cloak singed and tattered.


    "You''re cornered," Damian said, his tone steady despite his exhaustion. "I''m not letting up."


    "Cornered?" Cassius laughed, the sound rich with amusement. "Do you think this is me cornered? You''re bold."


    "You''re deflecting," Damian countered, his eyes narrowing. He gripped the spear tighter, the weapon pulsing with energy. "I''m closing in, and you know it."


    Cassius didn''t reply immediately. Instead, he stepped forward, his movements deliberate. The tension was palpable, the oppressive weight of Damian''s [Dark Dominion] still pressing down on everything. Cassius'' gaze was sharp, calculating, but Damian noticed something¡ªa flicker of fatigue in his mentor''s eyes.


    "You''ve pushed me farther than I expected," Cassius admitted, his tone quieter now. "But don''t let it go to your head."


    "Oh, it''s already there," Damian quipped, a grin tugging at his lips. He dashed forward again, his body a blur as he activated [Shadow Step] mid-charge. He reappeared behind Cassius, his spear already in motion.


    Cassius turned just in time, his hands glowing with mana as he caught the spear mid-strike with his own. The clash sent another wave of force through the room, the ground beneath them shattering further. Damian pressed down with all his strength.


    "You can''t keep up, Cas," Damian growled, his voice strained. "You''re slowing down."


    "And you''re running out of tricks," Cassius shot back, his grip tightening on the spear. "Let''s see how long you can keep this up."


    Damian gritted his teeth, sweat pouring down his face as he poured more mana into the spear. The flames and darkness around it surged, licking at Cassius'' hands and forcing him to release his grip. Damian spun the weapon in his hands, aiming for a follow-up strike, but Cassius was already moving.


    With a burst of mana, Cassius propelled himself backward, creating distance between them. Damian didn''t let up, closing the gap almost instantly with another burst of [Spectral Surge]. His spear struck again, and this time, Cassius didn''t block. He sidestepped the attack, his movements fluid, and retaliated with a wave of mana that caught Damian in the side.


    Damian stumbled, the searing pain momentarily breaking his focus. He hissed through clenched teeth, his body screaming at him to stop. But he couldn''t. Not now.


    "You''re relentless," Cassius said, his voice tinged with something that sounded almost like pride. "But even you have limits."


    Damian wiped the sweat from his brow, his grip on the spear unwavering. "Then I''ll break them," he said simply, his voice laced with determination. He raised the spear again, its energy flickering but still strong. "Because I''m not losing. Not to you."


    Cassius chuckled, shaking his head. "You''re as stubborn as ever, Kaelan."


    The use of his old name hit Damian like a jolt, but he didn''t let it distract him. Instead, he channeled the emotions it stirred into his next attack. He lunged forward, the flames and darkness of the spear blazing brighter than ever. Cassius met him head-on, their energies clashing in a burst of light and shadow that lit up the entire room.


    The impact left both of them reeling, but Damian could see it now¡ªthe cracks in Cassius'' armor, the signs of wear and tear. He had him cornered, and this time, he wasn''t letting up.


    "Time''s ticking," Damian said, his voice steady despite his exhaustion. "Let''s finish this."


    Cassius smirked, wiping a streak of dirt from his face. His robes were tattered, his usually pristine appearance marred by the intensity of their battle. "You''re right. Let''s finish this."


    Damian didn''t wait. He raised his hand, channeling everything he had left into his spear. "[Shadow Inferno Strike!]" he roared, the weapon bursting to life with swirling flames of darkness and blinding energy. The training hall seemed to warp under the sheer pressure of his mana, the ground trembling as he launched forward.


    Cassius countered immediately, summoning his own spear¡ªa mirror of Damian''s¡ªbut cloaked in shimmering fiery fire. "[Hellfire Spear!]" he bellowed, meeting Damian head-on. The collision was catastrophic. Flames, shadows, and light exploded outward, the force sending shockwaves that obliterated the walls of the training hall. The impact was so massive that both warlocks were thrown back, slamming into opposite sides of the room.

 Chapter 176: A-Class Warlock

    Warlock Ch 176. A-Class Warlock


    The pain was real. Damian''s body screamed in protest as he hit the rubble-strewn floor. For a moment, his ears rang, and his vision blurred. The world around him seemed distant, muffled by the overwhelming ache that radiated through his entire being. But he couldn''t stop now. This was his chance¡ªhis only chance.


    Gritting his teeth, he forced himself to his knees. His hands trembled as he pushed against the cracked floor, his breath coming in ragged gasps. He swept his gaze across the debris-filled hall, searching. Where was Cassius?


    His eyes finally landed on his mentor. Cassius was across the hall, slumped against what remained of the wall, trying to stand. His movements were slower now, deliberate but clearly strained. Damian''s heart pounded. This was it. He had to act!


    "[Hellfire Spear...]" Damian muttered, his voice barely above a whisper. The weapon formed in his hand once more, its dark flames flickering with renewed intensity. He gripped it tightly, the edges of his vision swimming as he concentrated on his next move.


    Without a word, Damian activated [Shadow Step], his body vanishing in a swirl of darkness. He reappeared in an instant, mere steps behind Cassius, his spear already raised and aimed at the back of his mentor''s neck.


    Cassius froze, his body tensing. The sharp tip of the spear hovered just a hair''s breadth away from his skin. Damian''s breathing was heavy, his grip firm despite the tremors running through his body.


    "It''s over, Cas," Damian said, his voice low but resolute. "You know what this means."


    For a moment, there was only silence. The remnants of their battle hung in the air¡ªscorched stone, lingering shadows, and the acrid tang of mana burned to its limits. Cassius exhaled slowly, his head dipping in acknowledgment.


    "You used the loophole," Cassius said, a faint chuckle escaping him. "Smart. Annoying, but smart."


    Damian allowed himself a small smirk, though his body felt ready to collapse. "You always said to use every advantage."


    The system''s voice echoed through the ruined hall.


    [Time Limit Reached!]


    [Victory: Damian Blackthorn.]


    [New Rank: A-Class Warlock.]


    Damian let out a shaky breath, lowering the spear. He''d done it. He''d actually done it. His legs gave out, and he dropped to the ground, leaning heavily on the now-dimmed weapon for support.


    Cassius turned to face him, a faint grin tugging at his lips. "Well, congratulations, A-Class Warlock," he said, his tone dripping with mock ceremony. "Though I''ll admit, you''ve earned it."


    Damian laughed weakly, his chest heaving as he struggled to catch his breath. "You''re not going to say I got lucky?"


    "Oh, you definitely got lucky," Cassius teased, though his gaze softened slightly. "But luck only gets you so far. You''ve proven you''re ready."


    The acknowledgment hit Damian harder than he expected. "Thanks, Cas," he said, his voice quieter now.


    Cassius extended a hand, helping Damian to his feet. "Don''t get too comfortable. Rank A is just the beginning. You''re in the big leagues now."


    Damian winced as he stood, his entire body screaming in protest. "Right. No pressure."


    They both chuckled, the sound light despite the destruction around them. For a moment, mentor and apprentice stood side by side, surveying the aftermath of their battle. The hall was in ruins, but Damian didn''t care. He''d done it.


    Cassius extended his hand, and the crystal that had shattered earlier shimmered faintly in the air before reforming itself. Its jagged edges mended seamlessly, returning to its previous pristine shape. The now-reformed crystal floated toward Cassius, settling neatly in his hand as he examined it with a smirk.


    "The hall''s in a mess," Cassius said casually, his tone far too relaxed given the chaos around them.


    Damian gave a weak laugh, still trying to catch his breath. "Yeah. Tell me something I don''t know."


    Cassius turned to Damian, his smirk widening in a way that immediately set off alarms in Damian''s head. "You know what you have to do, right?"


    Damian''s eyes narrowed. "What''s that look supposed to mean?"


    Cassius didn''t reply immediately, instead gesturing broadly to the wreckage. Pieces of shattered stone and mana-scorched rubble littered the floor. "You''re still my apprentice," Cassius said smoothly, his tone carrying that trademark smugness. "And as my apprentice..."


    "Oh no. No way." Damian''s frown deepened, his exhaustion momentarily forgotten as realization dawned. "You''re not about to tell me to clean this up, are you?"


    Cassius raised an eyebrow, his smirk unwavering. "I am."


    Damian groaned, his head falling back dramatically. "I just got my A rank! You can''t make me clean up all this¡ªthis disaster!"


    Cassius crossed his arms, leaning slightly against what remained of a column. "Oh, but I can. Because you''re not officially rank A yet. You still need me to submit this crystal to validate your exam results."


    Damian''s eyes widened, indignation flooding his voice. "You''re blackmailing me?!"


    Cassius shrugged nonchalantly. "You could look at it that way. Or you could call it an incentive."


    "That''s unfair!" Damian whined, gesturing to the carnage around them. "Do you know how long this will take?"


    "Consider it payment," Cassius replied smoothly, his smirk growing. "For ruining my cloak and cheating the exam."


    Damian''s jaw dropped as he looked at the singed edges of Cassius'' once-pristine cloak. "Seriously? What about mine?" He motioned dramatically to his own tattered cloak, hanging in frayed strips off his shoulders. "You ruined mine too!"


    Cassius glanced at Damian''s cloak, his expression one of feigned indifference. "Oh, right. I forgot to ask¡ªwhy are you wearing a cloak, anyway? You weren''t wearing one yesterday."


    Damian straightened slightly, his indignation morphing into a defensive pout. "This is Kaelan''s cloak."


    Cassius blinked, his smirk fading momentarily as curiosity replaced it. "Kaelan''s cloak? You''re saying you bought that? Why have I never seen it before?"


    "Yeah," Damian replied, his voice softening. "I... left it behind before I had the chance to wear it."


    For a brief moment, the air between them shifted, the usual teasing giving way to something more reflective. Cassius studied Damian, his gaze lingering on the frayed cloak. "Huh," he said finally, his tone unreadable. "Guess it suits you."

 Chapter 177: Chop! Chop!

    Warlock Ch 177. Chop! Chop!


    Damian blinked, caught off guard by the rare note of sincerity. "Uh... thanks, I guess?"


    The moment passed as quickly as it had come. Cassius straightened, his smirk returning as he gestured to the wreckage again. "But back to business. Chop, chop."


    Damian groaned loudly, dragging his feet toward the nearest pile of rubble. "I hate you."


    "Sure you do," Cassius said, watching with amusement as Damian begrudgingly started clearing the debris with manual effort.


    As Damian worked, muttering curses under his breath, Cassius leaned back against the column, his expression softening just slightly. Despite the destruction and the complaints, there was a faint sense of pride in his gaze.


    "You''ve come a long way," Cassius murmured to himself, too quietly for Damian to hear. "Don''t let me down, Kaelan."


    With that, Cassius turned on his heel and strode out of the hall, the heavy doors closing behind him with a resounding thud. Damian didn''t move for a moment, listening to Cassius'' footsteps fade away. As soon as he was sure the coast was clear, a grin spread across his face.


    "There is no way I''m cleaning this up alone," he muttered, cracking his knuckles and pulling his mana. "Summon..."


    Dark shadows curled at his feet, swirling upwards like smoke as his summons materialized one by one. First, the Shadow Minions, their wiry frame twitching with barely-contained energy. Then the Mischievous Shades, their form flickering as if it were more illusion than substance. The Agile Wraiths and Stalker Phantoms followed. There were a dozen of them.


    "Alright, you lot," Damian said, gesturing to the mess. "Clean this up. You know the drill¡ªmove fast, don''t slack off, and don''t touch anything that looks like it might still explode or crumble."


    The servants sprang into action immediately, scattering across the hall with efficiency. The Shadow Minions darted to a pile of shattered stone, their small hands surprisingly strong as they began stacking debris. The Mischievous Shades hovered near a scorch mark on the wall, their intangible hands scrubbing the surface clean. The Agile Wraiths zipped across the room, moving rubble to one side, while the Stalker Phantoms silently worked on larger chunks of debris.


    Damian crossed his arms, leaning back against the nearest intact wall as he watched them. "Now, this is more like it," he said, smirking to himself. "Delegation¡ªtruly the mark of an A-Class Warlock." He gazed at the warlock mark on the back of his hand. It changed again, showing he was a higher rank warlock. ''I need a glove to cover this,'' he thought.


    His attention was back to the servants. Damian couldn''t help but marvel at how far he''d come. The last few days had been a whirlwind of battles, revelations, and relentless training. And yet, here he was¡ªalive, stronger than ever, and became A-Class. Well, unofficially, but that was just a technicality. ''I''m even faster than my past self,'' he thought pridefully.


    Still, something gnawed at him. Watching his servants work was efficient, sure, but it wasn''t enough.


    "Alright," Damian muttered, closing his eyes and focusing inward. "Let''s play around with this new power."


    He concentrated, his mana pooling and swirling inside him, darker and denser than ever before. He could feel it responding to his will, bending to his command. He thought of the rubble, the mess scattered across the hall, and imagined it moving¡ªnot with his servants, but with his mind.


    A spark ignited. His mana flared, and suddenly, a notification appeared in his vision.


    [New Skill Unlocked!]


    [Telekinesis Lv. 1: Grants the ability to manipulate objects with the power of your mind. Single-target mode for precise control, or Area mode for broader applications. Mana cost scales with size and weight of objects. Cooldown: None.]


    Damian''s grin widened. "Oh, this is going to be fun."


    He opened his eyes, his irises glowing faintly with dark energy as he raised a hand. The nearest pile of rubble quivered, then slowly lifted into the air. With a flick of his wrist, Damian sent the debris flying across the room, neatly stacking it against the far wall.


    "Not bad," he muttered, a hint of pride in his voice.


    He expanded his focus, switching to Area mode. The entire hall seemed to respond to his will, rubble and debris rising in unison as if pulled by invisible strings. Damian moved his hands like a conductor leading an orchestra, directing the mess into organized piles with surprising precision.


    His shadow servants paused in their work, their glowing eyes turning to watch him. Damian caught their stares and smirked. "Don''t just stand there¡ªkeep working. This isn''t a show."


    The servants resumed their tasks, though they moved with less urgency now that Damian''s new skill was doing most of the heavy lifting. Within minutes, the hall began to take shape again, the rubble cleared, scorch marks erased, and broken furniture neatly set aside.


    Damian wiped a bead of sweat from his brow, his breathing steady despite the exertion. "[Telekinesis]," he said to himself, admiring his work. "Definitely keeping this one."


    The last of the rubble floated into place, and Damian let his mana dissipate, the dark energy fading as the room fell silent. He surveyed his handiwork, a satisfied smile tugging at his lips.


    "Perfect," he said, clapping his hands together. "And all without breaking a sweat. Well, mostly."


    Damian let his gaze wander across the room, the pristine order he''d just created with his shadow servants and new Telekinesis skill filling him with a mix of pride and nostalgia. But as his eyes lingered on the deeper structural damage¡ªthe shattered walls, scorched columns, and cracked floors¡ªhis smile faltered.


    "Of course," he muttered to himself, running a hand through his sweat-dampened hair. "Fixing the mess wasn''t enough."


    His thoughts drifted back to when he was Kaelan, a name that still felt like both a burden and a second skin. Back then, being a troublemaker had been second nature. Training sessions that wrecked halls, magical experiments that exploded in his face¡ªit was all part of the chaos he thrived in. But the mess he left behind? That was his responsibility, too.

 Chapter 178: Old Habits Die Hard

    Warlock Ch 178. Old Habits Die Hard


    "Guess old habits die hard," Damian said, stepping toward one of the shattered columns. He knelt, placing a hand against the cold, jagged stone. He could feel the damage beneath his fingers, as if the structure itself was lamenting its state.


    He concentrated, letting his mana flow through him, focusing on the idea of restoration. His breathing slowed, the room growing quiet as the world around him blurred. Then, a notification blinked into view.


    [New Skills Unlocked!]


    [Fix Lv. 1]: Restores damaged objects to their original state. Requires appropriate materials and consumes mana proportional to the complexity and size of the repair. Cooldown: None.


    [Upgrade Lv. 1]: Enhances the durability, efficiency, or functionality of an object. Requires materials and consumes additional mana based on the level of enhancement. Cooldown: None.


    Damian blinked at the notifications, a grin slowly spreading across his face. "Fix and Upgrade, huh? Now we''re talking."


    He activated [Fix], feeling the skill pulse through him as his hand glowed faintly. A secondary notification popped up.


    [Materials Required: Stone (30%), Mana-Infused Shard (10%)]


    He raised an eyebrow, glancing around at the debris scattered across the room. "Good thing I didn''t toss all of this out."


    With a flick of his wrist, he used [Telekinesis] to summon chunks of stone and mana-infused debris. The materials floated to him, glowing faintly as they gathered around the broken column. Once enough pieces hovered in place, Damian concentrated again.


    The glow around his hand intensified, and the stones began to meld seamlessly into the shattered column. The jagged edges smoothed out, cracks fading as if they had never been there. Within moments, the column stood whole once more, its surface gleaming faintly with mana.


    Damian stepped back, admiring his work. "Not bad," he said, his voice tinged with satisfaction. "Looks even better than before."


    Encouraged, he moved to the next damaged area¡ªa section of the floor that had been obliterated during one of Cassius'' earlier attacks. He repeated the process, gathering materials with Telekinesis, then channeling [Fix]. The floor repaired itself with a satisfying hum, the stone settling perfectly into place.


    "Guess I still got it," Damian muttered, his grin widening.


    The process became almost meditative as he worked his way through the training hall. The walls were the trickiest, requiring precise alignment of materials, but Damian''s mana control had only improved since his rebirth. What once might have taken him hours now took minutes.


    He was halfway through restoring a particularly large scorch mark on the floor when he heard the telltale creak of the doors opening. Damian didn''t bother looking up, already guessing who it was.


    "Couldn''t resist coming back to check on me, huh, Cas?" he called over his shoulder, his tone dripping with mock arrogance.


    Cassius'' voice was dry as ever. "I''m more surprised you''re still working, but not at all surprised you''re taking another shortcut."


    Damian turned to face him, gesturing dramatically to the nearly restored hall. "What can I say? I''m a genius."


    Cassius'' sharp gaze swept over the room, pausing on the freshly repaired structures. He raised an eyebrow. "You did this?"


    "Of course," Damian said, brushing imaginary dust from his cloak. "Well, me and my new skill."


    Cassius tilted his head, intrigued. "Another one? Let me guess¡ªrestoration?"


    "Fix," Damian confirmed, his grin widening. "And Upgrade, but I haven''t tested that one yet. Thought I''d start with the basics before getting fancy."


    Cassius hummed thoughtfully, stepping closer to inspect one of the repaired walls. "You''ve learned to restore and enhance? Impressive. Seems the demon king''s power really is pushing you to new heights."


    Damian rolled his eyes. "Let''s not give the demon king all the credit, yeah? Some of this is just good old-fashioned talent."


    Cassius smirked faintly. "Fair enough. But don''t get too cocky."


    "Noted," Damian said, turning back to his work. He reached for a pile of rubble, his focus already shifting to the next task. "But honestly, this is nothing compared to the training earlier. After that, fixing a few walls feels like a vacation."


    Cassius chuckled softly, his amusement clear. "If you think this is a vacation, then I must be doing something right."


    Damian snorted, shaking his head. "Yeah, yeah. Laugh it up."


    Cassius watched Damian work, a rare flicker of pride crossed his face. Despite his usual detached demeanor, he couldn''t deny that Damian was proving himself in ways that even he hadn''t expected.


    "You''ve come a long way," Cassius said quietly, more to himself than to Damian.


    Damian didn''t hear him, too focused on the task at hand. But the faint glow of satisfaction in Cassius'' eyes lingered as he watched his apprentice¡ªno, not his apprentice anymore¡ªturn the chaos of the training hall into something whole once more.


    No, Damian wasn''t just an apprentice. Officially, perhaps, but Cassius knew better. This wasn''t just a warlock in training standing before him. This was Kaelan, back in a different form, but still the same stubborn, brilliant, chaotic force he had always been. A faint smile tugged at Cassius'' lips as he crossed his arms, leaning casually against the now-restored wall.


    "Want to eat before you go home?" Cassius asked, his tone as nonchalant as ever.


    Damian froze mid-motion, his hand hovering over a stack of rubble he''d been about to gather with Telekinesis. "Wait, you''re offering food?" he quipped, throwing a mock incredulous glance over his shoulder.


    "Yeah," Cassius smirked. "Victoria sent a messenger. She''s visiting us shortly, and she''s expecting an answer."


    Damian''s teasing demeanor evaporated instantly. His expression grew serious, his brow furrowing as he turned fully toward Cassius. "And?" he asked, his voice lower, more cautious. "What are you going to tell her?"


    Cassius shrugged, the gesture deceptively casual. "That depends on your answer."


    Damian''s lips pressed into a thin line, his thoughts swirling. He ran a hand through his hair. Accepting Victoria''s mission meant diving headfirst into the tangled web of his past¡ªKaelan''s past¡ªand whatever truths it held about her, her late husband, and the part he had played in it all.

 Chapter 179: Philosophy

    Warlock Ch 179. Philosophy


    "I''ll do it," Damian said finally, his tone firm despite the uncertainty lurking in his eyes. "I want to know what happened between Kaelan, her, and her husband. I need to understand why... why did things end the way they did."


    Cassius watched him closely, his sharp gaze searching for any hesitation, any cracks in Damian''s resolve. He found none.


    Damian continued, a wry smile tugging at his lips. "Besides, this might be a good way to get away from Aria for a while. She''s not exactly subtle with her suspicions."


    Cassius chuckled, his smirk widening. "You''re not wrong. She''s persistent, I''ll give her that. But what about Evelyn? Will she give you permission?"


    Damian hesitated, his expression softening. The mention of Evelyn brought a flicker of warmth to his eyes, but it was tempered by the weight of what he was about to do. "I''ll talk to her," he said finally. "She''ll understand. She always does... even if she doesn''t like it."


    The room fell into a brief silence. Cassius broke it with a sharp exhale, pushing off the wall and gesturing toward the door. "Come on, let''s eat. You''re no good to anyone if you collapse from hunger before making your big decisions."


    Damian smirked faintly, following Cassius toward the exit. "Didn''t think you''d be the type to encourage food breaks, Cas. What happened to your ''warlocks don''t need rest'' philosophy?"


    Cassius glanced back at him, his smirk laced with a hint of nostalgia. "Even warlocks need fuel, Damian. Besides, you''ve earned it. For now."


    They stepped into the dining hall, the scent of roasted meat and freshly baked bread wafting through the air. Damian''s stomach growled audibly, and he rolled his eyes at the timing.


    Cassius arched an eyebrow, his smirk widening. "Looks like your body agrees."


    "Shut up," Damian muttered, though the faint grin tugging at his lips betrayed his amusement.


    They sat down to eat. Damian picked at his food absently, his thoughts far from the table.


    "You''re thinking too hard," Cassius remarked, breaking the silence.


    Damian glanced up, meeting his gaze. "You would be too if you were about to dive into a mess like this."


    Cassius leaned back in his chair, his expression calm. "Maybe. Or maybe I''d just focus on the task ahead. You can''t change the past, Damian. But you can shape what comes next."


    Damian exhaled heavily, leaning his elbows on the table. "Easier said than done."


    "Most things worth doing are," Cassius replied, his tone oddly gentle. "But you''ve got the strength to face this, whether you realize it or not."


    Damian stared at the table, his fingers tracing idle patterns on the wood. He exhaled slowly, the weight in his chest refusing to lift despite Cassius'' words.


    "I know," he muttered, his voice quieter than he intended. "I just... I''m afraid."


    The admission felt heavier than he expected. It wasn''t something he said often¡ªever, really. To admit fear, especially to someone like Cassius, felt like peeling away a layer of armor he wasn''t ready to lose.


    Cassius scoffed, leaning back in his chair with a faint smirk. "Now that''s a fancy word coming from you. The Kaelan I knew never said it."


    Damian''s lips twitched into something that wasn''t quite a smile. "I never said it, sure. But that doesn''t mean I never felt it. Even back then."


    Cassius'' smirk softened slightly, his gaze sharpening. "So what are you afraid of now? It''s not her, is it? Not Victoria. Or even Varak."


    "No," Damian admitted, his voice steady but tense. "It''s not them."


    Cassius tilted his head, studying him with the same piercing intensity that had unnerved so many over the years. "Then it''s the truth, isn''t it? The truth about what you did in the past?"


    Damian huffed, running a hand through his hair. He nodded reluctantly. "Yeah. I''m afraid of what I''ll find. I hope... I really hope all of this is just a misunderstanding. Or maybe¡ª" He paused, his jaw tightening before he forced the words out. "Maybe it was Victoria. Maybe she wanted to get rid of me."


    Cassius raised an eyebrow, his expression twisting into something between disbelief and annoyance. "So you prefer the possibility that Victoria orchestrated this entire mission just to eliminate you? That she''s no better than the councils or any of the others who''ve hunted you?"


    Damian opened his mouth to respond but faltered. He looked away, his gaze fixed on the wall as if it held the answers he was searching for. Cassius leaned forward, his tone sharper now.


    "Think about what you''re saying," Cassius pressed. "You''re so afraid of feeling guilty, of finding out you killed her husband out of envy or ambition, that you''d rather pin this on her? You''d rather believe she''s some master manipulator playing the long game just to see you fall?"


    "I don''t know," Damian snapped, the frustration in his voice cutting through the tension. He dropped his head into his hands, his fingers threading through his hair. "I don''t know, Cas. I''m in denial and I know that. Yet... None of it feels right. It never has. "


    Cassius pinched the bridge of his nose, exhaling a long, weary sigh. "You''re reaching, Damian. Or Kaelan. Or whatever name you prefer today. Do you hear yourself?"


    Damian shot him a glare. "I don''t need your judgment right now, Cas."


    "Then what do you need?" Cassius countered, his voice sharper now. "Validation? Reassurance that this mission will magically fix everything? Because it won''t."


    "I know that," Damian said in a much bitter tone, shoving his chair back and standing abruptly. He paced to the far side of the room, his hands flexing at his sides as he tried to rein in his emotions. "But I don''t know what else to do. I''m grasping at straws because the alternative is facing a truth that could break me."


    Cassius watched him silently, his sharp gaze softening as he saw the turmoil Damian was trying so hard to hide. After a long moment, he spoke, his voice quieter than before. "Damian... you''re not the same man you were as Kaelan. Maybe that''s a good thing."

 Chapter 180: You’re Carving Your Own Path

    Warlock Ch 180. You''re Carving Your Own Path


    Damian stopped pacing, his back still turned. He let out a bitter laugh, shaking his head. "You think I don''t know that? But it doesn''t change the fact that I''m stuck cleaning up his mess."


    Cassius stood, crossing the room to stand beside him. "You''re not cleaning up anyone''s mess, Damian. You''re carving your own path, even if it overlaps with Kaelan''s."


    Damian glanced at him, a faint smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. "You''re annoyingly good at these pep talks, you know that?"


    Cassius arched an eyebrow, his smirk returning. "It''s a skill. Now sit down and eat. We''ll talk later. Victoria will be here soon."


    Damian sighed but relented, returning to the table and finishing his meal.


    By the time Damian finished eating, Cassius'' shadow servant appeared, bowing slightly before speaking. "Master, Mrs. Bloodrose has arrived."


    Cassius nodded, standing with a calm air of authority. "Bring her to the living room. We''ll be there shortly."


    The servant disappeared, leaving Damian and Cassius alone for a brief moment. Cassius turned to him, his expression unreadable. "Remember, you''re still my apprentice. Act the part."


    Damian rolled his eyes but nodded. "Yeah, yeah. ''Master.'' Got it."


    The two made their way to the living room. Victoria was seated gracefully on the plush armchair, her poise as impeccable as ever. Her sharp eyes scanned the room as they entered, but they quickly landed on Damian¡ªand his tattered cloak.


    "Interesting choice of attire," she remarked, her tone cool but laced with curiosity. "It''s not every day one sees a warlock in something so... worn."


    Damian felt a flicker of annoyance but kept his expression neutral, lowering his head slightly in deference. "Apologies, Lady Victoria. It was my favorite cloak, but my recent training session with Master Cassius was... rigorous."


    Victoria''s gaze flicked to Cassius, her lips curving into a faint smirk. "Rigorous, indeed. Your apprentice appears to have survived, at least."


    Cassius returned her look with an air of nonchalance, folding his arms. "Barely. But he''ll be stronger for it."


    Damian inwardly rolled his eyes at the exchange but kept his composure. "Master is thorough," he added, forcing a tone of respect into his voice.


    Victoria chuckled softly, leaning back in her chair. "I see. Well, I appreciate you making the time to meet with me despite your... taxing schedule."


    Cassius gestured for Damian to take a seat before settling into one himself. "We''ve discussed your proposal, Victoria. We have decided to accept the mission."


    Her expression didn''t shift, but Damian caught the faintest flicker of something in her eyes¡ªapproval? Amusement? It was hard to tell.


    "Good," she said simply. "It''s not a task I entrust lightly, but I believe you are... capable. Especially your apprentice."


    Damian suppressed a snort at the word "apprentice" but managed to keep his face impassive. "I''ll do my best to meet your expectations, Lady Victoria," he said, his tone measured.


    "See that you do," she replied, her gaze sharp. "Varak Bloodshade is not a foe to be taken lightly. His ambition and power have made him a formidable threat. I assume Cassius has prepared you adequately?"


    Damian glanced at Cassius, who gave the faintest nod. "Master has ensured I''m ready," he said, the words rolling off his tongue with practiced ease.


    Victoria''s gaze lingered on him for a moment, as if assessing the truth of his statement. Then she nodded, rising gracefully from her seat. "Very well. I expect you to begin tomorrow morning. Time is not on our side."


    Damian stood as well, bowing slightly. "Understood."


    Cassius remained seated, his sharp gaze following Victoria as she moved toward the door. "We''ll be in touch."


    Once the door closed behind her, the room fell into silence. Damian let out a long exhale, running a hand through his hair. "Well, that was... something."


    Cassius chuckled softly, standing and clapping a hand on Damian''s shoulder. "You handled it well. Now comes the hard part."


    Damian smirked faintly. "Yeah. What else is new?"


    Cassius leaned against the armchair, his arms crossed and his sharp gaze fixed on Damian. "Speaking of which, don''t forget to tell Evelyn about the mission."


    Damian rolled his eyes, running a hand through his hair. "Yeah, yeah, I''ll tell her. You should probably get yourself ready too."


    Cassius arched an eyebrow, the faintest smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. "I''ve been ready since before you were reborn, genius. You''re the one who needs to prepare."


    "Touche?," Damian muttered. "So, are we done here, or are you about to drop another surprise on me?"


    Cassius straightened, his smirk widening. "You''re free to go home, but don''t forget¡ªtomorrow is when the real work begins."


    Damian frowned, crossing his arms. "Wait. No books? No homework? You''re letting me off the hook just like that?"


    Cassius'' expression darkened, his glare sharp enough to pierce steel. "Do you seriously want me to give you homework? Because I can find plenty of advanced grimoires for you to decipher."


    Damian raised his hands in mock surrender, a grin spreading across his face. "No, no, it''s fine. I''m good. Really. See you tomorrow, Cas!"


    He turned to leave, his tattered cloak billowing slightly behind him as he made his way toward the door. Just as his hand touched the doorknob, Cassius spoke again.


    "Damian."


    He stopped, glancing over his shoulder. "What now?"


    Cassius gestured toward the cloak, his tone dry. "Take that thing off before you leave."


    Damian frowned, clutching the edges of his cloak protectively. "What? Why?"


    "Because," Cassius said, his voice laced with exasperation, "if people see you walking around looking like you''ve just survived an explosion, they''ll start asking questions. And I''d rather not have anyone poking their noses into my training methods."


    Damian hesitated, glancing down at the tattered fabric. He sighed dramatically, shrugging it off and folding it neatly over his arm. "Fine. Happy now?"


    Cassius smirked, nodding once. "Ecstatic. Now get out of here."


    Damian rolled his eyes but couldn''t suppress a small grin as he opened the door. "See you tomorrow, Cas. Try not to miss me too much."


    Cassius didn''t respond, but Damian caught the faintest chuckle as the door closed behind him. Stepping into the crisp evening air, Damian exhaled. His thoughts turned to Evelyn¡ªhow she''d react to the mission, and whether she''d support his decision.

 Chapter 181: Death Wish

    Warlock Ch 181. Death Wish


    The street was quiet, with only the occasional passerby. Damian walked with his hands in his pockets, his mind racing. He wasn''t worried about Evelyn opposing the mission¡ªdeep down, he knew she''d understand. But that didn''t make it any easier to break the news to her.


    "How do you tell someone you''re diving headfirst into a mess tied to your past without making it sound like a death wish?" he muttered to himself, kicking a small stone down the cobblestone path. "Maybe I should just rip the bandage off."


    Lost in thought, Damian barely noticed the way people turned their heads as he passed. He wasn''t exactly someone who blended into the background, but this felt different. It wasn''t until a woman gasped and whispered something to her companion that Damian finally frowned and glanced around. Nothing seemed off¡ªno glowing warlock mark, no tattered cloak. So why the stares?


    He rubbed the back of his neck, his unease growing. His steps quickened, but before he could escape the curious looks, a familiar voice called out.


    "Oh, my goddess! Are you okay, dear?"


    Damian turned to see Faye, the fae shopkeeper who had befriended Evelyn. She hurried toward him, her large, expressive eyes wide with concern.


    "Uh, yeah, I''m fine," Damian replied, though his frown deepened. "Why?"


    Faye stopped in front of him, her hands fluttering like restless birds. "You look like you just stepped out of a failed magical experiment!"


    Damian blinked. "What?"


    She gestured toward the shop window beside them, and Damian reluctantly turned to look. His reflection stared back, a disheveled mess of soot-streaked skin and singed hair. Some of his locks were even slightly curled from the heat of Cassius'' spells or... his, giving him an unintentional and distinctly tragic new hairstyle.


    "Right..." Damian cringed, running a hand through his hair only to find it stiff with residue. "Even my face and hair suffered the same fate as my cloak."


    Faye gave him a once-over, her lips pursed in concern. "Has Cassius been too hard on you? He''s a brilliant warlock, but sometimes he forgets that apprentices aren''t as... resilient as he is."


    Damian snorted, brushing soot off his sleeve. "Nah, I just went through an intense training session with him. But don''t worry, I''m fine. Cassius is a good mentor."


    "Is that so?" Faye tilted her head, clearly skeptical. "Just be careful, dear. You''re his first apprentice, aren''t you? He might not know how to handle a newbie properly. But I''ll admit, he is a good guy."


    Damian nodded, trying to ignore the growing number of people slowing down to gawk at him. "Yeah, he''s good. Just a little... intense."


    "That''s putting it lightly," Faye said with a chuckle. She reached into the small pouch slung across her shoulder, pulling out a delicate vial filled with shimmering green liquid. "Here. It''s a cleansing potion. Use it on your hair and skin when you get home. You''ll thank me later."


    Damian took the vial with a grateful nod. "Thanks. I''ll definitely use this."


    Faye smiled warmly. "Take care, Damian. And tell Evelyn to visit me soon. It''s been too long."


    "I will," Damian promised, slipping the vial into his pocket as he continued on his way.


    The rest of the journey passed quickly, though Damian couldn''t shake the faint embarrassment of being seen in such a state. When he finally reached his house, the sight of the warm, glowing lights through the windows helped ease his nerves.


    Pushing open the door, Damian stepped inside, the comforting scent of Evelyn''s cooking filling the air. Yup, dumpling soup! His favorite!


    He kicked off his boots and headed toward the kitchen, where he found her standing by the stove, stirring a pot of the soup that smelled divine.


    Evelyn turned at the sound of his footsteps, her expression shifting from a warm smile to mild horror. "What happened to you?"


    Damian sighed, running a hand through his ruined hair. "Long story. Cassius'' training got a little... fiery."


    Evelyn narrowed her eyes, placing the spoon down with deliberate care. "Fiery?"


    "Don''t worry," Damian said quickly, holding up his hands. "I''m fine. Just a little singed around the edges."


    Her gaze softened, though concern still lingered in her eyes. "You look like you''ve been through a war."


    "Feels like it too," Damian muttered. He pulled out the vial Faye had given him, holding it up. "Faye gave me this on the way back. Said it''ll help with the whole ''looking like I survived an explosion'' thing."


    Evelyn chuckled, taking the vial from him and inspecting it. "Smart woman. You should listen to her."


    "I plan to," Damian said, leaning against the counter. His smile faded slightly as he glanced at her. "Evelyn, there''s something I need to tell you."


    She looked up, her expression instantly serious. "What is it?"


    Damian hesitated, the words catching in his throat. But he knew there was no easy way to say it. "I accepted Victoria''s mission."


    Evelyn froze, her hand tightening around the vial. "You... did?"


    "Yeah," Damian admitted, rubbing the back of his neck. "I need to know what happened in the past¡ªwhat happened between Kaelan, her, and her husband. This mission might be my only chance to get answers."


    Evelyn''s gaze searched his face, her expression unreadable. Finally, she sighed, placing the vial on the counter. "I thought you would."


    "Are you mad?" Damian asked cautiously.


    "No," Evelyn said, her voice soft but firm. "I''m not mad. I just... I worry about you, Damian. This isn''t just about the mission. It''s about your past, and I know how much that weighs on you."


    "It does," Damian admitted. "But I can''t run from it forever."


    Evelyn stepped closer, placing a hand on his arm. Her touch was warm, grounding him as her gaze locked with his. "I''ll give you my permission," she said softly, though her tone carried an unyielding edge, "as long as I can come with you."


    Damian frowned, his brows knitting together. "Are you sure you want to come with me? I mean..."


    Evelyn tilted her head, her eyes narrowing. "Mean what?"

 Chapter 182: Different End

    Warlock Ch 182. Different End


    He hesitated, choosing his words carefully. "I mean... this mission isn''t going to be simple. It''s tied to my past, to Kaelan''s past. It might not be safe for you."


    She stepped back slightly, crossing her arms as she regarded him with an expression that screamed frustration. "Last time, when you were still Kaelan, you just left me. You only contacted me through magic messengers or sent your servants with half-hearted updates. I get it, Damian¡ªyou were a wanted man, and you thought severing ties with me and Cassius would protect us. But I don''t want to end up like that again. Ever."


    Damian winced at the accusation, her words cutting deeper than he expected. He opened his mouth to respond, but nothing came out. What could he say? Even if his memories were fragmented, he could see himself making that exact choice. He was the kind of person who preferred to shoulder everything alone, to take the fall if it meant keeping others out of harm''s way. And in his warped logic, leaving Evelyn behind would''ve seemed like the right thing to do.


    His silence didn''t go unnoticed. Evelyn''s expression softened, but her determination didn''t waver. "I know you''re probably thinking I don''t understand what you''re facing, but I do. And I don''t care how dangerous it is¡ªI''m coming with you. I''ve already been left behind once, and I won''t let it happen again."


    Damian sighed, rubbing the back of his neck as he weighed her words. She wasn''t wrong. If he pushed her away now, it would only repeat the mistakes of his past. "Fine," he said finally, his tone resigned but tinged with something almost like relief. "You can come."


    Evelyn''s shoulders relaxed, her lips curving into a small, triumphant smile. "Good. I''ll start packing tonight."


    Damian nodded, but before she could leave the room, he grinned faintly. "Oh, right, one more thing¡ªI''ve got some good news for you."


    She raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "What is it?"


    He held out his hand, palm up, and with a faint glow, the sigil of a Rank A Warlock appeared on the back of his hand. "I''m officially a Rank A warlock now," he announced, his grin widening.


    Evelyn''s eyes lit up with genuine happiness as she clasped his hand, her fingers tracing the glowing sigil. "Congratulations, Damian! That''s incredible! And... explains why you look like you just got back from a war."


    Damian chuckled, though there was a tinge of exhaustion in his voice. "You don''t look surprised. Did Cassius tell you?"


    She nodded, stepping back and folding her arms. "He told me everything. The method he used, the unorthodox exam¡ªit was all planned. We knew you were advancing too quickly for a typical warlock, and that would''ve raised red flags with the higher-ups. This was the only way to push you forward without drawing attention."


    Damian let out a low whistle, impressed by their foresight. "So you both set this up to keep me under the radar?"


    Evelyn shrugged, her expression turning serious. "We didn''t have much of a choice. If the higher-ups found out how fast you were growing, they''d start asking questions. Questions we can''t afford to answer right now."


    "Smart," Damian admitted, his tone lighter. "Annoying, but smart."


    Evelyn smirked. "That''s Cassius for you. He''s always been annoyingly clever."


    Damian chuckled, his mood lifting slightly. "True. But I can''t argue with the results."


    She placed a hand on his arm again, her gaze softening. "Just remember, Damian¡ªyou don''t have to face this alone anymore. Whatever happens on this mission, we''ll face it together."


    Her words settled something in him. He nodded, his grin softening into something more genuine. "Thanks, Evelyn. That means a lot."


    She smiled. "Good. Now go clean up before dinner. You''re not sitting at my table looking like that."


    Damian raised an eyebrow, glancing down at himself. His clothes were tattered, and his skin was streaked with soot and dirt. He looked like he''d barely survived a magical battlefield¡ªwhich wasn''t far from the truth. "Aye, ma''am!" he said, giving her a mock salute before heading toward the bathroom.


    The warm water felt like a blessing as it cascaded over him. Damian leaned against the cool tiles, letting the water soothe his aching muscles. His mind, however, was still racing. He thought about the mission ahead, about Victoria, Varak, and his past. He thought about Evelyn''s determination to join him, her support, and how different things felt this time around.


    Drying off and dressing in clean, comfortable clothes, he made his way to the dining room. The rich aroma hit him before he even entered, and his stomach growled again.


    The table was set, and in the center was a steaming pot of dumpling soup. Damian''s face lit up. "Oh yeah!" he exclaimed, practically bouncing to his seat. "I missed this so much."


    Evelyn chuckled as she placed a ladle into the pot, serving him a generous portion. "Slow down, will you? Did Cassius not feed you?"


    Damian grinned sheepishly, already lifting his spoon to take a sip. "He treated me to dinner," he admitted, savoring the first taste of the broth. It was rich and flavorful, warming him from the inside out. He let out a satisfied groan. "But a second dinner? Totally fine. Especially for this."


    He scooped up a fat dumpling and popped it into his mouth, his eyes widening as the savory filling burst with flavor. "This is perfect," he said around a mouthful, his voice muffled but full of appreciation.


    Evelyn laughed, sitting across from him with her own bowl. "You''re impossible."


    He shrugged, swallowing his bite and reaching for another dumpling. "What can I say? You''re too good at this."


    They ate in comfortable silence for a while, the clinking of spoons and the occasional satisfied sigh filling the room.


    "So," Evelyn said eventually, her tone light but curious. "How does it feel? Being a Rank A warlock now."


    Damian leaned back in his chair, patting his stomach with a satisfied sigh. "Feels good," he admitted. "Like I''ve earned something. It''s not just a title¡ªit''s a target. I know it''s not my first but still, I feel like I managed to speed runs my entire academic period."

 Chapter 183: Do You Think I’m That Weak?

    Warlock Ch 183. Do You Think I''m That Weak?


    Evelyn nodded, her expression thoughtful. "That rank is also a shield. People respect Rank A warlocks. They''ll think twice before challenging you. I know it''s unofficial, but... that doesn''t mean they can''t feel that you''re different from the others. Even though the amulet covers it up, your power display will be different."


    "True," Damian replied, leaning back in his chair. He tapped his fingers lightly against the edge of the table, his eyes distant. "I can only hope the amulet can cover my power longer."


    He paused, then smirked, lifting the amulet from around his neck as if to inspect it before biting into a dumpling instead. "Oh right," he added between bites, his tone casual. "I forgot to mention¡ªAria was just at Cassius''s place."


    Evelyn froze mid-sip of her tea, her face darkening. "What?" Her voice was sharp, a mix of surprise and annoyance. "What did she say?"


    Damian didn''t miss the way her grip on the teacup tightened. He raised an eyebrow but continued nonchalantly. "She suspected me. Like usual. You know how she is. She even tested me¡ªthrew a little thunder magic my way to see how I''d react. Luckily, I could act well. You know me." He grinned, though the conversation was anything but light.


    Evelyn''s frown deepened, her face sour. "This is bad."


    "Yeah, bad," Damian agreed, popping another dumpling into his mouth and chewing thoughtfully. "But... the mission Victoria offered? It could take me out of Aria''s picture for a while. She knows Kaelan had issues with Victoria in the past, so she probably won''t think I''m digging into that problem instead of... you know... being me. I guess this is a win-win solution, then?"


    Evelyn didn''t look convinced. She crossed her arms and leaned back in her chair, her lips pressing into a thin line before she finally exhaled, a sharp huff of frustration. "I guess this is kinda a win-win solution. I know how stubborn she is."


    Damian watched her carefully, his playful smirk fading as a more serious expression took over. "Has she ever visited you before? I mean, before all this? Before... you found me again, or maybe before I found you again?"


    Evelyn''s gaze faltered, and for a moment, she hesitated. She looked as if she was weighing her words, debating how much to say. Finally, she nodded, but it was reluctant¡ªan acknowledgment she didn''t seem happy to give. "She came to me a few times."


    Damian''s brows furrowed, and he leaned forward slightly. The humor in his tone was gone, replaced by quiet intensity. "What did she do to you?" His voice was low but firm. "Did she hurt you?"


    "No," Evelyn said quickly, her tone defensive. Her chin tilted up slightly, her usual fiery resolve returning. "Do you think I''m that weak?"


    Damian didn''t back down. He studied her carefully, noting the slight tension in her jaw and the flicker of something¡ªanger? pain?¡ªin her eyes. "I''m not saying you''re weak. I''m saying Aria is relentless. If she wanted something from you, she wouldn''t stop until she got it."


    Evelyn''s expression softened, but only slightly. She looked away, her gaze fixed on a distant point, as if the memory of Aria''s visits was something she''d rather bury. "She didn''t hurt me," she repeated, her voice quieter now. "But she wasn''t exactly kind, either. She wanted answers¡ªwanted to know if I''d been in contact with you or if I had any idea where you were. I told her the truth: I didn''t know. She didn''t believe me, of course."


    Damian''s jaw tightened, and a flicker of anger sparked in his chest. "Of course, she didn''t. She thinks everyone''s hiding something from her."


    Evelyn nodded. "Exactly. But after a while, she stopped coming around. I think she finally believed I didn''t know anything. Or maybe she just got tired of asking."


    "Still," Damian muttered, his tone darkening. "She had no right to bother you like that."


    Evelyn''s gaze snapped back to him, and her lips curved into a faint, sardonic smile. "She had every right, Damian. Or should I say Kaelan? You were a wanted man, remember? People were hunting you. She was just doing her job."


    Damian leaned back, crossing his arms. "Her job or her obsession?"


    Evelyn didn''t answer immediately. Instead, she took a slow sip of her tea, her eyes never leaving his. "Maybe both," she said finally. "But what matters now is that you''re back, and we''re in this together. We''ll deal with her, Victoria, Varak¡ªwhoever stands in the way. But we have to be smart about it."


    Damian sighed, nodding. "You''re right." He pushed his plate away slightly, his appetite fading under the conversation. "I just... I don''t want the past repeating itself. I don''t want to put you or Cassius through that again."


    Evelyn leaned back in her chair, her eyes narrowing slightly as she studied him. "Good," she said after a moment, her voice steady. "You have that kind of mindset now, not the all-mighty warlock who thinks he can solve all the problems on his own."


    He tilted his head, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "So, you prefer me like this? A little less god complex, a little more human?"


    "Yes," she said without hesitation, leaning forward. Her hand reached across the table, her fingers brushing against his. "Because this version of you¡ªDamian, not Kaelan¡ªknows how to listen, how to rely on others. It makes you stronger, not weaker."


    Her touch was warm, grounding, and for a moment, Damian just looked at her. He saw the fierce determination in her eyes, the same spark that had drawn him to her in the first place. Evelyn wasn''t just someone standing by his side; she was his anchor, the person who had seen him at his worst and still believed in him.


    "I guess that''s a good thing then," he said, his voice softer. "Having someone who can keep me in check."


    She smiled faintly, her hand tightening around his for a brief moment before pulling away. "You''re learning. Slowly, but you''re getting there."


    Damian chuckled, leaning back and running a hand through his hair. "Hey, give me some credit. I''ve been through a lot of character development lately."


    "Character development?" Evelyn repeated, raising an eyebrow. "Is that what you''re calling it now?"

 Chapter 184: Proper

    Warlock Ch 184. Proper


    He shrugged, his grin widening. "Call it whatever you want. I just know I''ve got you and Cassius to thank for not letting me spiral."


    Evelyn smirked, leaning against the counter as she watched him. "Good. Then stop overthinking everything and eat. We need to get ready, and I still have to use Faye''s tonic for your hair."


    Damian chuckled, shaking his head. "Right, the tonic. I still can''t believe she called me I was from a failed magical experiment." He grabbed his spoon and gestured toward her with it. "Thanks for not letting me walk around like that longer than necessary, by the way."


    "You''re welcome," she said with a playful roll of her eyes. "And don''t forget to visit her before we leave. She''s been a good friend, even if she''s a bit blunt."


    "Noted," he said, grinning as he returned to his soup. "I''ll make sure to thank her properly."


    Evelyn gave a satisfied nod, then turned her attention back to the small stack of crystals she''d placed on the counter, organizing them into pouches. "Eat quickly. We still have packing to do."


    They finished their meal in comfortable silence, with Damian savoring every bite of the dumpling soup as if it were the last meal he''d have for a while. Once the dishes were cleared and cleaned¡ªDamian drying them while Evelyn washed¡ªshe pulled out the tonic, a small glass bottle with a faintly glowing green liquid inside.


    "All right," she said, motioning for him to sit down. "Let''s fix that disaster you call hair."


    Damian plopped into a chair, grinning as she approached. "You make it sound like I set it on fire on purpose."


    "You might as well have," she teased, unscrewing the bottle. The scent of mint and lavender filled the air as she poured a small amount onto her hands and began working it into his hair. "Hold still."


    He tried, but the cool tingling sensation of the tonic combined with the soft massage of her fingers made him fidget. "You sure this stuff isn''t enchanted to put me to sleep?"


    "Stop squirming," she said, smacking his shoulder lightly. "And no, it''s not enchanted. It''s just a good tonic."


    He let out a mock sigh. "Fine. Do your thing."


    She worked carefully, smoothing the tonic through the burned parts of his hair and making sure it reached his scalp. Her hands were steady, her movements precise, and for a moment, Damian closed his eyes, letting himself relax under her care.


    "This feels like the old days," he said softly.


    Evelyn paused, then smiled faintly. "Yeah, it does. Except back then, you wouldn''t sit still for anything unless I bribed you."


    "I was a handful," he admitted, grinning. "Still am, probably."


    She chuckled. "Definitely."


    Once she finished, she stepped back to admire her work. "There. Much better. You almost look presentable again."


    "Almost?" he teased, standing and running a hand through his hair. "Come on, give me a little more credit than that."


    She smirked. "You''re lucky I didn''t cut it all off."


    Damian laughed, shaking his head as he followed her to the living room. "All right, what''s next?"


    "Packing," she said, pulling out a sleek black bag from a cabinet. It looked small, but Damian knew better. Evelyn''s magic bag could hold far more than its size suggested. She began filling it with essentials: clothes, crystals, and a small bundle of papers.


    "What''s that?" he asked, nodding toward the papers.


    "Just notes," she said without looking up. "You never know what information might come in handy."


    He nodded, grabbing a smaller pouch from the table and checking its contents: coins, potions, and a few basic survival items. Evelyn handed him another pouch, identical to hers, and showed him how to secure it to his belt.


    "These stay with us at all times," she said firmly. "No exceptions."


    "Got it," he said, fastening the pouch and giving it a small pat. "Anything else?"


    Evelyn scanned the room, her sharp eyes missing nothing. "I think that''s it. Just make sure you don''t forget anything in the morning."


    "I won''t," he promised, helping her carry the bags to the corner where they''d be easy to grab before leaving.


    They double-checked their preparations before finally calling it a night. Damian stretched, letting out a groan as the day''s exhaustion caught up with him.


    "You good?" Evelyn asked, watching him from the doorway.


    "Yeah," he said, smiling at her. "Just tired. Today''s been... a lot."


    She nodded, her expression softening. "Get some rest. We have a long day tomorrow."


    "You too," he said, following her to their room. The bed was already made, and he couldn''t help but feel a pang of gratitude for the small comforts she provided. As they settled in, he glanced over at her, his voice low. "Thanks, Evelyn. For everything."


    She smiled, reaching over to give his hand a squeeze. "Always."


    And with that, they drifted off as sleep claimed them.


    Morning arrived in what felt like a blink, the sunlight creeping through the curtains. Damian stirred first, his body aching slightly from the previous day, but the warmth beside him was enough to soften the discomfort. Evelyn shifted, her hair splayed across the pillow, and for a moment, Damian allowed himself to simply watch her.


    But reality came crashing back quickly. Today was the day. He exhaled quietly, leaning over to kiss her temple before reluctantly pulling himself out of bed. Evelyn wasn''t far behind, already moving as she stretched and tied her hair back.


    The morning preparation was brisk but efficient, both of them knowing time wasn''t on their side. Bags were double-checked, potions and supplies meticulously accounted for, and of course, a quickie.


    Breakfast was hurried but satisfying. Evelyn had prepared a simple but hearty meal: scrambled eggs, bread, and a bit of roasted meat. Damian devoured his portion.


    He adjusted his warlock gear after breakfast, the transformation from his usual casual modern shirt to the full ensemble feeling oddly satisfying. The cloak, though simple in design, added a layer of gravitas, while the glove on his right hand covered the intricate sigil of his newly achieved rank. It was a far cry from his usual laid-back appearance, but it fit the part he needed to play.


    "You look... proper," Evelyn teased as she adjusted his collar.


    "Properly intimidating," Damian shot back with a grin.

 Chapter 185: I Don’t Need to Behave All High And Mighty

    Warlock Ch 185. I Don''t Need to Behave All High And Mighty


    With their goodbyes said, the two of them set off toward Cassius''s place. The journey wasn''t long, but it gave Damian enough time to let his mind wander. Evelyn walked beside him.


    When they arrived, the door opened almost immediately, one of Cassius''s shadow servants greeting them with its usual silent efficiency. Damian stepped inside, his grin wide and disarming. "Yo!" he called out, his voice breaking the stillness of the entryway.


    Cassius, lounging in his usual armchair with a cup of tea in hand, barely spared Damian a glance. "Don''t ''Yo!'' me," he said flatly, his tone laced with irritation. "Why do you act more immature than before?"


    Damian shrugged with exaggerated nonchalance. "Well, it''s better to act like this than as my usual ''all-mighty warlock who can do anything'' self. Boring, don''t you think? No one here knows who I really am except you two, and I''m still officially your apprentice. I don''t need to behave all high and mighty. That''s exhausting."


    Cassius huffed, setting his cup down on the table and waving a hand. A shadow servant instantly appeared, clearing the tea set with practiced precision. "And? Why are you here?" he asked, shifting his sharp gaze to Evelyn. "That''s a question for you."


    Evelyn''s expression didn''t falter. "I''m coming with you," she said simply. "Let''s just say I''ve decided to go on an adventure."


    Cassius raised a skeptical brow, but Evelyn continued without pause. "Besides, Victoria once came to me. She didn''t get much out of me, of course, but she did mention that I''m welcome to visit her anytime. I''m taking her up on that offer now."


    Damian, who had been leaning casually against the wall, turned to Evelyn in surprise. "She came to you?"


    Evelyn smirked, folding her arms across her chest. "You''d be amazed how many people came to see Cassius and me after you were declared dead by the council. Some were curious. Some were desperate. Others... Well, their intentions weren''t exactly noble."


    Cassius interjected, glancing at Damian. "Isn''t it a little obvious? Your presence will point out that he"¡ªCassius gestured vaguely in Damian''s direction¡ª"is Kaelan."


    Evelyn shook her head. "No, not really."


    Cassius frowned. "Why not?"


    Evelyn''s gaze turned contemplative. "I don''t know. Maybe it''s because they''re looking too hard for Kaelan to resurface exactly as he was. They expect the same mannerisms, the same way of talking. They don''t think someone like you would adapt, let alone act this... carefree."


    "Carefree, huh?" Damian muttered, rubbing the back of his neck.


    "But there''s more to it than that," Evelyn continued. "Among all the people who came to us, there were some with motives I couldn''t quite place. They seemed... different. I couldn''t tell whether their intentions were good or bad, so I treated them all as if they were bad. Better safe than sorry."


    Cassius leaned forward slightly, his interest piqued. "And what do you think Victoria''s intentions are?"


    Evelyn''s face darkened with thought. "I don''t think it''s as simple as revenge. If she really wanted that, she wouldn''t be extending offers or inviting us to her estate. She has another goal, but I can''t figure out what. And I''m not about to make wild guesses based on instinct alone. That''s why I was so adamant about keeping Damian far away from her."


    Cassius nodded, his expression unusually serious. "Fair enough."


    Damian looked between them, his brow furrowed. "But if it''s not revenge, then what? What would she do to me if she doesn''t want to settle some old grudge?"


    Evelyn hesitated, her lips pressing into a thin line. "I... I''m not sure," she admitted. "She could try to manipulate you, use your name or power to further her own goals. Or... perhaps she''s seeking something only Kaelan knew."


    "Like what?" Damian pressed.


    Evelyn shook her head, frustration evident in her features. "I don''t know. But I don''t like the possibilities."


    Damian fell silent, his mind racing with the implications. Victoria had always been a wildcard in his memories¡ªor the fragments of them he had. He didn''t trust her, but he couldn''t ignore the nagging curiosity that pulled at him. He needed to know the truth, even if it wasn''t what he wanted to hear.


    Cassius broke the tension with a sharp sigh. "Well, whatever her intentions, we''ll find out soon enough. For now, focus on what''s ahead. This mission isn''t just about answers¡ªit''s about survival. Don''t forget that."


    Damian nodded, though his thoughts remained heavy. Evelyn reached out, placing a reassuring hand on his arm. "Whatever happens," she said softly, "I''m here."


    Her words, simple as they were, grounded him. He managed a faint smile. "Yeah," he said quietly.


    Cassius stood abruptly, signaling the end of their conversation. "If you''re done with your sentimental chit-chat," he said, his tone dry but not unkind, "we''ve got preparations to finalize. And Damian¡ªtry not to destroy anything on the way out."


    Damian smirked faintly. "No promises."


    Evelyn rolled her eyes, muttering something about how he never took anything seriously, but there was a hint of a smile on her lips. She turned to Cassius, who was calmly observing them with his usual unreadable expression.


    "So," Evelyn said, breaking the silence. "Are we going to her place?"


    Cassius shook his head, glancing toward the door. "No need. She''ll come here. In fact..." He paused for a moment, tilting his head as though sensing something. "She''s already at the entrance."


    Evelyn''s eyes narrowed, and Damian immediately straightened up. "Wait, what? How long has she been there?" Damian asked, a tinge of unease creeping into his voice.


    Cassius didn''t answer, instead gesturing for them to follow. "Come on."


    They made their way to the entrance, the air around them thick with an unspoken tension. Damian''s mind raced with possibilities. He hadn''t interacted with Victoria much in his fragmented memories, but the pieces he did recall were... complicated.


    When they reached the entrance, Victoria was already standing there, her elegant figure framed by the dim light of the estate''s entryway. She looked impeccable as always, her crimson cloak cascading behind her like liquid fire. Her piercing gaze swept over the trio before landing on Cassius.

 Chapter 186: The Evil One

    Warlock Ch 186. The Evil One


    "You all look ready," she said, her tone clipped but professional. Then her eyes slid to Evelyn, her expression shifting into one of mild surprise. "And you... Why are you here?"


    Evelyn didn''t flinch under Victoria''s scrutiny. She tilted her head, her expression calm but firm. "To fulfill your invitation, of course. I''m Cassius'' friend, and I couldn''t help but wonder what made him finally accept a mission. He''s not exactly known for being... cooperative."


    Victoria''s lips twitched into a faint smile, though it didn''t reach her eyes. "Fair enough," she said smoothly. "Perhaps while Cassius and his little apprentice"¡ªher gaze flicked briefly to Damian¡ª"are working, you and I can enjoy some tea. I''d love to hear your thoughts about your late mentor."


    Evelyn''s smile was razor-sharp, her eyes narrowing slightly. "Yeah. That sounds lovely."


    Damian stood awkwardly between the two women, feeling the weight of their subtle tension pressing down on him. "This is going to be fun," he muttered under his breath.


    Victoria, either ignoring or choosing not to respond to the comment, reached into her satchel and retrieved a gleaming crystal. It was multifaceted, glowing faintly with a pulsating light. Damian''s eyes widened slightly. He recognized it immediately¡ªa portal crystal. Expensive. Rare. And annoyingly flashy.


    Without hesitation, Victoria crushed the crystal in her hand. The shards dissolved into shimmering particles, forming a swirling portal before them. The air around it buzzed with energy, and Damian instinctively stepped back.


    "Follow me," Victoria commanded, stepping into the portal without another word.


    Cassius exhaled slowly, casting one last glance at his estate. With a quick gesture, his hand glowed faintly as he activated a barrier spell to seal the place. Once satisfied, he stepped into the portal after her.


    Damian turned to Evelyn, who gave him a small nod. "Let''s get this over with," she said, stepping into the portal as well.


    Damian hesitated for a moment, his instincts screaming at him to stay put. But he shoved the unease aside and followed them, the portal''s energy enveloping him as he crossed the threshold.


    When he stepped out the other side, the change in atmosphere hit him like a wall. The air was cool and carried a faint metallic tang. They were standing before a grand palace, its dark stone walls stretching high into the sky, illuminated by the eerie glow of crimson torches lining the pathway. The architecture was imposing and sharp, every arch and spire giving off an air of authority and danger.


    Victoria turned to face them, a faint smile playing on her lips. "Welcome to my home," she said, her tone almost smug. "The Crimson Citadel."


    Before Damian could respond, a group of servants and guards emerged from the massive double doors of the palace. They lined up in two orderly rows, bowing deeply as Victoria strode past them.


    "Follow me," she said without looking back.


    The group trailed behind her, Damian sticking close to Evelyn. Cassius walked ahead, his posture relaxed but his gaze sharp as he surveyed their surroundings.


    The inside of the palace was just as grand as the exterior. The floors were polished obsidian, reflecting the dim light of the massive chandeliers hanging above. Rich tapestries depicting various battles and vampiric legends adorned the walls, their intricate details catching Damian''s eye. He couldn''t help but feel a twinge of unease as they passed a series of statues, each one depicting a vampire warrior in various victorious poses.


    "This place gives me the creeps," Damian muttered, earning a quiet chuckle from Evelyn. No... not a creep. Actually, there was something in him that made him feel... strange...


    Victoria led them to a grand hall where more servants awaited, standing at attention. She gestured to a smaller set of doors at the far end of the room. "We''ll discuss the mission in detail shortly," she said, her tone firm. "But first, make yourselves comfortable."


    Damian exchanged a glance with Evelyn, who simply shrugged. Cassius, meanwhile, looked entirely unfazed, as if he''d done this a hundred times before. Damian wasn''t sure whether that was comforting or concerning.


    Victoria clapped her hands lightly, summoning a tall, stern-faced man dressed impeccably in a dark crimson suit. His posture was perfect, his expression unreadable. He bowed slightly before her.


    "This is Henry, my most trusted servant," Victoria announced. "He will guide you to your quarters and give you a brief tour of the palace. Please consider yourselves honored guests."


    Henry straightened, his sharp gaze sweeping over the group before settling on Victoria. "As you wish, my lady," he said, his voice smooth and formal. Then, turning to the group, he gestured for them to follow. "This way."


    The group moved down the grand corridor, Damian trailing slightly behind Cassius and Evelyn. His boots clicked softly against the obsidian floors as he took in the palace''s grandeur¡ªornate chandeliers, gilded columns, and paintings of noble-looking vampires that seemed to watch their every move. Damian wasn''t sure if it was just his imagination, but he felt the faint hum of magic in the air, like the palace itself was alive.


    Henry began his explanation, his tone that of a seasoned historian. "The Crimson Citadel has stood as the heart of vampire authority for centuries. Its walls have seen countless battles, treaties, and betrayals. The stone is imbued with protective enchantments, ensuring the safety of its inhabitants."


    Damian nodded absentmindedly, only half-listening as his thoughts wandered. He was trying to piece together Victoria''s real motives. Why go to the trouble of inviting them here? And what did she really want?


    Henry continued, oblivious to Damian''s distraction. "Of course, not all history here is glorious. We vampires have faced our share of setbacks, most notably due to... The Evil One."


    Damian''s attention snapped back at those words. He leaned closer to Cassius, his voice a low whisper. "This ''Evil One'' guy sounds dangerous. Suspicious. Maybe we should look into him."


    Cassius didn''t miss a beat, his expression as neutral as ever as he whispered back, "The Evil One is you."


    Damian blinked. "What?"

 Chapter 187: Taboo

    Warlock Ch 187. Taboo


    Cassius smirked faintly. "That''s what they call Kaelan now. Your name became a taboo after everything that happened. It''s considered unlucky to even say it aloud."


    Damian felt his stomach drop. He opened his mouth to argue but quickly clamped it shut. Complaining wouldn''t change anything, and honestly, what was there to say? He was both annoyed and weirdly fascinated by how his legacy had been warped into something unrecognizable.


    Henry led them to a pair of heavy double doors, intricately carved with depictions of battles and ancient vampire rituals. He gestured for the guards stationed there to open them, revealing a massive throne room beyond.


    The moment Damian stepped inside, he froze. The air was heavy, almost suffocating, and the sheer scale of the room was overwhelming. The ceiling stretched impossibly high, supported by towering columns of black marble veined with blood-red streaks. At the far end of the room sat an ornate throne, its design equal parts majestic and menacing. It was carved from obsidian and encrusted with crimson gems that shimmered faintly in the low light.


    "This is the throne room," Henry said, his voice echoing faintly in the vast space. "Where Lady Victoria holds court and manages the affairs of her domain. It is also where the council convenes when necessary."


    Damian stepped inside, his breath catching slightly as he took in the sheer scale of the room. The throne loomed at the far end, its obsidian surface shimmering faintly in the flickering torchlight. The massive mural behind it¡ªdepicting a brutal battle¡ªdrew his eyes like a magnet, but something about it felt off. Wrong. He couldn''t explain it, but there was a strange familiarity to it that made his chest tighten.


    Henry''s voice droned on, describing the significance of the room and its history, but Damian barely registered the words. His gaze shifted, and suddenly the room wasn''t pristine anymore. Flames licked at the walls, and smoke choked the air. The mural was cracked, the figures distorted as if melting under the heat. The throne was smeared with blood, a pool of it gathering at its base.


    Damian''s breath hitched. His vision tunneled as he caught sight of a body¡ªa noble-looking vampire lying crumpled at his feet. The corpse''s lifeless eyes stared up at him, unseeing. His hands trembled as he looked down at them, only to find them soaked in blood, the crimson liquid dripping from his fingers.


    "What the hell..." he muttered, but his voice sounded distant, muffled.


    The scene shifted. His ragged breathing filled his ears as his eyes flicked to another figure¡ªVictoria. She was sprawled on the floor, her body battered and bloodied, her usually poised expression replaced with one of agony. She was alive, barely, but she couldn''t move. Her chest rose and fell in shallow, uneven breaths.


    Damian felt his body move forward, his steps slow and hesitant. His bloodied hands reached out toward her, his mind racing with emotions he couldn''t name.


    "Kaelan..." Victoria''s voice was weak, barely a whisper, but it cut through the chaos like a blade.


    Before he could piece together what happened next, a sharp voice yanked him back to reality.


    "Lady Victoria''s late husband was a revered figure among our kind," Henry said, oblivious to Damian''s internal turmoil. "But you won''t find any portraits of him here."


    Damian blinked, his surroundings snapping back into focus. The pristine throne room stood before him once more, with no trace of the destruction he had just seen. His breathing steadied as he turned his attention to Henry, who continued speaking as if nothing had happened.


    "Lady Victoria has made it clear that she does not wish to display his likeness anywhere in the palace," Henry said. "Some say it''s out of respect for his memory. Others believe it''s because she doesn''t want to be reminded of the tragedy."


    Damian frowned, the fragments of the vision still swirling in his mind. "The tragedy?" he asked, his voice tight.


    Henry nodded solemnly. "The event that took her husband''s life. No one knows exactly what happened, save for Lady Victoria herself. She was the sole survivor of that night."


    Damian''s fists clenched at his sides. The scene he had glimpsed felt too real to dismiss, too vivid to be a simple trick of his imagination. But the more he tried to focus on it, the more it slipped through his fingers like sand.


    "Do you know anything about it?" Damian pressed, trying to keep his tone neutral.


    Henry shook his head. "Only what has been passed down through whispers and speculation. It was a massacre. Many nobles lost their lives that night, and the vampire faction was thrown into chaos. Lady Victoria emerged as the new ruler, but the scars of that night still linger."


    Damian nodded slowly, his mind racing. He couldn''t shake the image of Victoria lying on the ground, her blood pooling beneath her.


    As Henry moved to guide them further into the palace, Damian leaned closer to Evelyn and whispered, "I think I saw something. A memory."


    Her eyes widened slightly, but she quickly masked her surprise. "What kind of memory?"


    "The throne room. It was... ruined. On fire. There was a body¡ªa noble, maybe her husband¡ªand Victoria was there. She was dying, but I was walking toward her." His voice dropped lower. "I think it might''ve been the night of the tragedy."


    Evelyn''s brow furrowed, concern flashing in her eyes. "Are you sure?"


    "Not completely," Damian admitted, his frustration evident. "It''s all fragmented, like pieces of a puzzle I can''t put together. But it felt real."


    Evelyn placed a reassuring hand on his arm. "We''ll figure it out," she said, her voice low but firm, cutting through the swirling chaos in Damian''s mind. Her touch was steady, grounding him in the here and now.


    Damian gave her a small nod, though his jaw remained tight. "Yeah," he muttered. "I just... don''t like feeling like this. It''s like there''s a wall in my head, and every time I try to push through it, it shoves back harder."

 Chapter 188: What Do You Make of All This?

    Warlock Ch 188. What Do You Make of All This?


    Henry, standing a few steps ahead, cleared his throat. "If you''re ready, there''s more to see," he said, his tone perfectly neutral. Whether he had picked up on Damian''s unease or was simply uninterested in their private conversation, it was impossible to tell. The guy had the emotional range of a brick wall.


    "Lead the way, Henry," Evelyn said, her voice sharp with a hint of sarcasm as she gestured for him to continue. "Wouldn''t want to keep you from your riveting tour."


    Henry didn''t even blink at her jab, pivoting smoothly on his heel. "This way," he said, his voice as stiff as ever. Damian could swear he saw Evelyn roll her eyes, but she followed without complaint, and he trailed after her.


    The next room Henry brought them to was a massive library. Shelves stretched high into the vaulted ceiling, packed tight with books that looked older than time itself. Dust motes floated lazily in the air, caught in the dim, flickering light of enchanted candles.


    "This is the Crimson Citadel''s Grand Archive," Henry said, his monotone voice doing absolutely nothing to convey the grandeur of the place. "Every record, every account of vampire history, is preserved here."


    Damian scanned the room, his curiosity momentarily distracting him from his earlier unease. "It''s... impressive," he admitted. "But I''m guessing you don''t just let anyone stroll in and start flipping pages."


    Henry inclined his head slightly. "Correct. Access is restricted to Lady Victoria''s inner circle and those she personally deems trustworthy."


    Evelyn let out a low whistle, her eyes scanning the towering shelves. "Guess that means we''re either really important... or walking into something way above our pay grade."


    "Wouldn''t be the first time," Damian muttered under his breath, earning a smirk from Evelyn.


    Henry didn''t acknowledge their comments. Instead, he led them down another corridor, his polished shoes clicking against the obsidian floor with mechanical precision.


    Damian followed, his thoughts drifting back to the throne room. The vision¡ªor memory, or whatever it was¡ªkept replaying in his head. He could still feel the heat of the flames, smell the acrid stench of smoke and blood. But beyond that room, there was nothing. No flashes of other places, no additional pieces of the puzzle. Just that single, vivid scene.


    It was frustrating. Maddening. Like someone had ripped out the most important pages of a book and left him to guess the ending.


    They passed through a few more grand rooms, each one more ornate than the last. A banquet hall with a table that seemed to stretch for miles. A gallery lined with portraits of vampires who looked both regal and terrifying. A weapons hall where swords, spears, and ancient artifacts glimmered under enchanted lights.


    But none of them triggered anything in Damian''s mind. No sparks of recognition, no flickers of memory. Whatever had happened that night, it was tied to the throne room¡ªand only the throne room.


    Eventually, Henry stopped in front of a set of heavy wooden doors, their dark surface inlaid with intricate silver patterns. He opened them with a practiced ease, revealing a long hallway lined with smaller doors on either side.


    "These are your quarters," Henry announced, stepping aside to let them pass. "Each room is equipped with all the necessities. Should you require anything additional, simply ring the bell on the desk, and a servant will attend to you."


    Damian peeked into the nearest room. It was lavish, of course¡ªthis was Victoria''s palace, after all¡ªbut not overly ostentatious. A plush bed dominated the space, with dark crimson curtains draped around it. A desk sat in one corner, alongside a small sitting area. Everything was sleek, elegant, and a little too perfect for his taste.


    "And the food?" Evelyn asked, leaning casually against the doorframe of her own room.


    Henry nodded. "Meals will be delivered upon request. Simply place your order, and the kitchen staff will prepare it. Lady Victoria has instructed that your dietary preferences be accommodated."


    Damian raised an eyebrow. "Even... human food?"


    "Indeed," Henry confirmed without missing a beat. "The kitchen is well-versed in preparing human cuisine."


    Evelyn snorted softly. "How thoughtful."


    Henry inclined his head slightly. "If there is nothing else, I will take my leave. Please remember that Lady Victoria will summon you when the time comes."


    And with that, he turned and strode down the hall, his posture as rigid as ever. Damian watched him go, shaking his head.


    "Guy''s like a vampire robot," he muttered.


    Evelyn smirked, stepping fully into her room. "You should see how Cassius handles him. It''s like watching two statues argue."


    Damian chuckled, but the sound was hollow. He leaned against the doorframe of his own room, staring down the hall where Henry had disappeared. "What do you make of all this?" he asked, his voice low.


    Evelyn appeared in her doorway again, her expression thoughtful. "It''s... a lot," she admitted. "Victoria''s playing some kind of game, and we''re all just pieces on her board. But until we figure out what she''s after, we''re stuck playing along."


    "Yeah," Damian said quietly. "I just hope we''re ready for whatever''s coming."


    Evelyn''s gaze softened. "We will be," she said firmly. "Now, get some rest. You look like you''re about to fall over."


    Damian managed a faint grin. "Thanks, Mommy," he teased.


    "Don''t push it," Evelyn shot back, though there was a hint of amusement in her tone.


    He stepped into his room, closing the door behind him. The silence was almost oppressive. He sank onto the edge of the bed, his head in his hands.


    His mind was a whirlwind of thoughts. The vision in the throne room¡ªit just wouldn''t leave him alone. Every time he closed his eyes, it was there again, playing out in vivid, brutal detail. The fire. The blood. Victoria, lying battered and broken, barely clinging to life. And him... walking toward her with bloodied hands.


    Why? Why was he moving toward her? Was it to help her? Or worse¡ªwas it to finish the job?

 Chapter 189: A Betrayal or A Choice

    Warlock Ch 189. A Betrayal or A Choice


    He rubbed his temples, frustration bubbling up inside him. The questions gnawed at his mind like a pack of hungry wolves. Had he been the one to wound her? Could he really have killed her husband?


    Damian shivered, the thought sending a chill down his spine. He didn''t want to believe it, but the pieces weren''t adding up in his favor. If he had killed her husband, then why? What had led him to that moment? Was it a fight? A betrayal? A choice?


    And the biggest question of all: why had Victoria survived?


    "If I wanted her dead, why didn''t I finish it?" he muttered to himself, pacing the length of his room. The silence felt oppressive, like the walls themselves were closing in. He stopped mid-step, his hands clenching into fists. "No. I can''t just sit here and stew on this. I need answers."


    The decision hit him like a bolt of lightning. He had to talk to her. There was no other way to unravel this mess.


    Without wasting another second, Damian grabbed his coat and headed out the door. The cool air of the corridor hit him, and for a moment, he stood there, grounding himself. Then, with purpose in his stride, he began walking.


    As he rounded a corner, he spotted a servant carrying a tray of wine glasses. The servant froze when he saw Damian, bowing slightly. "My lord, is there something you require?"


    "Yeah," Damian said, trying to sound casual despite the storm raging in his head. "Where''s Victoria? I need to speak with her."


    The servant hesitated, his hands tightening on the tray. "Lady Victoria is in her study, sir, but she''s currently¡ª"


    "I didn''t ask if she was busy," Damian cut in, his voice sharper than he intended. He softened it with a sigh. "Sorry. Just... can you take me to her?"


    The servant looked uncertain but eventually nodded. "As you wish. Please, follow me."


    Damian fell into step behind him, his thoughts churning once again. He could feel his heart pounding in his chest, a mixture of anticipation and dread. What was he even going to say to her? ''Hey, by the way, did I try to kill you?'' Yeah, that''d go over great.


    The servant led him down a series of hallways, each one more ornate than the last. Finally, they stopped in front of a set of heavy double doors guarded by two imposing vampires in dark armor. Their expressions were blank, but their crimson eyes seemed to bore into Damian as he approached.


    The servant bowed to the guards. "This gentleman wishes to see Lady Victoria."


    One of the guards held up a hand, his voice a low rumble. "Lady Victoria is currently in a meeting. You''ll have to wait."


    Damian frowned, glancing at the doors. He could hear faint voices inside but couldn''t make out the words. "How long is this going to take?"


    The guard didn''t answer, his gaze steady and unmoving.


    With a sigh, Damian stepped back, leaning against the wall. The servant gave him an apologetic glance before scurrying off, leaving him alone with the guards.


    Minutes ticked by. Damian crossed his arms, his foot tapping impatiently against the polished floor. Just as he was about to lose his patience, the doors creaked open.


    A noble vampire stepped out, his presence commanding and sharp as a blade. He was tall and impeccably dressed, his dark hair slicked back, and his crimson eyes held a glint of superiority. An assistant trailed behind him, carrying a stack of documents.


    The noble''s gaze flicked to Damian for a brief moment, his expression one of mild disdain, as if Damian were nothing more than a speck of dust in his world. Without a word, the vampire strode past, his assistant hurrying to keep up.


    "Charming," Damian muttered under his breath, watching them disappear down the corridor.


    One of the guards finally stepped aside, gesturing to the now-open doors. "You may enter."


    Damian took a steadying breath before stepping inside. The study was exactly what he expected¡ªgrand, ornate, and suffused with an air of authority. Victoria sat at a massive desk, surrounded by stacks of papers and books. Her crimson cloak draped over the back of her chair, and her piercing eyes locked onto him the moment he entered.


    "Damian," she said, her voice smooth but edged with curiosity. "This is unexpected."


    He hesitated for a moment, standing awkwardly near the door. Then he forced himself to move, taking a few steps closer. "We need to talk."


    Victoria arched an elegant brow. "About?"


    He swallowed hard, his mouth suddenly dry. "About the throne room. About... what happened that night of tragedy."


    Her expression didn''t change, but her eyes seemed to sharpen, like a predator assessing its prey. "And why, pray tell, is that on your mind?" Victoria asked, her tone smooth, each word deliberate.


    Damian hesitated, rubbing the back of his neck in a gesture of feigned awkwardness. He needed to play this right, and if there was one thing he''d learned, it was that Victoria could read people like an open book. "I was just curious," he said, shrugging nonchalantly. "Nothing more."


    "Curious?" she repeated, a faint smirk curling her lips. "You expect me to believe you came all this way, barged into my study, simply because of... curiosity?"


    Damian laughed nervously. "Well, yeah. I mean, you gotta admit, the throne room has a vibe. That oppressive aura? It''s like the walls themselves are holding onto something. And then Henry mentioned ''The Evil One.'' That didn''t exactly help me rest."


    Victoria leaned back in her chair, her smirk widening. "Just because of that?" she asked, her tone dripping with amusement. "Or did Cassius send you here? Or..." She paused, tilting her head. "Perhaps he didn''t tell you anything at all about ''The Evil One?''"


    Damian put on his best wide-eyed, innocent act. "You know I''m just a newbie warlock," he said, holding his hands up in mock surrender. "Master Cassius... well, let''s just say he''s strict about the training and all. But he''s not exactly the chatty type. Rarely gives me updates about this magic world. Half the time, I feel like I''m stumbling around in the dark."

 Chapter 190: He Let Me Live

    Warlock Ch 190. He Let Me Live


    Victoria studied him for a long moment, her eyes narrowing slightly, but the smirk never left her face. Then, with an almost theatrical sigh, she stood up, her movements graceful and deliberate. "The Evil One," she began, her tone shifting to something more serious. "It''s a name that carries so much crime in our world. Fear. Hatred. And for some..." Her gaze flicked to Damian, lingering for just a beat too long. "Power."


    Damian swallowed hard, forcing himself to maintain a neutral expression. "Power, huh? Sounds intense."


    She stepped away from the desk, pacing slowly. "The Evil One," she said again, her voice softer now, almost reverent, "is the name given to a being who turned the magic world upside down. Some said he was a monster who defied every rule, every law of our kind. And yes, he killed my husband."


    For a moment, Damian wasn''t sure how to respond. He wanted to push for more, to ask the questions burning in his mind, but something in her tone gave him pause. She wasn''t angry. She wasn''t even sad. If anything, she seemed... calm. Too calm.


    And then he saw it. A flicker in her eyes, fleeting but unmistakable. It wasn''t revenge. It wasn''t grief. It was something far more unsettling... obsession.


    "That must''ve been... rough," Damian said carefully, his voice softer now. "Losing someone like that."


    Victoria turned to face him, her expression unreadable. "It was," she said simply. "But what''s more intriguing is what came after. Or rather, what didn''t come after."


    Damian tilted his head, feigning confusion. "What do you mean?"


    "The Evil One spared me," she said, her voice almost a whisper. "He killed my husband. Slaughtered countless others that night. And yet, when it came to me..." She trailed off, her eyes distant, as if she were reliving the moment. "He let me live."


    Damian''s stomach twisted. He wanted to ask why, to demand answers, but the words wouldn''t come. Instead, he opted for something safer. "That''s... odd," he said, his tone carefully neutral. "Any idea why?"


    Victoria''s lips curved into a small, enigmatic smile. "No," she simply said, her tone almost teasing.


    Damian shifted uncomfortably. He could feel her gaze, like she was searching for something in him. "And, uh... what do you think?"


    Her smile faltered, just for a moment. "I think," she said slowly, "that it wasn''t mercy. The Evil One was not a merciful creature. If anything, it was... deliberate. Calculated. As though he had a plan for me."


    "A plan?" Damian repeated, his mind racing. "What kind of plan?"


    "That," she said, her smile returning, sharper than ever, "is what I intend to find out."


    Damian observed her. She wasn''t just obsessed¡ªshe was determined. Whatever her endgame was, it wasn''t going to be simple. Or safe.


    "But you''ve never confronted him?" Damian asked, trying to keep his voice steady.


    Victoria let out a soft laugh, though there was no humor in it. "Confront him? Damian, do you think a man like that can be confronted? He is gone already, but I know he is somewhere, waiting."


    Damian''s mouth felt dry. "And you''re okay with that?"


    Her smile widened, but it didn''t reach her eyes. "Let''s just say I''ve learned to be patient."


    The room fell into an uneasy silence. He wanted to say something, anything, to break the tension, but his thoughts were a tangled mess.


    Victoria tilted her head, her gaze piercing. "You seem... uncomfortable. Is there something you''re not telling me?"


    "What? Me? Nah," he said quickly, forcing a laugh. "Just trying to process all this. I mean, ''The Evil One''? That''s some heavy stuff."


    Her eyes narrowed slightly, but she didn''t press the issue. "Indeed," she said, turning back to her desk. "But enough about the past. If you truly wish to learn more, I suggest you speak with your master. Cassius has a way of... withholding information when it suits him."


    Damian nodded slowly, his mind racing. "Yeah, I''ll, uh... I''ll do that."


    Victoria smiled again, though it was as sharp as a blade. "Good. Now, if you''ll excuse me, I have matters to attend to. We''ll talk again later."


    Damian took the hint, backing toward the door. "Right. Thanks for the... history lesson."


    "Anytime," she said smoothly, her eyes following him until the door closed behind him.


    Once he was out of the room, Damian leaned against the wall, letting out a shaky breath. His heart was pounding, his thoughts a chaotic mess. Whatever Victoria was hiding, it was bigger than he''d imagined. And somehow, he was right in the middle of it.


    ''She knows more than she''s letting on,'' he muttered to himself. ''But what the hell am I supposed to do with that?''


    Damian shoved his hands in his pockets and trudged back toward his quarters, his thoughts spiraling in a hundred directions at once. Every word Victoria had said replayed in his mind, but it wasn''t just the words¡ªit was her tone, her expressions, the way her eyes had seemed to linger on him just a fraction too long. There was something there, something beneath the surface that she wasn''t saying. And that something was driving him insane.


    The door to his quarters loomed ahead, and he pushed it open with a little more force than necessary. The room greeted him with its cold, pristine silence, a contrast to the noise in his head. He let the door shut behind him with a soft click and leaned against it, rubbing his face with both hands.


    "What am I missing?" he muttered, his voice muffled. "What the hell is she playing at?"


    He threw himself onto the plush, slumping back with a groan, his mind churning.


    Victoria''s words weren''t adding up. She talked about The Evil One¡ªhim, probably¡ªwith this weird mix of detachment and fascination. There was no anger, no grief, no thirst for revenge. Just... obsession. Why? Why was she so calm about it? Why wasn''t she raging at him, accusing him, or even outright trying to kill him?


    And then there was the glaring hole in her story. She didn''t say a damn thing about what happened after her husband died. She''d mentioned being spared, sure, but the way she skimmed over it made it feel like there was a lot more to that night than she was letting on.

 Chapter 191: He Thinks He Can Turn Me Into His Puppet

    Warlock Ch 191. He Thinks He Can Turn Me Into His Puppet


    The whole thing was nagging at Damian like an itch he couldn''t scratch.


    "Right... she barely mentioned her husband either," Damian muttered, tapping his fingers against the arm of the chair. "I mean, sure, maybe she doesn''t want to remember it. Losing someone like that has to suck. But... if everything''s tied to him, wouldn''t she at least say something? Even a name?"


    He let out a frustrated groan, standing up and pacing the room. His boots thudded against the polished floor as his thoughts raced. "What are you hiding, Victoria?" he muttered under his breath. "And why the hell can''t I remember any of it?"


    His hand drifted to his head, scratching at it even though there wasn''t an itch. It was more like a reflex, a physical outlet for his mental frustration. "Damn it!" he snapped, his voice echoing in the empty room. "Why is my memory so fragmented? This is really freaking troublesome!"


    He froze mid-step, the pieces starting to shift in his mind. No... Thinking about it again, this didn''t seem like something he would''ve chosen. Sure, he opted for rebirth, but did that mean losing critical memories was part of the deal? Or was it something else entirely? Something... darker?


    "That demon king," he muttered, the words slipping out before he could stop them. His fists clenched at his sides. That damn demon king''s soul, sealed inside him like some kind of cursed roommate, could easily be part of the problem.


    "Maybe he''s covering something up," Damian mused aloud, the idea clicking into place. "Something he doesn''t want me to remember. Or maybe..." His voice dipped, his eyes narrowing. "Maybe he''s afraid I''ll access my full power."


    The thought made his blood run cold, but only for a moment. Then he scoffed, a smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. "Or maybe he thinks he can turn me into his puppet."


    He laughed, low and sharp. "Yeah, good luck with that, buddy. You don''t know how stubborn I am."


    Still, the idea nagged at him. The pieces weren''t adding up, and he hated not knowing the full picture. He thought back to the dream he''d had the night before¡ªKaelan''s past with Evelyn. That had been something real, something he''d remembered. But lately, the mana core''s memory fragments felt more like random puzzle pieces, less and less important or coherent.


    Damian sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I guess I''ll just ask him," he muttered. It wasn''t like he hadn''t done it before, though the demon king wasn''t exactly a chatty roommate. Still, he had to try.


    Closing his eyes, Damian took a deep breath, letting his awareness sink inward. The world around him faded, replaced by the endless void of his subconscious. The darkness was thick, almost tangible, but he knew where to go. His steps felt lighter here, less constrained by the laws of reality, as he approached the glowing presence of the mana core.


    It floated in the void like some ancient artifact, pulsating with power. Its surface was etched with intricate sigils, more of them than he remembered seeing before. The core itself looked... newer somehow. Sharper. As if it had been re-forged or strengthened since the last time he''d been here.


    "Okay, you," Damian said, crossing his arms and glaring at the core. "What''s the deal? You''re hiding something, and I''m not leaving until I get answers."


    There was no immediate response, but Damian didn''t expect one. He stood there, waiting, his frustration simmering just below the surface. Finally, a low, rumbling voice echoed from the core, dripping with disdain.


    "Why do you disturb me, boy?" The core''s voice was as grating as ever, a mix of arrogance and malice.


    "Because you''re screwing with me," Damian shot back. "My memories are a mess, and I''m pretty sure you have something to do with it."


    "Your memories are your own problem," the mana core replied, his tone dismissive. "Do not blame me for your weakness."


    "Bullshit," Damian snapped. "You''re hiding something. I don''t know what it is, but I can feel it. Every time I get close to a fragment, it slips away, like it''s being blocked. So, I''ll ask you again: what the hell are you hiding?"


    The core pulsed faintly, its sigils glowing brighter for a moment. "You are not ready to know," the core said, his voice tinged with condescension. "Your power is incomplete, your resolve weak. You would not survive the truth."


    Damian laughed bitterly, shaking his head. "Wow. Thanks for the vote of confidence. But guess what? I''m not going anywhere until you start talking."


    There was a long silence, the void around him seeming to grow heavier. Finally, the demon king spoke again, his tone darker, more serious. "The truth you seek will destroy you."


    Damian''s eyes narrowed. "Yeah? Try me."


    "You wish to know why your memories are fragmented?" the core asked, his voice low and rumbling. "It is not by my hand, but by the nature of your rebirth. You carry two souls, boy¡ªyours and mine. The clash of our existence fractures the mind, distorts the past."


    "That''s convenient," Damian muttered. "And the real reason?"


    The core pulsed again, almost angrily. "You assume too much. The truth is simple: you are weak. Until you are strong enough to wield the full power of the mana core, your memories will remain incomplete. This is not a punishment. It is survival."


    Damian clenched his fists, his frustration boiling over. "And what about you? What''s your angle in all this? You''re just hanging out here, waiting for me to fail so you can take over?"


    The core''s laughter echoed through the void, cold and mocking. "You overestimate your importance. If I wished to take control, you would already be mine. But I have no interest in ruling a broken vessel. Prove your worth, boy. Only then will you understand."


    Damian gritted his teeth, his anger flaring. "You think you can dangle this over me and get away with it? Newsflash: I''m not your puppet."


    The core dimmed slightly, as if unimpressed. "Then go, boy. Struggle as much as you like. It makes no difference to me."

 Chapter 192: There’s No Way I’m Letting You Go That Easily

    Warlock Ch 192. There''s No Way I''m Letting You Go That Easily


    Damian gritted his teeth. He knew he was right. He could feel it in his gut¡ªthe demon king was holding something back, something big. "I knew asking was useless," Damian muttered, his voice sharp with frustration. "But yeah, there''s no way I''m letting you go that easily."


    Before the core could respond with another smug line, Damian reached out and touched it.


    The second his fingers made contact, the core flared violently, its sigils glowing brighter, blinding him with a surge of raw, burning energy. The mana pulsed angrily, like a living thing trying to push him away, but Damian didn''t budge. He dug in, his hand tightening around the pulsing artifact as if daring it to fight back harder.


    "Now give me back my memory fragment about Victoria and her husband!" he roared.


    The void around him shattered like glass. In a blink, the suffocating darkness was gone, replaced by something far more real. The smell of smoke and blood hit him first, acrid and thick in the air. His vision swam before snapping into focus, and Damian realized he was back in that throne room¡ªbut it wasn''t exactly as he remembered it.


    This time, the chaos was just starting.


    The massive chamber was a battlefield. Stone pillars had cracked under the weight of spells, debris littered the obsidian floor, and the heavy air buzzed with leftover energy from some destructive clash. The massive mural that loomed over the throne was still intact, though scorch marks marred its surface. And then Damian saw him¡ªa noble vampire.


    The vampire stood in front of him, his presence dark and commanding. He was tall and elegant, draped in fine robes that might''ve looked regal if not for the dark stains of blood smeared across them. His face was pale and sharp, his crimson eyes glowing faintly with mana. Blood dripped from a gash along his forehead, and his breaths were labored, but there was no mistaking the power that still radiated from him.


    But it wasn''t just him.


    Damian could feel someone behind him. He risked a glance over his shoulder, his breath catching. Victoria was there¡ªwounded, blood seeping from a nasty cut along her side. Her face was pale, her expression a mixture of pain and fury, but her eyes were sharp, calculating. And... she wasn''t standing next to her husband.


    She was behind Damian, kneeling in pain.


    "...What the hell?" Damian whispered under his breath. His eyes darted back to the vampire noble, whose smirk widened as if sensing his confusion.


    "Kaelan," the vampire sneered, his voice dripping with disdain. "You''re still standing? I must say, I''m impressed. I thought the great warlock would''ve crumbled by now." He wiped the blood from his lip, his smile sharp and taunting. "But look at you. No better off than the rest of us."


    Damian blinked, instinctively tightening his grip on the mana flaring around him. His hands glowed faintly with blue energy¡ªKaelan''s power, his power. The pain of his injuries became apparent, though he hadn''t noticed them before. His ribs ached, and his breathing was uneven. Cuts lined his arms, and his robes were torn, soaked in blood.


    The vampire laughed softly, a cruel sound that echoed through the broken room. "The mighty Kaelan," he repeated mockingly. "You act so high and mighty, so righteous, but tell me¡ªwhat drives you? Power? Glory? Or maybe you''re just like the rest of us, clawing for scraps in this broken world."


    Damian''s brows furrowed as the words hit him, and Kaelan''s voice¡ªnot his own¡ªrumbled from his throat. "You know nothing of me, bloodsucker." The voice was sharp, cold, and commanding, filled with the weight of someone who had stared down death too many times. "Spare me your nonsense. I don''t align myself with weaklings."


    The vampire smirked, his fangs glinting. "Weakling? Oh, Kaelan, you''re no better than me. You think wielding that demon king makes you better? It only makes you dangerous. I see the thirst in your eyes, the hunger for more." He raised a bloodied hand, and dark red mana began to swirl around him like a storm. "Why not join me? Together, we could seize everything¡ªpower, immortality, freedom."


    Damian snarled, energy crackling around his fists. "I don''t join those who crawl in the dirt. Power means nothing if you''ve already sold your soul."


    The vampire''s smirk faltered, his eyes narrowing. "Then you''re a fool." Without warning, he thrust his hand forward, and the swirling blood mana exploded toward Kaelan like a tidal wave.


    Damian''s instincts flared to life, and he reacted before he even realized it. His hands shot out, summoning a barrier of crackling blue energy that slammed into the vampire''s attack. The two forces collided with a deafening boom, the shockwave rattling what was left of the throne room. Stone fragments flew through the air, the walls groaning under the strain of the magical clash.


    "Victoria!" Damian''s voice barked, his tone sharp. "Stay back!"


    Damian could hear her shifting behind him, but he didn''t turn around. His focus was locked on the vampire, whose expression twisted into one of gleeful malice as he poured even more power into his spell.


    "You think you can stop me?" the vampire roared, his voice echoing through the chamber. "You, Kaelan, who tears through the world like a storm and calls it justice? Don''t pretend you''re any different from me!"


    "Shut up!" Damian shouted¡ªthough he wasn''t entirely sure if it was him or Kaelan speaking. His mana flared brighter, and with a roar of effort, he pushed back. The blue energy surged forward, shattering the vampire''s blood spell like glass.


    The vampire staggered, his eyes wide in shock. "You¡ª"


    Damian didn''t give him the chance to finish. He lunged forward, the mana surging through his veins like liquid fire. His movements were fluid, instinctive¡ªKaelan''s movements. A ball of crackling blue magic formed in his hand as he closed the distance between them.


    "Too slow," Damian growled, slamming the spell into the vampire''s chest.


    The impact was devastating. The vampire screamed as the magic detonated, sending him flying across the room. He crashed into the far wall with enough force to crack the stone, his body slumping forward as smoke rose from his chest. For a moment, the room was silent except for the sound of Damian''s ragged breathing.

 Chapter 193: You’re No Better Than Me

    Warlock Ch 193. You''re No Better Than Me


    He turned back toward Victoria. She was watching him, her expression unreadable. Blood still trickled down her side, but she looked steady, her gaze locked on him like she was trying to burn him into her memory.


    "You... you killed him," she murmured, almost as if she didn''t believe it.


    But the memory ended there, leaving Damian with more questions than answers. Why had Victoria been behind him? What had happened after that battle?


    And why did none of this explain the fire and devastation he''d seen before?


    The throne room started to fade, the edges of the vision breaking apart like mist. Damian tried to hold onto it, to drag out more answers, but the memory was slipping away, dragging him back into the void.


    "Wait¡ªno! Show me the rest!" he shouted.


    But it was too late. The throne room dissolved completely, and Damian jolted awake, back in his quarters. His breathing was uneven, his heart pounding in his chest.


    "Damn it," he hissed, his hands shaking slightly. "What the hell was that?"


    The vampire''s words still echoed in his mind, taunting him. "You''re no better than me."


    Damian hissed under his breath, his fists clenching tightly at his sides. "No," he growled. "I''m better than you. That''s why you''re dead."


    The words tasted bitter as they left his mouth, but he forced himself to say them anyway. He had to believe them. The alternative¡ªthe possibility that the vampire might have been right¡ªwas too much to handle.


    But the vision kept replaying in his head, every detail sharp and vivid. It was clear now. He was the one who had killed Victoria''s husband¡ªif that man was even her husband. That part still felt murky. There were no portraits of him anywhere in the palace, no tributes or shrines like you''d expect for a fallen vampire lord. It was... odd. Almost as if the man had been erased from history.


    And Victoria...


    Damian exhaled slowly, running a hand through his hair as he tried to piece it all together. What had she been doing in that vision? She wasn''t standing beside her so-called husband, wasn''t fighting with him. Instead, she had been behind Damian, not in fear, but... seeking something. Protection?


    "Why would she look to me for protection?" he muttered, his voice tinged with doubt. It didn''t make sense. If he was the monster who had killed her husband, why wasn''t she afraid of him?


    But then again, he wasn''t sure of anything. The vision had been too fragmented, too focused on the fight with the vampire. There had been barely anything about Victoria herself, and the details of her actions that night remained frustratingly vague.


    Damian sighed heavily, leaning back in his chair and staring at the ceiling. "And why did I kill him?" he muttered. The answer came to him almost immediately, though it wasn''t one he liked.


    "Power," he said bitterly. It always came down to power, didn''t it? Jealousy, manipulation, ambition¡ªthose were the driving forces in the world he had been part of. Maybe Victoria''s husband¡ªor whoever that vampire was¡ªhad seen him as a threat. Or maybe they''d tried to use him, to control the demon king''s power within him.


    "Or maybe it was the demon king himself," Damian said, his voice laced with frustration. "Maybe this was all his doing. His influence. His damn power turns everything into a mess."


    He exhaled sharply, shaking his head. "I guess... that''s probably what happened." It wasn''t a satisfying answer, but it was the best he could come up with for now.


    A sharp knock on the door broke his thoughts, making him jolt upright. Before he could respond, a smooth voice followed. "Lady Victoria requests your presence in the dining room."


    Damian blinked, his mind still half-stuck in the vision. "Uh... okay," he called out. He stood and began getting himself together, brushing off the lingering haze of the memory. Whatever Victoria wanted, he wasn''t going to keep her waiting.


    As he stepped into the hallway, he spotted Evelyn and Cassius emerging from their own rooms, both looking as though they''d received the same request. Evelyn''s sharp eyes flicked to him, her expression unreadable as always. Cassius, meanwhile, seemed as calm and composed as ever, though Damian knew that was just his default setting.


    Damian leaned closer to Evelyn as they walked, lowering his voice to a conspiratorial whisper. "You think they''re going to serve blood drinks or corpses at the dining table?" he joked, a smirk tugging at his lips. "Y''know, authentic vampire cuisine."


    Evelyn shot him a glare, though there was a faint twitch at the corner of her mouth that betrayed her amusement. "Stop it," she said flatly. "You''re not as funny as you think you are."


    Cassius, walking just ahead of them, glanced back with a raised eyebrow. "If you''re that concerned about the menu, Damian, perhaps you should''ve brought your own snacks."


    "Not helping, Cassius," Damian muttered, though the faint smirk on his face remained.


    The three of them reached the dining room, the heavy doors already ajar. Inside, the room was just as grand as everything else in the citadel. A long table stretched across the space, draped in a dark crimson cloth and set with an assortment of polished silverware. Candles flickered in ornate holders, casting soft, golden light over the room.


    Victoria was already seated at the head of the table, her posture regal as ever. She looked up as they entered, her sharp eyes sweeping over them. "Ah, good," she said smoothly. "You''re all here. Please, sit."


    Damian hesitated for a moment, his eyes scanning the table. To his mild relief, there were no goblets of blood or suspiciously meat-like dishes in sight. The spread looked almost... normal. Roast meats, fresh bread, and an array of side dishes that wouldn''t look out of place at a human banquet.


    Evelyn gave him a pointed look as if to say, ''See? No corpses.''


    Victoria gestured to the empty seats near her, and they obliged, Damian ending up across from Evelyn with Cassius at his side. The tension in the room was subtle but palpable, like an undercurrent of unease beneath the polished surface of civility.

 Chapter 194: Alone and Sealed In

    Warlock Ch 194. Alone and Sealed In


    "I trust your quarters were to your liking?" Victoria asked, her tone polite but distant as she poured herself a glass of wine.


    "Yeah," Damian said casually, leaning back in his chair. "Real cozy. Thanks for that."


    Victoria''s lips curved into a faint smile, though it didn''t reach her eyes. "I''m glad to hear it."


    The conversation drifted into surface-level pleasantries, though Damian could feel the unspoken questions hanging over the table. He knew he wasn''t the only one thinking it¡ªEvelyn''s sharp gaze occasionally flicked to Victoria, and even Cassius seemed more watchful than usual.


    Eventually, Victoria set her glass down and leaned forward slightly, her eyes locking onto Damian''s. "You''ve been quiet," she said, her voice cutting through the casual chatter. "Is something on your mind, Damian?"


    He froze for half a second before forcing a grin. "What, me? Nah. Just enjoying the atmosphere."


    Victoria''s gaze didn''t waver. "Is that so?"


    Damian''s smirk faltered slightly, but he held her gaze. "Yup. Everything''s great. The food''s great. The company''s... interesting."


    Victoria''s lips twitched, her expression unreadable. "Interesting," she echoed. "Well, I''m glad you''re enjoying yourself. After all, this might be the last time we have such a pleasant meal together."


    The words hung in the air like a challenge, and Damian felt his heart skip a beat. There was something in her tone¡ªsomething that made it clear this dinner wasn''t just a formality. Whatever was coming next, it wasn''t going to be "pleasant" at all.


    He glanced at Evelyn and Cassius, both of whom seemed to pick up on the same tension. Evelyn''s expression hardened, her hand resting casually on the table as if ready to act at a moment''s notice. Cassius, meanwhile, wore his usual mask of calm, but there was a sharpness in his eyes that hadn''t been there before.


    Damian exhaled quietly, forcing himself to relax. "Well," he said lightly, "here''s hoping dessert''s as good as the main course."


    Victoria''s smile widened ever so slightly, though it still didn''t reach her eyes. "Oh, Damian," she said softly. "I wouldn''t worry about dessert just yet."


    Before he could say anything, a servant appeared, carrying a tray of desserts.


    "Huh," Damian muttered under his breath as a neatly plated slice of dark chocolate cake was set in front of him. "Didn''t see that coming."


    Evelyn shot him a look across the table. "Behave," she whispered, though her lips twitched like she was holding back a smile.


    Cassius didn''t react, his focus still on Victoria as if waiting for the other shoe to drop. Damian picked up his fork and jabbed at the cake, his appetite dampened by the tension. He took a bite anyway¡ªbecause, hey, chocolate was chocolate.


    Surprisingly, it was good. Really good. Rich, bittersweet, and smooth as hell. For a second, Damian let himself enjoy it, closing his eyes briefly as the flavor settled. "Okay, points for the dessert," he mumbled, only half joking.


    Victoria, of course, noticed. "I''m glad it meets your standards," she said, her tone smooth as silk.


    Damian opened his mouth to respond, but Victoria''s hand rose mid-air, cutting him off. In a fluid motion, she waved her fingers, and the atmosphere of the room changed instantly.


    The servants froze where they stood before swiftly retreating from the room, their movements almost mechanical. Damian''s brow furrowed as he glanced at the doors closing behind them. Then, a low hum filled the air as Victoria made a subtle gesture with her hand, and a faint shimmer surrounded the dining room¡ªlike ripples in glass.


    A barrier.


    "Well, that''s not ominous," Damian muttered, putting down his fork as his muscles tensed instinctively. He glanced toward Evelyn, who had gone stone-still, her sharp eyes tracking every movement. Cassius, as usual, looked calm, but Damian could see his fingers tapping lightly against the edge of the table¡ªa sure sign he was on high alert.


    Victoria leaned back in her chair, her regal posture unshaken. "Now that we''re alone, we can speak freely."


    "Alone and sealed in, you mean," Damian quipped, crossing his arms. "Always a good sign."


    Victoria didn''t react to the sarcasm. Instead, her expression turned serious¡ªdeadly serious¡ªand the faint smile she''d been wearing finally disappeared. "I brought you here for more than pleasantries," she said, her voice soft but heavy with intent. "I''m in danger."


    Cassius raised a brow, but his voice remained even. "The queen of vampires is in danger?"


    Victoria inclined her head slightly. "More than you know."


    Damian exchanged a quick look with Evelyn, who frowned but said nothing. He shifted in his chair, his instincts already buzzing. "Okay, you''re gonna have to be more specific than that."


    Victoria''s crimson eyes locked onto him, sharp as daggers. "My position as queen is no longer secure. There are those within my faction¡ªpowerful ones¡ªwho would see me overthrown."


    "Shocker," Damian muttered under his breath.


    Victoria ignored him. "As you know... One man in particular poses the greatest threat to me. Varak Bloodshade. He was... Once a trusted ally, Varak has used his position to rally dissenters within the faction. He''s charismatic, powerful, and dangerously ambitious. If he succeeds in his plans, not only will I lose my throne, but my supporters will be wiped out."


    Damian blinked. "Sounds like a real charmer."


    Victoria continued, ignoring his snark. "He''s already consolidating power and leveraging promises to sway those on the fence. If I don''t act soon, his rebellion will be unstoppable."


    "And what exactly do you want from us?" Cassius asked, his tone cool and measured.


    Victoria''s gaze swept over them, lingering on Cassius before shifting to Damian and Evelyn. "I want your help to stop him," she said simply. "Varak must be dealt with¡ªpermanently. I need your strength to ensure his death and secure the loyalty of my remaining followers."


    Damian''s brows shot up. "You want us to kill him?"


    "Yes," Victoria said without hesitation. "This isn''t a matter of negotiation or diplomacy. If Varak lives, I lose everything."

 Chapter 195: Messy Jobs

    Warlock Ch 195. Messy Jobs


    A heavy silence settled over the room. Damian leaned back in his chair, his mind already running through the implications. He wasn''t exactly a stranger to messy jobs like this, but walking into vampire politics and assassinating a vampire lord? A general even? That was a whole new level of complication. The keyword was ''assassination''.


    He looked at Cassius, who had been uncharacteristically quiet. Finally, Cassius raised a hand, stopping Victoria before she could continue. "Spare us the details of your political struggles," he said calmly. "Just tell us the current situation and what you plan to do with your soldiers. We will make our own plan."


    Victoria''s eyes narrowed slightly, though she didn''t argue. "Fine," she said, sitting straighter. "Varak is currently hiding in the Crimson Veil. He''s surrounded himself with loyal soldiers and blood mages, which makes a direct assault costly. My forces will create a diversion at the front gates, drawing his attention. You three will infiltrate the manor and eliminate him."


    Damian raised a brow. "That''s it? A simple ''in, kill the guy, and out''? That''s your plan?"


    "It''s more effective than you think," Victoria replied coolly. "Varak won''t expect anyone to breach his inner sanctum while his focus is on my forces."


    Evelyn frowned, her eyes narrowing. "And what about his blood mages? I assume they''re not just for decoration."


    "They''re strong," Victoria admitted, "but my forces will keep them occupied. Varak himself is your target."


    Cassius''s expression remained unreadable, though Damian could see the gears turning behind his eyes. "You''re assuming a lot," Cassius said quietly. "And relying on us to clean up your mess."


    Victoria''s gaze hardened. "I wouldn''t call it a mess, Cassius. It''s survival. For me, and for my people."


    Damian sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Let''s say we do this. What''s in it for us? Because, no offense, but vampire civil wars aren''t exactly our problem."


    Victoria''s lips curved into the faintest of smiles. "You''ll be rewarded handsomely," she said. "Gold, artifacts, favors¡ªyou name it."


    Damian glanced at Evelyn, whose expression was still unreadable. Then he looked at Cassius, who seemed to be deep in thought. Finally, Damian leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table. "Fine," he said. "We''ll hear you out."


    Cassius''s head turned sharply, but Damian held up a hand. "Hear you out." He looked back at Victoria. "But like Cassius said¡ªwe''ll make our own plan. You stick to your distraction, and we''ll handle the rest."


    Victoria studied him for a long moment before finally nodding. "Agreed."


    "Great," Damian muttered, pushing his chair back with a soft scrape. "Well, looks like we''re in for a fun night."


    Victoria ignored his sarcasm, standing gracefully. "Prepare yourselves," she said. "We move at dusk."


    The barrier around the room shimmered and faded. Damian stood and stretched, throwing a glance at Cassius and Evelyn. "So... infiltration, blood mages, and taking down a vampire lord. Simple stuff, really. Just another day at the office."


    Evelyn rolled her eyes. "You really need to take things more seriously."


    "Taking things seriously is how you end up stressed," Damian shot back with a grin. "Relax. We''ve got this."


    Cassius didn''t say anything, but the look he gave Damian was enough to make him second-guess his confidence.


    They exited the dining room. Damian let out a long sigh, his mind already racing with a thousand possibilities. Victoria''s request wasn''t going to be easy, and something about it still didn''t sit right with him. But for now, all he could do was prepare.


    And hope Varak Bloodshade wasn''t as dangerous as he sounded.


    Damian shoved his hands in his pockets as the three of them walked back toward their quarters, the echo of their footsteps filling the otherwise empty corridor. The faint hum of magic still lingered in the air from Victoria''s barrier, like a low vibration crawling under his skin.


    Cassius was the first to break the silence. "Well," he said in that calm, infuriatingly neutral tone of his, "what do you think?"


    Damian glanced at him sideways. "About?"


    Cassius''s brow twitched in what might''ve been irritation. "About Victoria''s plan, of course. You think it''s as straightforward as she says? Because I don''t."


    Evelyn let out a sharp exhale, her arms crossed as she kept pace. "Yeah, no kidding. It''s never that simple. This feels off."


    Cassius nodded, his gaze sharp and focused. "Exactly. Think about it. She claims Varak is consolidating power, yet she waits until now to call in outside help? A distraction at the gates, meanwhile trusting us¡ªcomplete wildcards¡ªto deal with Varak directly?"


    Damian frowned but didn''t say anything. He knew Cassius had a point. Everything about Victoria was a mystery, and her plan smelled fishy.


    "She could be letting us walk into a trap," Cassius continued, his voice low but firm. "It could be there''s no distraction at all. Or worse, she and Varak are working together. What better way to eliminate us than by feeding us into a meat grinder?"


    Damian stopped walking, turning to face Cassius. "Seriously? You think Victoria would team up with the guy who''s trying to overthrow her?"


    Cassius tilted his head slightly, his expression blank. "Desperation makes people do strange things. Victoria might see us as expendable pawns to secure her position. If we''re successful, she wins. If we''re killed, she still wins."


    Evelyn made a noise of agreement. "It wouldn''t be the first time someone tried to double-cross us, Damian." Her gaze sharpened on him. "And don''t tell me you''re buying into this whole ''help me save my throne'' sob story. I know you''re smarter than that."


    Damian threw up his hands defensively. "Whoa, whoa, who said I trusted her? I didn''t say that. All I''m saying is... we already investigated her, remember? When we first got here. She''s been clean so far."


    "''Clean'' doesn''t mean trustworthy," Evelyn shot back. "It just means she''s good at hiding things."


    "Fair point," Damian admitted. He paused mid-step, his mind flashing back to the vision¡ªthe throne room, the blood, the fight with that vampire. Victoria had been behind him, looking to him for protection.


    "You trust her?" Evelyn pressed, eyeing him like she was trying to peel him apart with her gaze.

 Chapter 196: The Villain Who Got The Queen to Betray Her Husband

    Warlock Ch 196. The Villain Who Got The Queen to Betray Her Husband


    Damian froze for a moment, her words hitting him. He held up his hands defensively, shaking his head. "No... not really." His voice came out quieter than he intended. "But..." He trailed off, his thoughts spiraling. The vision¡ªthat damn vision¡ªwas clawing at the edges of his mind, refusing to let go.


    "But?" Cassius repeated, his voice flat but expectant, like he already knew Damian was about to say something big.


    Damian exhaled sharply and pointed toward Cassius''s quarters. "Not here. Let''s talk in your room."


    Cassius raised an eyebrow but didn''t argue. Without another word, the three of them turned and made their way into his quarters. The door clicked shut behind them, and Cassius flicked his fingers subtly. A faint shimmer rippled across the walls¡ªanother barrier spell, probably. He wasn''t taking chances, not here.


    "All right," Cassius said as he turned, folding his arms over his chest. "Talk."


    Evelyn plopped herself onto one of the chairs in the corner, her sharp gaze never leaving Damian. She didn''t say anything, but the look on her face screamed, ''This better be good.''


    Damian rubbed his face with both hands, trying to organize his thoughts. It felt like a jumbled mess, but he knew he had to get it out. Finally, he dropped his hands and took a deep breath. "I got another vision," he said, his voice low.


    Cassius''s eyes narrowed slightly. "Go on."


    "It happened when I touched the mana core," Damian admitted. He began pacing the room, his boots thudding softly against the floor. "It was the throne room, but it wasn''t destroyed yet. The whole place was a battlefield. Chaos everywhere, walls cracking, spells flying. And there was a vampire. Not just any vampire¡ªa noble."


    "Victoria''s husband?" Evelyn cut in, her tone cautious.


    Damian paused, running a hand through his hair. "I think so. He didn''t introduce himself or anything, but he looked the part. Fancy robes, blood magic, the works. He was strong. He was hurt, though. So was I¡ªKaelan, I mean." Damian stopped pacing and turned to face them. "And here''s the weird part. Victoria was there, too. She was wounded¡ªbadly¡ªbut she was standing behind me. Not him. Me."


    Evelyn sat up straighter, her brows furrowing. "Behind you?"


    "Yeah," Damian said, nodding slowly. "She wasn''t next to her husband. She wasn''t fighting with him. She was... behind me. Like I was protecting her."


    A heavy silence followed. Cassius was the first to break it. "So you''re telling us," he said slowly, his voice unusually careful, "that Victoria took Kaelan''s side in the past?"


    Damian hesitated, the words sitting uncomfortably in his chest. "I can''t say that," he admitted. "It''s not that clear. It just... looks like that."


    Evelyn frowned, her sharp gaze pinning him down. "Looks like? You''ve got to be kidding me. If she was standing behind you while you were fighting her supposed husband, that''s not just coincidence. She chose where to stand."


    Damian shook his head quickly, holding up a hand. "Hold on, hold on. I''m not saying she''s innocent or anything. I don''t know what happened. All I know is what I saw. The vampire¡ªher husband, I guess¡ªwas attacking me. I fought back. Victoria was wounded, but she wasn''t running or fighting against me. And that''s weird, isn''t it? If I was the one who killed her husband, why the hell would she stand behind me?"


    Cassius didn''t say anything for a long moment, his expression unreadable as always. Finally, he exhaled slowly and dropped into a chair, steepling his fingers under his chin. "It''s strange," he agreed, his tone measured. "If Victoria''s husband was fighting you, and she chose not to side with him... that raises some very uncomfortable questions."


    "Like what?" Damian asked, crossing his arms.


    Cassius glanced up at him. "Like whether or not she was ever on his side to begin with."


    Evelyn sucked in a sharp breath, her eyes widening slightly. "Wait. You think she betrayed her husband?"


    "It''s a possibility," Cassius said, shrugging one shoulder. "Victoria has always been calculating. Ambitious. She wouldn''t risk her own survival for someone she didn''t see as valuable. If Kaelan¡ªwas the stronger one in that fight, it would make sense for her to align herself with him."


    "Great," Damian muttered, running a hand down his face. "So now I''m the villain who got the queen to betray her husband. That''s just perfect."


    "Don''t jump to conclusions," Cassius said, his tone sharper. "You don''t know the full story. Neither do we. All we know is what you saw. And what you saw doesn''t add up with Victoria''s narrative."


    "Exactly," Evelyn added, pointing a finger at Damian. "She''s playing us. She''s not telling us everything because she knows we''d start asking questions. If she really wanted Varak dead, why didn''t she send her own people? Why risk bringing in outsiders?"


    Damian exhaled through his nose, his chest tight. "Maybe because she doesn''t trust her own people anymore. You said it yourself¡ªVarak''s got half of them on his side. If she moves openly, they''d see it coming."


    "Or maybe she''s leading us into a trap," Cassius countered smoothly. "We don''t know her true intentions, and now, with this vision of yours, we have even more reason to question her."


    The room fell silent again. Damian sank into a chair and rested his elbows on his knees, his fingers threading through his hair. The vision replayed in his head over and over¡ªthe fight, the vampire, and Victoria standing behind him like he was her shield. Her wounds, her expression... the chaos. It didn''t make sense, and the more he thought about it, the more the details blurred and tangled together.


    Finally, Damian let out a long, frustrated exhale and looked up. "I don''t get it. It doesn''t add up."


    Cassius stood by the window, arms crossed, his sharp gaze fixed somewhere in the distance. "Because it doesn''t add up," he said evenly. "Either your memories are fragmented beyond recognition, or there''s a part of the story Victoria didn''t bother sharing."


    "That''s what I''m saying," Damian blurted, pointing at him like Cassius had just discovered fire. "There''s something she''s holding back, and I''m tired of waiting for her to spill it. We need answers."

 Chapter 197: Should I Seduce Her?

    Warlock Ch 197. Should I Seduce Her?


    "And how, exactly, do you plan on getting those?" Evelyn asked, her tone somewhere between skeptical and curious. She was perched on the edge of Cassius''s desk, legs crossed and arms folded, watching Damian like a hawk. "You think she''s just going to confess everything over tea and cake?" she asked. A frown on her face.


    An idea struck Damian out of nowhere. A stupid idea. A reckless idea. But, given his track record, it was exactly the kind of idea he was known for. He sat up straight, a mischievous grin tugging at the corner of his lips. "Should I... seduce her?"


    The words hung in the air for a second too long.


    Cassius turned to face him, his expression a mix of disbelief and exhaustion. "Really?" he said, his tone dripping with judgment. "You''re going to pull that move again? Like your usual?"


    "Hey, don''t knock it," Damian shot back defensively, holding up his hands. "Seduction is a kind of skill, you know. And I happen to be very good at it."


    Cassius pinched the bridge of his nose, muttering something about ''idiotic warlocks'' under his breath.


    Evelyn, surprisingly, didn''t immediately shut him down. Instead, she tilted her head slightly, her sharp eyes narrowing. "But will she say it?"


    Damian blinked, caught off guard. "Wait, you''re not complaining about this?"


    Evelyn shrugged, leaning back a little. "Why would I? Let''s be real here, Kaelan seduced a lot of women before. You''ve got the skills¡ªmay as well use them."


    "Thank you!" Damian pointed at her, shooting Cassius a smug look. "See? Even Evelyn gets it."


    Cassius threw up his hands in surrender. "You two are impossible." He glared at Damian. "But for the record, if this fails¡ªwhich it probably will¡ªI''m not cleaning up the mess."


    Damian grinned, already feeling his confidence spike. "Relax, Cas. It''s not like I''m going in blind. I''ve got the charm, the smile¡ªhell, even the mysterious past thing going for me. I''m basically irresistible."


    Evelyn snorted. "Don''t forget the massive ego."


    "Confidence, Evelyn," Damian corrected, wagging a finger at her. "It''s called confidence."


    Cassius rubbed his temples, clearly regretting all his life choices that had led to this moment. "So, your plan," he said dryly, "is to flirt your way into uncovering the truth about Victoria''s past? About her husband? About whatever she''s hiding?"


    "Pretty much," Damian replied with a shrug. "It''s not like we''re making much progress by playing it safe. She won''t spill the truth willingly, but if I can get close enough¡ªearn her trust, charm her a little¡ªshe might let something slip."


    Cassius stared at him for a long moment, as if debating whether or not to smack him upside the head. "This is reckless," he finally said.


    "Yeah," Damian admitted with a grin. "But it''s also brilliant."


    Evelyn rolled her eyes but didn''t argue. "Fine. Do whatever you want. Just don''t get yourself killed."


    Damian''s grin widened. "Come on, it''s me. When have I ever let you down?"


    Evelyn stared at him flatly. "Do you want the short list or the long one?"


    Cassius let out a tired sigh. "Let''s just hope you know what you''re doing. If Victoria catches onto you, this whole thing will blow up in our faces."


    "She won''t," Damian said confidently. "Trust me. I''ve got this."


    Cassius didn''t look convinced. In fact, he looked downright exhausted by the entire idea. "Fine. Tell me the plan, then," he said, crossing his arms and leaning back against the window frame. "How are you going to approach her? When? We need to move at dusk¡ªit''s only a few hours away."


    Damian paused at that, his smug grin faltering just a bit. He hadn''t actually thought that far ahead yet. He scratched the back of his neck, his gaze drifting toward the ceiling like it might have answers. "Uh..."


    Cassius raised a brow, unimpressed. "You do have a plan, right? Or are you just winging it again?"


    "Hey!" Damian shot back, pointing a finger at him. "Winging it is a plan. It''s just more... fluid plan."


    "Spoken like someone who''s never prepared for anything," Cassius muttered under his breath.


    Damian waved him off. "Look, I''ll keep it simple. I guess I''ll move now."


    "Now?" Evelyn said sharply, her arms crossing over her chest. She gave him that look she always gave when she thought he was being an idiot¡ªhalf annoyed, half ''I''m going to strangle you.'' "You just came up with this genius plan, and you''re going to jump right into it?"


    Damian shrugged. "Why not? The longer I wait, the more suspicious it''ll look. I''m an apprentice, remember? That gives me the perfect excuse. I can pretend I need to talk to her about something ''important''¡ªmagic stuff or whatever. I''ll just ease into the conversation, maybe throw in a little charm, and see where it goes."


    Cassius rubbed his temples. "Right. Because ''magic stuff'' is a great cover story."


    Evelyn tilted her head, narrowing her eyes at Damian. "You''re planning to do this in her study room?"


    "Yup." Damian flashed her his signature grin. "Victoria''s predictable. She''s probably holed up in there, reading reports or plotting her next move. It''s perfect. No guards. No distractions. And if she tries to give me the cold shoulder..." He leaned back in his chair, smirking. "Well, I can tease her anywhere."


    Evelyn groaned, muttering under her breath, "You''re impossible."


    "Efficient, actually," Damian corrected, his tone far too smug for anyone''s comfort.


    Cassius sighed for what felt like the hundredth time. "Just don''t mess this up," he said, fixing Damian with a pointed look.


    "Relax," Damian said, standing up and stretching. "You two worry too much. This''ll go smoothly. Besides..." He shot them both a wink. "How could she resist?"


    Evelyn looked like she was about to throw something at him. "Get out of here before I change my mind and knock you unconscious myself."


    Cassius didn''t say anything, but the glare he shot Damian spoke volumes.

 Chapter 198: The Vampire Queen’s Seduction [Part 1]

    Warlock Ch 198. The Vampire Queen''s Seduction [Part 1]


    "Fine, fine, I''m going." Damian held his hands up in mock surrender, backing toward the door. "You two go back to brooding or whatever it is you do to prepare. I''ll handle this."


    He slipped out of Cassius''s quarters before either of them could respond, shutting the door behind him with a soft click. The hallway was empty, its silence pressing in on him as his footsteps echoed faintly against the polished stone floor.


    "Okay," Damian muttered to himself as he walked, shoving his hands in his pockets. "This is fine. Totally fine. Just charm her a little, get her talking, and see if she lets something slip. Easy."


    He frowned as doubt started to creep in. ''Is it going to be that easy?'' Victoria wasn''t exactly the type to let her guard down. She was sharp¡ªrazor-sharp¡ªand dangerous to boot. If she figured out what he was up to, there''d be hell to pay.


    Damian stopped in front of his own door, pausing just long enough to exhale slowly and clear his head. "No second-guessing now," he muttered. "You''ve done this before. Plenty of times."


    Still, there was a nagging feeling in his chest, something about this situation that felt... different. It wasn''t like the other times he''d relied on charm or wit to get information. This was deeper, messier, and Victoria was far from an easy target.


    ''Focus,'' he thought, shaking the doubt away.'' You need answers. No one else is going to hand them to you.''


    He stepped into his quarters, grabbed his coat, and straightened himself in front of the mirror. A cocky grin pulled at his lips as he adjusted his collar. "Still got it," he muttered with a wink to his reflection.


    The grin wavered just a little as he turned back toward the door. This wasn''t some random tavern flirtation or an information grab from a low-level mage. This was Victoria. A vampire queen...


    And Damian knew better than anyone that one wrong move with her would land him in more trouble than he could handle. To make it worse, with his status, he didn''t have much or anything to negotiate with.


    "Focus, Damian," he whispered to himself. "Get close, get answers, get out. Simple."


    As he turned toward the door, a sharp knock broke the silence. Damian froze mid-step, blinking at the sound.


    "Uh..." He straightened awkwardly, brushing invisible dust off his coat. "Come in?"


    The door creaked open with slow, deliberate grace, and Damian immediately felt the air shift. A faint, familiar perfume drifted in first¡ªrich, subtle, and dangerous¡ªand then she stepped through the doorway.


    Victoria.


    She was as composed and elegant as ever. Her presence filled the room instantly, suffocating any thoughts Damian had about leaving. Her lips curved into a faint smile as she closed the door behind her.


    "Well, well," Victoria said softly, her voice smooth as silk. "And here I thought I would have to summon you again."


    Damian blinked, his confidence momentarily faltering. "Lady Victoria?" He quickly recovered, his cocky grin snapping back into place as he leaned casually against the edge of his desk. "You could''ve knocked louder, y''know. I almost thought it was the cleaning crew."


    Her smile didn''t waver as she stepped closer, her crimson gaze steady and unnervingly calm. "If you would prefer me to announce myself with a fanfare next time, I can arrange it."


    Damian chuckled nervously, scratching the back of his neck. "No need for all that. You just... caught me off guard."


    Victoria''s eyes lingered on him. She was too composed, too unreadable. It was like staring at the eye of a storm, knowing it could rip him apart in an instant.


    ''I need to seduce her!'' he thought, a jolt of adrenaline shooting through him. ''This is my chance.''


    Victoria raised an eyebrow, clearly unimpressed by his awkward response. "Caught you off guard?" she repeated, her voice as smooth as velvet. "I wasn''t aware I had that kind of effect on you."


    "Oh, you''d be surprised," Damian shot back, forcing a cocky grin as he straightened up. "But hey, don''t take it personally. I''ve just been... distracted lately."


    Her smile widened slightly, her gaze sharp and assessing. "Distracted? By what, I wonder?"


    Damian leaned against the edge of his desk, his movements casual as he let his grin soften into something more playful. "Oh, you know. Vampire politics. Grand schemes. Beautiful queens dropping by unannounced."


    Victoria tilted her head, her crimson eyes narrowing just enough to make him wonder if she was amused or annoyed. "Flattery, Damian? I expected more from you."


    "Who said it''s flattery?" Damian replied smoothly, his grin turning into a smirk. "I''m just stating the obvious."


    Victoria''s expression didn''t falter, but there was a flicker of something in her eyes¡ªcuriosity, maybe. It was hard to tell, but Damian knew he''d managed to get her attention.


    "I see," she said softly, taking a step closer. "And what, pray tell, is your goal here? Do you think charming me will win you favor?"


    Damian shrugged, his grin unwavering. "Maybe. Or maybe I''m just trying to get to know you better. You''ve got this whole mysterious, untouchable vibe going on, and I''ve gotta say¡ªit''s intriguing."


    Victoria let out a soft laugh, though it was more of a hum, low and deliberate. "Intriguing?" she repeated, her tone dipping slightly. "That''s not a word I hear often."


    "Really? That''s a shame," Damian said, pushing off the desk and closing the gap between them just a little. "Because it suits you."


    Victoria''s gaze locked onto his, unflinching. "And what would you know about me, Damian? You barely know who I am."


    "Maybe," Damian admitted, his voice dropping slightly. "But that''s what makes it fun, isn''t it? The mystery. The challenge."


    Victoria tilted her head, her expression turning sharper. "A challenge?"


    "Absolutely," Damian said, his smirk widening. "And I''ve never been one to back down from a challenge. Especially not one as... compelling as you."


    Damian''s heart was pounding in his chest. He wasn''t sure if he was winning her over or walking straight into a trap, but at this point, he was too deep to back out.


    Victoria finally broke the silence, taking another step closer. She was so close now that Damian could feel the faint chill of her presence.


    "You''re bold," she said softly, her voice like silk sliding over steel. "Dangerously so."

 Chapter 199: The Vampire Queen’s Seduction [Part 2]

    Warlock Ch 199. The Vampire Queen''s Seduction [Part 2]


    "I like to think of it as confidence," Damian replied, his grin turning into a playful smirk. "Keeps life interesting."


    Victoria''s eyes narrowed slightly, and for a split second, Damian thought she might actually be amused. "Interesting," she murmured. "That''s one way to describe you."


    Damian took a small step closer, testing the waters. "And what''s another way?" he asked, his voice low.


    Victoria didn''t back away, her gaze locked onto his with a sharp intensity. "Reckless," she said simply. "Foolish. Tempting fate without understanding the consequences."


    Damian''s smirk didn''t waver. "Well, they say fortune favors the bold, right?"


    Victoria''s lips curved into a faint smile, though her eyes remained unreadable. "Perhaps. But boldness can also lead to ruin."


    "True," Damian admitted, his voice softening just enough to sound genuine. "But sometimes, it''s worth the risk."


    Victoria tilted her head slightly, her piercing eyes trailing over him as if she were dissecting every inch of his being. "You seem different," she mused, stopping just a few steps away. "What changed your mind?"


    Damian froze, the question catching him off guard. "Changed my mind?" he repeated, buying himself a second to think.


    "Don''t play coy." Victoria''s smile grew sharper. "Before, you were content to stay in the shadows¡ªto observe rather than act. And yet now..." Her gaze lingered on him, her tone turning faintly amused. "There''s a fire in you that wasn''t there before. So tell me, Damian¡ªwhat made you change your mind?"


    Damian swallowed hard, forcing himself to maintain his composure. "Maybe I just wanted to get to know my generous host a little better," he said smoothly, flashing her his best grin. "Can''t a guy be curious? I came to your study once, right?"


    Victoria''s smile didn''t falter. If anything, it deepened, and that made Damian''s stomach twist. She wasn''t buying it.


    "You''re charming," she said softly, stepping closer. Damian fought the urge to step back as she closed the distance between them, stopping mere inches away. "I can see why people fall so easily under your spell."


    That was a weird compliment. ''This is fine. Totally fine,'' Damian told himself, though his heart was starting to race. He knew what she was doing¡ªturning the tables on him. But two could play that game.


    "Flattering me already?" Damian teased, his grin widening. "Careful, Victoria. I might think you''re the one who''s trying to seduce me."


    Victoria let out a soft laugh, a sound that sent an involuntary shiver down Damian''s spine. "Is that so?" she purred. "Tell me, Damian¡ªare you always this bold, or am I just special?"


    Damian smirked, though his fingers curled subtly against the edge of the desk to keep himself steady. "I like to think everyone''s special in their own way."


    Victoria studied him for a moment longer, her eyes gleaming with something Damian couldn''t quite place. Then, as if she''d made a decision, she turned slightly, her movements deliberate and graceful. "You surprise me," she said, her tone suddenly softer. "I didn''t expect this side of you. It reminds me of something..." She trailed off, her fingers tracing lightly over the edge of one of the shelves in the room.


    Damian didn''t like how her voice had shifted. It was too calm, too careful¡ªlike she was testing the waters. "Something?" he asked cautiously.


    Victoria turned back to face him, her crimson gaze sharp as ever. "You are a Warlock of Eternal Bonds, aren''t you?"


    The words hit Damian like a thunderclap. His grin froze, his entire body tensing instinctively. "What did you just say?"


    "You heard me." Victoria smiled, but there was nothing warm about it. "Warlock of Eternal Bonds¡ªone of the most dangerous titles among your kind. Those who wield magic not just to create, but to bind. To forge connections so strong."


    Damian''s throat felt dry. He forced himself to laugh, though it came out shakier than he intended. "Wow, you''ve been doing your homework, huh?"


    Victoria tilted her head, clearly amused by his attempt to play it off. "I''ve heard stories," she said softly. "Whispers about warlocks who could claim souls, forge contracts, and create unbreakable bonds. It''s rare magic. Forbidden, even."


    Damian''s fingers curled tighter against the desk. "And what if I am?" he said, his voice lower now, more serious. "What''s it to you?"


    Victoria stepped closer again, and this time, Damian didn''t move. Her presence was like a weight pressing down on him, suffocating yet strangely magnetic. "It makes you... intriguing," she murmured. "I wonder, Damian¡ªhow many bonds have you forged?"


    Damian gritted his teeth, forcing his expression to remain neutral. "Not nearly as many as you think."


    Victoria smiled, as if satisfied with that answer. "Good," she said softly. "Because what I''m about to propose is not without risk."


    Damian''s eyes narrowed. "Risk?"


    "A contract," she said smoothly. "One that could benefit us both."


    "A contract?" he repeated slowly. "What kind of contract?" he acted innocent. He was shocked that Victoria knew this much, too much...


    Victoria''s gaze held his, unblinking. "A bond," she said. "One that ties us. A mutual... understanding. It will allow us to share strength, to synchronize our magic. But," she added, her voice dropping to a near-whisper.


    Damian''s heart thudded in his chest as he processed her words. "And why the hell would I agree to that?"


    Victoria''s smile returned, slow and deliberate. "Because you want answers, don''t you?" she said softly. "You want to know the truth¡ªabout me. A bond like this would make it easier. It would grant you access to my strength... and perhaps even to the memories you''ve been chasing."


    Damian swallowed hard. He hated how tempting that sounded. It felt like she was dangling the very thing he wanted most right in front of him, just out of reach.


    "And what''s in it for you?" he asked carefully.


    Victoria''s expression turned unreadable. "Let''s just say I value alliances. And power shared is power multiplied. Especially if it comes from a great warlock like you..."


    Damian hesitated, his mind racing. He knew a trap when he saw one, but at the same time... he knew this was something more... But he couldn''t pinpoint what it was.

 Chapter 200: You Know Who I Was…

    Warlock Ch 200. You Know Who I Was...


    "You know who I was..." Damian muttered, narrowing his eyes. The playful edge in his voice vanished, replaced by something darker¡ªmore serious. His posture straightened slightly, and for the first time since the conversation began, his grin disappeared entirely.


    Victoria''s smile didn''t waver, but her eyes glimmered with satisfaction, as if she''d been waiting for this shift. "Of course I do," she said smoothly. "Did you think I wouldn''t recognize you, Kaelan?"


    The name hit him like a physical blow. He hadn''t heard it aloud in what felt like an eternity from others'' mouths, except Evelyn and Cassius. It wasn''t just a name¡ªit was a past he''d been trying to piece together, a legacy both powerful and dangerous.


    "How much do you know?" Damian asked, his voice quieter now but no less intense.


    "Enough," Victoria replied, her gaze unrelenting. "Enough to understand what you''re capable of and what your crimes were."


    Damian''s fists clenched subtly at his sides, but he forced himself to remain calm. "And yet here you are, suggesting a bond. Why? What''s your angle, Victoria?"


    Her smile softened, though it didn''t lose its edge. "My angle, as you call it, is survival," she said simply. "You and I both know the stakes. Varak isn''t just a threat to me¡ªhe''s a threat to balance, to everything we''ve built. If he succeeds in overthrowing me, the chaos he''ll unleash will ripple far beyond my faction."


    "Cut the crap! I know this isn''t about that pathetic general of yours." Damian tilted his head, and his skepticism was evident. "Am I supposed to believe you''re doing this out of the goodness of your heart?"


    Victoria chuckled softly, the sound low and melodic. "I''m no saint, and I won''t pretend otherwise. My motives are my own. But that doesn''t mean we can''t help each other."


    "You said it yourself¡ªa bond like this comes with risks," Damian pointed out. "What''s stopping you from using it to your advantage? From using me?"


    Victoria stepped closer, her presence as commanding as ever. "Because a bond like this only works if both parties are willing," she said, her voice dropping to a near-whisper.


    Damian didn''t move, his muscles tense. He could feel the intensity of her gaze, the sheer force of her focus on him. She was no longer the composed, distant queen he''d seen earlier¡ªthere was something raw, almost desperate, in her tone.


    "This bond will connect us," Damian said cautiously, his voice steady despite the whirlwind in his mind. "It will tie us together in ways you can''t undo. And no one can betray the other."


    Victoria chuckled softly at that, a sound that sent a chill down his spine. She raised her hand, covering her mouth with the back of it in a gesture almost too poised. But when she lowered it, her expression shifted, and Damian froze.


    The obsession was clear.


    Her crimson eyes burned with an intensity that bordered on hunger, and the mask she''d worn earlier¡ªthe regal, detached demeanor¡ªwas gone. In its place was something unfiltered, something real.


    "I know," she said, her voice trembling ever so slightly with emotion. "That''s what I want, Damian. A connection with you." She paused, her gaze flickering with something almost vulnerable before hardening again. "Since that day... I''ve craved this. I want to be with you. I need it. I can feel it in my blood."


    Damian, though outwardly calm, felt his heart pounding so loudly he was sure she could hear it. ''What the hell is happening?'' he thought, struggling to process the sudden change in her demeanor. This wasn''t the Victoria he knew. She was... unraveling, and it was both terrifying and fascinating.


    He forced himself to stay composed, his voice low and even. "I killed your husband," he said carefully, watching her reaction like a hawk. "Yet you want this with me? You know what this bond entails, right? You know what being connected to a Warlock of Eternal Bonds means. You''d have to..." He hesitated, his words catching slightly. "You''d have to sleep with me."


    Victoria didn''t flinch. If anything, she stepped closer, her presence making his skin prickle. Slowly, she reached up and caressed his cheek, her touch light but deliberate. Damian stiffened under her hand, his mind screaming at him to stay on guard.


    "I know," she whispered, her lips curving into a soft, almost dreamy smile. "And that''s what I want."


    Damian blinked, his mask of calm slipping for a fraction of a second. "What...?"


    Victoria''s thumb brushed against his jawline, and her eyes softened, though the obsession behind them didn''t fade. "It seems I''m right," she murmured, her tone laced with certainty. "Your memories are fragmented."


    His chest tightened at her words, though he quickly forced himself to recover. "What do you mean by that?" he asked, acting innocent. His voice was sharper now, more demanding.


    Victoria lowered her hand but didn''t step back. Her gaze stayed locked on his, unwavering. "You don''t remember, do you?" she said softly. "The way you looked at me that night. The way you fought to protect me."


    Damian''s blood ran cold. ''So, it was true that I was protecting her?'' he thought.


    "That night," Victoria said, her voice dropping even lower, almost tender now. "In the throne room. You don''t remember it clearly, do you? You only see fragments¡ªpieces of what happened. Is that a side effect of the demon king''s power?"


    Damian swallowed hard, his mind racing. He hated how much sense her words made. The vision had felt incomplete, like a puzzle with pieces missing. And now, with her standing so close, her presence overwhelming, it was like she was holding the missing piece in her hand, teasing him with it.


    His gaze sharpened. "Tell me," he demanded, his voice low but firm. He wasn''t going to let her keep him in the dark any longer.


    Victoria giggled softly, a sound that somehow felt more mocking than playful. She tilted her head, her crimson eyes gleaming with amusement. "Oh, Damian," she said, her voice like silk. "You need to make me talk. Or perhaps..." Her grin widened, sharp and predatory. "Should I call you Kaelan?"


    ''This woman is playing with me, huh?'' he thought. The grin she wore only made his irritation burn hotter. He''d had enough of her games.


    "Fine," he said, his voice laced with dangerous intent. "I''ll make you talk."

 Chapter 201: I Won’t Handle Any Rumors

    Warlock Ch 201. I Won''t Handle Any Rumors


    Before Victoria could respond, Damian moved. In one swift motion, he grabbed her wrists and pushed her back against the wall. The impact was firm but not rough, and he pinned her hands on either side of her head, his body close enough to block her from slipping away.


    Victoria''s reaction wasn''t what he expected. Instead of struggling or looking surprised, she chuckled softly, her head tilting to meet his gaze. "Make me," she said, her voice dripping with challenge. "You don''t know how excited I am right now."


    Damian''s eyes narrowed, but a grin slowly curled his lips. If she wanted to play this game, he''d play it better. "Great," he said, his tone low and dangerous. "But just a reminder, Victoria..." He leaned in closer, his breath ghosting over her ear. "In this form, I''m just an apprentice. I won''t handle any rumors about a vampire queen falling for an apprentice warlock. You know that would be terrible for your reputation."


    Victoria''s smile didn''t waver, though her eyes glinted with something darker¡ªsomething almost wild. "Is that a precaution?" she asked, her voice soft and teasing. "Or a threat?"


    Damian''s grin widened, his voice dropping even lower. "Both," he said. "Consider it a courtesy."


    For a moment, the room fell into silence, the kind of stillness that felt heavy, like the world itself was holding its breath. Damian''s playful demeanor was nowhere to be found. His grin faded as he studied Victoria, his sharp gaze fixed on her every move.


    She didn''t flinch under his scrutiny, didn''t look away. Instead, she just smiled, calm and poised, like she had all the time in the world. It only made Damian more suspicious.


    His mind raced. ''What the hell is she planning?'' She had to have an angle¡ªpeople like her always did. The possibility that this was a trap was huge, too big to ignore. He thought back to the vision, the fight, and the moments that made it seem like he''d saved her. That was the past, though, and people changed. Goals shifted.


    Victoria wasn''t just anyone. She was the queen of vampires. If this was a game, she was playing it better than anyone he''d ever met.


    And then there was him.


    He wasn''t exactly innocent in this. Damian clenched his fists at the thought. He wasn''t just a warlock with a fragmented past¡ªhe was a criminal in the eyes of most, someone who''d been hunted and hated for his actions as Kaelan. To make things worse, he carried a special Mana Core within him, one unlike anything others possessed. It wasn''t just powerful¡ªit was tied to the demon king sealed inside him.


    That power made him a target, a prize, and a threat all at once. People wanted it, wanted him, either to use, destroy, or claim. Victoria couldn''t be an exception to that.


    "Courtesy..." Victoria''s soft chuckle broke his train of thought. Her voice was low, almost a purr, as she spoke. "I like that."


    Before Damian could respond, she moved closer. Not just a step or two, but close enough for him to feel the faint coolness of her presence, to see the slight upward curve of her lips as they hovered next to his ear.


    "But," she whispered, her tone soft yet charged with intensity, "if you think I''ll be afraid of my reputation being ruined, you''re wrong. I don''t care about that, Kaelan."


    Damian didn''t move, didn''t flinch. His expression remained serious, his thoughts sharp and calculating. "You act like you don''t care," he said, his voice even, though his mind was racing. "But the mission you gave us was to save your position, wasn''t it?"


    Victoria pulled back slightly, her crimson eyes meeting his. For a moment, she just stared at him, and Damian felt the weight of her gaze, like she was peeling back layers to see what was underneath.


    "Yes," she said finally, her tone steady. "But between that and now, there is no connection."


    Damian frowned. "No connection?"


    Her eyes softened, just barely, and her voice dropped into something almost vulnerable, yet laced with unshakable conviction. "You... You are more important than my position or anything else. For you..." She paused, and Damian swore he saw the faintest flicker of raw emotion in her expression.


    "For you, I would burn this world to ashes."


    Damian''s breath hitched, though his face betrayed nothing. Outside, he was calm, unreadable. Inside, his thoughts were chaos.


    ''What the hell is this woman saying?''


    Victoria had just shattered every assumption he''d made about her. This wasn''t the detached, calculating queen he''d been speaking to before. This was someone else entirely¡ªsomeone who had just peeled back the mask and exposed something real, raw, and dangerous.


    But why? Was this another manipulation?


    "You''d burn the world?" Damian said slowly, his voice tinged with disbelief. "For me?"


    Victoria didn''t flinch. "Yes," she said simply, as if it was the most natural thing in the world.


    Damian narrowed his eyes, his voice hardening. "You''re talking to the man who killed your husband, Victoria. And you''re saying this? To me?"


    Victoria''s smile didn''t fade, but there was something softer in her gaze now. "Yes," she repeated. "Because you don''t remember. Your memories are fragmented, and you''re only seeing pieces of the truth. That night... you don''t know what really happened."


    Damian''s fists clenched at his sides. "What do you mean?"


    Victoria stepped even closer, her hand rising slowly to touch his cheek. The gesture was gentle, intimate, and it made every nerve in his body scream at him to pull away, not because of shyness¡ªbut he didn''t.


    "You don''t see it yet," she said softly, her fingers brushing against his skin. "But I do. I see you. I see the man you were, the man you are, and the man you could become. You''re more than you know, more than anyone knows."


    Damian swallowed hard, his mind racing. He didn''t trust this¡ªnot fully¡ªbut there was something about her words, her tone, that made him hesitate. She wasn''t lying. At least, not entirely.


    But what was the truth?

 Chapter 202: I Will Burn The World For You

    Warlock Ch 202. I Will Burn The World For You


    "And the mission?" he pressed, his voice low. "Your throne, your power¡ªare those just distractions? What''s your real goal, Victoria?"


    Her smile returned, faint and enigmatic. "You," she said simply.


    Damian narrowed his eyes, her calm demeanor grating on his nerves. "So, you admit that you tricked me?" he scoffed, his voice low and edged with frustration.


    Victoria tilted her head, her crimson eyes gleaming with amusement. "Yes... and no," she replied smoothly. "Yes, because I could have asked someone else for help. But no..." She leaned in slightly, her voice softening. "Because I do need your help. I guess that makes it even, doesn''t it?"


    Damian''s jaw clenched. He hated how effortlessly she danced around the truth, how she always seemed one step ahead. "Right," he said, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "Even. Sure." His gaze hardened, his mind racing with possibilities. "But since you said you''d burn the world for me, I want to see how serious you are about it."


    He didn''t give her time to respond. Instead, he took a calculated risk, raising a hand to caress her cheek. His fingers brushed against her skin lightly at first, trailing down the side of her face with deliberate slowness. His gaze shifted, darker now, filled with something sharp and dangerous.


    Victoria didn''t pull away. If anything, she leaned into his touch, her smile deepening.


    "Maybe you knew me as a Casanova before," Damian murmured, his voice low and teasing. "But let me tell you something, Victoria. I was... very rough on the bed."


    He watched her closely, expecting her to flinch, to falter, to show some sign that she wasn''t as unshakable as she pretended to be. But instead, Victoria''s eyes lit up with something he hadn''t anticipated¡ªexcitement.


    Her smile widened. "Do your worst," she said, her tone almost daring him.


    Damian blinked, his composure faltering for just a fraction of a second. ''Seriously? ''he thought, his mind scrambling to catch up. ''This woman''s insane.'' But then, as her words sank in, his grin returned, slow and wicked.


    "Right," he said, nodding to himself as if convincing himself of what he was about to do. ''I''ll give her what she wants.''


    He moved quickly, his hand slipping from her cheek to her neck. His grip was firm, not enough to hurt but enough to make his presence undeniable. Victoria didn''t resist¡ªinstead, she tilted her head slightly, giving him full access as her gaze bore into his.


    Damian leaned in, his mouth hovering just inches from hers. His breath ghosted over her lips, deliberately slow, teasing. "You really want to do this?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.


    Victoria''s answer was immediate and unyielding. "Yes," she said, her tone unwavering.


    Damian smirked. "Fine. But let me make something clear." His free hand trailed down to her waist, pulling her closer. "If you''re serious about being my partner, you''d better be prepared. I don''t play games."


    She chuckled softly, her voice laced with amusement. "Neither do I, Damian. Or should I say... Kaelan?"


    Her use of the name sent a chill down his spine, but he didn''t let it show. Instead, he leaned in further, closing the gap between them. If this was what she wanted, he''d give it to her¡ªbut on his terms.


    His lips met hers. The kiss was fierce, unrelenting, filled with the kind of intensity that felt like a battle as much as it did an embrace. Damian''s grip on her neck tightened just slightly, enough to assert control without crossing the line.


    Victoria responded in kind, her hands finding their way to his shoulders as she pressed herself against him. Her movements were deliberate, calculated, but there was a rawness to her actions that hinted at something deeper.


    ''She''s not just doing this for power,'' Damian realized, a flicker of understanding cutting through his focus. ''This is personal.''


    Damian''s heart pounded in his chest, but he didn''t let her words distract him. He couldn''t forget who she was¡ªwhat she was capable of. This could still be a trap, a ploy to lower his guard.


    But as he looked at her, her walls seemingly stripped away, he saw no deceit. Just obsession.


    ''She''s dangerous,'' he thought. ''But so am I.''


    He grinned, his earlier doubts replaced by a reckless confidence. "You''re playing a risky game," he said, his voice low. "But if you think I''ll go easy on you..." He trailed off, his grip on her neck tightening slightly for emphasis.


    Her smile didn''t waver. "I wouldn''t want you to," she replied.


    Damian chuckled darkly. "Good. Then let''s see if you''re ready for this."


    He moved swiftly, grabbing Victoria''s wrist roughly and pulling her toward him. With a forceful twist, he threw her onto the bed, his movements precise but not reckless. The confident grin on his face only grew wider as he stood over her, towering like a predator who had just cornered his prey.


    "Because I''m also sick of playing the good boy," he said, his voice laced with a dangerous edge.


    Victoria didn''t look alarmed. Quite the opposite. She looked thrilled. Her crimson eyes sparkled with excitement, her lips curling into a wicked smile as she propped herself up on her elbows. She licked her lips slowly, deliberately, her gaze trailing over Damian''s frame like he was a feast laid out just for her.


    Damian let his cloak slide off his shoulders, the fabric falling to the floor with a soft thud. His shirt hung loosely, a few buttons already undone, teasing a glimpse of his well-defined chest. But he didn''t remove it completely¡ªbecause, deep down, he knew better than to trust anyone fully. ''This could still be an ambush,'' he reminded himself.


    Victoria sat up slightly, her hand lifting toward him, her fingers reaching for his chest.


    But Damian was faster. He grabbed her wrist mid-air, his grip firm but not painful. "Not your turn yet," he said, his voice low and commanding.


    Her response was immediate and shocking. She smiled¡ªand obeyed.


    Victoria, the vampire queen, a woman of immense power and status, who could command legions with a mere glance, obeyed him without hesitation...

 Chapter 203: Obey *

    Warlock Ch 203. Obey


    Damian couldn''t deny the strange satisfaction that coursed through him at that moment.


    ''This is different,'' he thought, his mind racing. ''She''s not just playing along. She''s serious.''


    Without breaking eye contact, Damian dropped his body onto the bed, positioning himself above her in one fluid motion. His hands found her wrists again, pinning them down firmly against the mattress. Control was paramount. This wasn''t just about power; it was about ensuring that if Victoria had any hidden plans, he could counter them instantly.


    His weight pressed against her, and for the first time, there was a flicker of something other than amusement in her expression¡ªanticipation.


    "Control is everything," Damian murmured, his voice steady and sharp. "And you''re going to learn that tonight."


    Victoria''s smile widened. "Teach me, then," she said, her tone dripping with challenge.


    Damian''s grin turned feral. "Gladly."


    He leaned in closer, his breath hot against her ear. "But don''t think for a second that I trust you," he whispered. "Not yet."


    Her laughter was soft, almost mocking. "Good," she replied. "Trust is overrated anyway."


    Damian pulled back slightly, his eyes locking onto hers. For a moment, everything else fell away¡ªthe danger, the tension, the unspoken threats. It was just the two of them, locked in a battle of wills as much as it was anything else.


    He tightened his grip on her wrists, his body pressing her further into the bed. "You like this, don''t you?" he asked, his tone half-teasing, half-serious.


    Victoria''s gaze burned into him, her voice a soft purr. "You have no idea."


    Damian smirked. "Then let''s make sure you don''t forget it."


    His lips crashed onto hers, the kiss rough and demanding. Victoria responded eagerly, her mouth parting under his as her hands twisted beneath his grip. But Damian didn''t release her, his hold on her wrists tightening.


    His free hand moved down her body, his touch firm yet gentle. He traced the curve of her waist, the softness of her skin, savoring the way she arched into him, responding to his every movement. He wanted to devour her, consume her, own her.


    The thought should have disturbed him. Instead, it only made his hunger grow, his desire intensifying.


    His mouth left hers, trailing down her neck. She tilted her head back, giving him full access, her breath catching as his teeth grazed her skin. Her body was flush against his, her legs wrapping around his waist as she pressed herself against him. The sensation was intoxicating, and Damian couldn''t get enough.


    A chuckle came out of her lips.


    His eyes narrowed. Something was off.


    He raised his head, his gaze sharpening. Victoria was watching him, her expression amused, though her cheeks were flushed and her breathing ragged.


    She didn''t miss a beat. She didn''t miss his reaction.


    Damian tightened his grip on her wrist, his eyes flashing.


    Victoria laughed softly. "C''mon, Damian, Claim me. Mark me. Make me yours. I''m ready."


    Her words were like gasoline on an already burning fire. A growl rumbled in his throat, his body moving instinctively as he crushed his lips against hers. His hands released her wrists, moving to grasp her hips, pulling her closer as his mouth devoured hers.


    The kiss was hot, passionate, filled with a raw need that couldn''t be denied. Damian''s hands roamed over her body, exploring every curve, every inch of exposed skin. He needed more¡ªhe needed to claim her, to make her his.


    Victoria''s hands slid down his chest, her fingers deftly undoing the rest of his buttons. The shirt slipped from his shoulders, landing somewhere on the floor. Damian didn''t care. His hands were too busy exploring her body, touching her in ways that made her gasp and moan. Then he realized something...


    She was horny... This wasn''t a normal one, but she was getting more excited than ever. Her pussy was already wet, her clitoris throbbing despite she was still fully clothed. And her nipples were rock hard, straining against the fabric of her dress.


    ''W-What?'' he thought. ''We just started it.''


    It was a weird experience for Damian, and the more he touched her, the more intense it got. It was like his very presence was igniting her desire, bringing it to a fever pitch.


    ''Is she... Is she a nympho?''


    Damian wasn''t sure what to think, but one thing was certain: he had never seen anyone react this way before. Whatever was happening, Victoria seemed lost in the moment, her body responding to his touch as if she was possessed.


    He pulled back slightly, his gaze intense as he studied her. Her eyes were dark, pupils blown wide with lust, her breathing ragged.


    "What''s wrong?" she asked, her voice husky and thick with desire.


    "Nothing," Damian replied, his own voice tinged with something darker. "Just enjoying the view."


    He didn''t give her time to respond, his hands sliding up her thighs, pushing her dress higher. His touch was gentle yet insistent, his fingers brushing against her skin as he exposed her. Victoria didn''t resist, her eyes never leaving his.


    Damian smirked. "That''s a good girl."


    He reached the edge of her panties, his fingers dipping beneath the fabric. He could feel her heat, her need, and it only fueled his own. He had never experienced anything like this before. It was intoxicating.


    "You''re a very bad boy," Victoria said, her voice low and thick with desire.


    "Yes," Damian agreed, his grin widening. "And you''re a very naughty girl."


    Victoria chuckled. "Then punish me," she purred.


    Damian''s hands tugged her panties off, and his two fingers immediately slid into her pussy. It was wet and hot, and his dick grew harder.


    "Oh!" Victoria gasped.


    He pulled his fingers out and began licking her pussy, his tongue sliding between her folds. Victoria''s head fell back, a moan escaping her lips. She was losing control, her body responding to his touch with an intensity she couldn''t explain.


    "Mmm," Damian hummed, his tongue tracing circles around her clitoris. "You taste delicious."


    Victoria''s fingers curled into his hair, pulling him closer. "Don''t stop," she breathed, her voice husky and thick with need.


    Damian chuckled, the vibration sending shivers through her body. His fingers returned, sliding inside her once again, his tongue flicking her clitoris.


    "Ahhh... Mmm..."


    The pleasure was overwhelming. Damian''s touch was intoxicating, and she was losing herself to it. She needed more¡ªshe needed him.

 Chapter 204: Contract First! **

    Warlock Ch 204. Contract First! **


    Her hands moved to his belt, fumbling with the buckle. Damian''s free hand helped her, undoing the leather strap with ease. She tugged his pants down, his hard cock springing free.


    Damian smirked, pulling away from her just enough to position himself at her entrance. His cock brushed against her slick folds, teasing her with its length.


    "I''m going to f*ck you," he growled.


    Victoria''s response was instantaneous. "You''d better."


    Damian had to fight his urge to make her suck his cock. ''Contract first!'' he reminded himself.


    His eyes locked onto hers, and he plunged his cock deep inside her. She was so tight, so wet, so hot. Damian groaned, his fingers digging into her hips.


    "Ngh," he breathed, his voice heavy with pleasure.


    [Pact Creation Lv. 3 Activated]


    Victoria moaned, her hands grasping his shoulders. Her nails dug into his skin, her body arching against his.


    "Yes," she panted, her eyes wild with desire.


    Damian didn''t hold back, thrusting hard and deep. She was incredible, her body responding to his every move. He could feel her orgasm building, her pussy tightening around his cock.


    "Come for me," he growled, his voice low and thick with passion. "Come for me, Victoria."


    She gasped, her body shuddering as she came. "Oah!"


    He rode out her orgasm, his own pleasure mounting. When her climax subsided, he picked up the pace, thrusting hard and deep. His movements were fierce, passionate, and her body responded, meeting his every move.


    "Ahhh... Mmm..."


    [Vampire''s Arcane Gift Lv.1]


    [Partner: Victoria Bloodrose (Blood Mage)]


    [New Spells Unlocked!]


    [Bloodwell Surge Lv 1]: Absorb blood from nearby enemies within a 10-meter radius, draining their HP to heal yourself and allies in proportion to the damage dealt. Restores an additional 10% HP if enemies are defeated during the skill''s effect. Cooldown: 20 seconds.


    ''Nice...'' he grinned. It was a healing skills type. Something he needed! But the most important thing was... he had claimed her.


    "That was so... hot," Victoria said, her breathing ragged.


    Damian''s evil smile widened. "Oh , I haven''t finished yet." He pulled his cock out, his gaze never leaving hers. He put his cock in front of her lips and said, "Now clean me up."


    She smiled and obediently licked his cock, from the base to the tip, cleaning all his cum. She could smell his scent, the mix of his sweat and the musk of sex. It was intoxicating, and her desire was reignited.


    Damian chuckled. His heart was racing, and his body was alive with desire. He gazed down at Victoria, her actions both daring and unrestrained, which added a layer of thrill to the already electrifying atmosphere. "A queen...sucking an apprentice''s cock. I guess we just made a new crime," he teased, his voice thick with arousal and amusement.


    Victoria paused, looking up at him with a mischievous glint in her eyes. She licked her lips slowly, savoring the moment. "Who cares?" she responded with a daring smirk. "It''s tasty." Then, without another word, she returned to her task with renewed vigor, her movements becoming even more fierce and deliberate.


    Her hands, skilled and confident, wandered lower to play with his balls, adding layers of sensation that made Damian''s breath hitch.


    Damian leaned back, allowing himself to get lost in the sensations, his hands threading through her hair, guiding her with gentle pressure.


    "You''re incredible," he murmured, his voice low and husky. The compliment was genuine¡ªDamian found himself both overwhelmed by her fervor and deeply impressed by her lack of inhibition. He hated to admit it but yes... he enjoyed it so much.


    Victoria''s response was to look up at him through her lashes, her eyes dark with lust. She let out a soft, contented hum.


    "Gods, I could watch you do this all day," Damian confessed, the words slipping out amidst a groan as she took him deeper, her pace expertly modulated to drive him to the edge and back.


    Victoria''s actions paused, and she pulled back slightly, a playful yet devilish look on her face. "And what makes you think I would stop?" she challenged, her voice a sultry whisper that was both a promise and a provocation.


    Damian didn''t know what to say, and his heart was beating faster and faster. He had never been so turned on before. "And what makes you think this is enough?"


    Victoria''s expression shifted slightly, the playfulness giving way to something more intense, more focused. Her crimson eyes bored into him, filled with a dark and hungry hunger.


    A wicked idea crossed his mind.


    "On your knees," he commanded, his voice low and firm. "Now."


    Victoria''s lips curled into a wicked smile, and she obeyed without hesitation.


    "Good girl." Damian praised her, his voice laced with a dark satisfaction.


    "Now... I want you to touch yourself in front of me. If you manage to give me a good show, I will give you another round..." He grabbed a handful of her hair and closed their distance. "I will fuck you harder than before."


    He swore he could see a clear excitement in her eyes. "Yes," she breathed, her eyes locked on his.


    She began touching herself, her movements slow and deliberate. Damian watched, entranced, as her fingers trailed down her neck, her breasts, her stomach. She was beautiful, her body toned and muscular but still soft and feminine.


    Her fingers dipped lower, between her legs, and she let out a soft gasp as she made contact. Damian''s eyes darkened, his cock growing harder as he watched her pleasure herself.


    "That''s it," he murmured, his voice low and thick with arousal. "Show me how you like to be touched."


    She obeyed, her fingers moving in slow, sensuous circles. Her breath quickened, her eyes never leaving his. Damian felt his own need grow, his cock aching to be inside her. He could see the slickness between her thighs, the way her body shuddered as she pleasured herself. It was almost too much to bear.


    Her pink flesh was exposed, her fingers working deftly, sliding over her clitoris, her juices mixing with the slickness of his saliva. Her breaths came in short, sharp gasps, her body quivering with the effort of holding back.

 Chapter 205: Claiming The Royal Vampire **

    Warlock Ch 205. Claiming The Royal Vampire **


    Damian couldn''t help but wonder if she would have climaxed right then and there had he not commanded her otherwise. Her inside was so slippery and wet, the smell of sex hung heavily in the air, and it made him hungry for more. She batted her eyelids, her eyes never leaving his. She was clearly turned on, her expression a mixture of desire and submission.


    She was getting close. Her body was tense, her breathing ragged, her fingers moving furiously. Damian wanted nothing more than to take her then and there, to plunge his cock into her and fuck her senseless, but he held back. He wanted her to beg for it. He wanted her to show him just how badly she wanted him.


    And she did.


    "C''mon, Damian... I know you want to," she pleaded, her voice breathy and desperate.


    That was all the encouragement he needed. Damian''s control snapped, and he pushed her onto the bed. He climbed on top of her, his cock pressed against her slick entrance. But instead of satisfying the mounting tension, he grabbed her hands and pinned them above her head. The bed sheets crinkled under them, a stark contrast to the silence that followed his sudden restraint.


    His eyes, dark and intense, locked onto hers. "No," he said firmly, the single word a decree. His tone wasn''t just assertive; it was a manifestation of his need for control, for answers. "I need to know first," he demanded, his voice dipping into a growl.


    Victoria looked up at him, the desire in her eyes battling with a flicker of confusion at his sudden change of pace. "Damian?" she breathed, her voice laced with a cocktail of emotions¡ªdesire, frustration, curiosity.


    He gave her a nasty grin, his grip tightening just enough to remind her who was in control. "You want it?" he teased, almost taunting her.


    "Yes..." she gasped out, the word a mix of a plea and a moan. Her body arched slightly, seeking his, her hips involuntarily pushing against him, seeking the relief they both knew he could provide.


    His smile faded into a serious line, and he leaned closer, his lips just inches from hers. "Answer my question, and I will give it to you," he said, his breath hot against her skin. "Tell me why. Why go through all this? What are you really after?"


    The intensity in his gaze was piercing, almost as if he could see straight through to her soul. It was enough to sober her from the haze of physical need. Her breathing slowed as she processed his words, realizing the gravity behind them.


    Victoria''s eyes, once filled with lust, now mirrored a seriousness to match Damian''s. She knew he wasn''t playing games¡ªnot anymore. The smile faded from her lips as she stared up at him, her crimson gaze narrowing slightly. "You..." she began, her voice uncertain for the first time.


    Damian didn''t let her finish. He brought his face closer to hers, his expression hardening as dark energy coiled around his fingers. With a flick of his wrist, his [Dark Chains] activated, the shadowy tendrils wrapping around her wrists and binding her securely to the bedposts.


    "You''re not going anywhere," Damian growled, his voice low and dangerous. He had no illusions about her power¡ªVictoria was a royal-class vampire. If she wanted to, she could likely escape in an instant, turning into a swarm of bats or overwhelming him with sheer force. But that''s exactly why he had to take control now, to bind her before she could even think of slipping away.


    Victoria''s lips curled into a faint smirk as the chains tightened around her. "Do you really think these will hold me?" she asked, her voice mocking yet laced with curiosity.


    "No," Damian admitted, his grip on her wrists firm. "But it''s enough to make you listen. And it''s enough to remind you that I''m not someone you can toy with."


    Her smirk faded, replaced by a sharp, calculating look. "And what is it you want, then?"


    "First question," Damian began, his tone biting, "tell me what happened that night. When I killed your husband. Why did you side with me?"


    Victoria blinked, her gaze steady and unreadable for a moment. Then, a wicked laugh bubbled up from her chest, echoing through the room like nails on a chalkboard. It grated on Damian''s nerves, and he clenched his teeth, his patience wearing thin.


    "Speak," he snapped, his voice cutting through her laughter like a blade.


    Her laughter faded, though the amusement in her eyes didn''t. "Your partial memory is really eating at you, isn''t it?" she said, her tone teasing.


    Damian''s jaw tightened. "I''m not playing games, Victoria. Answer me."


    She tilted her head slightly, her expression shifting to something more serious. "Fine," she said softly, her voice carrying a weight that hadn''t been there before. "I''ll tell you. But you''re not going to like it."


    "Try me," Damian said, his grip on her tightening just slightly.


    Victoria sighed, her gaze drifting upward as if she were recalling a distant memory. "Yes, Damian," she began, her voice calm but heavy. "You did kill my husband. But you didn''t do it because you wanted to. You did it because you were forced to."


    Damian''s brows furrowed. "Forced to?"


    Victoria nodded. "My husband¡ªif you can even call him that¡ªwasn''t the noble ruler he pretended to be. He married me because of my royal bloodline, the only thing that could give him legitimacy to the throne. His family had immense military power, but they needed me to make their claim complete. It was a political marriage, nothing more."


    Damian listened intently, his mind racing to piece together her words with the fragmented memories he had.


    "But that wasn''t enough for him," Victoria continued, her voice growing colder. "He didn''t just want power. He wanted absolute power. And to get it, he needed more than my bloodline. He needed your Mana Core¡ªthe core of the demon king himself. His plan was simple: kill you, drain your blood, and take your core for himself."

 Chapter 206: Heavy Price

    Warlock Ch 206. Heavy Price


    Damian''s eyes widened slightly. "He wanted to rule the magic world," he muttered, the pieces falling into place.


    "Yes," Victoria confirmed, her gaze meeting his. "He saw you as a threat, as someone who could challenge him. But he also saw you as an opportunity. With your power, he believed he could rise above everyone¡ªvampires, mages, warlocks, demons. He thought he could become untouchable."


    Damian''s grip on her wrists tightened, his mind swirling with a mix of anger and confusion. "And you? What about you? Why did you side with me?"


    Victoria''s lips pressed into a thin line. "Because he didn''t just plan to kill you, Damian. He planned to get rid of me, too."


    Damian blinked, his confusion deepening. "What?"


    "My bloodline was valuable," Victoria explained, her voice steady despite her words. "But only as long as I was alive to produce heirs. Once he drained you and took your core, he no longer needed me. I was disposable."


    The room fell silent, her revelation sinking in. Damian stared down at her, his mind racing to process everything she''d said.


    "So you used me," Damian said finally, his voice low. "You used me to get rid of him."


    Victoria''s gaze didn''t waver. "Yes," she admitted, her voice unwavering. "But not in the way you think. I didn''t manipulate you, Damian. I didn''t need to. The moment you learned the truth about his plans, you made the choice yourself. You killed him because it was the only way to stop him."


    Damian''s chest tightened, his memories flashing in fragments¡ªthe battle, the blood, the chaos. "And what about after?" he asked, his voice sharp.


    Victoria''s expression softened, a flicker of vulnerability crossing her face. "Because you saved me," she said simply. "That night, you could have killed me too. You had every reason to. But you didn''t. You protected me."


    Damian''s grip on her wrists loosened slightly as her words sank in. "I protected you?" he repeated, his voice barely above a whisper.


    "Yes," Victoria said, her voice firm. "You chose me over him. And for that, I owe you everything. You even gave me your blood... to save my life."


    Damian stared down at her, his mind a whirlwind of emotions. Her words replayed in his head, each one heavier than the last. He had been prepared for deceit, for manipulation, for more layers of her games. But this? This raw honesty wasn''t what he had expected.


    "I gave you my blood?" he asked, his voice low, almost disbelieving. Then the vision he''d seen earlier clicked into place. ''So that''s why I went to her at the end,'' he muttered internally.


    Victoria''s expression softened. "Yes. You did it to save me."


    Damian clenched his jaw, his thoughts racing. ''That explains how she knows I''m Kaelan.''


    He''d been too distracted to piece it together before, but now it made perfect sense. For a royal vampire like Victoria, tracking someone based on their blood was as simple as breathing. Yet, that raised another question¡ªa bigger one.


    He narrowed his eyes on her. "Then why didn''t you take me?" he asked, his voice sharper now. "Why didn''t you hide me? If I saved your life, why didn''t you do the same for me?"


    Victoria let out a bitter laugh, her crimson eyes glinting with a mix of frustration and sadness. "Do you think Kaelan would''ve accepted that?" she asked, her tone cutting. "Do you really think you would''ve stayed if I offered you sanctuary? You, who even left your best friend and your little witch behind?"


    Damian stiffened at her words, his past choices hitting him harder than he wanted to admit. He said nothing, but Victoria pressed on.


    "I was nothing to you, Damian. Nothing," she said, her voice trembling slightly. "Would you have possibly accepted my offer when you couldn''t even stay with the people closest to you?"


    She looked away, her expression unreadable for a moment before she continued. "Besides," she said, her voice softening, "you left me. Just like that. After giving me your blood, you disappeared. No explanation. No goodbye."


    Damian closed his eyes and exhaled sharply. "Yeah," he said with a huff. "That does sound like something I''d do."


    Victoria''s lips curled into a faint, humorless smile. "It was."


    She paused, as if gathering her thoughts, then continued. "Do you know how I passed the days after that? After you left?" Her voice grew quieter, but her words filled the room. "I tried to look for you. I searched everywhere. But I couldn''t do it openly. With my husband''s death, everything changed. The politics within the vampire faction shifted. Everyone was watching me, waiting for me to falter."


    She leaned her head back against the pillow, her gaze fixed on the ceiling. "And he managed to wound me," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "Not badly¡ªyour blood had already healed me. But I still needed time to recover my power. Time I didn''t have."


    Her eyes flicked back to his, her expression hardening. "So I locked myself away. Pretended to mourn, like the perfect widow everyone expected me to be. But I wasn''t sad. Not for him. Not even for a moment." Her voice broke slightly, but she quickly composed herself. "I was worried about you. I knew you were badly injured too. I didn''t know if you''d survived."


    Damian scoffed, though the sound lacked its usual sharpness. "You speak as if you didn''t use me," he said, his tone laced with bitterness. "You did use me. You said it yourself."


    Victoria''s eyes flashed with something fierce. "I used you," she admitted without hesitation. "But you ended up taking something more from me."


    Damian frowned.


    Victoria let out a shaky breath, her gaze softening in a way that made Damian''s chest tighten. "I paid a heavy price for what you done," she said quietly. "More than you''ll ever know. You didn''t just save my life. You didn''t just give me your blood. You... took something from me."


    Damian''s grip on her wrists loosened slightly, confusion flickering across his face. "What the hell are you talking about?"

 Chapter 207: Obsession

    Warlock Ch 207. Obsession


    Victoria''s lips curved into a sad smile. "I fell in love with you," she said, her voice trembling. "I''m obsessed with you."


    Her words hit Damian. He stared at her, his mind struggling to process what she''d just said. "What?" he asked, his voice barely audible.


    "I don''t know how it happened," Victoria continued, her voice gaining strength. "Maybe it was your blood. Maybe it was the way you fought for me, the way you chose me over everything else. Or maybe it was just you. But whatever it was, it consumed me."


    She looked up at him, her crimson eyes glistening with unshed tears. "Do you know what it''s like to live with that? To be so consumed by someone that it feels like you''re going insane?"


    Damian''s throat tightened, but he forced himself to speak. "Victoria..."


    "I used you, yes," she interrupted, her voice firm. "But you took something far more valuable from me. My heart, my sanity, my control. You took everything, Damian."


    The room fell into silence. Damian didn''t know what to say. He had come here looking for answers, but this? This was more than he''d bargained for.


    And yet, as he looked down at her¡ªher wrists still bound by his chains, her eyes burning with a mix of anger, sadness, and longing¡ªhe couldn''t help but wonder if this was the truth he''d been searching for all along.


    Her lips curved into a smile, one that was equal parts wicked and knowing. "Shocking, isn''t it?" she said, her voice soft but edged with amusement.


    Damian didn''t answer, his grip tightening slightly on her wrists.


    She tilted her head, her crimson gaze piercing him as if she could see straight through to his soul. "You don''t know what I went through to find you," she murmured, her tone shifting to something almost tender. But before he could respond, her body suddenly dissolved into a swarm of bats, the dark creatures scattering in a chaotic blur.


    The chains fell away like they were nothing and disappeared.


    "Damn it," Damian muttered, already moving. He didn''t need to think¡ªhis instincts kicked in, and he immediately realized where she''d gone.


    Behind him.


    Victoria''s form reassembled in a swirl of shadows, her hand reaching out to shove him. But Damian was faster. His [Shadow Step] activated in an instant, and his body dissolved into a dark aura, teleporting him to the far corner of the room.


    When he reappeared, he turned to face her, his cold gaze locking onto hers. The distance between them was short, but the tension felt vast.


    Victoria turned to him slowly, her movements deliberate, like a predator savoring the chase. A smirk played on her lips, her confidence unshaken. "Your power hasn''t returned to its original state yet," she observed, her voice lilting. "But your instincts... they''re as sharp as ever."


    Damian scoffed, brushing the dust from his hands as if her words didn''t faze him. "I live as if the sword of Damocles is always above my head," he said evenly. "Sharp instincts aren''t a luxury for me¡ªthey''re survival."


    Her smile widened, her crimson eyes gleaming with a dangerous light. "And that''s exactly why you''re perfect for me," she hissed, her voice dripping with an unsettling mix of adoration and menace.


    Damian''s lips twitched into a humorless grin. "Perfect couple, huh?" he said, his tone mocking.


    Victoria stepped closer, her movements slow and deliberate, her gaze never wavering from his. "I love it," she said, her voice dropping to a sultry whisper.


    Damian''s mind raced. ''She wasn''t kidding when she said she was obsessed with me,'' he thought. The tension in the air was suffocating.


    "What''s your endgame, Victoria?" Damian asked, his voice cold. "Is this some twisted game to you? Or do you actually want a real connection with me?"


    Her expression didn''t falter. "Both," she said simply. "But you''ve always been a part of my endgame, Damian. From the moment you saved me..."


    He let out a sharp laugh, the sound devoid of humor. "You really are insane," he muttered, shaking his head.


    "And you will love it," she shot back, her smile widening.


    She moved closer again, her presence like a storm threatening to consume him. There was a part of him, buried deep and wrapped in denial, that was drawn to her.


    "You talk like this is inevitable," Damian said, his voice low. "Like I don''t have a choice."


    Victoria stopped just a few steps away, her gaze softening slightly. "You do," she said. "But the truth is, we''re more alike than you want to admit. You feel it too, don''t you?"


    Damian didn''t answer. He couldn''t.


    Because she was right.


    He hated how much sense her words made, how her presence ignited something in him he couldn''t explain. She was dangerous, unpredictable, and utterly maddening. And yet, he couldn''t bring himself to look away. He knew... He was also the same as her.


    Victoria reached out, her hand brushing against his cheek, her touch surprisingly gentle. "I know you don''t trust me," she murmured. "And I don''t blame you. But I also know you can''t deny this."


    "This?" Damian echoed, his voice sharp. "What exactly is ''this,'' Victoria? Some twisted obsession you''ve decided to turn into a reality?"


    Her smile softened, but the intensity in her gaze didn''t waver. "Call it whatever you want," she said. "But you''re mine, Damian. Whether you accept it now or not, it doesn''t change the truth."


    He stepped back, breaking her touch, his expression hardening. "You don''t own me," he said firmly.


    Victoria''s smile returned, faint but knowing. "No... You own me, just like I own you."


    Damian''s jaw tightened at her words. Before he could respond, she tilted her head, her crimson eyes gleaming with mischief. "You''ve already settled the contract between us," she said smoothly. "I''m now... your wife."


    Damian opened his mouth to argue, to deny it, but he stopped himself. She wasn''t wrong. The contract they had forged through the pact wasn''t just a simple agreement¡ªit was a bond, a connection that went beyond physical or magical.


    But then she did something that completely threw him off.

 Chapter 208: Desire and Dominance *

    Warlock Ch 208. Desire and Dominance *


    Without a word, Victoria dropped to her hands and knees, positioning herself on all fours like some obedient servant. Damian''s eyes widened in shock. This wasn''t something he had commanded¡ªshe had done it on her own, willingly.


    "What the hell are you doing?" he demanded, his voice a mix of confusion and disbelief.


    Victoria didn''t answer immediately. Instead, her hands moved with deliberate slowness, snaking up his legs, her touch light and teasing. Her nails grazed his skin as she rose slightly, her head tilted just enough to meet his gaze.


    Her smirk was wicked, her eyes gleaming with a dangerous mix of mischief and desire. "I''ve answered your question," she purred, her voice dripping with seduction. "Let''s continue, shall we?"


    Damian''s jaw clenched, his pulse quickening. She stopped when her head was level with his groin, her hands resting on his thighs, in front of his cock.


    "You have answered my question," Damian finally said, his voice rough with a cocktail of desire and dominance. "I will give you what you want." Without waiting for a response, he reached down, his fingers entwining in her hair, gripping it just firmly enough to assert his control. "Now, suck me."


    Victoria didn''t flinch or protest. Instead, her eyes sparkled with an intense mix of satisfaction and anticipation. She shifted slightly, positioning herself better, her breath warm against his skin. It was a charged moment, one filled with the power play that both thrilled and unnerved him.


    She leaned in. He was in control, yet at her mercy, dependent on her actions, her willingness to please him. It was a dynamic he hadn''t fully anticipated, even with all his experience and past encounters.


    Her lips parted, and she looked up at him one last time. Damian nodded slightly, giving the unspoken permission she sought. With that, she moved forward, her lips closing around him.


    The sensation was immediate and intense. Damian sucked in a sharp breath, his hand tightening in her hair reflexively. She was skilled, her movements calculated to draw out the most intense sensations. She took him deeper, her hands moved to caress his thighs, her nails lightly scratching the skin.


    Damian closed his eyes, his other hand moving to grip her shoulder, steadying himself. It was a struggle not to lose control, not to thrust into her mouth with abandon, chasing his own pleasure. She seemed to sense his hesitation, and her lips curled upward.


    Without warning, she took him all the way, her nose pressed against his skin. Damian let out a low growl, his restraint slipping.


    "More!"


    His grip tightened, his hips rocking in a steady rhythm, matching her pace. He wasn''t going to last long at this rate.


    Just as he was about to hit the point of no return, she stopped.


    "Don''t you dare," Damian growled, his eyes snapping open.


    Victoria''s lips curled into a smirk, her eyes dancing with amusement. "Wouldn''t want to ruin the fun too early, now would we?" she teased.


    "Tease," he muttered, but there was no malice in his voice.


    Her smirk widened. "I love seeing you like this," she said, her voice low. "Powerful, dominant, but still at my mercy. It''s a good look on you."


    He scoffed, releasing his grip on her hair. "Right..." he said dismissively. "Get on the bed."


    "As you wish," she said smoothly. Without another word, she stood and moved to the bed, her movements graceful and fluid.


    "Lie down," Damian instructed. "I''m not done with you yet."


    Victoria complied, stretching out on the bed, her crimson eyes watching him closely.


    He joined her, his hands tracing up her body, his touch light but possessive. His gaze never left hers, his control and dominance clear.


    She shuddered under his touch, her lips parting slightly.


    Damian''s hand trailed down her abdomen, his fingertips brushing against her folds. She was already wet, her arousal evident. He teased her, his fingers circling her entrance, but never entering.


    Her eyes flashed, and her hips arched, trying to get more contact.


    "Patience," he whispered, his voice low and commanding. "I''m in charge, remember?"


    Victoria''s gaze darkened, but she didn''t protest.


    He leaned in, his lips brushing against her ear. "Good girl," he murmured, his voice a mix of approval and dominance.


    She shuddered again, her nails digging into the sheets.


    Damian grinned, his control and power evident. He took his time, drawing out the sensations, teasing her until she was on the edge of climax.


    Then he pulled back, leaving her wanting.


    Victoria''s eyes flashed, and she let out a frustrated groan. "Why did you stop?"


    Damian smirked. "Cause I won''t let you cum with my fingers." He pressed his cock against her, his hand resting on her waist. "I want to hear your scream of pleasure from being fucked by my d*ck."


    Her eyes widened slightly, but she didn''t protest. She arched her back, pressing herself against him, her arousal evident.


    Damian didn''t waste any time. He gripped her waist, his other hand guiding his cock. In one smooth motion, he slid inside her, filling her completely.


    Victoria''s eyes widened, her lips parting in a gasp.


    Damian smirked, his hips rocking in a steady rhythm, his movements precise and deliberate. She was tight, her walls clenching around him, drawing him deeper.


    Her nails dug into his shoulders, her hips rising to meet his, their bodies moving in sync.


    The pace increased, their bodies crashing together, a frenzied mix of pleasure and passion. The air was filled with the sounds of their breathing, their skin slapping together, their moans and groans of pleasure.


    "Moan louder!" he commanded. He thrust harder, deeper, his pace never faltering.


    "Ah!" Her legs wrapped around him, pulling him closer, her nails raking across his back.


    He grunted, his grip tightening on her waist. The feeling was intoxicating. He felt like he could go on forever, lost in the sensation of her, the heat and pressure of her body.


    But he was reaching his limit.

 Chapter 209: Lose Control **

    Warlock Ch 209. Lose Control **


    He could feel his release building, his control slipping.


    "Come for me," she breathed, her eyes locking onto his. "I want to see you lose control, to hear your voice, to feel your pleasure."


    Her words pushed him over the edge. With a low growl, he came, his cock throbbing inside her, his orgasm washing over him.


    She also let out a cry, her own release following his, her walls clenching around him, milking him.


    [New skill unlocked!]


    [Blood Manipulation Lv 1:] This ability allows the Blood Mage/Vampire to manipulate the blood of all enemies in a large radius, slowing their movements and attack speed drastically. After a short delay, the blood constricts, dealing massive damage. If any enemy is slain by this attack, their blood explodes, dealing secondary damage to nearby enemies. Can be used on a single target. Cooldown: 60 seconds. Range: 20 meters.


    They stayed like that for a moment, their bodies intertwined, their breathing ragged, their hearts racing.


    "That was... incredible," Damian finally said, his voice hoarse.


    Victoria smiled, her gaze softening. "It was," she agreed, her voice carrying a warmth that seemed at odds with the cool decorum she usually maintained. As Damian began to pull away, intent on distancing himself from the intensity of the moment, she reached out, pulling him back with a surprising strength.


    "Now do you believe me?" she asked, her eyes searching for any sign of doubt.


    Damian was silent for a moment, deep in thought. Everything that had transpired, the contract, her confessions, their intense physical connection¡ªit all swirled together, making it hard to discern where duty ended and genuine emotion began. Finally, he exhaled slowly, the air heavy with resignation. "I don''t have any reason not to believe you," he admitted.


    She chuckled, a sound that was both delighted and a little sad. "True. The only problem is that you are still as cold as ever."


    "But..." she continued, her hand reaching out to caress his cheek gently. "I will make you fall in love with me. Don''t worry about it."


    Damian''s eyes narrowed slightly. "You surely think I''m a nice tool, huh?" he asked, his tone laced with a tinge of sarcasm.


    "I''m not sleeping around with tools," she retorted quickly, her eyes flashing with a mix of amusement and challenge.


    "Good to hear it. That means I''ve already been promoted to pawn," Damian replied dryly.


    Victoria laughed, a genuine, unguarded sound that filled the room. "Either pawn or king," she said, her eyes twinkling.


    He distanced himself slightly, sitting on the edge of the bed as he processed her words. "So, you told me you really consider me as a partner?" he asked, needing to hear the confirmation, needing something solid to hold onto amidst the swirling chaos of their relationship.


    "Yeah. But if you''re annoyed with the mission, you shouldn''t be," she responded seriously, sitting up to face him. "Let me explain to you. I can indeed use my troops to handle Varak. But that would take a lot of my troops. And there could be traitors among them. Not to mention, other noble vampires might target me while my troops are away. Using you and Cassius is the best choice."


    Damian exhaled. It was reasonable, painfully so. He said nothing, recognizing the truth in her strategy, even if it rankled to be used as a piece on her chessboard.


    Finally, he snapped his fingers, activating his [Telekinesis]. His clothes flew towards him, and he dressed quickly.


    "Right," he said tersely, his mind still wrestling with everything she had told him.


    Victoria rolled onto her stomach, watching him with an expression that was both playful and earnest. "Does that make you feel better?" she asked, her voice a soft murmur.


    He paused, considering her question. Did it make him feel better? The honesty, the strategy, the undeniable connection between them¡ªit was a lot to process. Damian turned to look at her, really look at her. There she was, a queen in every sense, yet here she lay, making herself vulnerable to him in ways he hadn''t anticipated.


    "No," he said finally, the word more resigned than angry. "But it makes me understand you more. And maybe that''s a start."


    Victoria''s smile returned, gentler this time, more contemplative. "Understanding is the first step to acceptance," she mused.


    "And acceptance?" Damian queried, his eyebrow raised as he sat back down beside her.


    "Is the first step to love," she finished for him, her gaze locked onto his with an intensity that was almost palpable.


    Was this what she was doing? Breaking down his defenses, one truth at a time, until what? He loved her? Was bound to her by more than just magical contracts and political necessity?


    "Love, huh?" he muttered, more to himself than to her. He looked down at her, her red hair fanned out across the pillow, her pale skin a contrast to the dark sheets. She was beautiful, terrifyingly so, and as dangerous as anyone he had ever known.


    Victoria propped herself up on her elbows, her gaze never leaving his. "Yes, love," she said firmly. "I believe even someone like you can love, Damian. And I intend to prove it."


    He didn''t respond, his mind a whirl of emotions he hadn''t expected to feel. Love? Could he really come to love someone like Victoria? A part of him wanted to dismiss the idea outright, but another part, a deeper, more hidden part, was curious. What would it be like to truly let go, to fall into the madness she offered?


    Damian stood up, his movements slow and deliberate. "I need some air," he said, more to himself than to her. But as he walked toward the door, he paused, turning back to look at her one last time. "This isn''t over," he said, not sure if he was making a promise or stating a threat.


    "It never is," Victoria replied, her voice soft, her eyes on him until the very moment he stepped out of the room.

 Chapter 210: Hows The Seduction?

    Warlock Ch 210. How''s The Seduction?


    Damian closed the door quietly behind him, his mind still reeling from the revelations and intimacies shared. The cool, silent hallway outside his quarters seemed like another world compared to the heated intensity of the room he had just left. He paused, letting out a deep breath, trying to compose himself. His body was still thrumming from Victoria''s touch, her scent clinging to him like a second skin. He shook his head slightly, as if to clear the lingering fog of desire and confusion.


    He walked down the corridor and was grateful for the absence of guards or any prying eyes. He wasn''t in the mood to explain himself or to catch the knowing looks that would inevitably follow if anyone spotted him in his current state.


    Passing by Cassius and Evelyn''s rooms, he hesitated. Normally, he might have considered seeking them out, either for advice or simply to decompress. But not tonight. The thought of facing them, of dealing with their reactions¡ªwhether amusement or concern¡ªwas more than he could handle right now.


    Instead, Damian continued to the balcony, needing the space and fresh air to sort through his swirling thoughts. The cool night breeze felt good against his skin.


    He leaned against the railing, overlooking the expansive view of the vampire territory that stretched out from the palace. The sprawling lands, bathed in moonlight, looked peaceful from up here.


    "Kaelan... Kaelan... What you do is trying to survive and test your limits, but look at you," he muttered to himself, a wry chuckle escaping his lips. "You leave a lot of problems for me."


    He sighed, his gaze drifting across the horizon. "Maybe that''s why I chose to rebirth. Because there are many complicated things."


    The contract, the intimacy, and Victoria''s startling declaration of love and obsession, it was a lot to take in. And while part of him wanted to reject it all, to push it away and return to the simplicity of his former lone-wolf existence, another part of him couldn''t deny the strange, compelling pull of the bond they now shared.


    "And hey, at least I didn''t kill Victoria''s husband out of powerlust or because I wanted Victoria," he reasoned with himself, finding a small measure of solace. "The opposite happened. Which means... good thing, I guess..."


    Damian''s thoughts were interrupted by the faint sound of footsteps. He tensed, ready to confront whoever was approaching, but relaxed slightly when he saw it was just a night patrol passing by beneath the balcony. They didn''t look up, and he turned his attention back to the view.


    The reality of his situation was complicated. Victoria had become an integral part of his life, whether he liked it or not. The bond they shared wasn''t just about magic or power¡ªit was personal, deep, and disturbingly intimate. He had to admit, there was a part of him that was terrified by how much he was drawn to her, by the intensity of the connection between them.


    But there was no denying it anymore. He needed her, not just as a partner in the upcoming conflicts but as something more. Something he hadn''t expected to find, especially not in someone like her. It was a realization that was both alarming and exhilarating.


    Damian let out another long breath, feeling the night''s revelations settling around him. He knew he couldn''t stay out here forever, lost in his thoughts. Soon, he would have to go back inside.


    As if summoned by his thoughts, two figures emerged from the shadows. Cassius appeared first, materializing from a dark aura and leaning nonchalantly against a pillar. Almost simultaneously, Evelyn appeared like a wisp of smoke, her form solidifying as she casually took a seat on the rail.


    "So, how''s the seduction?" Cassius asked, a teasing edge to his voice. His casual demeanor did little to mask the keen interest in his eyes.


    Evelyn didn''t bother with subtlety. "You f*cked her, right? She must have said one or two things," she remarked, her face expressionless, her tone matter-of-fact.


    Damian exhaled slowly, a mixture of annoyance and resignation settling over him. "You guys heard that?" he asked, though he knew the answer.


    Cassius laughed softly. "She moaned like a horny cat. There''s no way we didn''t hear it."


    The bluntness made Damian''s cheeks heat slightly, a rare show of discomfort from the usually stoic warlock. He ran a hand through his hair, gathering his thoughts before diving into the heart of the matter.


    "Look, it''s not just about... that," Damian started, trying to steer the conversation to more pressing issues. "There''s more at play here. Victoria... she told me about the past, about her husband and the real reasons behind everything that''s been happening."


    Evelyn hopped off the rail, her interest piqued, while Cassius straightened up, the teasing tone gone. This was the part they needed to understand¡ªthe crux of why Damian was now deeply entangled with the vampire queen.


    "Her husband planned to overthrow her, take her power, and use me in the process," Damian continued, his voice low and serious. "He was after my Mana Core, aiming to drain it and take the power of me and the demon king for himself."


    The implications of that revelation hung heavy in the air. Cassius frowned, processing the information. "So, she was just trying to survive and used what she could to stop him. You were a means to an end, but not in the way we thought."


    "Exactly," Damian confirmed. "And now, she needs our help with Varak."


    "Why?" Evelyn interjected, her tactical mind already turning. "What''s her angle there?"


    Damian leaned against the railing, looking out into the night. "It''s not just about power or removing a rival. It''s strategic. She believes Varak is part of a larger threat, one that could destabilize her position further. And yes, she could use her own troops, but she''s wary of traitors and doesn''t want to weaken her position by drawing too much attention."


    "So, she uses us," Cassius summarized, his expression grim. "We''re the outsiders, the wildcard. Less political fallout for her if things go south. She could ditch us if she needs to."


    "And more risk for us," Evelyn added, her tone flat.

 Chapter 211: Mutual

    Warlock Ch 211. Mutual


    Damian nodded. "Yes, but we also gain an ally with resources and information we need. It''s not just her using us; there''s mutual benefit."


    The trio stood in silence for a moment, each lost in their thoughts. Finally, Cassius broke the silence. "And you believe her? You trust her enough to bring us into this?"


    Damian''s gaze returned to the palace, his eyes hardening slightly. "I believe her story. And yes, I think we can work with her, not just for her sake but for our own. We need to stay ahead of the game, and having Victoria on our side is a strategic advantage."


    Evelyn nodded slowly, her mind already racing through potential scenarios and strategies. "If we''re doing this, we need to set some ground rules with her. Clear boundaries. And we need a solid exit strategy if things go wrong."


    "Agreed," Cassius said, his tone firm. "We''ll help her with Varak, but on our terms."


    Damian looked back at his companions. "Let''s go back inside. We have a lot to discuss, and I''d rather not have another eavesdropping session broadcast to the entire palace."


    With a collective nod, they headed back inside, their steps echoing softly in the quiet of the expansive palace corridors. They were in light discussion, when a sudden interruption broke their focus.


    Around the corner, with the commanding presence that only a vampire of high stature could possess, came a figure Damian recognized from his earlier visit near Victoria''s office. The vampire''s sharp gaze swept over Cassius and Evelyn with a discerning eye but, just as before, completely disregarded Damian as if he were merely part of the scenery.


    The vampire stopped in front of them, his posture rigid, radiating a mix of aristocracy and inherent superiority. "You must be the great warlock Cassius. I am Seraphis," he introduced himself, his voice carrying an undercurrent of arrogance that seemed to permeate the air around him.


    Cassius nodded politely. "A pleasure to meet you," he responded, his tone neutral but respectful enough to not incite further arrogance from the vampire duke.


    Seraphis''s eyes lingered on Cassius, perhaps recognizing the famous warlock''s reputation which did afford some level of mutual respect, albeit grudgingly. Evelyn stood silently, her expression unreadable, observing the exchange with a calculating eye.


    After a brief acknowledgment of Cassius, Seraphis''s attention turned dismissively from Evelyn and fixed once more on Cassius. "I heard you are involved in today''s mission," he said, his voice still holding that irritatingly superior tone. "I am leading the mission, and I must confess I do not appreciate interferences from external parties, no matter their reputed capabilities."


    Cassius''s jaw tightened slightly, a sign of his irritation, but his voice remained calm. "We''re not here to interfere, Seraphis. We''re here to collaborate. Our goals align with yours, after all."


    Seraphis scoffed lightly, his disdain barely concealed. "Collaboration implies equality. You would do well to remember your place in this arrangement."


    Before Cassius could respond, Seraphis''s cold gaze slid to Damian, sizing him up with a dismissive glance that seemed to size him up and dismiss him all in one go. "And you," he said, his lip curling slightly. "I don''t like you. You''re just an apprentice, far out of your depth. You''d be wise to stay away from the queen. You don''t deserve her."


    The words stung more than Damian expected, his fists clenching at his sides. The insinuation that he was unworthy, combined with the overt disrespect, sparked a fire within him. Yet, he knew that lashing out wouldn''t help their cause.


    Instead, Damian met Seraphis''s gaze, his voice steady but icy. "My worth is not for you to determine, sir."


    Seraphis''s eyebrows rose, surprised by Damian''s audacity to retort. "Is that so?" he sneered. "You overestimate your importance, boy."


    Cassius stepped slightly in front of Damian, a subtle move to de-escalate the brewing conflict. "We all serve the queen''s interests," Cassius said diplomatically. "It would serve us all to focus on the threat at hand rather than on internal squabbles."


    Seraphis considered this for a moment, his gaze shifting between Cassius and Damian. Finally, he nodded, albeit reluctantly. "Very well," he conceded. "But remember, I will be watching you closely. Any sign of treachery, and you will answer to me."


    With that, Seraphis turned and walked away. The trio watched him go, the tension slowly ebbing from the air as his footsteps faded into the distance.


    Once he was gone, Evelyn let out a low whistle. "Charming fellow," she remarked dryly.


    Cassius shook his head, his eyes still on the corner Seraphis had disappeared around. "We need to be careful," he said seriously. "He''s not going to make this easy for us."


    Damian nodded, the duke''s words still echoing in his mind. "He sees me as a threat," he mused aloud. "Perhaps because I am closer to Victoria than he is. Or maybe because I just..." A smirk appeared on his face as he repeatedly gestured with his index finger going through the ''O'' made by his other hand. "---Her."


    "It''s more than that," Evelyn added, her analytical mind piecing together the nuances of vampire politics. "He sees you as an anomaly he can''t control. And in the world of vampires, control is everything."


    Damian''s smirk widened, a hint of irony coloring his tone. "Should I be happy with that?"


    "Yup," Cassius replied with a slight grin, signaling the shift back to business. "Now let''s go. We just have a few hours before dusk. We need our preparation."


    They moved towards Cassius''s quarters, where the thick barrier offered a more secure location for their planning. Once inside, the trio settled around an oak table, maps from Victoria and various arcane tools spread out before them.


    Cassius, taking the lead as usual, laid out the framework of their strategy. "We''ll need to operate separately to cover more ground efficiently," he began, pointing to marked locations on the map. "However, if anything goes wrong, we need a solid plan to regroup and communicate effectively."


    Evelyn, who had been quiet, chimed in, holding up a small, intricately designed pair of earrings. "I''ve modified these for communication. They''re enchanted to allow us to stay in touch silently and without drawing attention." She put them on, demonstrating how inconspicuous they were.

 Chapter 212: Assassination Plan

    Warlock Ch 212. Assassination Plan


    Damian and Cassius each took a ring from the pile of magical artifacts laid out on the table. The rings, while appearing mundane, were imbued with similar enchantments, enabling them to communicate across distances with a mere thought.


    "Additionally," Evelyn continued, pulling out two small crystals, "I''ve prepared these escape crystals. If things go south, crush these. They''ll transport you back to a predetermined safe location here in the castle."


    Damian rolled the crystal between his fingers, its cool surface belying the powerful magic contained within. "Let''s hope it doesn''t come to that," he muttered, though he pocketed the crystal with a nod of appreciation.


    Cassius leaned over the map spread out on the table, his finger tracing the serpentine pathways that led through the Crimson Veil¡ªa sprawling, fog-shrouded territory notorious for its secrecy and the dangerous types who found refuge within its borders.


    "Alright, here''s the plan," Cassius began, his voice low and steady. "Seraphis and his troops will hit the front gates here, causing enough noise and chaos to pull Varak''s guards out. That''s our window. We sneak in through the back, using the old smuggler''s path here." His finger stopped at a narrow, almost forgotten trail marked on the old parchment.


    Damian, who was leaning against the wall with his arms crossed, nodded slowly. "Sounds like my kind of operation¡ªquiet, quick, and deadly."


    Evelyn, seated at the other end of the table, her brow furrowed as she considered the layout. "And once we''re inside? We need to be prepared for close combat. Those blood mages won''t go down without a fight."


    Damian straightened up, the light catching the sharp angles of his face. "That''s why we play this like assassins, not mages. Stealth is key. We get in, find Varak, and get out before they even realize he''s gone."


    Cassius looked between his two companions, a grim smile tugging at his lips. "Sounds like your specialty, Damian."


    "Yeah," Damian replied with a half-smirk. "Let''s just hope it goes as smoothly as it sounds."


    Evelyn rolled up another map, this one detailing the interior of Varak''s manor. "Here''s the layout of the inside. Varak''s quarters are here, heavily guarded of course. We''ll need to bypass the main hall, which will be the trickiest part, given that it''s likely to be full of his soldiers and mages."


    Damian took the map from her, scanning it quickly. "There''s a series of hidden passages that run behind the walls¡ªservants'' routes, mostly forgotten. If we can access those, we can move around without being seen."


    "Good," Cassius said, nodding approvingly. "I''ll take point, Damian, you cover our rear. Evelyn, you''re in the middle. Keep an eye on the magical defenses. We can''t afford any surprises."


    Evelyn''s eyes sparkled with a mixture of anticipation and anxiety. "I''ve prepared a few tricks of my own," she said, pulling out a small bag from her side. She placed several small, rune-inscribed stones on the table. "These are silence stones. Activate them, and they''ll dampen all sound in a radius of ten feet. Perfect for moving undetected."


    Damian picked one up, examining the intricate carvings. "Nice work, Eve. These could really give us the edge."


    They refined every detail of their approach, leaving nothing to chance. By the time they wrapped up, the candles had burned low, casting the room into deeper shadows.


    Cassius stood, stretching his back. "We should prepare ourselves."


    Damian and Evelyn nodded, gathering up the maps and tools. As they prepared to leave, Damian paused, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. He looked back at the map, his finger tracing the path they would soon take. The reality of what they were about to do settled in. He wasn''t just fighting for Victoria or to take down a tyrant; he was fighting to prove himself.


    Outside the room, the corridors were silent, the air heavy with the coming conflict. Damian walked alongside Evelyn, his mind racing with strategies and contingencies.


    "You okay?" Evelyn asked, noticing his distant expression.


    Damian glanced at her, offering a brief, reassuring smile. "Yeah, I just... don''t know," Damian finally admitted, his voice a murmur barely louder than the whisper of the wind through the cracks. "Handling the mission with both of you feels weird."


    Evelyn leaned against the wall, arms folded, her gaze sharp yet understanding. "You''ve moved as a lone wolf for too long," she pointed out, her tone gentle but blunt. "This teamwork thing¡ªit''s new, but it''s not bad. Just different."


    Damian chuckled softly, the sound tinged with irony. "I guess..." he trailed off, his gaze drifting down the corridor as if he could see through the walls to the challenges awaiting them.


    They walked the last few steps to their quarters in silence.


    "Later," Damian said as he stopped at his door, hand resting on the handle.


    She nodded, her expression softening. "Later, and don''t be late," she quipped with a wry smile, trying to lift the mood.


    Damian smiled back, a genuine if fleeting grin, and pushed the door open. "Wouldn''t dream of it."


    The door closed behind him. But instead of the comfort it usually provided, it felt suffocating, constrictive. He sighed, dropping his guard for a moment as he leaned back against the door.


    His eyes immediately fell on the bed, the sheets a tangled mess. Victoria wasn''t there anymore, but the disarray left behind was proof enough that what had happened was real, tangible.


    Damian walked over and sat on the edge of the bed, running a hand through his hair. It had been... intense.


    He stood up abruptly, unable to sit still, his mind racing. The mission was at dusk, only hours away now. They needed to be sharp, focused. Yet here he was, caught up in the aftermath of a night that had blurred lines he hadn''t even realized were drawn.


    -----


    A few hours later, Damian paced the room. He grabbed his gear and felt the warrior within awakening.


    The knock at the door came just as he was fastening the last strap of his armor. Evelyn''s voice, clear and steady, called from the other side. "Time to go."


    "Coming," Damian called back, taking a deep breath as he opened the door to face her. Evelyn stood there, her face set in a mask of determination.


    They walked together down the corridor to where Cassius was waiting, his expression grim but resolute.


    "As ready as we''ll ever be," Cassius said, clapping Damian on the shoulder.


    The contact was brief but grounding.

 Chapter 213: Not My Style

    Warlock Ch 213. Not My Style


    Damian nodded, pulling his hood closer around his face, the fabric shifting with a whisper against his ears.


    The trio¡ªhimself, Evelyn, and Cassius¡ªmade their way through the dimly lit corridors of the castle, the walls echoing with their determined steps. As they approached the grand balcony where Victoria awaited, the air grew thick with anticipation and the faint, almost imperceptible scent of blood and magic.


    Victoria stood at the edge of the balcony, overlooking the courtyard below. Her posture was regal, unyielding, her back to them as they approached. The setting sun cast a fiery glow across the sky, bathing her in a light that seemed almost otherworldly. Her hair flowed down her back in waves, and when she turned to greet them, her eyes gleamed with a fierce determination.


    "Damian, Evelyn, Cassius," she acknowledged each with a nod, her voice echoing slightly in the open air. "I trust you''re prepared."


    "We are," Cassius responded, stepping forward. Evelyn gave a curt nod, her eyes scanning the area.


    Damian felt a weird twist in his gut as he met Victoria''s gaze. Just hours ago, they just had sex, and now here she was, all business, as if nothing had transpired between them. He masked his discomfort with a smirk, playing his part.


    "Let''s hope the night is as favorable as the dusk," he quipped, trying to inject some lightness into the tension.


    Victoria''s lips twitched, almost imperceptibly, before she returned her gaze to the horizon. "Indeed," she said. "Seraphis and his troops are ready. They await only my command."


    As if on cue, Seraphis appeared at the other end of the balcony, his armor clinking softly. "My queen," he bowed deeply before Victoria. "The troops are assembled in the courtyard. Ready to strike at your command."


    "Very well," Victoria said, stepping forward to address her forces. Damian, Cassius, and Evelyn followed, positioning themselves slightly behind her as they came to the balcony''s edge.


    Below, the courtyard was empty, silent. Then, as the last light of the sun dipped below the horizon, a sudden, swirling mass of bats erupted from the shadows, coalescing into the forms of armed vampire soldiers. The transformation was seamless.


    Seraphis stepped forward, his voice booming as he addressed the gathered troops. "Tonight, we reclaim what is ours! Tonight, we strike a blow against those who would see us weakened and divided!" His speech was fiery, his words slicing through the cool evening air.


    Damian leaned against the railing, his gaze drifting over the sea of faces below. The energy was palpable, the desire for victory evident in every sharpened gaze that returned their look. Yet, amidst the fervor, Damian found himself disinterested. He put on an innocent expression, nodding along to Seraphis''s words, though internally he scoffed at the dramatics.


    A smirk playing on his lips. The theatrics of it all could have been amusing if the stakes weren''t so damn high.


    "Speeches always make these things feel like a damn festival," Damian muttered under his breath to Cassius, who responded with a low chuckle.


    "Just part of the pomp and circumstance of war," Cassius replied. "Keeps the troops fired up. You''ll get used to it."


    The rally cry from below made Damian winced, the troops raising their weapons in salute, their voices unified in a thunderous roar. Victoria''s presence seemed to electrify them, her confidence infectious.


    ''Nope, not my style. Too loud,'' he thought.


    The noise died down. Victoria turned to her small, trusted group. "Once Seraphis begins his assault, you move in. Remember, stealth is key."


    Damian nodded. The plan was simple, but the execution would be anything but. The paths they would take were fraught with danger.


    With a flourish of his cloak, Seraphis opened the portal, its edges swirling with a dark mist.


    Seraphis''s voice rose above the din, clear and commanding. "This is our moment, our battle to claim victory from the jaws of defeat!" His words rolled out like thunder, rousing a roar from the vampire soldiers gathered around him.


    One by one, the troops turned into bats and darted into the portal with a fervor that matched their leader''s battle cry. The sight was something straight out of a gothic epic, equal parts awe-inspiring and unnerving.


    Damian watched, a wry smile tugging at his lips as the last of the bats disappeared into the portal. "You know, I thought vampires were more... I don''t know, elegant and calm?" he remarked, turning to Cassius with a raised eyebrow.


    Cassius chuckled, his eyes still on the now quiet portal. "You''re talking about Seraphis, right? Because that guy has all the calm of a storm in full fury."


    "Yeah," Damian agreed, shaking his head slightly. "I get the proud side thing, but... he''s kinda... a bit hotblooded, I think."


    Evelyn, who had been watching the portal with an analytical gaze, turned to them with a smirk. "Well, he is a duke and a leader. While all of us are outsiders, what do you expect?"


    Damian cringed, making a face. "Right..."


    Their conversation was interrupted as Victoria approached, her expression one of amused tolerance. "Are you done talking about my duke?" she asked, her tone light yet edged with authority.


    Damian flashed an innocent grin, stepping closer to Victoria, his voice lowering to a conspiratorial whisper. "Yup, except you''d rather me talk about what just happened between us?" His eyes glinted with mischief, the air between them charged with an unspoken tension.


    Victoria scoffed lightly, a faint blush coloring her cheeks despite her composure. "Bold," she retorted, stepping back with a regal poise. "I would love to explore that conversation further, but as you said, business is business."


    "Got it," Damian replied, his smirk lingering. He stepped back in line with Evelyn and Cassius, his heart racing not just from the nearness of danger, but from the thrill of the game he and Victoria seemed to be playing.


    Victoria''s expression softened slightly, a genuine concern flickering in her eyes as she looked at each of them. "I will open the portal for you guys. Be careful," she said, her voice firm. "I hope you guys come home in one piece."

 Chapter 214: Mission Started!

    Warlock Ch 214. Mission Started!


    "Don''t worry," Cassius replied with a confident nod. "That''s our plan too."


    With a graceful motion, Victoria extended her hand, and the air in front of them twisted as she conjured another portal. "Go," she urged, " I will catch up with you. Seraphis will need good bait and I need to join him soon."


    And they didn''t need to be told twice.


    The trio stepped through the portal, the world on the other side materializing around them with dizzying speed. They found themselves in a dense forest, the air thick with the scent of moss and earth. The underbrush was thick underfoot, damp and springy, absorbing their footsteps as they moved cautiously forward. The forest was eerily silent except for the occasional distant call of a night creature.


    Ahead, the forest began to thin, revealing the outline of Varak''s manor in the distance. It was a structure straight out of a dark fairytale, towering spires reaching toward the sky like the fingers of a sorcerer casting a spell. The walls were made of dark stone, ivy creeping up its sides like serpents winding their way to the heavens. The manor stood on a slight rise, dominating the landscape around it, its presence oppressive and foreboding.


    Once they neared the edge of the forest, Evelyn paused, her hand raising to signal them to stop. "Should we wait?" she whispered, her eyes on the manor where they could see shadows moving. It seemed that Varak and his troops were somehow anticipating an attack, their movements orderly and defensive.


    Damian glanced toward the manor, noting the increased activity. "It looks like they''re ready for a party," he murmured, a hint of annoyance flickering across his face. His gaze then shifted skyward, watching for the signal from Seraphis.


    At that moment, the quiet of the evening was shattered by the distant sound of chaos¡ªshouts, the clash of weapons. Seraphis and his vampire troops had launched their surprise attack on the front gates, but from the sounds of it, the enemy was putting up a strong resistance.


    Damian''s hand went subconsciously to the pouch on his belt, feeling the shape of the silence stones through the fabric. Beside him, Evelyn and Cassius were also making mental inventories of their supplies¡ªstamina potions, mana potions, health potions, along with their escape crystals. Communication wouldn''t be an issue.


    "Hopefully, Victoria''s playing her part," Cassius noted, his voice low, checking the magical defenses around them with a flick of his wrist, a subtle glow emanating from his fingers¡ªa warlock''s sight. "Varak won''t be able to resist focusing on her, which should give us the opening we need."


    "Right," Damian agreed. "Let''s not keep her waiting too long."


    Evelyn nodded, her eyes scanning the manor''s defenses, noting the patterns of patrol and the placement of wards. "We''ll use the second silence stone once we''re closer. For now, let''s keep to the shadows and use the chaos at the front to cover our approach."


    The trio moved forward, their bodies low as they skirted the edge of the forest, using the thick foliage as cover. Every so often, Damian would glance back, ensuring that no one was following them, his senses attuned to any disturbance in the magical fabric of the area. The cool, damp air carried a hint of earth and decay.


    They edged closer to their target, the ominous outline of the manor loomed larger, its spires casting long shadows that seemed to reach out towards them.


    Damian''s thoughts were a whirlwind. Despite the adrenaline that coursed through his veins, he felt an odd sense of calm. His hand hovered near his storage belt, ready to activate a stone at a moment''s notice.


    Once they reached the clearing that marked the manor''s boundaries, Evelyn held up a hand, signaling them to halt. "We''re about to lose our cover," she whispered, her voice barely audible. "And I can''t sense Varak''s location¡ªthis place is shielded against probing spells."


    Cassius nodded, his eyes scanning the dark windows of the manor. "We might need to split up," he suggested, his tone reluctant. "Cover more ground that way."


    Damian felt a spike of irritation. Splitting up was risky¡ªthey''d be more vulnerable alone. But Cassius was right; they needed to find Varak quickly before their presence was detected.


    "Alright," Damian agreed, clenching his jaw. "Evelyn, take the east wing. Cas, you''re on the west. I''ll head straight for the central hall. Use your rings if you run into trouble."


    With a nod, they each activated their [Shadow Step] skill. Damian felt the familiar rush of shadow energy envelop him, the world blurring for a moment before he reappeared inside the manor, the sudden silence of its opulent hallway enveloping him. He was alone now. His heart thudded loudly in his chest, the sound seemingly amplified in the quiet.


    The central hall was just ahead, its heavy doors closed. Damian approached, his hand reaching out to gently push the door. It creaked open, revealing a vast room lit by flickering torches. The shadows danced along the walls, creating a play of light and darkness that could hide countless dangers.


    Damian''s mind raced as he assessed his surroundings.


    [Your Observation skill has failed!]


    ''Tch!'' he clicked his tongue. His [Observation] skill was limited here, unable to penetrate the magical barriers that Varak had undoubtedly placed. He needed to rely on his instincts and his other skills to navigate this perilous environment.


    He pressed forward, his steps silent, his senses alert for any sign of movement. His [Shadow Step] had a short cooldown, and he''d need to use it strategically. He paused near a large tapestry, his hand brushing against the fabric. That''s when he felt it¡ªa pulse of magic, subtle but unmistakable.


    Damian''s [Arcane Bolt] was ready, but he hesitated. This was a trap, surely. Instead, he opted for a quieter approach, summoning his [Dark Chains] to immobilize any hidden enemies before they could react. The chains shot out with a soft whoosh, snaking across the room and binding two vampires who had been lurking in the shadows, their fangs bared.

 Chapter 215: My Only Chance!

    Warlock Ch 215. My Only Chance!


    With his enemies temporarily incapacitated, Damian quickly moved in. He unleashed [Void Rift], creating a massive swirling void beneath the feet of the ensnared vampires. The spell was silent but deadly, the void''s pull strong enough to tear apart anything within its grasp. Once the vampires were consumed by the rift, He checked the area for more threats and clicked his tongue. "I should take [Silence] spells before missions," he muttered under his breath, his frustration evident. ''But nope, here I am. Too late now,'' hr thought.


    Sliding into the shadows like a serpent, Damian pressed forward, his movements calculated and silent. The manor''s halls were a labyrinth of ornate architecture and oppressive silence, every corner potentially hiding an enemy. His senses were sharp, his gaze scanning for wards or signs of movement. Occasionally, he stopped to hide, pressing his back against a wall as patrols passed by, his heart pounding in the moments of suspense.


    The distant sound of voices drew him onward. Damian crouched low, his hand brushing against the cold marble floor as he crept closer. The voices grew louder¡ªangry and authoritative. He slowed his breathing, positioning himself behind a pillar that gave him a partial view of the source.


    There he was.


    Varak.


    The vampire general cut an imposing figure, tall and broad-shouldered, his presence radiating raw power. His deep crimson armor gleamed under the flickering torchlight. His face, pale and chiseled, bore a deep scar across his left cheek. His eyes glowed a malevolent red, like embers smoldering in the depths of his fury. His dark hair was slicked back, a sharp contrast to the predatory smile that tugged at his lips even as he grumbled.


    A high-ranking vampire knelt before him, flanked by a hulking demon with twisted horns and a smirk of disdain. Varak''s voice was low but laced with anger. "How convenient of Victoria to sit back on her throne, as if all of this is a mere spectacle," he sneered, pacing back and forth. "She thinks herself untouchable. But we know better, don''t we?" He hissed in disdain.


    The kneeling vampire stammered, "M-my lord, the forces at the gate are formidable. Seraphis¡ª"


    Varak raised a hand, silencing him with a sharp glare. "Seraphis is nothing but a pawn, easily sacrificed. And Victoria..." He paused, his gaze narrowing. "Her time will come."


    Damian clenched his fists, leaning slightly to get a better view. Memories struck him like a lightning bolt, fragmented but vivid. He could see himself¡ªno, not himself, but Kaelan, his past self. The night Victoria''s husband died replayed in flashes: the cold, calculated strike, the shock in the man''s eyes as life left him.


    But there was more. Varak had been there, his blade aimed at Kaelan''s throat. The fight had been brutal, chaotic, and in the end, Varak had escaped, leaving Kaelan battered and victorious¡ªbut not before the assassination attempt had revealed the truth.


    Victoria''s husband had orchestrated it.


    Damian''s jaw tightened as he forced the memories away. The past was a wound that hadn''t fully healed, and now Varak stood before him¡ªa living reminder of that unfinished chapter.


    Varak''s voice pulled him back to the present. "Ensure the wards are strengthened. I want no interruptions." He turned to the demon. "And you¡ªprepare the blood mages. If Victoria wants a spectacle, I''ll give her one she''ll never forget."


    The demon grinned, his jagged teeth catching the light. "As you command, my lord."


    Damian knew he had to act, but not now. This wasn''t the time to take on Varak directly. He needed to regroup with Evelyn and Cassius, to coordinate their assault. Taking a deep breath, he activated [Observation], locking onto Varak''s stats.


    Varak, Vampire General


    Level: 197


    Rank: SSS


    Skills: [Blood Control Lv. 10], [Crimson Veil Lv. 9], [Vampiric Surge Lv. 8], [Dark Blade Lv. 9], [Ward Mastery Lv. 8]


    Weaknesses: Holy Damage, Sunlight Exposure


    Affinities: Darkness, Blood


    Damian exhaled quietly. "Triple S? Great," he whispered to himself. "No wonder Victoria wanted us to play this smart."


    He glanced at the enchanted ring on his finger, ready to whisper through it and alert Cassius and Evelyn to Varak''s location. But before he could send the message, the sharp echo of hurried footsteps filled the corridor. Damian froze, his instincts screaming at him to remain hidden.


    A group of soldiers burst into the hall, bowing quickly before speaking. "General Varak! There''s an intruder in the west wing!"


    Damian''s mind raced. ''They found Cassius.'' His jaw tightened as Varak''s expression twisted into one of fury.


    "Kill them," Varak growled, his voice cold and commanding.


    The two assistants exchanged brief glances before springing into action. The high-ranking vampire shimmered into a flurry of bats, disappearing through the far doorway, while the demon stalked out with a predatory grace, its hulking form vanishing into the shadows.


    Damian''s heart pounded. ''This is my chance.''


    The hall was eerily silent now, save for the faint crackle of torches on the walls. Varak stood alone, his back to Damian as he poured over a map spread across a grand table. The vampire general seemed deep in thought, his scarred face lit by the flickering light. Damian could see the tension in his shoulders, the subtle clench of his jaw.


    Damian''s breath hitched as adrenaline surged through him. ''Focus, Damian. You''ve got one shot at this.'' The only problem was the two guards in front of the door. They weren''t exactly high-ranking threats¡ªrank C vampires by the look of them¡ªbut even weaklings could ruin his plan if they raised the alarm. He adjusted his hood, the fabric brushing against his face like a comforting shield. He needed to be silent, precise, and ruthless.


    He exhaled, a slow and measured release of tension, and reached out to the shadows in his mind. ''Stalker Phantoms...'' he thought. Two transparent, wraith-like figures materialized beside him, their forms shifting like smoke caught in an unseen breeze. Their hollow eyes gleamed faintly as they awaited his command.

 Chapter 216: Ambush

    Warlock Ch 216. Ambush


    "Distract him," Damian whispered, his voice barely audible. "But wait for my signal."


    The phantoms nodded silently before melting into the floor, disappearing without a trace. Damian felt the familiar rush of power as he prepared to deal with the guards. He clenched his fists, his fingers itching with anticipation. ''Now for the warm-up.''


    He activated [Blood Manipulation], extending his reach into the lifeblood of the two guards. They stiffened almost immediately, their movements jerky and unnatural as their blood bent to his will. He grinned darkly, the power coursing through him addictive and satisfying.


    "Let''s make this quick," Damian muttered, pulling a silence stone from his storage belt. He crushed it in his hand, the magical energy spreading out in a soundproof dome around him.


    [You just turned your surroundings into a soundproof room!]


    [Time remaining: 04:56.]


    The guards'' muffled grunts barely registered as Damian''s command sealed their fate. "Die," he said coldly, his voice devoid of emotion. The blood within the guards constricted violently, their veins glowing crimson as the pressure built. A heartbeat later, they exploded into a spray of blood and ash, their remains scattering harmlessly within the confines of the silence spell.


    Damian wiped a fleck of blood off his cheek, muttering, "Messy. Could''ve been cleaner." He glanced toward the hall, ensuring Varak hadn''t noticed. The vampire general was facing the other direction, still absorbed in whatever scheming monologue he was muttering. ''Good. Time for phase two.''


    He brought his lips close to the ring on his finger, activating the communication spell. "I found Varak in the central hall," he whispered. "I''m attacking him now."


    Evelyn''s voice came through immediately, sharp and urgent. "Wait¡ª!"


    But Damian ignored her, knowing every second he delayed was another chance for Varak''s lieutenants to return. He summoned [Infernal Javelins], the air around him crackling with fiery energy as dozens of spears of molten flame materialized in a perfect arc. With a flick of his wrist, he launched them at Varak.


    The fiery projectiles streaked across the room like meteors, their heat distorting the air around them. Varak turned at the last second, his eyes widening in surprise. He raised his arm to deflect them, conjuring a [Ward Mastery], but the javelins weren''t so easily thwarted. They slammed into the shield with explosive force and forcing Varak to dodge. He shifted into his bat form in a blur of motion, his smaller size allowing him to evade the brunt of the attack.


    Damian''s eyes narrowed. ''Not bad. But I''m just getting started.''


    Once Varak reformed into his humanoid shape, the Stalker Phantoms struck. They rose from the floor like wraiths, their ethereal limbs wrapping around Varak''s arms and legs, holding him in place. Varak''s expression shifted to shock, his movements sluggish as he tried to counter the spectral grip.


    "What is this?!" Varak growled, his voice a mix of fury and confusion.


    Damian used the distraction to teleport behind Varak with [Shadow Step]. The burst of shadow energy left a ripple of Terror in its wake, disorienting Varak further. Damian summoned [Hellfire Spear], the flaming weapon materializing in his hand with a menacing hiss. He gripped it tightly and swung with precision, the spear''s flame carving a fiery arc through the air.


    Varak managed to summon a second barrier just in time, but the spear''s enhanced piercing power shattered it like glass. The weapon grazed Varak''s side, leaving a deep, searing wound that sizzled with corrosive flames.


    Varak roared in pain, his blood boiling as he staggered back. "You dare¡ª!"


    Damian didn''t give him a chance to finish. He leapt backward, evading a sudden attack as Varak''s blood coalesced into tendrils, lashing out like serpents. The crimson whips struck the ground where Damian had stood, cracking the marble tiles with a deafening impact.


    Damian landed gracefully, his hood still obscuring most of his face, and summoned two more of his servants. "Fenrith! Raven!" he called, his voice carrying authority.


    A massive, three-headed wolf and a blood-red raven appeared in a flash of dark energy, their forms bristling with power. Fenrith growled low, its heads snapping in unison as it charged Varak, while the Bloodwing Raven took to the air, its sharp talons glinting ominously.


    Varak snarled, his tendrils whipping toward the wolf, but Fenrith dodged with surprising agility, one of its heads clamping down on the tendrils and tearing them apart. Raven swooped down, raking its talons across Varak''s back, drawing more blood.


    Damian seized the opportunity, activating [Dark Chains]. The chains erupted from the ground, wrapping around Varak''s legs and torso, their dark energy sapping his strength and immobilizing him further.


    "You''ve got nowhere to run," Damian said, his voice cold and steady.


    Varak glared at him, his fangs bared. "You''ll regret this, warlock. I''ll make sure of it."


    Damian smirked. The Hellfire Spear crackled in his hand, flames licking hungrily at the air as he advanced on Varak. The vampire general snarled, his scarred face twisted with rage. Blood tendrils coiled around him, ready to strike. The room reeked of ozone, fire, and the metallic tang of blood.


    "Who sent you? Victoria?" Varak spat, his voice laced with venom.


    Damian laughed, low and sharp. "Victoria? No, this is personal." His fingers tightened around the spear. "Let''s just say I have a vendetta to settle."


    Varak''s eyes narrowed, his expression shifting from anger to a calculating calm. "You think you can take me down, boy? Do you even know who you''re dealing with?"


    "Yeah," Damian said, his smirk widening. "A washed-up vampire clinging to power that doesn''t belong to him."


    Varak roared, and the tendrils lashed out, slamming into the ground where Damian had stood a split second before. [Shadow Step] activated, teleporting Damian behind Varak in a burst of shadowy energy. The burst of Terror that followed disoriented Varak for a crucial moment, and Damian didn''t waste it.


    "Fenrith! Raven!" Damian shouted, summoning his servants again. The three-headed wolf charged in, its massive paws cracking the stone floor as it leapt at Varak. At the same time, the Bloodwing Raven dived from above, its talons gleaming with crimson energy.

 Chapter 217: Killing The Vampire General [Part 1]

    Warlock Ch 217. Killing The Vampire General [Part 1]


    Varak countered with a powerful [Ward Mastery], the translucent red shield pulsating with dark energy. Fenrith collided with the barrier, its heads snapping and growling as it tried to break through. Raven''s talons scraped against the shield, sending sparks flying but failing to penetrate.


    "Cute pets," Varak sneered, his voice dripping with disdain. "But they''re not enough."


    Damian gritted his teeth. He knew he had to step it up. He dismissed the spear, raising his hands as he summoned [Infernal Javelins]. The flaming projectiles appeared around him, their heat warping the air. He launched them in rapid succession.


    Varak dodged them. The impact sent shockwaves through the room. One javelin pierced through, grazing Varak''s shoulder and leaving a sizzling burn. The vampire hissed in pain, his rage flaring.


    "You''ll regret that!" Varak snarled, his tendrils lashing out again. This time, they struck Fenrith, wrapping around one of its necks and yanking it to the ground. The wolf howled in pain but didn''t give up, its other two heads snapping at the tendrils with relentless fury.


    Meanwhile, Damian had his own problems. His [Silence Stone] timer was ticking down, and he could feel the time pressing on him. Reinforcements could arrive any second unless Evelyn or Cassius reached him first. He needed to end this¡ªfast.


    "Enough playing around," Damian muttered, activating [Spectral Surge]. His body glowed faintly with energy as his speed and strength skyrocketed. He dashed toward Varak, summoning his [Dark Chains]. The chains erupted from the ground, wrapping around Varak''s legs and arms, immobilizing him.


    Varak roared, his blood magic flaring as he tried to break free. Crimson tendrils lashed out wildly, smashing into the walls and ceiling. The room trembled under the force, chunks of stone raining down as the battle escalated.


    Damian took advantage of the opening, summoning [Hellfire Spear] again. He gripped the weapon tightly, the flames roaring as he charged Varak. The spear struck true, piercing through the remnants of Varak''s barrier and slamming into his chest. The impact sent the vampire sprawling, blood spraying from the wound.


    But Varak wasn''t done. Even as he hit the ground, his blood coalesced into dozens of razor-sharp shards, shooting toward Damian in a deadly barrage. Damian barely had time to summon [Shadow Barrier], the translucent shield absorbing the brunt of the attack.


    "Persistent bastard," Damian muttered, breathing heavily as he prepared his next move.


    Varak staggered to his feet, his chest heaving. "You''re strong," he admitted, his tone begrudging. "Stronger than I expected. But strength alone won''t save you."


    With a guttural roar, Varak unleashed a massive wave of [Vampiric Surge], the force of it shattering what remained of the walls around them. The explosion was deafening, the shockwave knocking Damian back as his barrier absorbed most of the damage. Smoke and debris filled the air, choking the room in darkness.


    When the dust began to settle, Damian pushed himself up, coughing as he surveyed the destruction. The walls were gone, leaving the room exposed to the chaos below. He could see the battlefield, the clash of Seraphis''s forces against Varak''s troops.


    Varak stood amidst the rubble, blood dripping from his wounds but his resolve unbroken. His eyes burned with hatred as he glared at Damian. "You''ve made a grave mistake, warlock."


    Damian smirked, wiping blood from the corner of his mouth. "Funny. I was about to say the same thing to you."


    Varak sneered, his scar pulling taut as his lips curled back, revealing his gleaming fangs. "You talk big for someone who''s barely holding on."


    "Barely holding on?" Damian mocked, spinning the [Hellfire Spear] in his hand. Flames crackled with each twist, reflecting off the blood-smeared walls. "Keep telling yourself that while I tear you down."


    Varak didn''t reply. Instead, he surged forward with [Vampiric Surge] again, his speed blurring as he closed the gap in an instant. A blood-forged blade appeared in his hand, slicing through the air with lethal precision. Damian barely managed to dodge, the edge grazing his shoulder and drawing a thin line of blood.


    "Fast," Damian muttered, flipping backward to create distance. He planted his feet and raised a hand, summoning [Infernal Javelins]. The flame-spears hovered in a deadly arc around him before launching toward Varak in quick succession.


    Varak''s hand shot up, activating two [Ward Mastery]. Double crimson shield formed around him, absorbing the javelins with thunderous impacts. Each strike sent ripples of force through the air, shaking the already crumbling room.


    "Is that all you''ve got?" Varak taunted, stepping through the dissipating flames. "You''ll need more than parlor tricks to kill me."


    "Oh, don''t worry," Damian replied, his voice low and venomous. "I''ve got plenty more."


    He activated [Dark Dominion], the oppressive aura of darkness flooding the room. The effect was immediate. Varak faltered, his movements momentarily sluggish as the Terror seeped into his mind. Damian seized the opportunity, darting forward with [Spectral Surge], his speed turning him into a blur. He struck with the [Hellfire Spear], aiming for Varak''s chest.


    Varak countered with [Blood Control], his blood forming tendrils that coiled around Damian''s spear, slowing its trajectory. The two forces collided in a fiery explosion of red and orange, sending both combatants skidding back.


    Blood splattered across the floor, the metallic scent thick in the air. Damian''s heart pounded in his ears as he assessed the situation. He had the upper hand for now, but the timer for the Silence Stone was ticking dangerously close to zero. Reinforcements were imminent.


    As if on cue, the stone''s effect ended, and the sounds of their battle roared to life, echoing throughout the ruined manor. Distant shouts signaled the approach of Varak''s forces. Damian braced himself, but before they could arrive, a shimmering barrier encased the room.


    "Damian," came a familiar voice. Cassius.


    Damian turned to see his ally standing at the edge of the ruined wall, his hand raised as he maintained the barrier. "That should keep the riff raff out," Cassius said, stepping into the room. His face was calm, but his eyes burned with intensity.


    "Thanks," Damian said, catching his breath.

 Chapter 218: Killing The Vampire General [Part 2]

    Warlock Ch 218. Killing The Vampire General [Part 2]


    Cassius shrugged, his lips twitching into a smirk. "Don''t thank me. Just come out alive, or someone will go mad at me."


    Damian chuckled darkly. "Noted."


    Cassius didn''t linger. "I''ve got company." He turned toward the sound of approaching enemies. Varak''s two lieutenants, along with a horde of high-rank vampires, were bearing down on him. With a flick of his wrist, Cassius unleashed [Arcane Barrage], a volley of glowing bolts that streaked toward the enemies, lighting up the night.


    Damian glanced at him. "You sure you can handle that?"


    "Focus on your fight," Cassius snapped, his tone firm but not unkind. He raised another barrier to deflect a barrage of blood magic from one of the lieutenants. "I''ll manage."


    Damian turned his attention back to Varak, who was watching the interaction with a mix of irritation and intrigue. "Looks like your friends are loyal," Varak said, his voice dripping with disdain.


    "More than I can say for your lackeys," Damian shot back, his hand glowing as he summoned [Dark Chains] again. The chains erupted from the ground, snaking toward Varak. The vampire general dodged, but one chain caught his ankle, pulling him off balance.


    Varak snarled, slashing at the chain with his [Dark Blade], severing it with ease. "You think cheap tricks will stop me?"


    Damian didn''t reply. Instead, he activated [Void Rift], the air distorting as a swirling void formed beneath Varak. The gravitational pull yanked at him, forcing him to fight against the pull. Damian pressed the advantage, launching another set of [Infernal Javelins].


    Meanwhile, from the corner of his eye, Damian caught a glimpse of Evelyn. The witch was a whirlwind of destruction, her spells tearing through the reinforcements that should have reached Varak by now. Lightning crackled from her fingertips, striking enemies with unrelenting fury. Flames roared around her, consuming vampires and demons alike.


    "Remind me not to piss her off," Damian muttered, cringing as Evelyn decapitated a vampire with a flick of her wrist.


    "Eyes on me, warlock!" Varak roared, lunging forward with his blood-forged blade. Damian barely had time to raise [Shadow Barrier], the impact sending cracks through the magical shield.


    "Alright, alright," Damian said, gritting his teeth. "You want my attention? Fine!"


    He summoned Fenrith and Bloodwing Raven again, the two servants materializing with feral snarls. They launched themselves at Varak, forcing him to divide his attention. Fenrith''s claws raked against his armor, while Raven''s talons targeted his face.


    Damian took the opportunity to charge up his ultimate move. Activating [Shadow Inferno Strike], he channeled the combined power of his skills into a single, devastating attack. Flames and darkness swirled around him as he propelled himself forward at blinding speed.


    Varak''s eyes widened as the attack bore down on him, too fast to counter. The impact was cataclysmic, the explosion of energy shaking the entire manor. The barrier around the room flickered but held, containing the destructive force.


    Once the smoke cleared, Damian stood amidst the rubble, breathing heavily. Varak lay sprawled on the ground, bloodied but alive. The vampire struggled to rise, his movements sluggish.


    "Not so tough now, are you?" Damian said, his voice cold and unyielding.


    But the fight wasn''t over yet. Reinforcements were still fighting to breach Cassius''s barrier, and Damian knew the final blow was yet to come. The air was thick with the metallic tang of blood and the acrid stench of burning wood. The fresh wave of pain through his body¡ªbruises forming under his armor, shallow cuts stinging from where Varak''s attacks had grazed him. He gritted his teeth, ignoring it all.


    Varak stood across the ruined hall. His chest heaved from exertion, but the feral gleam in his eyes made it clear he was far from done. Blood tendrils coiled around his arms, writhing like vipers waiting to strike.


    "You''re still standing," Damian said, his voice calm despite his exhaustion. His [Hellfire Spear] flickered in his hand, its flames dimmed but still deadly. "Guess I''ll just have to fix that."


    "Bold words," Varak spat, blood trickling from the corner of his mouth. "Let''s see if your body can keep up with your arrogance."


    Varak surged forward with [Vampiric Surge], his speed blinding. Damian braced himself, raising [Shadow Barrier] just in time to deflect the blood-forged blade aimed at his neck. The impact sent a shockwave through the room, cracks spreading through the already damaged walls.


    Damian countered with [Dark Bolt], firing the devastating energy blast at point-blank range. The bolt struck Varak''s shoulder, tearing through flesh and armor alike, but the vampire barely flinched, his rage fueling his resilience.


    From the courtyard below, Damian heard a familiar voice bellowing over the chaos. "Warlock!" It was Seraphis, his tone laced with frustration and¡ªwas that jealousy?


    Damian didn''t bother looking. He knew exactly what the vampire duke''s expression would be. Anger and envy. After all, Damian wasn''t just fighting Varak¡ªhe was doing it on a stage, visible to all, a spectacle Seraphis undoubtedly resented.


    "Eyes on me, warlock!" Varak growled, slamming a tendril into Damian''s barrier, shattering it. Damian rolled to the side, summoning [Infernal Javelins] and launching them mid-motion. The spears whistled through the air, forcing Varak to dodge, the flames scorching the ground where he stood.


    "You''re all talk, Seraphis!" Damian shouted back, smirking. "Maybe if you weren''t so busy yelling, you''d be useful!"


    Seraphis''s glare could practically be felt through the barrier, but Damian didn''t care. His focus was on Varak, who had taken advantage of the distraction to close the gap again.


    Varak''s blade slashed downward, and Damian barely parried with his spear. The force of the impact sent sparks flying, the heat from the Hellfire Spear singing the vampire''s hand. Varak hissed but pressed forward, his strength overwhelming.


    Damian''s muscles screamed in protest as he blocked another strike, then another. Varak''s relentless assault drove him back, the ground beneath his boots cracking with each step. He felt the cold, jagged edge of a ruined pillar press against his spine. Cornered.

 Chapter 219: Killing The Vampire General [Part 3]

    Warlock Ch 219. Killing The Vampire General [Part 3]


    "Out of tricks already?" Varak sneered, his tendrils striking like a whip and slicing a shallow line across Damian''s cheek. "How disappointing."


    Damian flicked his gaze to the battlefield below. Wounded vampires and demons littered the ground, their blood pooling in glistening puddles. A spark of an idea ignited in his mind. It was risky, but he had no choice.


    "Not out of tricks," Damian said, his lips curling into a grin. "Just saving the best for last."


    He activated [Bloodwell Surge]. Instantly, the blood from the battlefield below responded to his call, surging upward in crimson streams. The life force of the fallen enemies flowed into him, knitting his wounds and revitalizing his strength.


    A system notification flashed briefly in his vision.


    [Bloodwell Surge activated! HP restored: +30%. Stamina restored: +25%.]


    Varak''s eyes widened in realization. "You¡ª"


    Damian didn''t let him finish. With renewed vigor, Fenrith and Bloodwing Raven managed to break free. The three-headed wolf charged at Varak''s legs, forcing him off balance, while the Bloodwing Raven dive-bombed his head, its talons raking across his face.


    "Annoying pests!" Varak roared, slashing at the summons with wild fury. He managed to land a hit on Fenrith, sending the wolf skidding across the ground, but the distraction was all Damian needed.


    Activating [Spectral Surge], Damian blurred forward, his [Hellfire Spear] blazing brighter than ever. He thrust the spear directly at Varak''s chest. The vampire summoned another blood barrier, but the spear sliced through it like butter, plunging into his torso.


    Varak howled in pain, blood spurting from the wound as flames engulfed him. The impact sent him crashing into the wall, leaving a crater in the stone.


    Damian didn''t let up. He followed with [Dark Chains], binding Varak''s arms and legs before he could recover. The vampire thrashed against the restraints, his strength causing the chains to creak but not break.


    "Not so fast," Damian muttered, summoning another [Hellfire Spear]. He hurled it with precision, the weapon blazing through the air and slamming into Varak''s chest. The explosion sent the vampire crashing into the far wall, debris raining down around him.


    Panting, Damian wiped sweat and blood from his face. His hood hung lopsided, partially exposing his determined expression. The hall was an apocalyptic mess¡ªwalls cracked, floors splattered with blood, and the air heavy with smoke and the metallic tang of battle.


    Varak emerged from the rubble, his chest heaving as he clutched the charred wound left by the spear. His face twisted into a snarl, crimson energy pulsating around him. "You... You''re human," he growled, his voice rough and guttural. "Yet you use a vampire''s skills."


    Damian scoffed, spinning the spear in his hand before letting it dissipate into embers. "Details," he said dismissively. "Focus on dying."


    Varak''s eyes narrowed, recognition flashing in them. "You''re him... Kaelan."


    "Wrong," Damian shot back, his tone cold and cutting. "But you won''t live long enough to figure it out."


    Varak growled, his blood magic flaring, but instead of attacking, he reached into his tattered cloak and pulled out a dark crimson crystal. It shimmered ominously, veins of black twisting within its core like liquid shadows. Damian''s blood ran cold as he recognized the artifact.


    The Dreadheart Shard.


    It was a forbidden relic, created through unspeakable rituals. The user''s soul would be consumed in exchange for monstrous power, transforming them into an uncontrollable beast.


    "No," Damian muttered, his eyes widening. "You wouldn''t¡ª"


    Varak''s grin was maniacal as he crushed the crystal in his hand. A surge of crimson mana erupted, swirling around him like a storm. His laughter rang out, unhinged and bone-chilling. "If I can''t have victory as a vampire, I''ll take it as a god!"


    The hall trembled, and a deafening roar shook the foundation of the manor. Damian instinctively activated [Shadow Step], teleporting to a safer place as the transformation began. Varak''s body contorted, growing larger and more grotesque by the second. His skin darkened, splitting in places to reveal sinewy muscle beneath. Spines erupted along his back, and his limbs elongated into monstrous claws. His face twisted into a lupine snout, fangs the size of daggers gleaming in the flickering light. Glowing red eyes burned with primal fury.


    When the transformation was complete, Varak stood as a colossal beast, his form so massive that the manor couldn''t contain him. The ceiling groaned and then collapsed entirely, raining stone and wood onto the battlefield below. Cassius''s barrier shattered under the pressure, the golden glow dissipating into the chaos.


    Damian landed in a crouch amidst the rubble, his cloak billowing around him. Dust and debris filled the air as he looked up at the towering monstrosity that Varak had become.


    "Damian!" Cassius''s voice cut through the haze. He teleported to Damian''s side. "What the hell is that?!"


    "The result of desperation and bad decisions," Damian grinned innocently, gripping his side where a shallow cut bled freely. He activated [Observation], scanning the beast.


    Varak, the Crimson Devourer


    Level: ???


    Rank: Epic Beast


    Skills: [Crimson Rampage], [Soul Rend], [Dread Roar], [Unholy Regeneration]


    Status: Berserk


    "Great," Damian muttered. "He''s gone full boss mode."


    The beast roared again, sending shockwaves through the battlefield. Reinforcements paused mid-fight, their faces pale as they beheld the creature. Even Seraphis, who had been commanding the vampires, looked up in stunned silence.


    "Is this a joke?!" Seraphis yelled, his voice laced with jealousy and fury. His eyes darted to Damian. "You just had to make this about you, didn''t you?"


    Damian ignored him, his focus solely on the beast. Varak''s new form was a walking calamity, and if he wasn''t stopped, the entire battlefield would be reduced to ashes.


    The creature turned its glowing eyes on Damian, recognizing him as the primary threat. With a guttural growl, it lunged, its claws tearing through the remnants of the manor. Damian and Cassius activated [Shadow Step], narrowly avoiding the devastating strike. The force of the blow created a crater where he had been standing, sending debris flying.


    Damian reappeared on a nearby ledge, his mind racing. ''Think, Damian. You can''t take him head-on. You need to outmaneuver him.''


    He summoned Fenrith and Bloodwing Raven, the servants materializing with fierce determination. "Fenrith, keep him busy! Raven, go for the eyes!"

 Chapter 220: Full Boss Mode

    Warlock Ch 220. Full Boss Mode


    The three-headed wolf charged at Varak, snapping at his massive limbs, while the raven dove toward his face, its claws aiming for the beast''s glowing eyes. Varak swatted at them like pests, his roars shaking the ground.


    Damian used the distraction to charge up [Void Rift], a swirling black vortex forming beneath the creature''s feet. The gravitational pull slowed Varak''s movements, but his sheer size and strength allowed him to resist being dragged in entirely.


    "Come on," Damian muttered, sweat dripping down his face. His wounds throbbed, and exhaustion weighed heavily on him, but he couldn''t stop now. He hurled [Infernal Javelins], the flaming projectiles slamming into Varak''s torso and leaving charred craters in their wake.


    The beast roared in pain, its massive claw swiping toward Damian. He raised [Shadow Barrier], the translucent shield absorbing the brunt of the impact but shattering under the immense force. Damian was thrown back, crashing into the rubble.


    Gritting his teeth, he pushed himself to his feet, blood trickling down his forehead. His vision blurred for a moment, but he forced himself to focus. ''I need an opening.''


    Varak roared again. Damian glanced at the battlefield. Evelyn was obliterating reinforcements with her spells, her fury manifesting in storms of fire and lightning. Cassius was holding off the lieutenants.


    But none of it would matter if they couldn''t bring down Varak.


    Damian clenched his fists, his mind racing. Then, a plan formed¡ªa desperate, reckless plan, but it was all he had. He activated [Spectral Surge], his body glowing with renewed energy as he prepared for the final assault.


    "Let''s end it," Damian muttered, summoning [Shadow Inferno Strike]. Flames and shadows enveloped him as he launched himself at the beast, ready to bring it down or die trying.


    The searing energy coalesced into a blinding streak of light as Damian propelled forward. His speed left a trail of flame and darkness, his figure a blur to all but the sharpest eyes. Varak, now a hulking monstrosity, turned his glowing crimson eyes toward the approaching assault and roared. The sheer force of his bellow sent shockwaves across the battlefield.


    Damian''s strike landed with explosive force, creating a massive detonation that sent debris and flames spiraling in all directions. For a moment, everything was chaos¡ªfire, shadows, and the deafening roar of magic colliding with flesh. When the dust settled, Varak staggered, a massive wound carved into his side, blackened and oozing crimson ichor.


    The beast roared in agony, but its monstrous form only seemed to grow more enraged. Varak swiped at Damian with a claw the size of a boulder. Damian activated [Shadow Step], teleporting out of the way just as the claw smashed into the ground, leaving a massive crater where he had been.


    Reappearing a safe distance away, Damian landed on shaky legs, his chest heaving as he fought to catch his breath. Blood dripped from several gashes on his arms and legs, and his vision swam. He fumbled at his belt, pulling out a Health Potion and downing it in one swift motion. The familiar warmth of healing magic spread through his body, knitting his wounds and easing the searing pain.


    Before he could regroup, Cassius appeared at his side, panting and looking worse for wear. His robes were torn, his face smeared with dirt and blood, but his eyes were sharp and focused. He gulped down a Mana Potion, the glow of restored power flickering around him.


    "This is bad," Cassius said grimly, nodding toward Varak, who was rampaging across the ruins of the manor, smashing everything in sight.


    Damian wiped the sweat from his brow, his lips twisting into a dry smile. "Yeah, no kidding." He glanced at Cassius and frowned. "Where are your opponents? They all dead already?"


    Cassius gestured vaguely toward the battlefield. "Yep. They''re all dead."


    Damian narrowed his eyes, sensing something off. His gaze shifted toward Varak, who was hunched over, tearing into something with his massive jaws. It took Damian a second to realize¡ªVarak was eating his own lieutenants and comrades. Blood and flesh dripped from his fanged maw as the beast devoured its allies in a frenzy.


    Damian''s stomach churned, and his eyes widened. "Ew..."


    Cassius''s expression was grim. "Looks like he''s not too picky about his meals."


    Evelyn arrived then, stepping out of the swirling chaos with an air of calculated fury. Her cloak was tattered, her hair singed in places. She surveyed the carnage and snorted. "At least we don''t need to clean them up."


    Damian huffed a bitter laugh. "Yeah, not exactly how I planned this."


    Varak roared again, his body surging with crimson mana as the forbidden power of the Dreadheart Shard continued to corrupt and strengthen him. The beast swiped at Fenrith and Raven, sending the three-headed wolf skidding across the battlefield and forcing the Bloodwing Raven to retreat with a shriek.


    Damian clenched his fists. "We can''t keep this up. That thing''s too strong."


    Cassius nodded, his hand glowing as he readied another spell. "What''s the plan?"


    "We hit him with everything we''ve got," Damian said, summoning more servants. The ground around him darkened as the Stoneback Golem, Spectral Serpent, and Shadow Servants emerged, their forms solidifying in the dim light.


    "Keep him distracted," Damian ordered. "I''ll go for the kill."


    The servants charged toward Varak, their combined strength creating a coordinated assault that forced the beast to focus on them. The Stoneback Golem tanked a massive claw swipe, its rocky exterior cracking but holding firm. The Spectral Serpent coiled around Varak''s legs, restricting his movements, while the Shadow Minion darted in and out, slashing at weak points.


    Meanwhile, Damian activated [Dark Dominion], the oppressive aura of darkness spreading across the battlefield. The effect was immediate¡ªVarak''s movements slowed, his roars faltering as the Terror seeped into his monstrous mind.


    Damian raised his hand, activating [Bloodwell Surge]. The blood of the fallen surged toward him in crimson tendrils, their life force siphoned into his body. His wounds healed further, and his energy replenished as the skill worked its magic.

 Chapter 221: Dreadheart Shard

    Warlock Ch 221. Dreadheart Shard


    Taking a deep breath, Damian followed up with [Blood Manipulation]. The blood still pooling around the battlefield twisted and writhed under his control, forming sharp spikes that shot toward Varak''s exposed underbelly. The spikes pierced deep, drawing another pained roar from the beast.


    Evelyn joined in, her hands glowing with arcane power. "Don''t hold back!" she shouted, launching a massive firestorm spell that engulfed Varak in flames. The beast thrashed wildly, the flames searing its flesh even as it tried to regenerate.


    Cassius unleashed a torrent of arcane bolts, each one striking with pinpoint accuracy. "Damian, now''s your chance!" he called out. His servants swarmed the beast.


    Summoning every ounce of his remaining strength, Damian activated [Shadow Inferno Strike] again. Flames and shadows enveloped him as he propelled forward, aiming for Varak''s heart. The beast turned to face him, its crimson eyes blazing with fury, but it was too late.


    The strike landed with devastating force, piercing through Varak''s chest and detonating in a fiery explosion. The resulting shockwave rocked the battlefield, sending debris flying and forcing everyone to shield their eyes.


    When the dust settled, Damian stood in the center of the wreckage, panting heavily. Varak''s massive form had crumbled, the forbidden power of the Dreadheart Shard finally consuming him. With a final, guttural roar, the beast disintegrated, leaving only silence in its wake.


    [You have leveled up!]


    [You are now level 110.]


    Stats:


    Mana Power: SS


    Stamina: S


    Endurance: S


    Strength: SS


    Agility: SS


    Magic Affinity: SS+


    XP: 0/150,000


    Bond Points: 15


    [Bloodwell Surge Lv. 2]: Increased healing efficiency and additional 15% HP restored if enemies are defeated during the skill''s effect.


    [Blood Manipulation Lv. 2]: Larger radius, faster activation, and increased damage scaling.


    [Shadow Inferno Strike Lv. 6]: Extended AoE, higher damage multiplier, and reduced cooldown to 2 minutes.


    Damian dropped to one knee, exhaustion threatening to overtake him. His hands rested on his thighs as he fought to steady his breathing. His cloak hung in tatters, and his body was filled with dirt, blood, and burns. Evelyn and Cassius approached him with weary steps, their own bodies battered but in better shape than his.


    "Good job," Evelyn said, her tone brisk but tinged with respect. A faint smile played on her face, though her eyes betrayed her fatigue.


    Cassius smirked, pulling a Health Potion from his belt and handing it to Damian. "Told you to stay alive."


    Damian managed a weak grin, accepting the potion. "Yeah... I did." He uncorked it and drank deeply, the warmth of the healing magic coursing through his body. "Somehow."


    He barely had time to savor the fleeting relief when a sharp, unfamiliar sensation pierced through him.


    - Ba-thump.


    It wasn''t his heart¡ªit was his Mana Core. The sensation reverberated through his chest like a second pulse, and he froze, clutching his sternum. The pain wasn''t overwhelming, but it was enough to make his breath hitch. He flicked his gaze to Varak''s remaining.


    "Damian?" Evelyn''s sharp eyes immediately noticed his discomfort. "What''s wrong?"


    He shook his head, still clutching his chest. "I... I need to check something." Without waiting for a response, he activated [Shadow Step], teleporting to where Varak had crumbled.


    He reappeared amidst the rubble, the air thick with lingering crimson mana. His boots crunched against the shattered stone as he stood in the eerie silence. His Mana Core throbbed again, a rhythmic pull that seemed to resonate with something nearby. Damian swept his gaze across the area, his eyes narrowing as he searched for the source.


    The pull grew stronger, and Damian stumbled forward, clutching his chest as the pain sharpened. "What the hell is this?" he muttered, his voice strained. He knelt amidst the debris, his hands sifting through the remnants of Varak''s transformation.


    Evelyn and Cassius appeared moments later, both panting from the exertion. Evelyn''s gaze darted to him. "Damian, what''s going on?"


    "I don''t know," Damian admitted, his voice tight. "Something''s calling me, but I don''t know what."


    Cassius crouched beside him, his expression serious as he swept his hand across the rubble. His magic glimmered faintly, scanning the area. "There''s still a strong presence of crimson mana here. Whatever Varak left behind, it''s not normal."


    Evelyn folded her arms, her tone clipped. "Normal left the room a long time ago."


    - Ba-thump.


    The pulse intensified, and Damian gasped, his head snapping to the side. There, half-buried beneath the shattered stone, a faint crimson glow emanated. His hand moved on instinct, brushing away the debris to reveal a jagged shard, dark and foreboding.


    "What is that?" Evelyn asked, her voice low.


    Damian''s eyes narrowed as he recognized the sinister artifact. It wasn''t just residual mana¡ªit was a fragment of the Dreadheart Shard, still pulsating with forbidden power.


    "The source of all this trouble," Damian muttered. "A piece of the Shard."


    Cassius leaned closer, his brow furrowing. "Destroy it."


    "Wait," Damian said, his tone halting even himself. His Mana Core pulsed harder, almost painfully now. The shard seemed to resonate with it, as though calling out to him.


    "Damian," Evelyn warned, her voice sharp. "This thing nearly destroyed you. Don''t let it finish the job."


    Damian hesitated, his hand hovering over the shard. He could feel its pull, the temptation of its power. But alongside that was a sense of dread, a whisper of what it could do if he let it take hold.


    "No," Damian said firmly, stepping back. He raised his hand and summoned [Hellfire Spear]. The weapon ignited in his grip, its flames crackling with intense heat.


    With a swift motion, he drove the spear into the shard. The resulting explosion of mana sent a shockwave through the air, forcing all three of them to shield their faces. When the light faded, the shard was gone, its presence wiped from existence.


    "Good riddance," Evelyn muttered, lowering her arm.


    Damian let out a shaky breath, the throbbing in his Mana Core finally subsiding. He glanced at his companions, offering a tired smile. "Let''s hope that was the last surprise."


    Cassius chuckled dryly. "Knowing us? Probably not."


    They shared a brief laugh before Damian felt another sharp pain on his chest.

 Chapter 222: Pain

    Warlock Ch 222. Pain


    - Ba-thump!


    Damian winced and grunted, clutching his chest. The sensation was unbearable, sharper and deeper than before. He stumbled forward, his breath hitching as a mocking voice echoed in his mind.


    "You surely don''t know how to stop, huh?" the voice sneered. It was cold, sharp, and carried a hint of cruel amusement. Damian''s knees buckled, and he dropped to the ground, gritting his teeth against the pain.


    Evelyn and Cassius rushed to his side, their fatigue forgotten in the face of Damian''s obvious distress.


    "Damian!" Evelyn knelt beside him, her tone edged with concern. "What''s happening?"


    "I don''t¡ª" Damian gasped, his words cut off as a crimson ripple of mana surged around them. The shards of the Dreadheart Shard, supposedly destroyed moments ago, began to reform before their eyes. The fragmented pieces coalesced, the pulsating crimson light intensifying as the shard hovered in the air.


    Cassius''s eyes widened. "That''s not possible. You destroyed it!"


    "It''s back," Evelyn murmured, her voice barely above a whisper.


    Before anyone could react, the shard shot toward Damian with blinding speed. He gasped as it slammed into his chest, the impact sending shockwaves of crimson energy across the battlefield. Damian''s hands instinctively clutched at his chest, his body trembling as the shard embedded itself within him.


    He collapsed to his knees, gasping for breath. His vision blurred as the surge of power inside him began to rumble, a force far greater than anything he had felt before. It wasn''t just overwhelming¡ªit was consuming.


    "Damian!" Evelyn grabbed his arm, her worry etched across her face. "Stay with me!"


    Cassius stood close, his gaze darting between Damian and the battlefield. "This isn''t good. If this thing''s trying to take over, we''re in no shape to fight it off."


    Damian couldn''t respond. His vision flooded with red, the voice returning, this time deeper and more commanding.


    "Embrace it," the voice said. "You are now bound to the power of the Crimson Devourer. You can''t run from your fate, Kaelan Voidweaver! HAHAHAHA!"


    [Congratulations! You have gotten a new special servant: Crimson Devourer!]


    Allows the summoning of the Crimson Devourer as an ally under the user''s command. Costs 75% Mana to summon. The Crimson Devourer retains its berserk tendencies but will follow commands issued directly from the summoner.Cooldown: 72 hours.


    Crimson Devourer <Level 102>


    HP: 12,000/12,000


    MP: 5,000/5,000


    Skills: [Crimson Rampage], [Soul Rend], [Dread Roar], [Unholy Regeneration]


    Damian''s breath hitched as the announcement appeared before him. He stared at the text, blinking several times. "W-What?" he managed to say, his voice strained.


    Evelyn and Cassius exchanged worried glances. "What is it?" Evelyn asked, gripping his shoulder tightly.


    "Something..." Damian frowned, his heart pounding as he processed the information. "Something about summoning... the Crimson Devourer."


    Cassius arched a brow. "You mean you can summon Varak now?"


    Damian glanced at him, his lips pressing into a thin line. "I guess... but in his boss mode."


    Evelyn folded her arms, her expression sharp. "His level was higher than yours during the fight. Isn''t that a problem?"


    Damian shook his head, a faint smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. "Not anymore. His level is lower than mine now. I guess it''s because I just beat him up."


    Cassius let out a low whistle, his tone laced with dry amusement. "So, you''re telling me we went through all that chaos, and now you have a walking apocalypse on a leash?"


    "Seems that way," Damian muttered, his gaze shifting to his hand. He flexed his fingers, the faint crimson glow still pulsing around him like an echo of Varak''s power.


    Before they could delve deeper into the implications, a familiar voice cut through the tense moment, smooth yet sharp enough to make the hairs on the back of Damian''s neck stand on end.


    "Well, isn''t this interesting."


    The three turned their heads sharply to see Seraphis striding toward them. His crimson cloak billowed behind him, a splash of color against the bloodied and ruined battlefield. His expression was unreadable, but his eyes burned with something darker than curiosity. Around them, the remnants of Varak''s forces were being hunted down by Seraphis''s troops, but it was clear his focus had shifted entirely to Damian.


    Cassius stepped forward immediately. "Stay back," he said, his tone sharp and commanding. His stance radiated protective authority, placing himself between Seraphis and Damian.


    Evelyn''s hand moved instinctively to her Escape Stone, her fingers brushing the smooth surface as she prepared for the worst. None of them were in any condition for another fight, and if Seraphis decided to turn on them, retreat might be their only option.


    Seraphis stopped a few paces away, his gaze fixed squarely on Damian, who was still on his knees. His crimson eyes were piercing, dissecting Damian as if trying to uncover every secret hidden beneath his tattered cloak.


    "You..." Seraphis began slowly, his voice low and deliberate. "Why can you use vampire skills?"


    It was the same question Varak had asked before his transformation.


    Damian took a shaky breath, forcing himself to stand despite the exhaustion pressing down on him. His legs wobbled, but he squared his shoulders, meeting Seraphis''s gaze. "I don''t know," he said, his tone even but tinged with defiance. "Maybe you can tell me."


    Seraphis''s eyes narrowed, his lips curling into a faint smirk. "You expect me to believe you don''t know how you''ve gained abilities that no human should possess?"


    Damian shrugged, his expression indifferent despite the tension in his body. "Believe what you want. I didn''t exactly get a manual explaining why this stuff keeps happening to me."


    Cassius stepped in, his voice calm but firm. "Enough. Whatever his abilities are, they''ve been the reason Varak is no longer a threat. Shouldn''t you be focusing on the remnants of his forces instead of interrogating the person who just saved your ass?"


    Seraphis''s smirk faded, his gaze hardening. "You think I''m blind, warlock? I''ve seen the way he fights, the way he channels power that doesn''t belong to him. Vampire magic¡ªnone of it is normal."


    Evelyn stepped forward, her magic crackling faintly at her fingertips. "And? What do you plan to do about it? We''re all tired, wounded, and barely standing. Unless you want to add your name to the list of things we have to clean up, I suggest you back off."

 Chapter 223: Seraphis’s Betrayal

    Warlock Ch 223. Seraphis''s Betrayal


    Seraphis didn''t flinch. Instead, he scoffed, his crimson eyes gleaming with smug amusement. "Back off? There''s no way I will back off," he sneered, crossing his arms. His gaze shifted to Damian, who was barely holding himself upright. "You don''t get it, do you?" His smirk widened. "Don''t you know


    Cassius frowned. "What are you talking about?"


    "Oh..." Seraphis''s eyes flicked over to Cassius, his grin growing even more obnoxious. "You don''t realize it, huh? Why am I not wounded at all? Why am I still standing here, perfectly fine, despite everything?" He took a deliberate step forward, his voice dropping to a whisper, though it carried across the ruined battlefield like a shout. "Why... I was only ordered to distract Varak."


    Seraphis chuckled darkly. He leaned in slightly, as if sharing a secret. "That''s because¡ª"


    Before he could finish, a sudden splat echoed through the air, followed by a wet, choking gasp. Seraphis''s eyes widened in shock as a splash of blood sprayed from his chest. He looked down, confusion etched across his face. A hand, tipped with long, gleaming vampire claws, had pierced clean through his chest.


    "You talk too much," a cold, familiar voice said from behind him.


    Seraphis glanced over his shoulder, and there she was¡ªVictoria. Her eyes gleamed with cold calculation, and her lips curled into a cruel smile. "That''s because I knew you wanted to get rid of me, along with everyone who supports me."


    Seraphis''s mouth opened and closed like a fish gasping for air. Blood dripped from his lips as he struggled to speak. "You... You knew?"


    "Oh, I knew." Victoria twisted her hand slightly, eliciting a strangled groan from Seraphis. "That''s why I needed their help." Her gaze briefly flicked toward Damian, Evelyn, and Cassius. "If I tried to handle Varak by myself, you would''ve waited until I was low on mana... and then betrayed me. Just like you betrayed them."


    Damian watched the scene unfold, his chest still burning from the remnants of the Dreadheart Shard''s power. He could barely keep himself upright, but even in his weakened state, he could sense the tension between Victoria and Seraphis. This wasn''t just a battle¡ªit was a carefully orchestrated power play.


    Victoria''s claws began to glow, an eerie crimson light enveloping them as she tightened her grip. Seraphis shuddered, his skin paling as the glow intensified. "And now, Seraphis..." Her voice was low, dangerous. "You''re out of time."


    The light flared, and Seraphis gasped as he felt his strength being drained away. Victoria was siphoning his blood, his very essence, with ruthless efficiency. But just when it seemed like it was over, Seraphis''s body flickered. In an instant, he dispersed into a cloud of bats, the creatures screeching as they scattered in every direction.


    "Coward," Victoria hissed, her eyes narrowing.


    "He''s trying to escape!" Cassius barked, already moving into action. He raised his hand, summoning a shimmering barrier that encased the battlefield in a dome of crackling energy. The bats slammed into it, unable to pass through.


    "Nice one," Evelyn muttered, her hands already glowing with arcane energy. She muttered an incantation under her breath, and suddenly, dozens of fiery orbs materialized around her. With a flick of her wrist, the orbs shot toward the bats, homing them.


    The bats screeched as the fiery orbs exploded around them, forcing them downward. One by one, the creatures were driven back to the ground, their forms flickering as they struggled to maintain cohesion. Finally, with a burst of dark energy, the bats coalesced back into Seraphis, who collapsed onto the bloodied ground, wounded and gasping for breath.


    "You tricked me..." Seraphis wheezed, his voice weak but still laced with defiance.


    Victoria stepped forward, her expression cold and unyielding. "Of course I did. You think I didn''t see this coming? You were never loyal, Seraphis. Always scheming, always waiting for the right moment to strike. I simply acted before you could."


    Damian, still leaning heavily on Evelyn for support, managed a weak chuckle. "Damn... remind me not to get on her bad side."


    Evelyn shot him a look but didn''t say anything. She was too focused on the scene unfolding before them.


    Cassius approached Seraphis, his sword drawn but lowered. "It''s over. You lost."


    Seraphis glared up at him, blood trickling from the corner of his mouth. "You think this changes anything?" he spat. "You think killing me will end the power struggle? There are others... others who¡ª"


    "Save your breath," Victoria interrupted, her tone icy. "You''re done. And as for the others... I''ll deal with them in due time."


    Seraphis coughed, blood spilling from his lips as he leaned heavily against a rock. Yet despite the obvious pain, he started to chuckle¡ªa low, sinister sound that sent chills through the air. The chuckle quickly turned into a manic laugh, echoing across the ruined battlefield.


    "You think... this is over?" he rasped, his crimson eyes glinting with something dark and twisted. "Oh, Victoria... you''ve always been too confident."


    Victoria''s eyes narrowed. "You lost. There''s nothing left for you to pull. No reinforcements, no soldiers. So what''s with the theatrics?"


    Seraphis smirked and brought two fingers to his lips.


    - Whistle!


    The shrill sound pierced the air, but... nothing happened. No sudden ambush. No hidden army charging in to save him.


    Cassius arched an eyebrow. "Uh... hate to break it to you, but whistling doesn''t really do much when you''ve got no one left."


    Victoria crossed her arms, her expression colder than ice. "What was that? An order to your soldiers? Pointless. I know you replaced my soldiers with yours long ago." Her smile grew wider, more chilling. "So, I killed them all."


    That made Seraphis pause. His smirk faltered for a brief moment, replaced by something unreadable. "You... what?"


    "You heard me," Victoria said smoothly, her voice laced with satisfaction. "Your precious troops? Gone. Wiped out. You''re alone now, Seraphis."


    Damian blinked, trying to process what he just heard. ''Damn, she really went full villain mode, huh?''

 Chapter 224: Undead Dragon

    Warlock Ch 224. Undead Dragon


    Victoria summoned tendrils of blood, the crimson appendages writhing like serpents, ready to slice Seraphis into ribbons.


    But Seraphis... he didn''t look scared. No, he laughed again, louder this time. "Alone? No... the whistle wasn''t for them."


    Before anyone could ask what he meant, a thunderous roar split the sky.


    - ROOOOOAAAARRRR!


    The ground trembled beneath their feet. Cassius''s eyes widened as he turned toward the horizon. "That doesn''t sound friendly."


    Damian followed Cassius''s gaze, his heart skipping a beat as he saw a massive shadow approaching from the sky. Each beat of its wings sent powerful gusts of wind rippling across the battlefield. It wasn''t just big¡ªit was monstrous.


    "Oh, come on..." Damian muttered, complaining.


    Out of the dark clouds emerged a creature of pure nightmare fuel¡ªa massive, skeletal dragon, its bones blackened and scorched, with jagged spikes running down its spine. Faint, eerie green flames flickered in its hollow eye sockets, and decaying flesh clung stubbornly to its frame, oozing dark ichor with each movement. Its wings stretched wide, made of tattered membrane and bone, each flap sounding like thunder.


    Undead Dragon: Malakar, the Doomflight


    Level: 150


    HP: 80,000 / 80,000


    MP: 40,000 / 40,000


    Skills: [Necrotic Flame Breath], [Bone Shatter], [Undying Fury], [Aura of Dread]


    Victoria''s eyes widened in shock. For the first time since the battle began, she looked genuinely unnerved. "An... undead dragon? That''s forbidden magic."


    "Oh, I love that look on your face," Seraphis said, grinning like a madman. He straightened up, the wounds on his body closing at an unnatural rate. Dark veins spread from his neck to his face, pulsing with corrupted energy. "You never expected this, did you? You thought you had me cornered."


    "You learned forbidden magic just like Varak," Victoria whispered, disbelief coloring her usually composed voice.


    "Of course I did." Seraphis''s voice was filled with bitter triumph. "In this world... There''s nothing more fun than power. And I''ll do whatever it takes to get more of it. Sacrifice anything. Even you... my love."


    Victoria''s expression hardened, but something flickered in her eyes¡ªpity, perhaps? Anger? It was hard to tell. "You''re insane."


    "Maybe." Seraphis stepped forward, his gaze locked onto hers. "I fell in love with you once... but you never looked at me. Not the way I wanted. So if I can''t have you, I''ll have power instead."


    Damian grimaced, glancing at Cassius. "Uh... we got a plan for dealing with that thing?" He pointed at the dragon, which was now circling overhead, its glowing eyes locked onto them.


    Cassius shrugged. "I was kinda hoping someone else would have an idea."


    "Seriously? That''s your plan?" Damian groaned. "Great. Just great."


    Meanwhile, Seraphis raised his hands, dark energy swirling around him as he prepared to unleash another spell. The dragon roared again, swooping lower.


    "Enough!" Victoria barked, her voice cutting through the chaos like a blade. Her blood tendrils lashed out toward Seraphis, but before they could reach him, the dragon unleashed its [Necrotic Flame Breath].


    A wave of green fire erupted from its maw, consuming the tendrils and forcing everyone to scatter.


    "Cover!" Evelyn shouted, throwing up a shimmering barrier just in time to shield them from the worst of the blast.


    Victoria clenched her fists, her mind racing. ''I can''t handle both of them at once...''


    Seraphis''s laughter echoed across the battlefield as he stepped closer to the dragon, his corrupted aura intensifying. "You can''t win, Victoria. Not this time."


    Damian took a deep breath, forcing himself to stand despite the burning pain in his chest. He glanced at Evelyn and Cassius, who were both waiting for his lead.


    "Alright..." Damian muttered, cracking his knuckles. "Time to pull something out of my ass."


    Cassius gave him a sideways glance, clearly unimpressed. "Like what? Condoms?"


    For a second, there was silence. Then, without missing a beat, Damian burst out laughing. "Hahaha, nice joke, Cas."


    Evelyn groaned, pinching the bridge of her nose as if that would help her sanity. "You guys are joking in this kind of situation? Seriously?"


    Cassius shrugged, completely unfazed. "Relax, we''re not going to die."


    "Confident much?" Evelyn shot back, raising an eyebrow.


    "Yup." Cassius gave her a calm, smug look. "I mean it. We''re not dying here. Not today, not tomorrow, not anytime soon."


    With that, Cassius raised his hand, and all his current summons shimmered briefly before dissolving into glowing particles. "Time to bring out the big guy."


    Damian''s grin widened as he caught on. "Yup. Same here. Let''s go all in."


    He closed his eyes, focusing on the burning power of the shard embedded in his chest. His mana surged as he raised his hand. "Crimson Devourer, I summon you..."


    A crackling crimson portal tore open in front of him, and from its depths emerged a massive beast¡ªeasily twice the size of a warhorse. Its body radiated a blood-red glow, its claws dripping with raw crimson energy. The air itself seemed to tremble as the summon let out a deafening roar.


    [Summon Complete!]


    Crimson Devourer <Level 102>


    HP: 12,000/12,000


    MP: 5,000/5,000


    Skills: [Crimson Rampage], [Soul Rend], [Dread Roar], [Unholy Regeneration]


    Meanwhile, Cassius didn''t waste any time. With a casual flick of his wrist, he called forth his own summon. A swirling vortex of dark light formed beside him, and out stepped a towering armored figure wielding a massive greatsword. Its presence alone was overwhelming, radiating pure power.


    [Summon Complete!]


    Valorian the Guardian <Level 181>


    HP: 20,000/20,000


    MP: 8,000/8,000


    Skills: [Shadow Cleave], [Shield of Eternity], [Judgment Slash]


    Valorian raised his greatsword, and let out a thunderous roar that shook the ground beneath them.


    As if on cue, the three of them teleported to the safe distance and watched the fight from afar.


    Across the battlefield, the three monsters clashed in a spectacle of raw power. The undead dragon reared back, its glowing maw opening wide as it unleashed [Necrotic Breath], a dark-green blast of energy laced with decaying magic. The blast scorched the ground, leaving behind a blackened, rotting wasteland wherever it touched.

 Chapter 225: Monster Gladiator Match

    Warlock Ch 225. Monster Gladiator Match


    But Crimson Devourer was already on the move. With a feral snarl, it darted to the side, narrowly avoiding the breath attack, and lunged forward with [Crimson Rampage]. Its claws slashed across the dragon''s decaying hide, sending chunks of rotting flesh flying.


    The dragon roared in fury, retaliating with a bone-crunching swipe of its massive tail. But before it could connect, Valorian stepped in, his greatsword glowing with power. [Shield of Eternity] activated, a shimmering barrier appearing just in time to block the tail strike.


    The clash of energy was deafening, and the impact sent shockwaves rippling across the battlefield.


    "Alright," Damian said, watching the three massive monsters square off. "We''re officially in a monster gladiator match now."


    Cassius grinned. "Should we join them?"


    "Nope." Damian''s eyes gleamed mischievously. "Remember what I said before? Why waste time attacking a summon when you can just go straight for the caster?"


    Evelyn caught on immediately, her expression sharpening. "You want to kill Seraphis directly."


    "Exactly," Damian confirmed, his tone serious now. "The dragon''s tough, but it''s tied to him. Take out Seraphis, and that thing falls apart."


    Cassius gave him a look, a mix of amusement and disbelief. "You sound like... well, you."


    "Thanks," Damian replied with a grin, not missing a beat.


    As if on cue, both Cassius and Damian extended their hands toward Evelyn, who was standing between them. They didn''t say a word, didn''t even look her way. Their eyes were locked on the massive battle ahead as if they were watching the final moments of a football game, and missing a single second would ruin the whole experience.


    Evelyn frowned, glancing at their outstretched hands like they''d both lost their minds. "Uh... what does this mean?"


    Damian, still not taking his eyes off the battlefield, replied smoothly, "We''re out of Mana potions."


    "And?" Evelyn asked, her tone dripping with skepticism.


    Cassius added, "And... we know you always bring extras."


    Evelyn huffed, clearly annoyed, but yeah¡ªthey had a point. She always brought more than enough supplies. It was a habit she''d developed after years of running missions with these two lunatics. She knew they had a bad tendency to burn through their resources too fast, especially when things got intense.


    With an exasperated sigh, she reached into her satchel, pulled out two glowing blue vials, and slapped them into their waiting hands. "Here. Don''t waste them."


    "Thanks, Eve. You''re the best!" Damian said with a wide grin as he downed his potion in one gulp. The familiar rush of energy coursed through him, his depleted mana bar refilling bit by bit.


    Cassius gave her a nod of appreciation before drinking his own potion. "You haven''t changed."


    "Neither have you two," Evelyn muttered under her breath, rolling her eyes. Still, she reached back into her satchel and pulled out another Mana potion for herself. Might as well top up while she had the chance.


    [Your Mana is fully recovered!]


    The empty flasks in their hands shattered into glowing shards of mana before disintegrating into nothingness. It was normal for high-grade Mana potions¡ªthey were crafted entirely from condensed magical energy, and once emptied, they dissolved.


    "Now..." Damian said, his voice low and deadly, as his gaze locked onto Seraphis, who was still engaged in a brutal fight with Victoria around 500 meters away from the gladiator arena. Crimson tendrils of blood lashed out from Victoria, meeting Seraphis''s dark magic in bursts of power that illuminated the battlefield like flashes of lightning. It was chaotic and violent.


    "Let''s kill him," Damian added, his tone calm but filled with that familiar, reckless determination.


    Evelyn raised an eyebrow, her lips curling into a half-smirk. "Four versus one? Is that even fair?"


    Damian shrugged. "Who cares about fair?"


    Cassius, standing beside him, gave a small nod. "I mean... he summoned a giant undead dragon. I think ''fair'' left the building a while ago."


    Evelyn sighed. "Fine, but let''s make this quick."


    Their eyes glinted with a deadly resolve as they turned their focus to Seraphis. It was the kind of thrill he only felt when he was about to dive headfirst into something insane.


    An evil grin spread across Damian''s face, mirrored by Cassius and, eventually, Evelyn. Without another word, they activated their teleportation skills simultaneously.


    In an instant, the trio vanished from their position, reappearing just behind Seraphis in a flash of shadow and arcane energy. The timing was perfect¡ªSeraphis didn''t even have a chance to react before they struck.


    "Surprise, asshole," Damian growled, unleashing [Dark Chains] with a snap of his fingers. Thick, shadowy chains erupted from the ground, wrapping around Seraphis''s limbs and torso, locking him in place.


    [Dark Chains: Success!]


    [Enemy movement reduced by 50%! Duration: 15 seconds.]


    He unleashed [Arcane Bolt], sending a volley of glowing energy bolts straight at Seraphis. The bolts crackled through the air.


    "Victoria, now!"


    Victoria didn''t need to be told twice. She moved with lightning speed, her claws glowing with crimson energy as she activated [Blood Rend], a high-level vampire skill that tore through Seraphis''s dark barrier like paper. The combined assault forced Seraphis to his knees, blood dripping from his mouth as he glared at them.


    "You think... This is enough to stop me?" Seraphis spat, his voice filled with venom. Dark veins pulsed across his face, spreading from his neck as the forbidden magic inside him surged in response to the attack.


    "Oh, we''re just getting started," Cassius said with a smirk, raising his hand. A glowing sigil appeared beneath Seraphis, and with a flash of light, Cassius unleashed [Shadow Cleave], a massive sword strike made entirely of divine energy.


    The strike hit hard, sending Seraphis skidding backward. He coughed violently, black ichor spilling from his lips.


    "You bastards..." Seraphis growled, struggling to stand.


    "Aw, what''s the matter?" Damian taunted, summoning [Hellfire Spear] in one hand. The burning spear crackled with dark flames, radiating enough heat to warp the air around it. "You were talking a lot of shit earlier. Don''t tell me you''re tired already."

 Chapter 226: Stone Statue

    Warlock Ch 226. Stone Statue


    Before Seraphis could respond, Damian hurled the spear with all his strength. The spear flew straight at Seraphis, its flames igniting the air as it closed in on its target.


    But Seraphis wasn''t done yet. With a snarl, he activated [Vampire Disperse], turning his body into a horde of bats. The spear passed through harmlessly, detonating against the ground with a fiery explosion.


    "Tch." Damian clicked his tongue in annoyance. "Of course, he had that annoying skill."


    "Stay focused," Evelyn warned, already preparing her next move. She raised both hands, and arcs of lightning began to dance between her fingers. With a sharp command, she unleashed [Storm Lash], sending a torrent of electrified tendrils straight at Seraphis.


    The tendrils crackled and hissed as they struck Seraphis''s smoke form, forcing him to rematerialize with a grimace. It was clear he wasn''t in great shape anymore.


    "You''re persistent...," Seraphis hissed, his crimson eyes burning with hatred. "But this isn''t over."


    "Oh, it is," Cassius said calmly, raising his hand once more. "You just don''t know it yet."


    With that, he activated [Judgment Field], a high-level warlock skill that created a massive zone of radiant energy around Seraphis. The field pulsed with power, dealing continuous damage to any enemy within its radius.


    Seraphis screamed as the field took effect, his HP bar rapidly depleting under the relentless assault.


    "Finish him," Evelyn said coldly, her eyes glinting with determination.


    Damian activated [Shadow Inferno Strike], channeling all his remaining power into one final attack. His body became a blur of shadows and flames as he shot forward, leaving a trail of destruction in his wake.


    "Goodbye, Seraphis," Damian said as he delivered the final blow, his attack detonating with a massive explosion of fire and darkness.


    [Shadow Inferno Strike: Critical Hit!]


    Seraphis didn''t even have time to scream. His body disintegrated into ash, the forbidden magic that had sustained him unraveling in an instant.


    [Congratulations! You have defeated Seraphis, the Vampire Duke!]


    [Level Up!]


    [You are now Level 115.]


    Damian barely had time to process the glowing notifications flashing in front of him before a deafening roar split the air. The ground trembled violently beneath his feet, and his eyes snapped toward the massive undead dragon in the distance. Its decayed form shuddered as it let out one final, agonized roar before collapsing with a resounding thud that shook the entire battlefield.


    A second later, its massive body began to disintegrate into ash, dark energy leaking out as it dissolved into nothingness. The sheer force of its collapse kicked up a storm of dust and debris that swept across the battlefield like a raging sandstorm.


    "Shit!" Damian muttered, acting on instinct. Without a second thought, he dashed toward Evelyn, who was already bracing herself against the incoming wave of dust. Wrapping an arm around her waist, he pulled her close and activated [Shadow Barrier], enveloping them both in a shimmering shield of dark energy.


    The dust storm hit them hard, the barrier trembling under the force, but it held firm. Inside, everything was eerily calm, the chaotic sounds of the outside world muffled by the barrier. Damian glanced down at Evelyn, who was pressed against his chest, her eyes wide in surprise.


    "You okay?" he asked, his voice soft but steady.


    Evelyn blinked, then smiled slightly, a faint blush creeping up her cheeks. "Yeah... Thanks." Her voice was quieter than usual, and Damian couldn''t help but notice the way her face turned red.


    Before he could respond, Cassius''s voice cut through the now-settling dust cloud. "Yeah, thank you, so much."


    The sarcasm was heavy, and both Damian and Evelyn turned toward him. What they saw made them freeze¡ªand then immediately cringe.


    Cassius stood there, arms crossed, completely covered in dust from head to toe. He looked like a literal stone statue, except for his eyes, which were glaring daggers at Damian. The dust clung to every part of him, turning his normally polished armor into a dull, gray mess. If looks could kill, Damian would''ve been reduced to ash right there.


    Damian tried¡ªand failed¡ªnot to laugh. "Well, don''t blame me just because you didn''t have time to put up your barrier."


    Cassius narrowed his eyes. "Oh, I had time. I just didn''t think I''d need it because I assumed someone would have enough common sense to extend their barrier."


    Damian shrugged, still grinning. "I was kinda busy saving Evelyn, y''know. Priorities."


    Cassius gave an exasperated sigh and muttered something under his breath about "reckless warlocks and their stupid hero complexes" before casting [Cleanse] on himself. A soft glow enveloped him, and the dust vanished, leaving his armor gleaming once more.


    Evelyn, who had recovered from her embarrassment, decided to add fuel to the fire. "You do look much better dust-free. You almost pulled off the stone statue look, though."


    Cassius gave her a flat look. "Ha. Ha. Very funny."


    "Relax, Cas," Damian said, waving a hand dismissively. "You''re alive, the dragon''s dead, and Seraphis is toast. I''d call that a win."


    Cassius, still looking unconvinced, let out a low grumble but didn''t argue. Instead, he shifted his gaze toward Evelyn, who was busy double-checking the area to ensure no traces of hostile magic remained. The battlefield was eerily quiet now, with nothing but the faint wind rustling through the dust and debris.


    Before Cassius could say anything more, the sound of slow, deliberate clapping echoed through the silence. It wasn''t the kind of applause that made you feel proud¡ªit was the kind that made you feel like you were the punchline of some joke. Damian''s eyes narrowed as he turned toward the source of the sound.


    Victoria.


    She strode toward them with a confident, almost regal gait, each step measured and intense. Her crimson cloak billowed slightly behind her, and though she was smiling, there was something unsettling about it¡ªlike she was congratulating them but also mocking them at the same time.


    "Great," Cassius muttered under his breath. "Here comes trouble."

 Chapter 227: Act

    Warlock Ch 227. Act


    Victoria stopped a few paces away, her hands resting casually on her hips. "You guys have done your job well," she said, her voice smooth and commanding. "I wasn''t wrong to ask for your help."


    Damian folded his arms, giving her a skeptical look. "You know, Victoria, sometimes I don''t understand whether we''re equals or not. You''re my partner, right?"


    Victoria''s smile widened slightly as she stepped closer to him, her crimson eyes gleaming. "I am," she said, her tone gentle yet firm. "But here, I''m also a queen. And as a queen, I have to act the part."


    Cassius let out a dry chuckle. "So what does that make us? Peasants?"


    Victoria turned her gaze to him, still smiling. "No, you''re not peasants."


    Evelyn, who had finally finished her inspection and joined them, raised an eyebrow. "Then why does it feel like we are?"


    Victoria''s expression didn''t falter, though a hint of amusement flickered in her eyes. "You feel that way because I played my role well. Sometimes, to win a game, you have to keep a few secrets."


    Damian''s eyes darkened as he took a step forward. "Whichever way you want to spin it, you used me again. You knew Seraphis would betray you. You knew he''d try to kill us, yet you didn''t say a damn thing."


    The playful air around Victoria disappeared in an instant, replaced by a cold, serious demeanor. "Yes, I knew," she admitted, meeting Damian''s glare without hesitation. "But if I had told you, would it have changed anything? You would''ve fought him anyway."


    Damian clenched his fists, frustrated but unable to argue. She wasn''t wrong. If she had warned them, they still would''ve gone through with the fight. But that didn''t make it any less irritating.


    "That''s not the point," Cassius interjected, his voice sharp. "You put us in danger without giving us the full picture. We''re not your pawns."


    "I didn''t treat you like pawns," Victoria said calmly. "I treated you like allies. And allies don''t need to know every detail of the plan¡ªonly enough to get the job done."


    "Wow," Evelyn said, crossing her arms. "That''s a real queenly thing to say."


    Victoria''s eyes flicked toward her. "You''re angry because I didn''t trust you with everything."


    "Damn right, I''m angry," Evelyn shot back. "We could''ve died out there."


    "But you didn''t," Victoria said smoothly. "You''re all alive, stronger, and richer for it."


    Damian narrowed his eyes. "You always do this, Victoria. You manipulate people around you and call it strategy."


    Victoria''s smile didn''t waver, but something flickered in her crimson eyes¡ªsomething only Damian would notice. He knew her too well, and no matter how well she masked it, there was always that faint hint of vulnerability beneath the surface.


    "Maybe..." Victoria said softly, her voice carrying a weight that hadn''t been there moments ago. "But it''s not for you. I''m yours, Damian."


    She reached out, gently brushing the back of her hand against his cheek. The touch was soft, intimate, and entirely at odds with the battlefield around them.


    "I did it because I know you''re more than capable of handling it," she continued, her tone gentle but firm.


    Damian scoffed, pulling back slightly. "I don''t get it. One time, you knelt before me, obeyed me, and we... shared something real. Then other times, you turn around and make me your pawn again."


    He paused, his eyes locking onto hers with an intensity that made even Victoria flinch. His voice was quieter now, but the hurt was unmistakable. "What am I to you, Victoria?"


    Cassius and Evelyn, sensing the tension, wisely stepped back, giving them space.


    Victoria didn''t answer right away. For the first time in what felt like forever, she was at a loss for words. Damian''s gaze bore into her, raw and full of emotion. It was a look she hadn''t seen in fifty years¡ªsince Kaelan.


    Her mind reeled back to that moment, decades ago. Back when Kaelan, Damian''s past self, had saved her. She had been weak, broken, and betrayed by the very people she trusted most. Kaelan had fought for her, killed for her... loved her. And she... she had used him.


    Even though her husband had truly wanted to kill Kaelan and steal his power, Victoria had known that manipulating Kaelan into killing him was the best way to ensure her survival. It was cold, calculated, and necessary. But when Kaelan had looked at her afterward¡ªwith that same hurt, confused gaze¡ªshe had felt something crack inside her.


    Yet, despite everything, Kaelan had saved her. Even after realizing the truth, even after knowing he had been used, he had helped her, protected her when she was injured and vulnerable. And that... that was when she had truly fallen in love with him.


    Now, decades later, standing before Kaelan''s reincarnation, she realized she had made the same mistake. Again.


    "I..." Victoria hesitated, her voice barely above a whisper. She wasn''t used to this¡ªto being on the defensive, to feeling exposed. "I didn''t mean to hurt you."


    Damian''s expression didn''t change. "But you did."


    "I know," she admitted, her hands clenching slightly at her sides. "I had to. It was the best way, the safest way. If I told you everything, it would''ve complicated things. And complications lead to mistakes."


    "So you chose to play it safe by keeping us in the dark?" Damian''s voice was sharper now, frustration clear. "You didn''t trust us enough."


    "It wasn''t about trust!" Victoria snapped, her voice rising for the first time. She took a deep breath, forcing herself to calm down. "It was about minimizing risks. If I told you Seraphis was going to betray us, you would''ve gone into that fight expecting it. And when you expect betrayal, you act differently. You hesitate. You second-guess every move. I couldn''t afford that."


    Damian stared at her for a long moment, the silence stretching between them. "And what about now?" he asked quietly. "Are we still just part of your strategy?"

 Chapter 228: I’m Not Your Pawn!

    Warlock Ch 228. I''m Not Your Pawn!


    Victoria''s heart clenched painfully. She wanted to say no, to tell him that he meant more to her than any plan or strategy. But the words wouldn''t come. Because deep down, she knew that while her feelings for Damian were real, she had still used him.


    "I don''t know how to separate the two," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "I love you, Damian. I always have, even when you were Kaelan. But I also know how dangerous this world is. And if I want to keep you alive, I have to make choices¡ªhard choices."


    Damian''s eyes softened slightly at her words, but the hurt didn''t entirely fade. "You love me, but you still don''t trust me enough to make my own choices."


    "It''s not about trust," Victoria said again, more firmly this time. "It''s about doing whatever it takes to keep you alive. Even if it means you hate me for it."


    Damian ran a hand through his hair, letting out a frustrated sigh. "Damn it, Victoria. You can''t keep doing this."


    "I know," she said quietly. "But I don''t know how else to be. This is who I am."


    For a moment, they just stood there. Finally, Damian let out a bitter laugh. "I don''t know what to say anymore."


    Victoria remained silent, her expression unreadable. It was clear that both of them were wrestling with emotions that neither wanted to confront fully. Damian took a deep breath, steadying himself before speaking again.


    "But I will say it again," Damian began, his voice steady but carrying something that made Victoria flinch slightly. "I am not your pawn. Neither Cassius nor Evelyn. If you truly love me, treat me as your equal partner. I don''t need something like what you did in my room last time."


    Victoria''s lips parted as if to respond, but Damian held up a hand to stop her. "Be honest with me. That''s enough."


    Without waiting for a reply, Damian turned on his heel and walked away, heading toward Cassius and Evelyn, who had been watching the exchange from a distance. He could feel their gazes on him¡ªcurious, concerned, maybe even a little proud¡ªbut he didn''t acknowledge it. He just wanted to leave.


    "You okay?" Evelyn asked softly as he approached.


    Damian gave her a tired smile. "Yeah. Let''s go home. Our mission''s complete, right?"


    She nodded, her expression sympathetic. She knew Damian well enough to recognize when he didn''t want to talk about something, and this was definitely one of those times.


    With a flick of his fingers, Damian dismissed the Crimson Devourer, the massive beast vanishing in a burst of crimson energy.


    Evelyn''s eyes briefly flicked to Victoria, who was still standing where Damian had left her. But something was different. The usual arrogance in her posture was gone, replaced by something... quieter. Thoughtful. She wasn''t the cold, calculating queen they had come to expect. She looked like someone processing emotions she didn''t quite know how to handle.


    Cassius noticed it too. He glanced at Damian, then back at Victoria, before letting out a sigh. With a snap of his fingers, Valorian disappeared as well, the towering summon dissolving into particles.


    Cassius didn''t approach her, but his voice carried clearly across the space between them. "Victoria."


    She turned toward him, her crimson eyes locking with his. There was no hostility in Cassius''s gaze, but there was something else¡ªsomething serious, something important.


    "If you love him, stop hurting him," Cassius said, his tone calm but firm. "You only know a piece of his story, but you don''t know the pain he went through."


    Victoria''s expression faltered for the briefest moment, a flicker of uncertainty crossing her face.


    Cassius continued, his voice unwavering. "He always acts strong and carefree, like nothing can touch him. Like he has no burden. He does it so no one worries about him. That''s how he''s always been. But deep inside..."


    Cassius trailed off, his eyes softening. "He''s tired. Tired of being used, tired of being treated like a tool. He''s been through that before. Back when he was Kaelan, everyone wanted something from him¡ªhis power, his skills, his loyalty. And when he didn''t give them what they wanted, they turned on him. You don''t know what that did to him."


    Victoria''s fists clenched at her sides. She wanted to argue, to say she had her reasons, but she couldn''t. Not when the truth was staring her in the face.


    Evelyn stepped in, her voice gentler but no less firm. "If you really care about him, stop treating him like a piece on your chessboard. He''s more than that. He''s... well, he''s Damian. And if you keep pushing him away, one day he won''t come back."


    Victoria didn''t respond immediately. Instead, she looked down, her mind racing. She remembered Kaelan¡ªhis strength, his kindness. And now, standing before his reincarnation, she realized she was making the same mistakes all over again.


    "I didn''t want to hurt him," Victoria said quietly, her voice barely above a whisper.


    "But you did," Cassius said bluntly. "And you''ll keep doing it if you don''t change."


    Victoria stood there, silent, her usual regal composure replaced by something else¡ªconflict. For someone who always seemed to be in control, she looked... lost.


    Cassius added, "You can give our payment to my place." He turned on his heel and began walking toward where Damian and Evelyn were waiting. His casual tone and nonchalant attitude made it clear he wasn''t looking for any more emotional baggage. As far as he was concerned, the mission was done, and that was all that mattered.


    Victoria remained where she was, watching them go. The cold wind swept across the empty battlefield, carrying with it the lingering scent of blood and ash. Her eyes stayed on Damian''s retreating form, a pang of regret stabbing through her chest. She knew Cassius was right. She knew they all were. But knowing and acting were two very different things, and for someone like Victoria¡ªsomeone who had spent centuries mastering the art of control¡ªletting go wasn''t easy.


    "I''ll fix this," she whispered to herself, clenching her fists. "I promise..."

 Chapter 229: Cruel Joke

    Warlock Ch 229. Cruel Joke


    Dawn started to break, the first rays of sunlight creeping over the horizon as Damian, Cassius, and Evelyn finally made it back to Victoria''s mansion. It had been a long night¡ªone filled with chaos, betrayal, and tension that hadn''t completely faded even now. The battlefield was left in the hands of Victoria''s soldiers, who were tasked with cleaning up the remaining mess. For once, Victoria herself led the charge, overseeing the cleanup while Damian and the others were sent back to rest.


    It should''ve been a relief. No more fighting, no more tension¡ªjust food, rest, and quiet. But it wasn''t, at least not for Damian. The whole situation left a bad taste in his mouth. Sure, they weren''t being treated poorly; in fact, Henry, one of Victoria''s trusted attendants, had been assigned to personally take care of them. He made sure they had everything they needed¡ªfood, medicine, even fresh clothes. On the surface, it was perfect hospitality.


    But Damian didn''t see it that way. Maybe it was paranoia, or maybe it was the ghosts of his past life whispering in his ear again, but he couldn''t shake the unease that settled in his gut. He hated being watched. Hated feeling like he was under constant observation, like he was something dangerous that needed to be monitored. It brought back memories¡ªmemories of a time when people didn''t see him as a person but as a tool, a weapon to be used and discarded when convenient. Back then, it was all about control, about keeping him in check. And now, even though he knew Henry wasn''t doing it maliciously, that old feeling crept back in, making his skin crawl.


    After they''d been fed and given medicine¡ªmedicine they chose to apply themselves, because none of them were comfortable being fussed over¡ªthe three of them retreated to their respective quarters. Thankfully, the injuries they''d sustained during the battle weren''t serious. A few bruises, some scratches¡ªnothing major. Then again, considering they''d fought a vampire duke, a giant undead dragon, and an army of high-level mages and demons, it was kind of impressive that they''d gotten off so lightly.


    Of course, Evelyn and Cassius being SSS-ranked mages had a lot to do with that. They were insanely powerful¡ªfar beyond most opponents they came across. Damian, on the other hand, was ranked A. It didn''t matter that his actual power exceeded that by a long shot. Without taking the magus exam, he was stuck with that label. Not that he cared much. He knew what he was capable of, and so did the people who mattered.


    Still, that didn''t stop the nagging thought in the back of his mind¡ªthe thought that he wasn''t enough. That he was just playing catch-up in a game he didn''t fully understand.


    Now, lying in bed in his quarters, Damian found himself unable to sleep. He wasn''t really surprised. Even after three hours of trying, all he could do was lie there, staring at the ceiling with his mind spinning in a thousand different directions. The room was quiet, save for the faint rustling of leaves outside the window, but inside his head, it was anything but peaceful.


    He should''ve been exhausted. His body was fed, his wounds were treated, and he was wearing fresh clothes¡ªcomfortable ones, too, since his cloak had been torn to shreds during the battle and his trousers had somehow been reduced to shorts. He had everything he needed to rest.


    Yet here he was, wide awake, unable to turn off the thoughts that kept circling in his mind.


    ''Victoria...''


    He didn''t want to admit it, but she was the main thing occupying his thoughts. The way she had looked at him during that conversation¡ªcalm, composed, but with something deeper underneath. Something vulnerable. He hated how she made him feel, how she always managed to get under his skin in a way no one else could. She claimed to love him, but love wasn''t supposed to feel like being used. Love wasn''t supposed to feel like a game of chess where he was just another piece on the board.


    ''What am I to her, really? A partner? A pawn? A backup plan?'' The questions gnawed at him.


    He sighed, running a hand through his hair. He didn''t want to feel this way. He didn''t want to keep reliving the same old story, the same old pain. Back when he was Kaelan, it had been the same. Everyone wanted something from him¡ªhis power, his skills, his loyalty. And when he gave it to them, they took it without a second thought. When he didn''t... well, things didn''t end well.


    And now, even in this new life, it felt like history was repeating itself.


    He wasn''t stupid. He knew that in this world, power was everything. People would always want to use those with power to further their own goals. He had accepted that a long time ago. But that didn''t mean he liked it. That didn''t mean he was okay with being treated like a tool by the people he cared about.


    ''If she really loves me... why does it still feel like I''m just a means to an end?''


    Another sigh escaped him as he turned onto his side, trying to get comfortable. It didn''t help. The thoughts kept coming, relentless and unyielding. No matter how much he tried to focus on something else, his mind kept dragging him back to the same thing¡ªVictoria.


    His eyes drifted to the corner of the room, and immediately, a memory hit him. It was right there... where she had knelt before him, given him a blow job, begged him, her crimson eyes locked on his as she sealed their bond with a gesture far more intimate than mere words. He could still remember the way her touch, the way her lips had whispered promises that, at the time, felt real. That moment had been more than just passion¡ªit was supposed to be trust, partnership, something deeper than a mere contract.


    But now? Now it felt like a cruel joke.

 Chapter 230: The Hero Turned Villain

    Warlock Ch 230. The Hero Turned Villain


    The bond was real, yes. The contract was there, binding them in more ways than one. But to him, it felt more like a contract marriage than anything else¡ªa transactional relationship wrapped in layers of emotion and manipulation. He scoffed quietly to himself. ''How ironic... one moment, she''s making me feel like I''m the only thing that matters to her, and the next, I find out she''s keeping critical things from me.''


    His fingers tightened into a fist at the thought of Seraphis. ''At least she should''ve given me a warning. A warning would''ve been enough.'' That single thought kept repeating in his head, gnawing at him like an itch he couldn''t scratch. It wasn''t the danger that bothered him¡ªhe''d faced worse before, and he knew how to handle himself. It was dishonesty. The fact that she hadn''t trusted him enough to tell him what was coming. He didn''t expect her to spill every detail of her plans, but something like that? Yeah, he deserved to know.


    But she hadn''t. And now, no matter how hard he tried to convince himself otherwise, it lingered in the back of his mind.


    Damian sat up, swinging his legs over the edge of the bed. He knew Victoria wasn''t home yet. She was probably still out dealing with the aftermath of the battle, directing her soldiers and tying up loose ends. Cassius and Evelyn were likely sleeping after the long night they''d all had. Hell, they deserved it. They''d fought hard, and they''d earned their rest.


    But Damian? He was different. Rest never came easy to him, especially when his mind was a mess like this. He needed to clear his head. Staying cooped up in this room wasn''t helping, and the walls were starting to feel a little too close for comfort.


    ''I need some air.''


    Decision made, Damian stood, grabbing a lightweight cloak to throw over his clean clothes. The one he had worn during the battle was beyond ruined¡ªtorn, burnt, and shredded into something barely recognizable. This one was simpler, less dramatic, but it would do. He headed for the door, pulling it open quietly so as not to disturb anyone.


    He didn''t get far before a servant appeared seemingly out of nowhere, stepping into his path with practiced ease. "Sir warlock," the servant said politely, bowing slightly. "Is there something you require?"


    Damian suppressed the urge to sigh. He wasn''t in the mood for company, and he definitely wasn''t in the mood to be watched right now. "I can''t sleep," he said, keeping his tone neutral. "I''m going for a walk."


    The servant straightened, his expression calm but attentive. "Shall I arrange for an escort?"


    "No," Damian said firmly, shaking his head. "I need space to think. Just... let me walk alone."


    There was a brief pause, during which Damian could see the gears turning in the servant''s head. No doubt, he''d been instructed to keep an eye on them¡ªon him, specifically. Whether it was for their safety or something else entirely, Damian didn''t care. He just wanted to be left alone for a bit.


    "Very well," the servant said after a moment, stepping aside. "If you need anything, please do not hesitate to call."


    Damian gave a curt nod and continued down the hallway, the soft sound of his footsteps the only thing breaking the silence. The mansion was quiet, almost eerily so, with most of its occupants either resting or busy elsewhere.


    The dim light of dawn filtered through the tall windows, casting a soft glow over the polished floors of Victoria''s mansion. Shadows stretched long and thin across the hallways, the early morning stillness broken only by the faint creak of Damian''s boots as he walked. He didn''t have a destination in mind. He just walked, letting his legs take him wherever they wanted.


    Aimless. That''s how he felt¡ªnot just physically, but mentally too. The night had been long, the battle exhausting, but sleep had refused to come. His mind was still too loud, filled with thoughts he couldn''t quiet. Frustration gnawed at him, and he hated the feeling. He hated feeling lost, uncertain, as if he didn''t know his own purpose anymore.


    After a while, he noticed where his feet had taken him. He stopped, standing in front of the large double doors that led to the throne room. The place wasn''t exactly guarded¡ªthere wasn''t much to guard, after all. It wasn''t like Victoria used it for anything beyond formal meetings. Still, it wasn''t a place he''d ever visited on his own before.


    Damian hesitated for a moment, his hand hovering near the door handle. He wasn''t sure why he wanted to go in, only that something about the place called to him right now. After a brief pause, he made up his mind, pushing the doors open and stepping inside.


    The throne room was eerily quiet. The air felt heavy, not with tension, but with history¡ªstories long past, memories etched into the very walls. Damian walked in slowly, his eyes scanning the vast hall. It was simple compared to the grand throne rooms he''d seen in other noble estates¡ªless about opulence and more about function. But his attention wasn''t on the decor. His gaze locked on the throne at the end of the hall, standing tall and imposing even in its simplicity.


    He''d heard the stories. Victoria had told him about what had happened here long ago, about how Kaelan¡ªhis past self¡ªhad killed her husband and taken it upon himself to protect her. A twisted tale of love, betrayal, and survival. The details were fuzzy to him, though. His memories hadn''t returned, not fully. He knew pieces, fragments, but nothing that gave him the full picture.


    "The Evil One..." Damian muttered to himself, the name leaving a bitter taste in his mouth. That''s what they had called Kaelan after it was all said and done. The hero turned villain. The savior turned monster.


    There was a sense of irony there. And anger. Deep, burning anger.

 Chapter 231: The Traitor

    Warlock Ch 231. The Traitor


    Damian walked further into the hall, his footsteps echoing off the stone walls. He stopped in the center of the room, staring at the throne, his mind racing with emotions he didn''t know how to process. Anger, frustration, disappointment¡ªthey all mixed together, forming a knot in his chest that refused to loosen.


    "What did I do wrong?" he whispered, more to himself than anyone else. He clenched his fists, his nails digging into his palms. He knew, logically, that it hadn''t been his fault. Kaelan was a scapegoat, that he had been caught in a web of lies and schemes. And yet, it didn''t matter. The world didn''t care about the truth. They only cared about the story they were told.


    Kaelan, the traitor. Kaelan, the Evil One.


    "Shit..." Damian muttered, running a hand through his hair. The past life hung over him like a shadow he couldn''t escape. Even though he wasn''t Kaelan anymore, even though he was Damian now, the past still clung to him. And no matter how much he tried to move forward, it always seemed to pull him back.


    He glanced toward the large windows lining the hall, his eyes drawn to the way the light hit the floor. The dawn sunlight streamed through, golden and soft, but something about the way it reflected off the polished stone made it look like fire. The whole room seemed to glow, bathed in flickering, fiery light.


    "Fire..." Damian muttered, his voice quiet but heavy with meaning.


    Damian blinked, his heart skipping a beat as the word echoed in his mind. He hadn''t moved, hadn''t done anything, yet suddenly the entire room around him was ablaze. Flames flickered along the walls, licking at the high ceiling, casting long shadows that danced wildly across the stone floor.


    "Huh?" Damian muttered, confusion clear in his voice. He took a cautious step back, his eyes scanning the room. Everything was on fire¡ªeverything. The once pristine throne room was now a charred, chaotic mess. Furniture lay scattered and broken, scorch marks marred the walls, and shattered glass crunched beneath his boots.


    ''What the hell is going on?'' he thought, his frown deepening. He reached out with his senses, trying to detect any magical presence, but found nothing unusual¡ªat least, nothing immediate.


    ''Illusion?'' he wondered, but something about it didn''t feel right. He clenched his fist, focusing on the faint hum of his own mana to break any potential spell, but the scene remained unchanged. The flames continued to burn, the heat pressing down on him, suffocating and real.


    ''No... it''s not an illusion,'' he realized. ''It''s residual memory.''


    Residual memory¡ªhe knew what it was. It happened when a powerful magus left a strong emotional imprint on a place. If the emotions were intense enough, they could mix with ambient mana and linger, creating echoes of the past that could be seen and felt by those sensitive to magic. Sometimes these echoes were harmless, offering nothing more than a glimpse into history. But other times... they carried the weight of pain, anger, or regret, turning the place into something far more dangerous. Curse...


    Damian lifted his hand and froze. Blood. His hand was drenched in thick, crimson blood, dripping down his fingers and pooling at his feet.


    ''This... isn''t real,'' he reminded himself. ''It''s part of the memory.''


    But that didn''t make it any easier to stomach. The sensation was too vivid, too real. He could feel the warmth of the blood, the stickiness clinging to his skin. His heartbeat quickened, a flicker of panic rising in his chest before he forced himself to calm down.


    ''If it''s residual memory, that means...'' He looked around the room again, his eyes narrowing as he tried to focus through the chaos. ''That means something significant happened here. Something Victoria didn''t¡ªor couldn''t¡ªcleanse.''


    His gaze turned forward, toward the throne at the end of the hall. And that''s when he saw him.


    A man¡ªno, a dying man¡ªstood in front of the throne, his body broken and bleeding. His clothes were torn and stained with blood, his wounds so severe it was a miracle he was still standing. Yet, despite his condition, there was no weakness in his eyes. No fear. Only hatred. Burning, seething hatred aimed directly at Damian.


    Victoria''s husband.


    Damian felt his breath catch in his throat. He hadn''t expected this. He had heard the story before¡ªhow Kaelan had killed Victoria''s husband, how it had all gone down in this very room. But seeing it? Living it through this residual memory? That was something else entirely.


    The man staggered forward, one hand clutching his side as blood seeped through his fingers. His other hand trembled, but whether it was from rage or the effort of staying upright, Damian couldn''t tell.


    "You..." the man rasped, his voice low and hoarse but filled with venom. "You... took everything from me."


    Damian didn''t respond. He knew it wasn''t really him the man was speaking to¡ªit was Kaelan. But that didn''t make it any less unnerving.


    The dying man took another step, his eyes blazing with fury. "You think you''re a hero? You think you saved her?" He coughed, a wet, rattling sound, but he didn''t stop. "All you did was destroy what little I had left."


    Damian clenched his fists, the blood on his hands dripping faster now. He knew it wasn''t real, but damn it, it felt real. Too real.


    ''This is just a memory,'' he reminded himself again, forcing himself to stay calm. ''It can''t hurt me.''


    But the hatred in the man''s eyes cut deeper than any blade ever could.


    "You''re no savior," the man spat, his voice growing weaker but no less filled with malice. "You''re a monster. A tool. A weapon for others to use."


    A part of him knew this was just an echo, a lingering fragment of the past. But another part¡ªdeep down, buried beneath layers of resolve¡ªfelt the sting of those words all the same.


    ''A monster... A tool...''


    Wasn''t that exactly how he''d felt earlier? When Victoria had used him without telling him the full truth? When he had realized, once again, that no matter how much power he gained, people still saw him as something to wield, not someone to trust?

 Chapter 232: MINE!

    Warlock Ch 232. MINE!


    Damian took a shaky breath, his eyes locking on the dying man. "I didn''t ask for this," he whispered, more to himself than to the echo in front of him. "I didn''t ask to be dragged into your war, into your schemes. All I ever wanted was..."


    He trailed off, unable to finish the thought. What had he wanted? Peace? Freedom? A chance to live a normal life? Maybe. But normal had never been in the cards for him¡ªnot as Kaelan, and not as Damian.


    The flames around him flickered, growing dimmer, as if responding to his turmoil. Victoria''s husband fell to his knees, his strength finally giving out. His glare never wavered, even as his body began to fade, the memory unraveling.


    "You''ll always be a monster," the man said, his voice a mere whisper now. "No matter how hard you try... that''s all they''ll ever see."


    Damian stood frozen. He clenched his fists, trying to remind himself that it wasn''t real¡ªthis was just a residual memory, an echo of the past. But damn it, it felt real. Too real. His breath came in slow, shallow draws as he tried to steady himself, but before he could gather his thoughts, he felt something¡ªsomeone¡ªtouch him.


    A soft, desperate hand gripped his arm. He turned sharply, and there she was¡ªVictoria, or rather, the version of her that existed in this memory. She looked pale, weak, and wounded, blood staining the elegant fabric of her once-pristine dress. Her hand trembled as she held onto him, her eyes wide with a mix of fear and urgency.


    "It''s a lie," she whispered, her voice strained but insistent. "Don''t let him fool you."


    Damian''s gaze flicked back toward the man¡ªthe vampire who was supposed to be Victoria''s husband. The hatred in the man''s eyes hadn''t faded, but something else burned there now: desperation. Powerlust. He wasn''t just angry; he was driven by something far more dangerous¡ªa craving for power at any cost.


    Before Damian could react, the vampire lunged at him with terrifying speed, a snarl ripping from his throat. "MINE!" he roared, his voice filled with unhinged fury.


    Even in the midst of the chaos, something about that word made Damian''s blood boil. The man wasn''t fighting for justice or revenge. He wasn''t fighting for Victoria. He was fighting for himself, for his own twisted desire to claim power and control. And that was something Damian couldn''t stand.


    Instinct took over. Despite the pain coursing through his body from his own wounds, Damian gathered what mana he had left and concentrated it into a single, devastating blow. He didn''t hesitate. He didn''t hold back. His body moved on its own, fueled by a cold, detached resolve. With a burst of power, he struck the vampire square in the chest, sending him flying across the room.


    The impact was immense, the force rippling outward and shaking the entire throne room. The vampire crashed into the far wall with a sickening thud, the sound echoing ominously before silence fell. Damian didn''t need to check to know it was over. The man was dead.


    But the force of his attack had unintended consequences. Victoria, already weakened and barely standing, was caught in the ripple of energy. She stumbled and fell to the floor, her breath coming in shallow gasps.


    Damian stood there, panting, his body trembling from the exertion. His vision blurred slightly, but he forced himself to focus. His eyes locked onto Victoria, who lay on the floor, staring at him with an expression he couldn''t quite place. Was it fear? Resentment? Or something else entirely?


    He approached her slowly, his steps echoing in the now-silent room. When he finally stopped in front of her, he looked down at her with a cold, calculating gaze. His warmth and kindness were gone, replaced by something harder, more jaded.


    "You..." Damian''s voice was quiet but sharp, cutting through the heavy air like a blade. "You used me."


    Victoria didn''t respond immediately. She was too weak to do much more than breathe, but her eyes never left his. She knew he was right. She had used him. But that didn''t mean she regretted it.


    "He... He wanted your power," Victoria managed to say, her voice barely a whisper. "But he also wanted to get rid of me. I... I had no choice."


    Damian crouched down in front of her, his expression unreadable. He tilted his head slightly, as if studying her, and then spoke again, his tone colder than before. "You had no choice, huh? You knew how bad my reputation was. Aren''t you afraid that I''ll kill you and take your power for myself? You''re a queen, after all."


    Victoria swallowed hard, the effort clearly painful. "I... I am afraid," she admitted, her voice trembling. "But I had to take the risk."


    Damian stared at her for a long moment, and then, to her surprise, he laughed¡ªa bitter, hollow sound. "I like that," he said quietly, his voice laced with something Victoria couldn''t quite identify. Amusement? Resentment? Maybe both.


    He reached out, his fingers brushing against her cheek in a gesture that was oddly gentle given the circumstances. "Listen to me, Your Majesty," he said, his tone calm but firm. "I have helped you and protected you. So you need to help me too. Consider it... payment for today."


    Victoria''s eyes widened slightly, confusion flickering across her face. "W-What?"


    He didn''t answer her, instead he glanced around the room before spotting a shard of broken glass nearby. Picking it up, he slashed his palm without hesitation, blood welling up and dripping onto the floor.


    He extended his bleeding hand toward her. "Do we have a deal?" he asked, his voice steady and serious. "You know I''m the only one who can save you right now. But once you take this, once we''re connected, you''ll be bound to me just as much as I''m bound to you. You shouldn''t look for me. You shouldn''t interfere with my life. Not until the day I come to you again."

 Chapter 233: Forbidden

    Warlock Ch 233. Forbidden


    Victoria hesitated, her gaze flicking between his hand and his eyes. And despite everything¡ªdespite the fear, the uncertainty¡ªshe knew she had no other choice.


    "I accept," she whispered, her voice barely audible.


    Slowly, she reached out, her fingers wrapping around his hand. The moment their blood mingled, a faint glow surrounded them.


    Damian smirked faintly, though there was no joy in it. "Good. Then let''s hope we don''t regret it."


    Damian''s vision blurred once more. The throne room, the fire, Victoria''s wounded form¡ªall of it dissolved into nothingness. He blinked, adjusting to the dim, quiet atmosphere of Victoria''s mansion. The silence felt heavier now. His chest tightened as he processed what he had seen, the emotions still fresh in his mind.


    He let out a slow breath, running a hand through his hair. The deal he had made with Victoria back then¡ªit had changed everything. But the more he thought about it, the more something didn''t add up. His brow furrowed as he tried to piece it all together.


    "Wait... so I was the one who offered the bond to her first?" he muttered aloud, confusion clear in his voice. He hadn''t remembered it that way before. After all, he didn''t recall ever having the ability to bond someone with blood¡ªat least not in the way that memory had shown. And he was certain about that. Back then, he wasn''t capable of that kind of magic.


    "So there''s no way she would''ve bonded with me just through blood," he reasoned, his voice low but steady. "If anything, that could''ve put me in danger. She could''ve tracked me down at any time." He fell silent for a moment, that realization sinking in. It didn''t make sense. Why would he have taken such a risk?


    "Then why did I do that?" he asked himself quietly, his gaze fixed on the floor. "Was I bluffing? Was I just trying to buy time?" he muttered, frowning.


    He didn''t have an answer, and that frustrated him more than anything. It wasn''t like him to act without thinking, especially back then when every move could mean life or death. He paced slowly across the throne room, his boots echoing against the stone floor as he tried to make sense of it all.


    He closed his eyes, focusing on the fragments of knowledge he had gained over the years¡ªbits and pieces he had picked up during his time as a rank S warlock. His lips moved silently, as if he were chanting a long spell, though in reality, he was sifting through his memory, trying to find anything that could explain what he had done.


    And then, something struck him. His eyes snapped open as the realization hit. "Wait... did I use... an equal trade agreement?" he muttered, the words feeling strange on his tongue. It was an old spell¡ªancient, in fact. A technique rarely spoken of and even less commonly used. Most people didn''t even know it existed anymore.


    Equal trade agreements were spells designed for making pacts between demons and humans. High-level demons or royalty would use them to offer power to those desperate enough to accept it, but it came with a price. The human would gain the demon''s help, but in return, they had to pay something of equal value¡ªsomething personal, something significant. It wasn''t just a contract; it was a bond sealed with mutual sacrifice. The kind of bond that couldn''t be easily broken.


    "This technique... it''s ancient and forbidden," Damian muttered to himself, pacing again. It dates back to when demons were seen as nothing more than a scourge, a race that symbolized evil. He remembered reading about it long ago, back when the world had been a different place. Before demons were accepted as part of the magical community, they had been hunted, feared, and forced to hide. Spells like the equal barter agreement had been created during those times¡ªtools of survival in a world that sought to destroy them.


    But over time, as demons gained acceptance, those old spells had been forgotten. No one used them anymore, not openly at least. They were relics of a bygone era, buried beneath layers of history and prejudice.


    Damian stopped pacing, his mind racing as he pieced things together. ''So... if I used that spell, then it wasn''t just a regular bond. It was something more.'' He frowned, the pieces falling into place, though not in a way that made him feel any better. ''That spell could bind other than humans. It can bind other races too. But one of them has to be a demon.''


    He clenched his jaw, that realization pressing down on him. ''So... was I some kind of demon back then?'' The question hung in the air, unanswered and unsettling. He wasn''t sure what to think. He wasn''t sure if he wanted to know the answer.


    It wasn''t impossible. After all, things had changed after he took the demon king''s power. Maybe that power had altered him in ways he hadn''t fully understood. Maybe, in that moment, when he was desperate and out of options, he had tapped into something deeper¡ªsomething darker.


    "Shit..." he muttered under his breath, running a hand through his hair again. He didn''t like where this was going. The idea that he might have been part demon¡ªor something close to it¡ªwasn''t exactly comforting. But it would explain a lot. It would explain why he had been able to make that pact with Victoria, why the bond had been so strong, and why, even now, it still lingered between them.


    He took a deep breath, trying to steady himself. This wasn''t the time to panic. He needed to think, to figure out what this meant and what he was supposed to do next.


    "If that spell really did bind us in an equal trade agreement... then it''s not just a bond. It''s a promise," he said quietly. ''A promise that ties us together until it''s fulfilled. It all makes sense now...''

 Chapter 234: Special Protection

    Warlock Ch 234. Special Protection


    He kept walking, his thoughts swirling faster than he could keep up with. The more he thought about it, the more everything began to click into place. The obsession, the way Victoria sought him out after all these years, her insistence on keeping him close despite the messy history they shared¡ªit wasn''t random. It wasn''t just some emotional attachment or lingering guilt. No, it was something much deeper than that.


    He frowned, his footsteps slowing as he tried to steady his breathing. His heart was beating faster, not out of fear, but from the realization crashing down on him.


    "She''s looking for me because she owes me," Damian muttered to himself, his voice barely above a whisper. Kaelan paid the price. He protected her. He gave her his blood, and she bound herself to him in return.


    A bitter chuckle escaped his lips as he rubbed the back of his neck. ''So despite what I said¡ªwhat Kaelan said¡ªthat she shouldn''t look for me, she still did. Of course, she did.''


    It was starting to make sense now, painfully so. He had told her not to seek him out until the day he returned to her, and she had agreed. But she had broken that agreement, hadn''t she? And why? Because she had a debt to pay. No matter what Kaelan had said, no matter how much time had passed, Victoria wasn''t the kind of person who ignored a promise. She had waited, yes, but when she found an opportunity to repay what she owed, she had taken it.


    And not just taken it¡ªplanned it.


    Damian stopped in the middle of the hall, his eyes narrowing as a new thought struck him. "That''s why she decided to bond herself to me," he said slowly, working through the logic. ''She wanted to repay what she did. She knew she owed me... and she knew I''d need her protection if I ever came back.''


    His gaze drifted to the window, where the dawn light was beginning to brighten the sky. Everything clicked into place now. He could see it so clearly¡ªthe pieces of a plan Kaelan must have put into motion without even realizing the full extent of it.


    "She knew that after I was reborn, I''d be vulnerable. I wouldn''t have the same power or reputation. I''d be starting from zero," Damian murmured. ''And with her status... with her position as queen, she could protect me. Shield me from people like the senators or my old enemies.''


    The senators. That thought alone made Damian''s blood boil. Those bastards would''ve torn him apart the moment they got a whiff of his past life. Kaelan''s reputation as the biggest villain of this world wasn''t something that would just disappear. Even if Damian had been reborn with a clean slate, the moment someone connected the dots, it would''ve been game over.


    ''But if Victoria protects me, no one will question it,'' he realized, his heart racing again. "No one would dare. She''s the last person who should have a reason to protect Kaelan, right? Everyone would expect her to hold a grudge because I killed her husband. So if she suddenly steps in and says I''m under her protection, it won''t look suspicious. It''ll just look like... like she''s being strategic. Like she''s using me."


    Damian''s eyes widened as the full scope of the plan hit him. "Holy shit..." he muttered. "That''s why she came to Cassius. That''s why she offered this mission. It wasn''t just about meeting me again¡ªit was about creating a reason. A reason why she could protect me, Cassius, and Evelyn without raising any eyebrows."


    The mission. The battle. Their victory. It was the perfect setup. They had completed a dangerous mission on behalf of Victoria, one that required her personal involvement. Now, she had every reason to offer them her protection. She could claim it was a reward for their service, a strategic move to keep valuable allies close.


    And no one would question it. Not the senators. Not the nobles. Not anyone who might otherwise be suspicious of her motives.


    "Damn..." Damian whispered, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips despite the whirlwind of emotions inside him. ''She''s sharp. That''s... a damn good plan.''


    He started walking again, his mind racing with a mix of admiration, frustration, and something he couldn''t quite name. He didn''t know whether to be impressed by her foresight or annoyed that he hadn''t seen it coming sooner.


    "Of course, she planned this," he muttered. ''She''s Victoria. She''s always ten steps ahead.''


    But as much as he wanted to be annoyed, he couldn''t help but respect the brilliance of it. She had found a way to fulfill her promise while keeping everything above board. She hadn''t just sought him out blindly¡ªshe had created a scenario where protecting him wouldn''t just make sense; it would be expected.


    "She didn''t just come back for me," Damian realized. "She came back to fulfill her end of the deal... and to make sure no one could touch me without going through her first."


    That thought stirred something deep inside him¡ªsomething complicated. On one hand, it pissed him off. He hated being manipulated, hated being part of someone else''s plan without knowing all the details. But on the other hand... wasn''t this exactly what he had wanted back then? A way to protect himself? A way to ensure that if things ever went sideways, he wouldn''t be alone?


    He stopped again, staring out the window at the rising sun. A reminder that a new day had begun. And with it, a new understanding.


    Damian let out a slow breath, his mind still spinning with everything he had figured out. The plan, the bond, the protection¡ªKaelan had played a long game, and now, here he was, picking up the pieces. He couldn''t deny it was a smart move.


    "I guess the old me planned everything well, huh?" he muttered, a faint smirk playing at his lips. He didn''t hate it, not entirely. He could even appreciate the foresight.


    But what he couldn''t understand, what bothered him the most, was why he had lost his memory in the first place. Why was he being forced to figure everything out bit by bit, as if fate was dangling pieces of a puzzle in front of him, waiting for him to put them together?

 Chapter 235: Residual Memory

    Warlock Ch 235. Residual Memory


    Before he could sink deeper into his thoughts, the sound of footsteps echoed behind him, followed by the soft creak of a door opening. Damian turned, his eyes narrowing slightly as he braced himself for whoever it might be.


    It was Victoria.


    She looked as regal as ever, dressed in her usual crimson attire. But beneath that polished exterior, Damian noticed the signs of fatigue¡ªthe slight droop in her shoulders, the faint shadows under her eyes. Still, despite her obvious exhaustion, she moved with purpose, her gaze locked on him.


    "Victoria," Damian said, his voice calm but curious. "Why are you here?"


    Victoria stepped inside, closing the door behind her with a soft click. She didn''t answer immediately, instead walking toward him until they were only a few paces apart.


    "That should be my question," she said, her tone steady but carrying a hint of concern. "Why are you here? You should be resting."


    Damian shrugged, crossing his arms over his chest. "I''m not sleepy. How did you know I was here?"


    Victoria sighed. "Henry told me. He said you were standing in the middle of the room like you were in some kind of trance, murmuring to yourself like... well, like a madman." She paused, her gaze softening. "Are you okay?"


    Damian scoffed, exhaling sharply as he shook his head. Yeah, of course, people would see it that way. But no, he wasn''t losing it. "Residual memory," he explained, his voice quieter now. "I saw what happened in the past. What happened between us that day..."


    At his words, Victoria''s expression changed. The usual guarded look in her eyes softened, replaced by something more vulnerable, more genuine. She took another step closer, her voice gentle. "So... you understand now. You understand that what I did was for you."


    Damian didn''t answer right away. He held her gaze, his mind flashing back to the memory¡ªthe desperation in her voice, the fear in her eyes, and the blood that had sealed their bond. He understood, yes, but that didn''t mean he was ready to forgive everything.


    "I understand," he said finally, his tone even. "But the fact that you covered up Seraphis''s betrayal doesn''t change. You didn''t trust me enough to warn me."


    Victoria fell silent. She didn''t try to defend herself this time, didn''t offer any excuses. She simply stood there, accepting the truth.


    Damian sighed, running a hand through his hair. "But... I have to say, it was a good plan. You did fulfill your promise to me."


    Victoria''s lips curved into a faint smile¡ªtired, but genuine. "Of course I did," she said quietly. "I owe you my life."


    There was a long pause, the tension between them easing slightly. It wasn''t perfect, but it was a start.


    "Take a rest, Damian," Victoria said after a moment. "We still have plans tonight. We need to celebrate our victory, and... I need to announce what you''ve done for me. What all of you have done."


    Damian''s brow furrowed slightly. "Announce?" He knew what she mean, but he just wanted to make sure they were on the same page.


    Victoria nodded. "Yes. I need the world to know that you, Cassius, and Evelyn saved me. That you completed a dangerous mission on my behalf and emerged victorious." She hesitated briefly before adding, "It''s important. It will give me an official reason to offer you protection, should you ever need it. And from what Henry told me, Cassius and Evelyn want to leave around noon, so you should tell them too."


    Damian studied her for a moment. ''So everything is according to my guess...''


    "I will," he said finally. "But you should rest too, Victoria."


    She smiled, a genuine warmth in her expression this time. "Thank you, Damian. But... this is what I should have done."


    Damian didn''t respond right away. He just watched her for a moment. There was still so much left unsaid, so much they needed to work through. But for now, this was enough.


    "Yeah," he said quietly. "It is."


    Victoria gave him one last nod before turning and heading toward the door. Damian watched her go, the sound of her footsteps fading as she disappeared into the hallway.


    Once she was gone, he let out another slow breath, his gaze lingering on the empty doorway where Victoria had just been. The conversation replayed in his mind. He wanted to feel relieved, satisfied even¡ªafter all, things had gone smoother than expected. Victoria had been honest, had admitted her debt to him, and even made sure he understood her intentions about tonight''s announcement.


    "I should have treated her better..." Damian muttered, running a hand through his hair once again. Yeah, he''d been harsh. Sure, she had messed up by keeping Seraphis''s betrayal hidden, but she hadn''t done it out of malice. She was trying to protect him in her own way, following that same cold, calculated logic that had kept her alive all these years.


    And, honestly? He could respect that. He might not have liked it, but he understood it.


    Still, something about the battle earlier didn''t sit right with him. There had been too many close calls, too many moments where things could''ve gone horribly wrong. Victoria''s plan had been brilliant, but there had been risks she couldn''t have accounted for¡ªlike the damn undead dragon and Seraphis''s use of forbidden magic. It all felt... off. Not enough to call it a conspiracy, but enough to make him think there was more at play here than Victoria had let on.


    "Oh well, I''ll figure it out later," Damian muttered, shaking off the thoughts for now. He was too tired to keep chasing theories that might not even matter. His body ached, and his mind felt like it had been running on overdrive all night. Right now, sleep was more important. Rest first, then think.


    "For now... sleep," he reminded himself aloud, as if saying it would make it easier to convince his stubborn brain to shut off. He stretched. "Need to look perfect for the celebration," he added, trying to hype himself up. Yeah, it was just a formal event, but appearances mattered. If Victoria was going to make a big deal out of their success, he might as well play the part of the hero she was about to present to the world.


    With that thought in mind, he turned on his heel and headed back toward his room.

 Chapter 236: I Want My Memories!

    Warlock Ch 236. I Want My Memories!


    Damian dragged himself back to his room. The dim glow of the morning sun creeping through the windows cast soft rays onto the floor, but it did nothing to lift his spirits. He wasn''t in the mood to bask in the light or reflect any more on his tangled relationship with Victoria. He just needed rest¡ªreal rest, without his brain spinning in circles.


    Without bothering to change or clean up, he plopped onto the bed, letting the mattress absorb his weight. For once, his mind wasn''t racing. Maybe it was because he''d finally pieced together enough of the puzzle to calm himself down, or maybe it was just pure exhaustion catching up with him. Either way, he could feel sleep creeping up on him faster than it had in days.


    And then... darkness.


    When Damian opened his eyes again, he wasn''t in his room anymore. The familiar void stretched out before him, an endless black expanse dotted with faint flickers of light¡ªlike distant stars scattered across an empty sky. He knew this place well. Too well.


    There, at the center of it all, stood the artifact. The massive, ancient structure pulsed faintly with energy, surrounded by sigils¡ªmore than before. They glowed faintly, their intricate patterns shifting and swirling as if alive.


    Damian stepped forward, taking it all in. He didn''t say anything at first, just stood there, arms crossed, a smug smirk playing on his lips. He knew exactly what was coming.


    Sure enough, the voice came, echoing across the void like a growl of thunder.


    "Can you stop looking at me with that disgusting smug smile?!" The voice belonged to the Demon King''s soul, trapped deep within Damian''s mana core, bound to him by forces even Damian didn''t fully understand. Yet.


    Damian''s smirk widened. "No."


    The Demon King let out an exasperated snarl. "What do you mean by that, huh? Do you feel like you''ve won?"


    "Yes." Damian''s voice was calm, relaxed, as if he didn''t have a care in the world. He took another step closer to the artifact, leaning forward slightly as if taunting the trapped soul. "And you know why?"


    The Demon King didn''t respond immediately, but Damian could feel the tension¡ªfeel the way the soul bristled at his confidence.


    "Because..." Damian leaned in even closer, his smirk never fading. "I just discovered how I can get my memories back. Without needing your interruption."


    There was a pause¡ªa heavy, loaded silence that stretched for several long seconds.


    "W-What?" The Demon King''s voice faltered, disbelief and anger mixing in his tone. "How?"


    Damian straightened, crossing his arms again. "By visiting places tied to my past. Or maybe meeting people who were connected to me back then. You know, like Victoria. She''s already been more helpful than you have."


    The Demon King growled, his displeasure clear. "You still need me. You will always need me."


    Damian didn''t react to the anger in the Demon King''s voice. Instead, he shrugged, his posture relaxed, his expression cool and confident. "Yeah, you''re right. I still need you. I can''t deny that." He paused for a moment, letting those words hang in the air before adding, "But at least now, I have another way. A way that doesn''t involve relying on you alone."


    He took a step back, letting his eyes wander over the artifact and the swirling sigils around it. "You see," he continued, "it looks like the old me knew you wouldn''t be cooperative. So he made sure there was a backup plan. A way to protect himself, just in case things went bad."


    The Demon King''s voice grew harsher, more agitated. "You think you''ve figured it all out? You think visiting those places will magically give you everything back? You''re a fool if you believe that!"


    Damian chuckled softly, the sound echoing through the void. "Maybe. But you''re pissed, so I must be onto something."


    "I am not pissed!" the Demon King snapped, but his tone betrayed him. He was definitely pissed.


    Damian grinned. "Sure, keep telling yourself that."


    There was another pause, and then the Demon King spoke again, his voice lower, more controlled but no less dangerous. "You may have found a path, but it won''t be easy. The past you''re trying to uncover... it''s buried for a reason. Some things are better left forgotten."


    "Maybe," Damian admitted, shrugging once more. "But that''s not your call to make. It''s mine."


    He took another step closer to the artifact, the sigils glowing brighter in response to his presence. "You can either keep trying to play the cryptic, brooding soul trapped in my core, or you can actually help me. Your choice."


    The Demon King didn''t respond immediately. For a moment, the void was silent again, the only sound the faint hum of energy from the artifact.


    "You''re going to regret this," the Demon King said finally, his tone dark and foreboding.


    "Maybe," Damian said, turning away from the artifact. "But at least I''ll regret it on my own terms."


    The void trembled slightly as he took a few steps away. He could feel the tension lingering in the air, a mix of annoyance and unease radiating from the trapped soul. But he didn''t care. He was in control, and that smug satisfaction burned bright inside him.


    But then Damian paused, glancing back at the artifact. A grin spread across his face as an idea formed in his mind. "Anyway," he said, stretching his arms out with an exaggerated yawn, "since I''m already here..."


    He raised his hands, wiggling his fingers playfully like a pervert about to grope something forbidden. "Let''s see what you''ve got for me today."


    "What do you want to do?" the Demon King asked sharply, his voice tinged with both irritation and worry.


    Damian''s grin widened, clearly enjoying the reaction. "What do you think? The usual. I want my memories." He took a few steps closer to the artifact, the sigils glowing brighter as he approached. "And... I want to know what you''ve been hiding from me."

 Chapter 237: Unfair World

    Warlock Ch 237. Unfair World


    The Demon King''s voice grew more agitated. "You don''t know what you''re messing with, Kaelan! You''re playing with forces that could¡ª"


    "Yeah, yeah, ''forces that could destroy me,'' blah blah blah," Damian interrupted, rolling his eyes. "We''ve been over this, haven''t we? If you''re going to keep giving me the same old warnings, at least come up with a new line."


    Without waiting for a response, he placed both hands firmly on the artifact. The moment his palms made contact, the void around him shifted violently, the dark expanse trembling as if caught in an earthquake. The sigils flared with blinding light, and then¡ªsuddenly¡ªeverything turned white.


    Damian blinked, trying to adjust to the sudden change. Gone was the endless void, replaced by... a scene.


    He found himself standing in the middle of a dimly lit underground room. It wasn''t the grand hall he had seen moments ago¡ªno thrones, no banners. Just stone walls, low ceilings, and an overwhelming sense of familiarity. A faint, flickering light from enchanted lanterns illuminated rows of shelves filled with magical supplies¡ªmana crystals, glowing potions, cauldrons simmering with unknown substances, and stacks of ancient tomes bound in leather.


    Damian frowned, his eyes scanning the room. Somehow, he knew this place. He didn''t need to think about it. His body reacted instinctively, like muscle memory kicking in after years of disuse. His fingers brushed against one of the shelves, his gaze lingering on a dusty tome with strange glyphs on its cover.


    "This place..." he muttered, taking a slow step forward. "This is where I used to hide."


    The realization hit him like a punch to the gut. This was the underground workshop where he¡ªKaelan¡ªhad spent countless nights practicing forbidden spells. Not for power, not for glory, but because he didn''t have a choice. Because back then, he had been fighting a battle not just against the world, but against himself.


    He glanced around, memories flickering at the edges of his mind. This place wasn''t just a workshop¡ªit had been his refuge. His prison. The place where he had desperately tried to contain the Demon King''s soul and power, the force constantly clawing at his mind, trying to take over.


    "Yeah... that''s why they wanted to kill me and take my power," Damian muttered bitterly. He could feel the familiar weight in his chest¡ªthe pressure, the pain that had haunted him back then. His hand instinctively moved to clutch his chest as the rush of anger hit him, sharp and sudden.


    The anger wasn''t directed at anyone in particular. It wasn''t personal. It was... primal. A raw, burning urge to destroy. To see blood. To watch the world burn around him.


    "Khh!" he grunted, staggering slightly as he propped himself against the cold stone wall. His breathing grew heavy, his vision blurring slightly as the urge grew stronger.


    And then, just like in the past, the voice came.


    "You are angry, Kaelan."


    It wasn''t the Demon King trapped in his mana core¡ªthis was different. This was an echo, a memory of the Demon King''s voice, taunting him from deep within his mind.


    "They are hurting you. Just kill them. This world is unfair. Just kill them. Create a new world with me."


    Damian clenched his teeth, his eyes squeezing shut as he tried to block out the voice. "Shut up!" he hissed, his fingers digging into the stone wall.


    But the voice didn''t stop. It grew louder, more insistent, feeding the killing urge building inside him. The desire to lash out, to destroy everything around him, was becoming unbearable. He felt it pulsing in his veins, demanding release.


    "Just kill them."


    The Demon King''s echo laughed, a cruel, mocking sound that made Damian''s blood boil. He glanced down at his hands and froze.


    The sigils tattooed across his body were glowing. Dark, crimson lines spread across his skin, pulsating with demonic power. These weren''t ordinary tattoos¡ªthey were a complex magical formation he had carved into his own flesh. A seal, designed to contain the Demon King''s soul and keep it from taking over completely.


    But now, the seal was straining, the power within threatening to break free.


    "Dammit..." Damian muttered, his voice trembling with frustration. He could feel the darkness clawing at him, trying to take control. His breathing grew ragged, and for a brief moment, he wasn''t sure if he could hold it back.


    The urge to kill was overwhelming. It didn''t matter who. Anyone. Everyone. He just wanted to see blood. To hear screams. To¡ª


    "No," he growled, forcing himself to focus. "Not again."


    He closed his eyes, concentrating hard as he placed his hands over the glowing sigils. He could feel the heat radiating from them, the dark energy pulsing beneath his skin. Gritting his teeth, he poured his mana into the sigils, forcing the demonic power back down.


    It wasn''t easy. The Demon King''s power was strong¡ªstronger than it had been in a long time. But Damian was stronger too. He had learned how to fight back, how to control it. Slowly, steadily, he forced the sigils to dim, the crimson glow fading as his mana flowed through them, neutralizing the surge of dark energy.


    After what felt like an eternity, the glow faded completely. The killing urge subsided, leaving only a lingering sense of exhaustion in its wake.


    Damian leaned against the wall, breathing heavily as sweat dripped down his face. His heart was still racing, but at least now it was manageable.


    "That''s why I left Cassius and Evelyn..." he muttered, his voice barely above a whisper. "I was afraid I''d kill them."


    It wasn''t something he liked admitting, even to himself. But it was the truth. Back then, when the Demon King''s power had first started to overwhelm him, he had made the decision to distance himself from the people he cared about. Not because he didn''t trust them¡ªbut because he didn''t trust himself.


    He had seen what that power could do, how it could twist his mind and turn him into something he didn''t want to be. And the thought of losing control, of hurting Cassius or Evelyn¡ªor anyone else¡ªhad terrified him.

 Chapter 238: Self Sacrifice

    Warlock Ch 238. Self Sacrifice


    "That''s why I hid," Damian said, running a hand through his damp hair. "That''s why I carved those sigils in the first place. To keep the Demon King in check. To keep everyone safe."


    But it hadn''t been enough. No matter how hard he had tried, no matter how many seals he had created, the Demon King''s power had always found a way to break through. And now, even after all this time, it was still a part of him.


    "Guess some things never change," Damian muttered bitterly.


    But even as he said it, he knew it wasn''t entirely true. Things had changed. He had changed. He wasn''t the same person he had been back then. He was reborn now.


    Cassius. Evelyn. Even Victoria.


    They were all part of this now, whether he liked it or not. And maybe¡ªjust maybe¡ªthat was enough to tip the balance in his favor.


    "Alright," Damian said, pushing himself off the wall. "Let''s see what else this place has to offer."


    His voice echoed softly in the underground room as he steadied himself, wiping the sweat off his brow. The air still felt thick, charged with the remnants of old magic. This wasn''t just any workshop¡ªit was a place where Kaelan had pushed the boundaries of magic itself, a place where rules didn''t matter, and survival was the only goal.


    Damian''s eyes swept over the cluttered shelves, the cauldrons simmering with faint remnants of old potions, the tomes scattered across the floor as if someone had left in a hurry. But what caught his attention wasn''t the mess or the lingering magic¡ªit was something in the center of the room.


    A crystal.


    It hovered in midair, glowing faintly, about the size of his palm. The light it emitted pulsed gently, almost like a heartbeat. Damian took a cautious step toward it, his gaze locked on the floating object. There was something... familiar about it. The way it shimmered, the way it radiated energy¡ªit wasn''t just any ordinary crystal. He could feel it, deep down, in a way that went beyond logic.


    He could feel his own Mana.


    "What the hell..." he muttered under his breath, approaching it slowly. The closer he got, the stronger the connection felt. His heart pounded in his chest as realization began to creep in, piece by piece.


    When he finally stood in front of it, he extended his hand toward the crystal, hesitating for just a moment before letting his fingers brush against its surface. The instant he made contact, a wave of energy surged through him, almost knocking him back.


    He stumbled slightly but managed to stay upright, his eyes wide with shock. "Wait..." he whispered, his mind racing. "So... it was me? I created the artifact?"


    The idea sounded insane. Impossible. But as he stared at the crystal, felt the concentrated Mana thrumming inside it, he couldn''t deny what his instincts were telling him. The shape of the crystal, the way it pulsed with energy¡ªit was identical to the ancient artifact inside him now. The one that had imprisoned the Demon King''s soul.


    He laughed bitterly, a hollow sound that echoed through the room. "Right... that''s why this place is so messy."


    His gaze swept around the room again, and suddenly, everything made sense. The scattered tomes, the broken vials, the overturned cauldrons¡ªit wasn''t just the aftermath of experiments gone wrong. It was the result of desperation. Of someone¡ªhimself¡ªwho had run out of options and was willing to try anything to stop the inevitable.


    He clenched his fists, the realization pressing down on him. He could picture it now¡ªKaelan, standing in this very room, knowing that he couldn''t contain the Demon King''s soul any longer. Knowing that if he didn''t do something drastic, he would lose control completely.


    "So I broke the cycle..." Damian muttered, his voice low. "I needed a real prison. One that could hold the Demon King''s soul forever."


    And that''s what this crystal was. A prison. A vessel designed to contain something too dangerous to be left unchecked. But it wasn''t just a prison¡ªit was something more. Something forbidden.


    He let out another bitter laugh. Of course... The other side of this artifact was a curse.


    Immortality. That''s what this artifact had given him. Not just a prison for the Demon King''s soul, but a curse that bound him to life, forcing him to endure whatever came his way. And he knew, even back then, what that meant. He had known the kind of suffering that came with immortality. The endless years, the isolation, the pain of watching everything and everyone he cared about fade away while he remained.


    And worse, he knew the magic community. They didn''t see immortality as a gift¡ªthey saw it as a curse. And they knew how to make immortals suffer. How to make them wish for death but never be able to find it.


    He clenched his jaw, his mind racing as he pieced together what had happened. He remembered the desperation, the fear, the need to find a solution before it was too late. And then, something clicked.


    "The artifact was completed..." he muttered. "But I needed something more. I needed... a sacrifice."


    His brow furrowed as he tried to recall the missing piece. Who had he sacrificed? What had he given up to activate the artifact? The answer danced just out of reach, teasing him, taunting him.


    And then, it hit him.


    "Ah... I get it now." His voice was quiet, almost hollow, as the truth settled over him. "The flesh I sacrificed... was myself."


    That''s why he was reborn. That''s why he had lost his memories. He hadn''t just created the artifact¡ªhe had used it on himself. He had given up his own life, his own body, to seal the Demon King''s soul and break the cycle once and for all.


    "I was that desperate..." he whispered, his gaze fixed on the crystal. "I was willing to give up everything. My power, my identity... my very existence."


    The realization left him feeling... strange. It wasn''t sadness, exactly. It wasn''t regret. It was something more complicated. A mix of pride and bitterness, of understanding and frustration.

 Chapter 239: Can You Not be Vulgar For Once?

    Warlock Ch 239. Can You Not be Vulgar For Once?


    He took a deep breath, trying to steady himself. The memories were still fragmented, still incomplete, but this was a start. A piece of the puzzle he hadn''t known he was missing.


    "Guess that explains why the artifact feels so familiar," he muttered, glancing down at his hands. "It''s literally a part of me."


    The sigils on his skin glowed faintly in response. The Demon King''s soul was still inside him, still a threat. But now, at least, he had a better understanding of what he was dealing with.


    He turned back toward the crystal, his expression hardening. "You really thought I''d break, huh?" he said, as if speaking directly to the Demon King''s soul. "You thought you could push me far enough that I''d lose control."


    There was no response¡ªno voice in his head this time. Just silence.


    Damian smirked. "Guess what? I''m still standing."


    With that, he turned and began walking toward the exit. There was still a lot he didn''t know, a lot he needed to figure out. But for now, he had enough.


    And for the first time in a long while, he didn''t feel like he was running from his past.


    He was ready to face it. One piece at a time.


    "Damian..."


    A familiar voice called his name, soft yet sharp enough to pull him out of his thoughts. Damian blinked, his eyes fluttering open to find himself back in his room. He squinted slightly, still adjusting to the light filtering through the window. Standing beside his bed were Evelyn and Cassius, already packed and ready to go. Evelyn''s arms were crossed, a slight frown tugging at her lips, while Cassius, with his usual impatience, looked less amused.


    "You''ve got some nerve, huh?" Cassius said, raising an eyebrow. "You''re just lying here, all relaxed? Didn''t we agree to leave by noon? Newsflash¡ªit''s already noon."


    Damian sat up slowly, stretching his arms and letting out a long breath. His mind still felt heavy with everything he''d just learned. He glanced at the packed bags Cassius was carrying and the way Evelyn''s eyes darted between him and the door, clearly expecting him to get up and join them.


    But instead of moving, Damian leaned back on his hands, his expression calm¡ªtoo calm, considering how Cassius was glaring at him like a parent about to scold a rebellious teenager.


    "We''re not going anywhere," Damian said casually.


    Cassius frowned, his irritation turning into confusion. "Wait, what?"


    Damian straightened up, locking eyes with Cassius. "We''re staying. There''s a celebration tonight, and we''re attending it."


    Cassius stared at him for a moment, clearly trying to process what he''d just heard. Then he snorted, crossing his arms over his chest. "Let me guess¡ªVictoria gave you another blow job, and now you''re all eager to stick around?"


    Damian rolled his eyes, though a faint smirk tugged at the corner of his lips. "No, Cas. It''s not like that."


    Cassius gave him a skeptical look. "Oh really? Because that''s the only explanation that makes sense. You were ready to bolt this morning, and now, suddenly, you''re all in for a fancy celebration?"


    Before Damian could respond, Evelyn sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose. "Cassius, can you not be vulgar for once? Maybe, just maybe, there''s a real reason behind his change of heart."


    Cassius shrugged, clearly unbothered. "Fine. Let''s hear it, then."


    Damian leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees. His expression grew serious, the playful tone fading from his voice. "Another part of my memory came back."


    That caught both of their attention. Cassius''s smirk disappeared, replaced by genuine curiosity, while Evelyn tilted her head slightly, waiting for him to continue.


    Damian took a deep breath, organizing his thoughts before speaking. "It was me. I''m the one who wanted Victoria to take me in. Back when I was Kaelan, I saved her, and she owed me. I made her promise to protect me if things ever went south."


    Evelyn''s eyes widened slightly. "Wait... what? You asked her to protect you?"


    "Yeah," Damian said, nodding. "It wasn''t just some random bond or a convenient alliance. It was a deal¡ªone I forced her to make. Back then, I knew the Demon King''s power was becoming too much to handle. I knew the senators and the rest of the magic community would turn on me eventually. So, I knew I had to do something and made Victoria promise that if things went bad, she''d protect me in return for what I did for her."


    Cassius frowned, still trying to wrap his head around it. "So... that''s why she''s been so obsessed with you?"


    "Pretty much," Damian said. "She owes me her life. And now, she''s trying to fulfill that promise in a way that doesn''t raise suspicion."


    Evelyn crossed her arms, her brow furrowed in thought. "And this mission? Offering it to us... was that part of her plan?"


    Damian nodded again. "Exactly. By giving us this mission, she gave herself a reason to publicly acknowledge us as heroes of her race. Now, when she offers us her protection, it''ll look like a reward for our service, not some hidden debt she''s trying to repay."


    Cassius let out a low whistle, clearly impressed. "Damn. That''s... actually smart. She gets to keep her promise without anyone questioning her motives."


    "Right," Damian said, leaning back against the wall. "It''s a win-win. We get her protection, and she gets to fulfill her end of the deal without drawing too much attention from the senators."


    Evelyn still looked skeptical, though. "But... Why didn''t she just tell you all of this? Wouldn''t it have been easier to explain everything upfront instead of keeping you in the dark?"


    "Probably," Damian admitted. "But Victoria''s always been like that. She plays things close to the chest. And honestly, she probably didn''t think I''d believe her until I started remembering things on my own."


    Cassius snorted. "Typical. She likes to keep everyone guessing, huh?"


    "Exactly," Damian said with a smirk. "But now that I know what''s going on, it changes things. This isn''t just some random celebration¡ªit''s her way of setting the stage for what comes next."

 Chapter 240: Play Along The Game

    Warlock Ch 240. Play Along The Game


    Evelyn glanced at Cassius, then back at Damian. "So, what do we do now?"


    "We go to the celebration," Damian said. "Play along, make nice, and let Victoria do her thing. The more we cooperate, the better our chances are of staying under the radar."


    Cassius shrugged, clearly already on board. "Fine by me. Free food, fancy drinks, and maybe some fun afterward? Sounds like a decent plan."


    Evelyn sighed but didn''t argue. "Alright. But if this turns into another one of those situations where we almost get killed, we have to run."


    Damian chuckled softly, leaning back on the bed and letting out a long breath. "Yeah, if things go south, I''m with you. I''m done playing hero for a while."


    Evelyn sat beside him, giving him a sidelong glance. "I hope it doesn''t come to that. We''ve done enough for now. We deserve some peace."


    "Agreed," Damian said, his tone lighter than before. "But knowing our luck, peace is probably asking for too much."


    She smiled faintly, brushing a stray lock of hair behind her ear. "I''m glad your memory is coming back, though. It feels... reassuring, like things are finally starting to make sense."


    Damian turned to her, his eyes softening slightly. "Yeah, me too. And I figured something else out."


    Evelyn tilted her head, curious. "What?"


    "The reason for my rebirth," Damian said, his voice quieter now, more thoughtful. "It wasn''t some accident or some divine intervention. It was me. I... sacrificed myself to create that artifact. To seal the Demon King''s soul and end the cycle."


    Evelyn''s eyes widened slightly. "You... did that to yourself?"


    He nodded. "Yeah. I guess I was that desperate. I didn''t see any other way. And now, here I am, stuck with immortality and piecing together what''s left of my old life."


    Evelyn didn''t say anything right away. Instead, she reached over and placed a gentle hand on his shoulder, her touch warm and comforting. "You did what you had to do, Damian. You saved a lot of people by doing that."


    Damian let out a bitter laugh. "Yeah, saved people, cursed myself. Classic Kaelan move, right?"


    She smiled gently, leaning in a little closer. "You''re not alone anymore. You''ve got us now. Whatever happens, we''ll figure it out together."


    Damian looked at her for a moment, the tension in his shoulders easing slightly. "Thanks, Eve. That actually helps."


    Before the moment could get too serious, Cassius plopped himself onto a nearby chair, stretching his legs out and making himself as comfortable as possible. He leaned back, crossing his arms behind his head. "So, we''ll be here for a while, huh? Got any ideas besides sleep?" His eyes flicked toward Evelyn, who was sitting beside Damian on the bed. Then, with a smirk, he added, "And besides watching a couple make out. I feel like a third wheel here."


    Evelyn shot him a glare, but her cheeks turned slightly pink. "We''re not making out."


    "Yet," Cassius quipped with a grin.


    Damian rolled his eyes, clearly used to Cassius''s antics. "Maybe you could ask one of the servants to bring you some tea."


    Cassius groaned dramatically. "Their tea sucks. It tastes like boiled grass mixed with sadness."


    Evelyn couldn''t help but laugh at that, though she tried to hide it behind a hand. "Well, excuse them for not catering to your refined taste, Your Majesty."


    "Thank you!" Cassius said, throwing his hands up in mock exasperation. "Finally, someone acknowledges my suffering."


    Evelyn rolled her eyes. "If you put half as much energy into doing something productive as you do complaining, we''d have probably conquered half the world by now."


    Cassius leaned forward with a smug grin. "Hey, complaining is productive. It builds character. You should try it sometime."


    Damian chuckled, shaking his head as he leaned back against the wall. Their banter was always a welcome distraction, something that kept things light even when they were knee-deep in chaos. For a moment, he allowed himself to enjoy the normalcy.


    Just as he opened his mouth to fire off a sarcastic remark of his own, a knock echoed through the room, interrupting the flow of conversation. The door creaked open, revealing Henry, Victoria''s ever-stoic butler. His expression, as always, was perfectly neutral, but there was something in the way he carried himself that screamed efficiency and professionalism.


    "Lunch is ready," Henry announced in his usual composed tone. "Lady Victoria is waiting for you."


    Damian nodded, acknowledging the message. "Okay. Thanks, Henry."


    With a slight bow, Henry turned and exited the room, leaving the door slightly ajar behind him.


    "Well, I guess lunch might help us relax," Damian said, pushing himself off the bed and stretching. "We could use a break."


    "Finally, something decent to look forward to," Cassius said, hopping up from his chair. "If their tea is terrible, maybe the food will redeem them."


    The trio made their way down the hall. The mansion was as grand as ever, its high ceilings and intricately carved walls giving it an air of both elegance and intimidation.


    When they entered the dining hall, Victoria was already seated at the head of the long table, a calm yet regal expression on her face. She wore a deep crimson gown, her posture perfect as always. Despite the composed exterior, Damian could tell she was tired¡ªprobably from overseeing the aftermath of the battle and preparing for tonight''s celebration.


    "Ah, you''re here," Victoria said, offering a faint smile. "Please, sit. I had the chefs prepare something special."


    Cassius wasted no time, plopping down into a chair and eyeing the spread of food on the table. Platters of roasted meats, fresh vegetables, and an assortment of breads and cheeses were laid out, along with pitchers of what looked like wine and water.


    "Well, this already looks better than the tea," Cassius remarked, reaching for a plate.


    Victoria arched an eyebrow but said nothing, clearly used to his antics by now. Damian and Evelyn took their seats as well, and soon enough, the three of them were serving themselves.


    For a few minutes, there was nothing but the sound of utensils clinking against plates and the occasional murmur of appreciation from Cassius as he tried different dishes. It wasn''t until they were halfway through the meal that Victoria finally broke the silence.


    "I assume Henry informed you about tonight''s celebration," she said, her tone calm but purposeful.

 Chapter 241: Paraded Around Like Trophies

    Warlock Ch 241. Paraded Around Like Trophies


    Victoria''s gaze lingered on him for a moment, as if searching for something. "This celebration isn''t just about marking our victory. It''s about solidifying alliances and ensuring that our enemies know we''re united."


    Cassius leaned back in his chair, balancing precariously on two legs. "So, basically, a bunch of fancy talk, a little wine, and a lot of fake smiles."


    Victoria''s lips twitched, as if suppressing a smile. "Something like that."


    Damian leaned forward slightly, his elbows resting on the table, his expression more serious. "You''re using this as a chance to protect us, aren''t you? By publicly acknowledging what we did, you''re giving yourself a reason to keep us close without raising suspicion."


    Victoria didn''t deny it. "Yes. The senators will be watching closely, and this is the best way to ensure they don''t interfere. By presenting you as valuable allies, I can justify offering you protection."


    Evelyn, sitting beside Damian, frowned slightly. "But won''t that put a target on his back? If they see him as a threat..." She gestured toward Damian, concern etched across her face.


    "They already see him as a threat," Victoria said simply, her tone calm but firm. "This way, they''ll think twice before acting. As long as you''re under my protection, they won''t move openly against him."


    Cassius let out a low whistle, leaning forward again as the chair''s front legs thudded against the ground. "Well, damn. That''s... actually smart. Devious, but smart."


    Victoria inclined her head slightly, accepting the backhanded compliment. "Thank you."


    Damian wasn''t entirely satisfied, though. His brow furrowed as he asked, "What about after tonight? What happens when this celebration is over, and we''re back out there?"


    Victoria''s expression grew more serious, her gaze unwavering. "I''ll do what I can to keep you safe, but you need to be careful. The senators won''t act openly, but they''ll still be watching. You''ll need to stay alert and avoid drawing too much attention."


    Cassius snorted, smirking. "Avoid attention? You''ve met us, right?"


    Evelyn shot him a sharp look. "We''ll be careful."


    Victoria''s gaze softened slightly as she looked at Damian. "I meant what I said before¡ªI owe you my life. I''ll do whatever it takes to protect you."


    For a moment, Damian held her gaze. There was something in her eyes that seemed genuine, unguarded in a way he wasn''t used to. Finally, he nodded. "Thanks. We''ll do our part too."


    The tension eased slightly, but Victoria''s expression remained thoughtful. She tapped her fingers lightly against the polished wood, her eyes drifting toward the window where the sun had started to dip lower in the sky.


    "There''s something else you need to be aware of," she said, her voice measured. "The vampire factions... They won''t all be pleased with this."


    Evelyn raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean?"


    Victoria''s gaze flicked back to them, her tone growing sharper. "This award¡ªpublicly recognizing you, especially Damian¡ªis significant. Even among vampires, this kind of acknowledgment is rare. Some will view it as favoritism, as if I''m elevating you above them."


    Cassius shrugged. "So what? Let them be jealous."


    "It''s more than jealousy," Victoria said, her voice firm. "It''s about pride. Vampires see themselves as special, above other races. By honoring someone who isn''t a vampire¡ªespecially someone with your... reputation¡ªit could be seen as a slight against them. They may not say it openly, but envy will fester. And envy, when left unchecked, breeds resentment."


    Damian exhaled slowly, leaning back in his chair. "So what you''re saying is, even though this is meant to protect us, it could also paint a bigger target on our backs."


    Victoria nodded. "Exactly. You''ll need to be careful. Some factions might see this as an opportunity to challenge my authority¡ªor worse, to target you as a way of undermining me."


    Cassius let out a low chuckle, shaking his head. "You vampires really know how to complicate things, don''t you?"


    Evelyn ignored him, focusing on Victoria. "So, what do we do? Just smile, accept the award, and hope for the best?"


    Victoria''s lips curved into a faint smile. "Something like that. But I''ll handle the politics. Your job is to play your part¡ªbe gracious, be confident, and don''t give them any reason to question your worth."


    Damian let out a bitter laugh. "Gracious and confident, huh? Sounds easy enough."


    Victoria''s gaze softened again. "You''re stronger than you think, Damian. They''ll see that. And as long as we stand united, they won''t dare act against us."


    "Well, if we''re gonna be paraded around like trophies, we might as well look the part," Damian added with a grin. "What''s the dress code for this shindig? Fancy robes? Armor? Or should I just show up shirtless and let my abs do the talking?"


    Evelyn groaned, rubbing her temples. "You''re impossible."


    Cassius smirked, shaking his head. "Let''s aim for something in between. We''ll figure it out."


    Victoria rose gracefully from her seat, smoothing the folds of her gown. "I''ll have appropriate attire sent to your rooms. The celebration begins at sundown. I trust you''ll be ready."


    "Of course," Damian said, standing as well. "Thanks, Victoria."


    Her eyes lingered on him for a moment longer, something unspoken flickering. But she didn''t say anything else, only giving a small nod before turning and leaving the room.


    Cassius, leaning lazily against the back of his chair, let out a huff. "That woman is a damn enigma."


    Damian smirked, stretching his arms overhead. "What, did her gracefulness make your stoic heart skip a beat?"


    Cassius shot him a flat look. "No. I just think she''s either the best liar I''ve ever met or the most complicated person in the room."


    "Both, probably," Damian said with a shrug. "But she''s sharp."


    Evelyn, who had been quietly observing, finally spoke up. "You know, she''s not as unreadable as you two make her out to be. There''s something... different about her when she''s around Damian. She is indeed in love with him."


    "Oh, here we go," Cassius muttered, pushing himself to his feet. "Let''s psychoanalyze the vampire queen now. That''ll be productive."

 Chapter 242: Overthinking

    Warlock Ch 242. Overthinking


    Evelyn ignored him, her gaze locked on Damian. "She''s serious about this. About you. I know it sounds weird since I just said I didn''t trust her, but... this time, she looks different."


    Damian let out a soft laugh, running a hand through his hair. "Yeah, well, her ''seriousness'' has gotten me into more trouble than I can count. So, forgive me if I don''t swoon every time she says she owes me her life."


    Evelyn raised an eyebrow. "And yet, here you are. Still working with her. Still letting her protect you."


    "Touche?," Damian admitted, rubbing the back of his neck. "But you have to admit, the timing of all this is... weird."


    Cassius glanced between the two of them, his expression unreadable. "Weird or not, it doesn''t change the fact that she''s keeping us alive. Let''s not bite the hand that feeds, yeah?"


    Damian smirked. "Don''t worry, Cas. I''ll let you do all the biting if it comes to that."


    "Funny," Cassius deadpanned, heading for the door. "I''ll be in my room if either of you decide to stop overthinking everything."


    Evelyn sighed as Cassius left, shaking her head. "He has a point, you know."


    "I know," Damian said, his voice quieter now. "Doesn''t mean I can''t be cautious."


    ----


    Later that evening, as Damian was getting ready for the celebration, there was a knock at his door. He expected one of the servants, but when he opened it, he found Victoria standing there instead. Her regal demeanor was still intact, but there was a softness in her expression he wasn''t used to seeing.


    "Victoria," he said, stepping aside to let her in. "Didn''t expect you to drop by."


    "I wanted to speak with you," she said simply, her voice calm but deliberate.


    "Alright," Damian said, closing the door behind her. "What''s on your mind?"


    She took a moment, her gaze drifting around the room before settling back on him. "You looked tired..."


    "Can you blame me?" Damian said, crossing his arms. "I''ve had my memories drip-fed to me while dodging people who want me dead. Kind of hard to trust anyone when you don''t even trust yourself."


    Victoria nodded, her expression unreadable. "I understand. But I need you to know something."


    He raised an eyebrow. "This should be good."


    She ignored the jab, stepping closer. "When I first realized who you were... My interest in you was because of Kaelan. Because of what you did for me. I won''t deny that."


    Damian''s smirk faded, replaced by a more serious expression. "Well, at least you''re honest about it."


    "But," Victoria continued, her voice softening, "things are different now. I''ve spent time with you¡ªnot Kaelan, not the person I owed my life to, but you, Damian. And my feelings... they''re genuine."


    Damian blinked, caught off guard by the sincerity in her tone. "Genuine how?"


    She took another step forward, her gaze steady. "I care about you. Not because of what you did for me in the past, but because of who you are now. You''re reckless, stubborn, and far too willing to sacrifice yourself for others... but you''re also brave, clever, and more capable than you realize."


    For a moment, Damian didn''t know what to say. He wasn''t used to this¡ªbeing the one someone fought for instead of being the one doing all the fighting.


    "Look, Victoria," he said finally, his voice quieter now. "I''m not saying I don''t appreciate everything you''ve done. But it''s hard to separate the past from the present when it feels like everything I do is tied to who I was."


    "That''s because you haven''t forgiven yourself," Victoria said gently.


    Damian let out a bitter laugh. "Forgive myself for what? For being used? For surviving? For doing what I had to do?"


    "For believing you were a monster," she said, her voice firm. "You''re not. You never were."


    Her words hung in the air, heavy and undeniable. Damian looked away, his jaw tightening. "Yeah, well, tell that to the people who think I am."


    "They don''t matter," Victoria said, stepping closer. "What matters is what you do now. The choices you make, the people you trust. And I want to be one of those people."


    He met her gaze, searching for any hint of manipulation or hidden motives. But all he saw was sincerity.


    Finally, he sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Alright, fine. I''ll give you the benefit of the doubt. But don''t expect me to let my guard down completely."


    "That''s all I ask," she said with a faint smile.


    Damian smirked, his usual cocky demeanor slipping back into place. "You really know how to make a guy feel special, huh?"


    Victoria chuckled softly, a rare, genuine sound. "Well, you''re not exactly easy to impress."


    "Good," Damian said, his smirk widening. "Wouldn''t want you getting bored."


    Victoria turned to leave but paused at the door. "One more thing."


    "What''s that?" Damian asked, tilting his head.


    "I wasn''t lying when I said I''d do whatever it takes to protect you," she said, her voice steady. "No matter what happens tonight¡ªor in the days to come¡ªyou can count on me."


    Damian nodded, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "I''ll hold you to that."


    Victoria left. The room fell into an eerie silence. Damian exhaled slowly, leaning back against the doorframe. For once, he believed her¡ªor at least, he wanted to. Either way, tonight''s celebration wasn''t going to wait, and he had to be ready for whatever it would bring.


    After completely preparing himself, Damian stood in front of the mirror, tugging at the collar of his shirt and frowning slightly. His outfit was... unusual, to say the least. It was a blend of a sleek, modern suit and a fancy, Renaissance-inspired coat with intricate embroidery and a high collar that screamed extra. It fit him perfectly, tailored to accentuate his broad shoulders and lean frame, but it didn''t scream "warlock" the way he wanted it to.


    "This makes me look like some fancy aristocrat from another world," he muttered, eyeing his reflection critically. "Not exactly the vibe I was going for."


    After a moment of contemplation, he grabbed his warlock coat¡ªa dark piece of clothing that carried a sense of power and mystery. Throwing it over his shoulders, he instantly felt more like himself. To complete the look, he slipped on a black glove over his marked hand, hiding the warlock sigil etched into his skin.

 Chapter 243: I Look Like Me

    Warlock Ch 243. I Look Like Me


    "There," he said, smirking at his reflection. "Now I look like me."


    A knock at the door broke his thoughts. Evelyn and Cassius were waiting outside, already dressed and ready. When Damian opened the door, his gaze immediately landed on Evelyn, and he froze for a moment.


    Evelyn''s outfit was stunning¡ªa dark, flowing gown that hugged her figure elegantly without being over-the-top. The neckline was modest but accentuated with intricate silver embroidery that caught the light as she moved. Her hair was styled simply, with a few loose strands framing her face. She looked... beautiful.


    "You clean up well," Damian said, his voice light but sincere.


    Evelyn blushed slightly, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. "Thanks. You don''t look too bad yourself."


    Cassius, who had been standing off to the side in a sharp, minimalist suit, smirked. "Can we save the compliments for later? We''ve got a vampire soire?e to crash."


    Damian rolled his eyes. "Relax, Cas. We''re not crashing. We''re invited."


    "Still feels like crashing," Cassius muttered, adjusting his tie.


    The walk to the ballroom was quiet. When they arrived, Damian''s first thought was that the event was far grander than he had expected. The ballroom was massive, with high vaulted ceilings adorned with crystal chandeliers that cast shimmering light over the room. Guests were already mingling, their elegant attire and composed demeanors making it clear that this was a gathering of the elite.


    Damian couldn''t help but feel out of place. Most of the attendees were vampires, their pale, flawless complexions and sharp features giving them a weird elegance. Scattered among them were representatives from other tribes¡ªwerewolves, fae, and even a few humans¡ªbut they were clearly outnumbered. It was obvious this was a vampire-dominated event, and Damian couldn''t shake the feeling that he was being watched.


    Evelyn leaned in closer to him, her voice low. "Remember, if this goes bad, we run. Those noble vampires probably don''t like us."


    "Got it," Damian said, his tone equally quiet. "Let''s just get through this without starting a fight."


    Cassius, who was already scanning the room with his usual stoic expression, snorted softly. "A room full of people who either hate us or want us dead. What could go wrong?"


    Damian smirked. "Don''t jinx it."


    The three of them moved cautiously through the crowd, doing their best to blend in. They accepted drinks from passing waitstaff¡ªDamian had no idea what was in his glass, but it tasted vaguely of berries and something metallic¡ªand made polite conversation with the few guests who approached them.


    It didn''t take long for Damian to spot a few familiar faces. Some of the senators were present, their cold gazes scanning the room like predators. He recognized one of them, an older man with silver hair tied neatly at the nape of his neck. Senator Ralvek. The man had been vocal about his hatred to Kaelan.


    "Great," Damian muttered, taking another sip of his drink. "Ralvek''s here. This just keeps getting better."


    Evelyn followed his gaze, her lips tightening. "Just avoid him. No need to provoke anyone."


    "Don''t worry, I''m not in the mood for small talk," Damian said dryly.


    Cassius, standing nearby with his arms crossed, raised an eyebrow. "You sure about that? You''ve got a talent for pissing people off without even trying."


    Damian smirked. "It''s a gift."


    Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the sound of a bell chiming silenced the room. All eyes turned to the grand staircase at the far end of the ballroom, where Victoria appeared, flanked by two attendants. She was a vision in crimson, her gown flowing like liquid fire as she descended the steps.


    The room seemed to hold its breath as she reached the floor, her gaze sweeping over the gathered guests. When her eyes landed on Damian, she gave him the faintest of nods before addressing the room.


    "Thank you all for coming," Victoria said, her voice carrying effortlessly through the space. "This evening is not just any celebration," Victoria continued, her gaze sweeping across the room. "Tonight marks the fiftieth anniversary of my husband''s passing. Every year, I host this event to honor his memory, to remind us all of what was lost and what we must continue to protect."


    Damian stiffened slightly, keeping his expression neutral. ''So that''s why this event is so grand,'' he thought. ''She has been planning this for a long time.''


    Victoria''s lips curved into a faint smile. "However, this year''s celebration is different. This year, we do not only mourn. We also celebrate a victory hard-earned."


    There was a ripple of murmurs among the crowd, the vampires exchanging subtle glances. Even Cassius raised an eyebrow, leaning slightly toward Damian. "Hard-earned? She makes it sound like she did all the work," he muttered.


    "Shh," Damian replied, though he shared the sentiment.


    Victoria raised her hand, silencing the murmurs. "Just yesterday, we defeated a great threat. My former general, Varak, and his rogue forces have been eliminated. Their betrayal has been punished, and order has been restored."


    The crowd clapped politely, though there was a certain tension in the air. Victoria''s expression darkened slightly as she continued. "But that victory did not come without treachery. One I trusted dearly¡ªSeraphis, the leader of my troops¡ªturned against me. He betrayed my trust. He tried to kill me."


    Gasps rippled through the room, though some faces betrayed little surprise. It was clear not everyone was shocked by the revelation.


    Victoria''s smile returned, sharper this time. "So... I killed him." She said it like it was nothing, like she had merely swatted a fly. The applause that followed was hesitant but respectful, and Damian noticed a few senators exchanging wary glances.


    "But," Victoria said, her voice lifting with a note of triumph, "this victory was not mine alone. I could not have achieved it without the intervention of three brave individuals who stepped forward when I needed them most."


    Damian felt the weight of her words settle on his shoulders as she turned her gaze toward him. "Damian, Evelyn, Cassius¡ªplease, come forward."


    Cassius let out a low whistle. "Well, this is it. Time to shine."

 Chapter 244: The Heroes Among The Vampires

    Warlock Ch 244. The Heroes Among The Vampires


    Evelyn shot him a warning look but said nothing, following Damian as he led the way toward the staircase. The crowd parted for them, their gazes heavy with curiosity, suspicion, and¡ªin some cases¡ªoutright disdain.


    When they reached the top of the staircase, Victoria gestured for them to stand beside her. "These three heroes aided me in defeating Varak and his forces. They risked their lives to protect not only me but the stability of our world. For that, I owe them a great debt."


    Damian glanced at the crowd, his warlock instincts kicking in. His gaze swept over the faces below, noting every flicker of expression. Most of the vampires wore carefully neutral masks, but a few couldn''t hide their distaste. Among them, the senators stood like statues, their eyes cold and calculating.


    And then, he saw her.


    Aria.


    Her face was as striking as he remembered¡ªsharp features, pale skin, and piercing eyes. But unlike the others, her expression wasn''t neutral. She looked displeased, her lips pressed into a thin line. She said nothing, but her gaze was cold, almost dismissive.


    ''Great. Just what I needed,'' Damian thought, suppressing a sigh.


    Victoria continued, unbothered by the undercurrent of tension in the room. "As a token of my gratitude, I present each of you with this badge¡ªa symbol of honor and protection. With this, you will be recognized as allies of the vampire tribe. You will be under my protection."


    She handed each of them a small, ornate badge. Damian''s fingers closed around his. It wasn''t just a symbol¡ªit was a statement. A declaration to everyone in the room that they were untouchable... for now.


    The applause that followed was polite but restrained. Damian didn''t miss the sideways glances exchanged between some of the guests, nor the subtle shifts in body language. This wasn''t just recognition¡ªit was a disruption of the status quo.


    Victoria smiled graciously, raising her glass. "Let us toast to victory, unity, and the future. I hope you all enjoy the food and drinks prepared for tonight. They were made from the finest ingredients... including the captured traitors who dared to stand against us."


    Damian barely managed to keep his face neutral, his fingers tightening around the glass in his hand. ''That explains the metallic taste,'' he thought, fighting the urge to gag.


    Evelyn leaned in slightly, her voice barely above a whisper. "Did she just say the food is made from...?"


    "Yep," Damian muttered, cutting her off. "Don''t think about it." He pretended to take a sip but the truth was the liquid stopped just before it touched his lips.


    Cassius, on the other hand, looked completely unfazed. He took a sip of his drink, his expression as stoic as ever. "Well, that''s one way to recycle."


    Damian shot him a look. "Seriously?"


    "What?" Cassius said with a shrug. "It''s efficient."


    Damian stared at him, his glass hovering near his lips. "Efficient? Cassius, that''s the most insane thing you''ve ever said. And you''ve said a lot of insane things."


    Evelyn whispered. "You''re seriously defending this? I don''t care how ''efficient'' it is. It''s disgusting."


    Cassius waved her off, his face paler than usual. "Look, I''m just trying to rationalize it, alright? Don''t make me think about it too much or¡ª" He suddenly grimaced, setting his glass down with a little more force than necessary.


    "You okay?" Evelyn asked, her brow furrowed as she watched him.


    Cassius nodded tightly. "I''m fine. Totally fine. As long as someone doesn''t keep reminding me what''s in the drink."


    Damian smirked, raising his hands in mock innocence. "Hey, don''t blame me. I only reminded you a couple of times. The rest is all in your head."


    Cassius shot him a glare. "Oh, well, in that case, thank you, Damian. Really helpful. Appreciate it."


    Damian chuckled, taking a step back as Cassius continued to grumble under his breath. "Anytime, Cas. Glad I could make your night more memorable."


    The trio drifted away from Victoria, trying to blend in while keeping a low profile. The vampires seemed to be enjoying themselves, laughing and chatting as they sipped their drinks and sampled the delicacies Victoria had provided. The other races, however, looked far less enthusiastic. Most of them were nibbling cautiously, clearly trying not to offend their hosts while avoiding the more... creative dishes.


    Damian couldn''t help but glance at his untouched glass, the faint metallic scent making his stomach turn. "You know," he said, breaking the silence, "I don''t think I''ve ever been this grateful for having trust issues. Makes it easy to skip dinner."


    Evelyn raised an eyebrow. "Not even tempted to try a bite? It''s all ''finely crafted,'' after all."


    Damian gave her a look. "Yeah, no thanks. I''d rather not find out if my gag reflex still works in front of a room full of vampires."


    Cassius, who had taken a seat on a nearby couch, groaned and rested his head in his hands. "Why didn''t I just fake-drink during the toast like you two? Why did I have to go all in?"


    "Because you''re an overachiever," Damian said, smirking as he leaned against the back of Cassius''s chair. "You wanted to show off. Look how that turned out."


    Cassius raised a hand in a weak attempt to swat him away. "Shut up."


    Evelyn chuckled softly, though her gaze remained cautious as it swept over the room. "You''re lucky the vampires are too busy celebrating to notice how awkward we are. Otherwise, we''d be the talk of the night."


    "Pretty sure we already are," Damian said, his tone dry. "Have you seen the way they''re looking at us? Like we''re some kind of weird novelty."


    "Well, to be fair," Cassius said, sitting up and regaining some of his composure, "we are the token non-vampires who just got handed badges of honor. It''s not exactly subtle."


    "Yeah, but that doesn''t make it less annoying," Damian muttered, his gaze flicking around the room.


    Not far from where they stood, Aria watched them.

 Chapter 245: Different Story

    Warlock Ch 245. Different Story


    Aria was leaning against a column near the edge of the ballroom, her sharp eyes fixed on the trio. Her expression was unreadable, but there was something in her gaze¡ªintensity, curiosity, maybe even anger. Her focus, however, lingered the longest on Damian.


    He was just like him. Kaelan.


    Aria''s chest tightened as the thought took root, refusing to be ignored. The way Damian stood, the way he moved¡ªit was uncanny. Even now, watching him laugh with Evelyn and Cassius, his body language was eerily familiar. She could almost hear Kaelan''s voice, teasing and lighthearted, blending seamlessly into theirs.


    It was the same.


    Kaelan had always been at ease with Evelyn and Cassius. They''d been a team, a family of sorts. Seeing them now, so natural even in the midst of this formal charade, made Aria''s stomach twist. Because she was supposed to be part of that too, once. She was supposed to be closest to Kaelan.


    But that was a lifetime ago. A different story entirely. One that didn''t end the way it should have.


    Aria glanced down at her glass, swirling the dark liquid absently as memories flooded her mind. Back then, things had been simpler¡ªor at least, they seemed that way now. Kaelan had been her anchor, her constant in a world that often felt overwhelming. And then... everything changed.


    They had taken separate paths.


    She had chosen to pursue magic as a mage, a path that demanded discipline and loyalty to the system. Kaelan, on the other hand, had become a warlock¡ªa choice that immediately set him apart. Their paths diverged, and before she realized it, a gulf had formed between them, one that only grew wider with time.


    Her grip tightened on the glass. ''It wasn''t just the paths,'' she thought bitterly. ''It was me.''


    She''d made choices. Choices that she regretted more than she cared to admit. When the senators had turned their attention to Kaelan, labeling him a threat, she had sided with them. She let herself be manipulated, fed half-truths and lies that painted Kaelan as dangerous, untrustworthy.


    And she''d believed them. She had fought him. Fought against him, over and over again, until one day, he was gone.


    Disappeared.


    Her fault.


    The realization burned, even now. She had pieced the truth together too late¡ªdiscovered the lies, the manipulation, the cruelty of the senators only after Kaelan was gone. Whether dead or simply lost, she didn''t know. But the guilt? That was eternal.


    Her gaze drifted back to Damian. She didn''t know if it was true¡ªif he really was Kaelan reborn. It didn''t make sense. Victoria had a grudge against Kaelan, didn''t she? If Damian truly was him, wouldn''t she want to kill him?


    Her heart ached at the thought. And yet, if it was him...


    She shook her head, trying to dispel the thought. ''He''s not Kaelan.'' He couldn''t be. But the senators... they were still watching him, still circling like vultures. If they suspected anything, if they believed Damian could become a threat, they wouldn''t hesitate to act.


    And that was why she stayed. Why she played their games, sat through their tedious meetings, pretended to be one of them. Because someone had to keep an eye on them. Someone had to make sure they didn''t destroy another Kaelan.


    "Aria," a smooth voice interrupted her thoughts, pulling her back to the present.


    She turned to see Senator Ralvek approaching, his pale face impassive but his sharp eyes gleaming with curiosity. Behind him were two other senators, their expressions carefully neutral.


    "Senator Ralvek," Aria said evenly, inclining her head slightly. "How can I help you?"


    Ralvek''s lips curved into a faint smile, though it didn''t reach his eyes. "I was curious about your thoughts on tonight''s announcement. Victoria''s little... heroes."


    Her eyes flicked toward Damian, Evelyn, and Cassius. "They seem competent. They handled Varak and Seraphis, didn''t they?"


    Ralvek hummed thoughtfully. "Yes, but at what cost? Outsiders meddling in vampire affairs¡ªit sets a dangerous precedent."


    "Perhaps," Aria replied, her tone carefully measured. "But Victoria wouldn''t have involved them without reason."


    "Reason or desperation?" one of the other senators muttered, his tone dripping with disdain.


    Ralvek waved a hand dismissively. "Regardless, they''re here now. And Victoria has tied her name to them. That makes them our concern."


    Aria''s gaze hardened slightly. "If they''ve earned her trust, shouldn''t that be enough?"


    Ralvek''s smile widened, though it remained as cold as ever. "You''re quite protective of them, Aria. Why is that?"


    She held his gaze, refusing to flinch. "I simply prefer to avoid unnecessary conflict. We have enough enemies without turning on each other."


    Ralvek studied her for a moment longer before nodding slowly. "Of course. Wise as always."


    His gaze lingered, as if he were testing her, waiting for her to reveal something more. Aria held her ground, her expression calm and unreadable. She had spent decades perfecting that mask, and now was not the time to falter.


    Another senator, a woman named Lenira, stepped closer. Her crimson dress shimmered as she moved, the deep neckline and delicate lace giving her an air of understated menace. "Wise, perhaps," Lenira said, her voice smooth and slightly mocking, "but don''t you find it curious, Aria? Victoria''s so-called heroes... doesn''t it feel like they''ve come out of nowhere? Almost as if they were planted here."


    Aria turned her head slightly, meeting Lenira''s piercing gaze. "I don''t see it that way. They''ve proven themselves capable, and Victoria is nothing if not strategic. If she trusts them, then they''ve earned it."


    Lenira raised a delicate eyebrow. "Trust? Or convenience? You know how she is when it comes to protecting her own position. Perhaps these three are nothing more than pawns in her latest game."


    Ralvek chuckled softly, his voice as smooth as silk. "Pawns or not, they''re in the game now. And we should be paying attention. Especially to him." His gaze flicked meaningfully toward Damian.


    Aria''s stomach tightened, but her face betrayed nothing. "What about him?" she asked, her voice even.

 Chapter 246: Familiar

    Warlock Ch 246. Familiar


    "He''s... interesting," Ralvek said, his tone measured. "I''ve never seen him before and there''s something familiar about him, wouldn''t you agree?"


    Lenira''s eyes narrowed slightly. "Familiar? How so?"


    Ralvek shrugged, his expression one of casual indifference. "Perhaps it''s just his demeanor. Or maybe it''s the way he carries himself, as if he''s used to being in the thick of things. Either way, I can''t help but feel like we''ve seen his kind before."


    Aria resisted the urge to clench her fists. Instead, she forced a small smile. "You''re overthinking it. He''s a warlock¡ªbrash, confident, and a little reckless. That''s hardly unique."


    Ralvek tilted his head, studying her closely. "You seem very certain of that."


    "I''ve dealt with his type before," Aria said smoothly. "And I''ve been in this game long enough to recognize a man trying to prove himself. That''s all he is¡ªsomeone who''s taken an opportunity and run with it."


    Lenira leaned in slightly, her eyes gleaming with curiosity. "But why would Victoria elevate someone like that? A warlock, of all things."


    "She needs them," Aria replied, her tone firm. "Varak and Seraphis weren''t trivial opponents. It makes sense that she''d turn to outsiders with unique skills to handle the situation."


    Ralvek smirked, clearly enjoying the exchange. "And yet, there''s more to it, isn''t there? Victoria doesn''t act without layers of intent. What do you think her endgame is, Aria?"


    Aria met his gaze directly, her voice steady. "I think her endgame is exactly what she said¡ªto ensure stability and protect her position. Overanalyzing it will only create unnecessary paranoia."


    Ralvek chuckled again, a low, knowing sound. "Unnecessary, perhaps. But paranoia has kept us alive this long, hasn''t it?"


    "Careful," Aria said lightly, though her eyes were sharp. "Paranoia can also blind you to what''s right in front of you."


    Ralvek inclined his head, a flicker of amusement crossing his face. "Touche?."


    Lenira sighed, waving a hand dismissively. "Fine, fine. Let''s leave it at that. But mark my words, Aria¡ªVictoria''s little ''heroes'' will stir the waters. And when they do, I hope you''re ready for the ripples."


    "I always am," Aria said simply, her tone leaving no room for argument.


    Ralvek and Lenira exchanged a glance before stepping away, their conversation shifting to something more mundane. Aria watched them go, her mind racing. They were suspicious, but that was nothing new. The question was, how far would their curiosity push them?


    Her gaze returned to Damian. He was still laughing with Evelyn and Cassius, seemingly unaware of the silent war waging around him.


    ''Stay out of their sights, Damian,'' she thought, her heart heavy. ''For both our sakes.''


    Damian leaned casually against a nearby column, swirling the dark red liquid in his glass with an air of disinterest. Outwardly, he looked calm¡ªrelaxed even, laughing at something Cassius had said a moment ago. But inside? Inside, he was anything but.


    "Please tell me they''ve left," Damian muttered under his breath, keeping his eyes fixed on the swirling liquid and not daring to glance toward Aria or the senators. "And that Aria''s not staring at me anymore."


    Cassius, still slumped in a chair and playing up his earlier nausea, shot a quick, subtle glance toward the group that had been scrutinizing them moments ago. "Yeah," he said, his voice equally low. "They''ve left. I think. Not sure about Aria, though."


    "Great," Damian deadpanned, his smile frozen in place as he let out a quiet sigh of relief. "Just great."


    Evelyn, perched elegantly on the armrest of Cassius''s chair, raised an eyebrow at Damian. "They know it''s you, don''t they?"


    Damian shrugged, keeping his tone light despite the knot forming in his stomach. "Suspicious? Yes. But knowing? No. If they knew, they''d be attacking me right now, regardless of Victoria''s protection."


    "Good point," Cassius said with a faint smirk. "Senators don''t exactly wait for an invitation when it comes to eliminating threats. Looks like Victoria''s plan worked, though."


    "Yeah," Damian muttered, glancing toward the center of the ballroom where Victoria was still holding court. "I guess."


    Evelyn''s eyes narrowed thoughtfully. "And that''s why she invited them here. She did it on purpose¡ªto draw their attention, to make them focus on her protection."


    Damian nodded, his lips tightening. "Makes sense. If I''m under her shield, they can''t make a move without declaring open war. She''s playing the long game."


    Cassius let out a low whistle. "Smart. But risky. If they figure out the truth..."


    "They won''t," Damian said firmly, though even he didn''t fully believe his own words. "Not unless I screw up."


    Evelyn opened her mouth to say something else, but before she could, Cassius straightened slightly in his chair, his expression shifting. "Oops," he said with a wry grin. "Incoming. Aria''s on her way."


    Damian stiffened, forcing a calm expression onto his face as his mind raced. "Oh, great," he muttered. "Just what I needed."


    "Prepare yourself," Evelyn said, her voice half amused, half concerned. "Here comes trouble."


    Damian adjusted his posture, schooling his expression into one of polite curiosity as Aria approached. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Cassius lazily straighten in his seat, his usual stoic demeanor giving way to a faint smirk. Evelyn, meanwhile, kept her gaze level, her fingers lightly tapping the armrest as if she were suppressing the urge to conjure a spell.


    Aria stopped a few steps away, her regal presence impossible to ignore. "Good evening," she greeted, her voice smooth and cool. Her sharp eyes flicked between the three of them before settling on Cassius. "Cassius."


    Cassius inclined his head slightly, his tone casual but carrying a hint of sarcasm. "Lady Aria. What a surprise to see you mingling with us."


    Damian bit back a grin, lifting his glass to his lips to hide his amusement, pretending to sip it. Evelyn shot Cassius a subtle warning glance, but he ignored it, leaning back in his chair with an air of nonchalance.


    Aria''s lips twitched ever so slightly, though whether it was amusement or irritation was hard to tell. "I couldn''t resist the chance to meet Victoria''s esteemed allies," she said, her gaze drifting briefly to Damian before returning to Cassius. "It''s not every day we see someone of your rank working with an apprentice and a witch."

 Chapter 247: Trust is Earned

    Warlock Ch 247. Trust is Earned


    "Well," Cassius said, gesturing lazily toward Damian, "I needed a project, and Damian here keeps things interesting."


    Damian managed to play along, forcing a sheepish smile. "I''m just trying to learn from the best," he said, his voice light but deferential. "Cassius has been a great mentor."


    Aria''s eyes narrowed slightly, as if she were dissecting his words. "Witch," she said slowly, her gaze flicking to Evelyn. "What brings you into this arrangement?"


    Evelyn leaned forward slightly, her tone measured but polite. "I''ve worked with Cassius before. He''s reliable, and his methods get results. Damian''s... a bonus."


    "Gee, thanks," Damian muttered under his breath, earning a soft chuckle from Evelyn.


    Aria''s attention shifted back to Cassius. "And you trust him?" she asked, nodding toward Damian. "You brought an apprentice to a real mission."


    Cassius shrugged, his expression unreadable. "Trust is earned. So far, he''s earned it. Besides, there is no better way to teach someone than to take him to the real battlefield. He is a warlock, not a mage. We have different teaching methods."


    "Interesting," Aria murmured, her gaze returning to Damian. "You must be quite impressive, then."


    Damian resisted the urge to squirm under her scrutiny, instead offering a modest smile. "I just try to keep up."


    Aria''s presence was like a spotlight, and Damian could feel her watching him, analyzing every word, every movement.


    "So," Aria said, breaking the silence, "what brings you to Victoria''s side? She doesn''t usually seek outside help unless it''s absolutely necessary."


    Cassius answered before Damian could. "The situation with Varak and Seraphis called for... unconventional methods. Victoria recognized that."


    "And you just happened to be available?" Aria asked, her tone skeptical.


    Cassius smirked. "Let''s just say we were in the right place at the right time."


    "Convenient," Aria replied, her gaze flicking to Damian again. "And you? How did you end up as Cassius''s apprentice?"


    Damian scratched the back of his neck, playing up the awkwardness. "Luck, I guess. I''m still learning, but I''m grateful for the opportunity."


    Aria tilted her head, her sharp eyes studying him intently. "Interesting. Not many warlocks would take to apprenticeship so willingly. It''s not exactly... common."


    "Damian''s not exactly common," Cassius interjected, his tone light but firm. "He''s got a knack for getting things done. That''s why he''s here."


    "I guess." Aria gestured toward the badge pinned to Damian''s coat. "That''s quite the honor," she said, her tone carefully neutral. "Victoria doesn''t hand those out lightly."


    Damian glanced down at the badge, forcing a casual shrug. "It''s more hers than mine. I''m just holding onto it for now."


    "Don''t let him fool you," Cassius said, smirking. "He earned it. Took down some serious threats to get here."


    Aria raised an eyebrow, her expression unreadable. "Did he now?"


    Evelyn stepped in smoothly. "We all did. It was a team effort. Victoria recognized that."


    "Of course," Aria said, her tone cool but polite. "Well, I hope you enjoy the rest of the evening. This celebration is... rare, even by Victoria''s standards."


    "We''ll do our best," Damian said, offering a polite nod.


    Aria lingered for a moment longer before turning and walking away. Once she was out of earshot, Damian let out a low breath, his shoulders relaxing slightly.


    "Well," he said, glancing at Cassius and Evelyn, "that was fun."


    "Fun?" Cassius said, raising an eyebrow. "You were practically sweating."


    "I was not," Damian shot back, though his grin betrayed him.


    Evelyn sighed, rubbing her temples. "She''s suspicious, you know. She''s not buying the whole apprentice thing."


    "Yeah," Damian admitted, his tone quieter now. "But she doesn''t know. Not yet."


    Cassius smirked. "Well, let''s hope she stays in the dark. Because if she finds out..."


    "I know," Damian said, his voice firm. "I''ll handle it."


    Cassius leaned back against the armrest, arms crossed, his sharp eyes watching Damian closely. Evelyn stood nearby, her fingers lightly drumming against her glass. Aria''s presence¡ªand the way Damian had handled her¡ªhad changed the mood.


    Damian''s gaze flicked toward where Aria had disappeared into the crowd. His smile faded, replaced by something colder, harder. His fingers tightened slightly around his glass as he muttered under his breath, "Some things from the past need to be cleared up."


    Cassius and Evelyn exchanged a look. That tone, that coldness¡ªit wasn''t Damian. It was Kaelan. They could feel it in the way his words carried an edge that wasn''t usually there, a sharpness that hinted at old wounds and buried anger.


    Cassius raised an eyebrow, his voice low. "You good?"


    Damian didn''t answer immediately. Instead, he set his glass down on a nearby table and straightened, his expression unreadable. "I''m fine," he said finally, though his voice lacked its usual lightness.


    Evelyn frowned, stepping closer. "Damian... Are you sure? That look just now..."


    He turned to her, his eyes softer now but still tinged with something darker. "I''m fine," he repeated. Then, as if trying to change the subject, he added, "Come on, let''s get through the rest of this party without making a scene. Hopefully."


    The rest of the evening was relatively uneventful, but it dragged. The ballroom remained lively, with guests milling about and engaging in polite conversation.


    Noble vampires approached them sporadically, offering polite greetings and meaningless small talk. Most were clearly just fulfilling social obligations, their words devoid of genuine interest.


    "Ah, Cassius," one noble said, bowing slightly. "An honor to meet someone of your rank. And Evelyn, of course¡ªyou''re as radiant as ever."


    Evelyn nodded politely, her smile faint. "Thank you."


    The noble''s gaze shifted to Damian, and his smile faltered slightly. "And you are...?"


    "Damian," he said smoothly, extending a hand. "Cassius''s student."


    The noble hesitated for a fraction of a second before shaking his hand, his expression carefully neutral. "A pleasure," he said, though his tone suggested otherwise.


    The amulet made Damian''s aura feel like a B-ranked warlock. Compared to the raw magical auras of Cassius and Evelyn, it was laughable.


    Damian kept his polite smile firmly in place, ignoring the condescension that practically radiated from the man. "The pleasure''s mine."


    The vampire noble who had just introduced himself¡ªLord Veyrin, or something equally pompous¡ªoffered a tight-lipped smile in return. It was the kind of smile that screamed, ''I''m only speaking to you because I have to.'' Damian didn''t mind. In fact, he preferred it. The less attention he drew, the better.

 Chapter 248: I’m Here to Look Pretty

    Warlock Ch 248. I''m Here to Look Pretty


    "I''m sure Victoria''s heroes have many tales to share," Lord Veyrin said, his tone dripping with polite disinterest. His gaze flicked to Evelyn and Cassius, clearly deciding they were the ones worth addressing. "It''s rare for outsiders to contribute so meaningfully to our affairs."


    Cassius inclined his head slightly. "We were just in the right place at the right time. Victoria made the calls; we followed through."


    "And yet," Veyrin said, his eyes narrowing slightly, "she seems quite... attached to your group. That level of trust is hard-earned."


    "It helps when you get the job done," Evelyn said smoothly, her tone polite but firm. She wasn''t about to let this turn into an interrogation.


    Damian stayed silent, his expression neutral as he let them take the lead. His role here was simple: stand, smile, and look like an apprentice who knew his place. And it worked. The nobles barely glanced his way, their attention fixed on Cassius and Evelyn.


    That was fine by Damian. He didn''t want the spotlight. If they dismissed him as insignificant, all the better. The fewer questions directed at him, the fewer chances to slip up. It was a win-win situation.


    What wasn''t a win-win situation was the distinct lack of edible food at the party. Damian had avoided the earlier dishes for obvious reasons, but now his stomach was starting to remind him that it had been a long day. He shifted slightly, glancing around the room as Evelyn smoothly fielded another round of thinly veiled questions.


    The only thing stopping him from outright sighing in frustration was Henry''s arrival. The butler appeared like a well-dressed miracle, a tray of actual food balanced effortlessly in his hands. Behind him, other servants carried similar trays, discreetly distributing them among the non-vampire guests.


    "Apologies for the delay," Henry said, his tone as calm and measured as ever. "Lady Victoria thought you might prefer something more... suitable."


    Damian didn''t waste any time. He reached for the tray, grabbing a plate and nodding his thanks. "You''re a lifesaver, Henry."


    Henry inclined his head slightly. "It''s my duty."


    Damian started eating¡ªcasually, but with a level of enthusiasm that betrayed how much he''d needed this¡ªEvelyn shot him a look. Her smile didn''t falter as she turned back to the nobles, but there was a clear ''are you serious?'' glint in her eyes.


    Cassius, on the other hand, smirked, his voice laced with dry amusement. "Nice to see someone''s making themselves comfortable."


    Damian shrugged, popping a piece of bread into his mouth. His gaze literally said ''Hey, you''re the ones doing the talking. I''m just here to look pretty.''


    One of the nobles¡ªLady Emara, if Damian remembered correctly¡ªarched an eyebrow at his comment but said nothing. Her attention remained on Evelyn, who was deftly navigating a discussion about magical techniques.


    Another noble, a younger vampire with an air of forced confidence, frowned slightly as he glanced at Damian. "It''s rare for an apprentice to attend such events. You must be quite talented."


    Damian swallowed his bite of food and smiled politely. "I''m lucky to have good teachers."


    The younger vampire didn''t seem entirely convinced but nodded nonetheless. "I see. Well, I suppose every great warlock starts somewhere."


    Damian nodded, letting the remark slide without comment. He wasn''t here to argue. His focus returned to his plate.


    Evelyn caught his eye briefly, her expression a mix of exasperation and amusement. "Enjoying yourself?"


    "Immensely," Damian replied with a grin, taking another bite. "You''re doing great, by the way."


    She rolled her eyes but didn''t respond, instead turning back to answer another question from Lord Veyrin about their recent mission. Damian tuned it out again, his attention shifting back to the room as a whole. He scanned the crowd, noting the subtle undercurrents of tension that threaded through the celebration.


    Not far away, he caught sight of Aria. She was speaking with a group of noble vampires and Victoria, her posture relaxed but her gaze sharp. She hadn''t looked in his direction again¡ªnot yet, at least¡ªbut her presence was enough to keep him on edge.


    Cassius leaned slightly toward him, his voice low. "Still watching us?"


    "No," Damian said quietly, his tone clipped. "But she''s keeping tabs."


    Cassius smirked. "Good thing you''re blending in so well."


    Damian snorted softly, shaking his head. "Yeah, because eating while you two play diplomat is really drawing attention."


    "Keep it up," Evelyn said, her voice barely audible as she glanced his way. "It''s the most harmless thing you''ve done all night."


    The evening wore on. The conversations grew less pointed and more superficial. The nobles, satisfied with their obligatory pleasantries, began to drift away, leaving the trio with a bit more breathing room. Damian finished his plate, setting it aside as he stretched slightly.


    "Well," he said, his voice light, "that was... something."


    Evelyn sighed, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "At least it''s over."


    Damian smirked as he leaned against the nearby table, his plate empty but his hands still full. "Not quite," he said, his tone light. "You guys still look like you''re carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders. Here¡ªtake a break."


    Before either Cassius or Evelyn could respond, Damian grabbed two plates from a servant''s tray, expertly balancing them as he walked over. He held one out to Evelyn first, his grin widening. "Must be tiring, being that famous."


    Evelyn blinked at him, then let out a soft laugh. "You''re unbelievable."


    "I know," Damian said, his tone mock-serious. "Now, take the food before I start feeding you like a toddler."


    With a roll of her eyes, Evelyn took the plate, her expression softening slightly. "Thanks."


    Damian turned to Cassius next, thrusting the second plate toward him. "And you, oh mighty warlock, should also take a break. You''ve been dazzling the crowd all night."


    Cassius took the plate, though not without giving Damian a pointed glare. "You''re enjoying this way too much."


    "Me? Never." Damian chuckled, his grin turning mischievous. "But seriously, next time, I''ll make sure you get to be the mysterious apprentice while I soak up all the glory."

 Chapter 249: I’m Just an Apprentice

    Warlock Ch 249. I''m Just an Apprentice


    Cassius snorted, stabbing a piece of food with his fork. "Yeah, right. Next party, I''ll make sure everyone gathers around you instead. Let''s see how you like it."


    Damian placed a hand over his chest, feigning shock. "But I''m just an apprentice, Master." He said the last word with a mocking lilt, his grin practically splitting his face.


    Evelyn choked on her non-bloody drink, laughing as she quickly set it down to avoid spilling. "Oh, please. You sound so pitiful when you say it like that."


    Cassius rolled his eyes, but there was a hint of amusement in his expression. "You''ve got jokes now, huh? Just wait."


    "Oh, no, anything but that," Damian said, his tone dripping with sarcasm. "How will I ever survive?"


    Cassius smirked, shoving the last piece of food into his mouth. "You''ve been surviving just fine by flying under the radar, kid. Enjoy it while it lasts."


    "Kid?" Damian raised an eyebrow, his lips curling into a mock pout. "Cassius, do I look like a child to you? Because I''m pretty sure I''ve saved your ass at least three times already. In the past though."


    "Three?" Evelyn chimed in, sipping from her glass. "More like once, and even that''s debatable."


    Damian threw his hands up in mock surrender. "Fine, fine. Next time I''ll let you handle the big bad all by yourselves while I sit back and take notes. Sounds good?"


    Evelyn rolled her eyes, a faint smile tugging at her lips. "You''re insufferable."


    "I know," Damian quipped, earning a soft laugh from her. He leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms as his gaze wandered over the now-thinning crowd. The party was finally starting to wind down, much to his relief.


    Cassius stood, stretching his arms over his head. "Well, I''d say we''ve done enough mingling for one night. Can we leave now, or is Victoria planning some grand finale we have to stick around for?"


    "I doubt it," Evelyn said, setting her glass aside. "She''s made her point. I think we''re free to go."


    "Thank the gods," Damian muttered, standing as well. "This feels like the longest party in history."


    Cassius chuckled. "And here I thought you liked the quiet life."


    "Quiet, yes. Pretentious, no." Damian adjusted his cloak, glancing toward the exit. "Let''s get out of here before someone ropes us into another round of meaningless small talk."


    The walk back to their quarters was quiet, the grandeur of the ballroom giving way to dimly lit corridors and the soft hum of distant voices. The trio moved in comfortable silence for a while, the evening beginning to settle in.


    "So," Cassius said eventually, his voice breaking the quiet. "Think the senators are convinced?"


    Evelyn shot him a sideways glance. "Convinced of what? That we''re not a threat or that Damian''s not who they think he is?"


    "Both," Cassius said simply.


    Damian shrugged, his hands stuffed into his pockets. "They''re suspicious, sure. But I don''t think they know enough to act. If they did, we wouldn''t be having this conversation right now."


    Evelyn nodded, her expression thoughtful. "But we need to be careful. They''ll be watching us more closely from here on out."


    "Let them watch," Damian said, his tone casual but with an edge of determination. "If they want a show, I''ll give them one."


    Cassius chuckled. "Spoken like a true showman."


    When they finally reached Cassius''s quarter, Damian all but collapsed onto the nearest couch, letting out a long, exaggerated groan. "I don''t think I''ve ever been this tired without actually fighting something."


    Evelyn sat down beside him, leaning back with a tired sigh. "At least in a fight, you know what you''re up against. Tonight felt like walking through a minefield."


    Cassius dropped into a chair across from them, his expression unusually relaxed. "You get used to it. Nobles and politics¡ªit''s all just another game."


    "Yeah, well, it''s not a game I enjoy playing," Damian said, running a hand through his hair. "Give me a sword, a spell, or a monster any day."


    Evelyn glanced at him, her expression softening. "You did well tonight, you know. Kept your head down, played the apprentice role perfectly."


    "Thanks," Damian said, his lips twitching into a faint smile. "But let''s be real¡ªI''m not exactly cut out for this whole ''pretend to be harmless'' thing."


    "Good thing you don''t have to do it alone," Cassius said, his tone lighter now. "We''ve got your back."


    Damian leaned back on the couch, letting out a soft chuckle. "Yeah, yeah, I know. Still, I''m getting a little tired of playing the harmless apprentice while you two soak up all the glory."


    Cassius raised an eyebrow, a smirk tugging at his lips. "You''re tired? Try being the one who actually has to talk to those insufferable nobles. Where''s my thank you?"


    Damian rolled his eyes dramatically. "Thank you, oh wise and noble warlock, for shielding me from the horrors of small talk. Happy now?"


    "Not quite," Cassius said, leaning back in his chair. "Now, can both of you get out of my place? You''ve got your own rooms."


    Damian laughed, standing and offering a hand to Evelyn. "Fine, fine. Come on, Evelyn. Let''s go make some noise in my room, sweetheart. We need to keep someone from getting any rest."


    Evelyn blinked, then smirked as she slipped her hand into his. "Oh, absolutely. I''m sure Cassius would just love that."


    Cassius shot them both with a deadpan look. "I wouldn''t do that if I were you."


    Damian raised an eyebrow, his grin widening. "Why not? You''re afraid you''ll hear us?"


    Cassius snorted, shaking his head. "No, genius. Because there are still a lot of people here, and some of them happen to know Evelyn and Kaelan used to have... an intimate relationship."


    Damian froze for half a second before huffing and crossing his arms. "Right, right. That too. Fine! I''ll hold myself." He glanced at Evelyn with a mock pout. "Guess the noise-making will have to wait."


    Cassius rolled his eyes. "Great. Now that we''ve settled that, can I please get some peace and quiet?"


    "Yeah, yeah," Damian said, waving a hand dismissively. "We''re leaving, grumpy."


    He turned to Evelyn, tilting his head toward the door. "Come on. Let''s leave the old man to his brooding."


    Cassius snorted, his voice following them as they walked out. "I heard that."

 Chapter 250: Balancing On a Knife’s Edge

    Warlock Ch 250. Balancing On a Knife''s Edge


    They walked down the dimly lit hallway toward Damian''s room. Evelyn glanced at him, her expression softening. "You know he''s right, though. We should be careful."


    Damian sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I know. But it''s hard. Every time I''m around those people, I feel like I''m balancing on a knife''s edge."


    "You''re doing fine," Evelyn said, her voice quiet but firm. "They haven''t figured anything out yet. Hopefully, they won''t."


    Damian stopped outside his door, turning to face her fully. "Thanks, Evelyn. I mean it."


    She smiled, reaching up to brush a strand of hair from his face. "No problem."


    He chuckled, stepping aside to open the door. Evelyn leaned against the doorframe, watching him with a faint smile. "You know, for someone who claims to hate attention, you''ve managed to attract a lot of it."


    Damian grinned, shrugging as he flopped onto the bed. "What can I say? I''m irresistible."


    Evelyn laughed softly, shaking her head. "Goodnight, Damian."


    "Night, Evelyn," he replied, watching as she closed the door behind her. The silence settled over the room, he let out a long breath, his thoughts turning once again to everything they were dealing with.


    ''One step at a time,'' he reminded himself. ''One step at a time.''


    The next morning came far too quickly for Damian''s liking. He groaned, rolling over in bed and burying his face in the pillow. The sunlight creeping through the curtains felt like a personal insult. With a sigh, he forced himself up, stretching and running a hand through his hair. ''Another day, another round of surprises,'' he thought.


    By the time he got dressed and stepped into the hallway, Cassius and Evelyn were already waiting for him. Cassius leaned against the wall, arms crossed, while Evelyn adjusted the cuff of her blouse. Both of them looked more awake than Damian felt.


    "Morning," Damian muttered, rubbing his eyes.


    "Barely," Cassius said, his tone dry. "You sleep like a rock."


    Evelyn smirked. "We figured we''d give you an extra few minutes. You looked like you needed it."


    "Thanks, Mom," Damian quipped, earning a chuckle from her. "So, where are we headed?"


    "Victoria invited us for breakfast," Cassius said, pushing off the wall. "Just us, apparently. No nobles, no senators. Should be a peaceful one."


    "Great," Damian said, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "Let''s see what surprises she has for us this time."


    The dining hall was smaller and more intimate than the grand ballroom from the previous night. The table was set for four, and to Damian''s relief, the food looked normal¡ªbread, eggs, fruits, and various meats. It was almost enough to make him forget the metallic taste of the drinks from the party.


    Victoria was already seated, sipping from a delicate crystal goblet that Damian sincerely hoped didn''t contain blood. She greeted them with a smile, gesturing for them to sit.


    "Good morning," she said, her voice as smooth as ever. "I trust you all slept well."


    "Like the dead," Cassius said, earning a glare from Evelyn. He shrugged. "What? It''s accurate."


    Damian chuckled as he sat down, grabbing a piece of bread and buttering it. "What time did the party even end? Everything still looks... messy."


    Victoria''s lips curved into a faint smirk. "Late enough. The servants are handling the cleanup."


    "Speaking of the party," Damian began, glancing up from his plate, "about the food... Was that normal? You know, the whole ''made from traitors'' thing?"


    Victoria''s expression didn''t waver. "For vampires, yes. It''s tradition to ensure nothing is wasted. It''s symbolic¡ªour enemies become part of our strength."


    Damian blinked, momentarily at a loss for words. "Right... symbolic."


    Cassius leaned back in his chair, his tone casual. "Was it you who invited Aria? Or did she come as one of the senators'' representatives?"


    Victoria''s gaze sharpened slightly, though her smile remained. "I invited her. Aria has been keeping a close eye on you three, especially Damian. It was important for her to hear my statement and see where my loyalties lie."


    Her eyes glinted with amusement, and a smirk played on her lips. "She''s one of the people I wanted to make an impression on."


    Cassius nodded, a rare look of approval crossing his face. "Good point. Makes it easier to handle this troublemaker." He tilted his head toward Damian, his smirk returning.


    "Hey," Damian said, feigning offense. "I''m perfectly well-behaved."


    Cassius snorted. "Sure you are."


    Victoria turned her attention to Damian, her tone softening. "After this problem is resolved, I''ll be staying with you."


    The words hung in the air, heavy and unexpected. The three of them stared at her, the implications slowly sinking in. Damian finally broke the silence, his voice careful. "What do you mean? What about the vampire races?"


    Victoria leaned forward slightly, her smirk widening. "I''ve created a puppet¡ªa double I can control from afar. I used it for other purposes before, but now it will serve as my stand-in. It will rule in my place while I live with you."


    Damian blinked, trying to process her words. "You''re serious?"


    "Of course," Victoria said, her tone light but firm. She leaned closer, her eyes gleaming with mischief. "We''ll be a happy couple." Her fingers trailed along Damian''s arm, and she tilted her head, glancing toward Evelyn. "Including you, of course. The three of us."


    Evelyn choked on her sip of tea, setting the cup down with a clink. "Excuse me?"


    Victoria''s smirk deepened. "It''s only fair we share."


    Cassius let out a low whistle, clearly amused. "Well, this just got interesting."


    Damian, for once, was at a loss for words. He stared at Victoria, then at Evelyn, then back at Victoria. "You... really know how to make breakfast awkward."


    Victoria chuckled, clearly unbothered. "Awkward or not, it''s the truth. I owe you my life, Damian. And I intend to spend it by your side."


    Evelyn crossed her arms, her cheeks faintly flushed but her tone steady. "You can''t just decide something like that without asking us."


    Victoria raised an eyebrow. "I just did."

 Chapter 251: Back to Haven City

    Warlock Ch 251. Back to Haven City


    The next morning, the shimmering portal pulsed with energy, casting a soft, eerie glow around the trio. It hummed faintly. Damian stood at the edge, glancing at Evelyn and Cassius, then back at Victoria, who appeared calm, her hands clasped neatly in front of her.


    "Well," Damian muttered, stepping forward, "Let''s go back to Haven City."


    The sensation of stepping through a portal was always jarring. A moment of weightlessness, a fleeting chill, and then the warmth of reality crashing back into him. He was back to Haven City.


    "Home sweet home," Damian said, his voice tinged with sarcasm but carrying a note of relief. He blinked a few times, his eyes adjusting to the sharp contrast between the elegance of Victoria''s estate and the peaceful yet chaos of Haven City.


    Evelyn smirked, her gaze scanning the familiar streets. "You missed this chaos. Admit it."


    "I wouldn''t go that far," Damian shot back, but there was a small smile tugging at his lips.


    Victoria took a step forward, her sharp eyes surveying the city in disdain. "This place is quaint as always," she said, her tone flat but her expression betraying mild judgment.


    "Quaint," Damian repeated with an exaggerated eye roll. "That''s one way to describe it."


    Cassius adjusted his coat, clearly unbothered by the noise and grime. "Let''s get moving before anyone notices us."


    They made their way through the crowded streets, weaving between pedestrians and street vendors. The hum of city life was constant.


    Evelyn''s house came into view after a few blocks. It was a cozy, charmingly cluttered townhouse. Its exterior was softened by ivy creeping along the walls, and the faint glow of magical wards shimmered around the windows.


    "Still the same," he said, his voice warm with nostalgia. "Cozy chaos."


    Inside, the familiar scent of lavender greeted him, mingling with the faint metallic tang of magic in the air.


    Victoria wandered through the house, her expression one of mild curiosity. She paused near the shimmering mirror, her fingers grazing the edge. It pulsed with a soft glow at her touch, reacting to her presence.


    "Careful," Damian warned, leaning casually against the doorway. "Evelyn''s house bites."


    Victoria arched an eyebrow, her lips twitching in amusement. "Charming."


    The trio eventually settled in the living room. Victoria, unsurprisingly, chose the most regal-looking chair, arranging her dress. Damian flopped onto the couch with none of her poise, letting out a satisfied sigh. Evelyn disappeared into the kitchen, returning moments later with coffee and snacks.


    "Royal treatment for me?" Damian said, grabbing a cup and taking a sip. "I could get used to this."


    Evelyn rolled her eyes, setting the tray on the table. "You''re insufferable."


    "I aim to please," Damian replied with a grin.


    Victoria''s gaze drifted to Damian. "How long do you plan to hide?"


    Damian raised an eyebrow, leaning back onto the couch. "Until the world forgets Kaelan," he said with a smirk.


    Evelyn gave him a pointed look. "You know that''s not going to happen."


    "Probably not," Damian admitted, his tone lighter now. "But hey, a guy can dream."


    Evelyn glanced at his amulet, her expression turning serious. "The amulet will protect you for now, but it isn''t exactly safe. We can''t stay hidden forever."


    Damian nodded, his gaze lingering on the familiar walls. "I know. But it''s nice to pretend for a little while."


    "This isn''t going to be easy," Evelyn said softly, breaking the silence.


    "It never is," Damian replied, his voice steady. "But we''ll manage."


    Victoria suddenly broke the moment. "Speaking of managing, where is my room?"


    Damian blinked, turning his attention to her. "Your room?"


    Victoria tilted her head, looking at him as though he''d just asked the most ridiculous question imaginable. "Yes. Surely you don''t expect me to sleep on this couch?"


    Damian rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly. "Well, this place only has one bedroom."


    Victoria raised an elegant eyebrow. "Only one? That''s... quaint."


    "Quaint is a generous word for it," Damian muttered under his breath.


    "So, we''ll share," Victoria said simply, setting her teacup down with an air of finality. "Show me to the room."


    Damian exchanged a look with Evelyn, who shrugged, clearly finding amusement in his predicament. Cassius leaned back in his chair, smirking like he had front-row seats to the best show in town.


    "Well, alright then," Damian said, standing and motioning for Victoria to follow. He led her up the short hallway to Evelyn''s bedroom, pushing the door open with a resigned sigh. "Here it is."


    Victoria stepped inside, her sharp eyes scanning the small, cozy space. The bed was neatly made, and the room smelled faintly of lavender. Shelves lined one wall, cluttered with books and magical trinkets.


    "Not bad," Victoria said, nodding slightly. "Even though it''s a little small."


    Damian leaned against the doorframe, crossing his arms. "Glad it meets your standards, Your Majesty. But what about your things? You''re not exactly traveling light."


    Victoria waved a hand dismissively. "Don''t worry. I''ll have my servants deliver some essentials to this house periodically. Discreetly, of course. No one will know I''m living here."


    Damian frowned. "You really thought this through, didn''t you?"


    Victoria turned to him, her lips curving into a sly smile. "Of course. Did you think I''d come here unprepared?"


    Damian shook his head, muttering, "Should''ve known."


    Victoria''s gaze softened slightly as she stepped closer. "This arrangement isn''t ideal, but it''s necessary. I''ll make it work."


    "Great," Damian said dryly. "Just don''t expect a five-star experience."


    Victoria chuckled, brushing past him and heading back to the living room. "I''ll survive."


    Damian stood there for a moment, watching her disappear down the hall, his arms crossed and his thoughts racing. ''This has got to be the most bizarre situation I''ve ever been in,'' he thought. Shaking his head, he muttered under his breath, "Wait."


    Victoria''s steps halted just as she was about to turn into the living room. She turned her head slightly, her elegant profile catching the dim light of the hallway. "Yes?"


    Damian approached her, his brow furrowed. "You... seriously? You''re going to stay here?"


    Victoria fully turned to face him, her expression calm but with a hint of amusement. "Yes."


    He gestured vaguely around the house, clearly grasping for words. "I mean... this isn''t exactly your style. It''s small, cluttered, and¡ªwell¡ªlacking in luxury."


    Victoria''s lips twitched into a small smile. "You may think this is weird."


    Damian gave her a pointed look. "That''s putting it mildly. What about your food? I mean... you can only drink blood, right?"


    Victoria stepped closer, her eyes gleaming with mischief. She raised a hand and lightly trailed her fingers down the side of his neck, making him tense instinctively. "I''ve got some right here," she said, her tone playful yet oddly sincere. "Don''t worry about it."


    Damian stared at her, caught between disbelief and awkward amusement. "Right. Because that''s not creepy at all."


    Victoria smirked, dropping her hand. "Anyway," she said, her voice softening, "hopefully, we can be a good family, Damian."


    Without waiting for a response, she turned on her heel and continued into the living room, leaving him standing there with his mouth slightly open.


    "Yup. Hopeful," Damian muttered to himself, running a hand through his hair before following her.

 Chapter 252: Dilemma

    Warlock Ch 252. Dilemma


    For the next couple of months, life settled into an unusual rhythm for Damian. He spent most of his time practicing, honing his skills, and working to form new bonds with servants. The process wasn''t easy¡ªit never was¡ªbut it gave him something to focus on. A little more understanding of the power he wielded and the memories that sometimes surfaced when he least expected them. It wasn''t just about fighting; it was about control, about ensuring that when the time came, he wouldn''t falter.


    Victoria, on the other hand, was a study in contrasts. Having been born and raised as a royal, the transition to a quieter, less opulent life wasn''t without its challenges. She carried herself with the same poise and grace as always, but there were moments¡ªsmall, fleeting moments¡ªwhen her frustration bubbled to the surface.


    A broken teacup here, a burnt meal there. It was almost comical to watch her attempt to adapt to a life so far removed from the grandeur she was used to. And yet, she managed. Her puppet¡ªa carefully crafted double¡ªperformed its duties flawlessly, ruling in her stead and keeping the vampire race none the wiser about her true whereabouts.


    Cassius, as ever, was Cassius. Stoic, cold, and unbothered by the chaos. He spent his days much as he always had¡ªtraining, strategizing, and offering the occasional sarcastic quip when Damian or Evelyn managed to get under his skin. News of their success in aiding Victoria had spread, but Cassius''s reputation, along with Evelyn''s, shielded Damian from any undue attention. Damian, thankfully, was overlooked¡ªjust the way he liked it.


    The peace was a welcome reprieve. Damian found himself savoring the quiet moments, the hours spent practicing in solitude or sharing meals with Evelyn and Victoria. Even the occasional visits from magi seeking Cassius''s wisdom didn''t bother him. None of them paid him any mind, and that suited him perfectly.


    But as much as Damian enjoyed the relative peace, there was one thing that gnawed at him. He was stuck. No matter how much he trained, no matter how many skills he refined, he couldn''t move forward. Without officially attaining his rank A, his progress was frozen. His power couldn''t grow, his potential capped.


    The solution was simple, in theory: he needed to hand over the crystal that signified Cassius had tested him and receive his official rank. It wasn''t a complicated process, but it was one fraught with consequences. To take that step meant drawing attention to himself. It meant standing before the councils, the senators, and everyone else who had a stake in the magical world''s power dynamics. It meant putting a target on his back.


    And that was the last thing Damian wanted.


    He often found himself staring at the crystal, turning it over in his hands as he weighed his options. The thought of stepping into the spotlight, of exposing himself to scrutiny, made his stomach churn. He''d fought so hard to stay hidden, to keep his identity and his past buried. To step into the light now felt like undoing all of that. And yet, without that rank, he couldn''t advance. He couldn''t become the warlock he needed to be.


    It was a maddening conundrum. Every time Damian thought he''d made up his mind, doubt crept in, whispering warnings of what might happen if he exposed himself. And so, for now, he did nothing, holding onto the fragile peace they''d carved out and hoping it would last a little longer.


    The crystal in his hand gleamed faintly. He sat in the corner of Cassius''s living room, his back against the wall and his knees drawn up. The room was quiet except for the faint rustling of Cassius''s shadow servants, who moved soundlessly through the space, attending to their tasks.


    Cassius, sitting at a nearby table with a steaming cup of tea, watched Damian with a mixture of annoyance and amusement. "How long are you going to act like that?" he asked, his voice calm but carrying a faint edge of exasperation. "You''ve been staring at that crystal since the day I handed it to you."


    Damian didn''t look up. He turned the crystal over in his hands, watching how the light refracted through it. "I''m in a dilemma," he admitted quietly. "I want to take the rank officially, but... I can''t."


    Cassius leaned back in his chair, sipping his tea leisurely. "You know you can''t keep stalling forever. Rank A is just the beginning. If you want to move to rank S, you''ll need to take the exam."


    "I know that," Damian said, his grip tightening on the crystal. "But it''s not that simple. You know what''ll happen if I take the rank. If they start watching me, if they figure out who I am¡ª"


    "They won''t," Cassius interrupted, setting his cup down with a soft clink. "The amulet is still masking your aura. To them, you''re just another warlock. A powerful one, sure, but nothing out of the ordinary."


    Damian huffed, finally looking up. "You make it sound so easy."


    "It is easy," Cassius said, meeting his gaze. "You''re making it complicated. Also, don''t forget about the last mission."


    Damian let out a frustrated sigh, leaning his head back against the wall. "That''s why I''m thinking so much about this. I need the rank. But the moment I get it, everything changes. No more hiding."


    Cassius folded his arms, his expression unreadable. "And what exactly are you waiting for? Permission? Assurance that nothing bad will happen? Because you''re not going to get that. Not from me, not from anyone."


    Damian fell silent, his thoughts spinning. He knew Cassius was right, but the fear of stepping into the spotlight paralyzed him.


    "The rank S exam is about to start," Cassius added, his tone sharper now. "Registration closes in a week. If you don''t act now, you''ll have to wait an entire year. Can you afford that?"


    Damian''s jaw tightened. "That''s why I''m thinking like this," he said through gritted teeth. "I don''t know what else to do."


    Cassius regarded him for a long moment before speaking again. "You''re overthinking it. Take the rank. Register for the exam. The longer you wait, the more you''re going to convince yourself that you can''t do it."

 Chapter 253: Fake Accident

    Warlock Ch 253. Fake Accident


    Damian stared at the crystal in his hand, the weight of his indecision pressing down on him. "I can handle it," he said quietly, more to himself than to Cassius. "It''s just... I''m afraid they''ll realize I''m Kaelan. That''s all."


    Cassius exhaled sharply, pinching the bridge of his nose in frustration. Finally, Cassius dropped his hand and fixed Damian with a steady gaze. "So what? You''re okay with being stuck where you are? You do realize they''ll figure it out sooner or later, right? It''s inevitable."


    Damian didn''t respond right away. Instead, he ran his thumb over the edge of the crystal, its smooth surface cool against his skin. He knew Cassius was right, but that didn''t make the prospect any less daunting.


    Cassius leaned back in his chair, his voice calmer now. "You just need that one exam. That''s all. Once you''re at rank S, you don''t need to take any more exams to move up. After that, it''s all about your achievements. The doors will open for you."


    Damian let out a long breath, the tension in his chest loosening slightly. "I know. Magus with rank S are rare. Beyond that... even rarer." He paused, glancing at Cassius. "But I''ve only been your apprentice for a couple of months. Wouldn''t that seem... odd?"


    Cassius smirked faintly. "We could spin it. Tell them Victoria blessed you with some rare potion that boosted your power after the last mission. She''s royalty. They''d buy it."


    Damian frowned, shaking his head. "That would just make them think Victoria''s hiding some secret recipe to make people stronger. They''d start poking around her affairs."


    Cassius''s lips pressed into a thin line, clearly weighing the options. "Fair point," he admitted after a moment of silence.


    Damian''s brow furrowed as he thought it over, then his expression brightened. "What if we said... during the mission, something happened? Like... I accidentally absorbed something from Varak''s place. A crystal or artifact."


    Cassius tilted his head, his interest piqued. "Go on."


    Damian nodded, the idea gaining traction in his mind. "We could say there was an explosion or something in Varak''s storage room. Maybe he had some kind of high-ranking mana crystals stored there, and the impact caused them to activate and merge with my body."


    Cassius hummed thoughtfully, tapping his fingers on the table. "That could work. Varak was a high-ranking vampire, a noble. It wouldn''t be a stretch to say he was experimenting with mana crystals or artifacts. And the idea of you accidentally absorbing the energy... it''s plausible."


    Damian snapped his fingers, a grin breaking across his face. "Yes! That''s it! It explains the sudden jump in my power without making it sound too suspicious."


    Cassius nodded slowly, the gears in his mind turning. "It''s a good cover. Simple, believable, and it ties back to the mission. If anyone asks, we can even claim the evidence was destroyed in the explosion."


    Damian leaned forward, his enthusiasm building. "And we say it''s been affecting me ever since. Strange fluctuations in my mana, moments of instability¡ªwhatever fits the narrative."


    Cassius''s lips curled into a rare smile. "You might actually pull this off."


    Damian smirked, leaning back in his chair and tossing the crystal into the air before catching it again. "I always do."


    Cassius rolled his eyes but didn''t comment. Instead, he stood and crossed the room to one of his shadow servants, murmuring an instruction. The servant bowed and disappeared into the shadows, leaving the room eerily quiet once more.


    "Now," Cassius said, turning back to Damian, "you''ve got a week before registration closes. Use the time to prepare yourself. No second-guessing. No excuses."


    Damian nodded, the weight in his chest lifting just slightly. "Alright. I''ll do it."


    Cassius smirked. "Good. Now get out of here. I''ve had enough of your brooding for one day."


    Damian chuckled, slipping the crystal into his pocket as he stood. "Thanks, Cas."


    "Don''t thank me yet," Cassius said, his tone dry. "You still have to survive the exam."


    Damian grinned, heading for the door. "Piece of cake."


    "Famous last words," Cassius muttered, shaking his head as he extended his hand. "Now, give me the crystal."


    Damian glanced at the glowing shard in his hand one last time, hesitating only for a moment before placing it in Cassius''s outstretched palm. Cassius examined it briefly, nodding in approval. "I''ll submit this for you. It''ll take two days for the license to be issued. After that, it''s exam time," Cassius reminded him.


    Damian crossed his arms, leaning casually against the wall. "Two days, huh? That''s plenty of time to get my affairs in order."


    Cassius gave him a pointed look. "Plenty of time to prepare. And don''t forget¡ªstick to skills within your rank during the exam. No flashy displays of power that''ll make people suspicious."


    "Aye, sir," Damian said with a mock salute, a wide grin spreading across his face. "I''ll be on my best behavior."


    Cassius huffed, clearly unimpressed with the sarcasm. "This isn''t a joke, Damian. You slip up, and everything we''ve worked for could fall apart."


    Damian''s grin softened into something more sincere. "I know. Thanks for doing this."


    Cassius didn''t respond, merely turning toward the door. "I''ll be back soon. Try not to get into any trouble while I''m gone."


    As the door clicked shut behind him, Damian let out a breath he hadn''t realized he was holding. The crystal was gone, the decision made. Now, all he had to do was wait.


    He pushed off the wall, a mischievous glint in his eye. "Guess it''s time to share the good news," he muttered to himself, heading toward the main hall. "Evelyn and Victoria are going to love this."


    Before leaving Cassius''s place, Damian grabbed a few books from the shelves¡ªmostly magical texts and dusty tomes that looked like they hadn''t been touched in years. "Might as well brush up on everything before the exam," he muttered. Cassius gave him a bored look from across the room, but didn''t comment.

 Chapter 254: The Ritual

    Warlock Ch 254. The Ritual


    The walk back to the house was uneventful, the warm afternoon sun casting long shadows over the cobbled streets. Damian''s mind was buzzing with thoughts about the exam, the lie they''d concocted about Varak''s crystals, and what kind of challenges he might face. By the time he reached the house, he was too distracted to notice the faint, acrid smell wafting through the open window.


    When he pushed open the door, the pungent scent hit him like a wall. It wasn''t the usual herbal aroma that lingered after Evelyn''s experiments¡ªit was something darker, sharper, and entirely unfamiliar. Wrinkling his nose, Damian stepped inside, closing the door behind him. "I''m home," he called out, his voice trailing off as his eyes landed on the scene before him.


    Near the fireplace, a large, traditional cauldron was bubbling ominously, a thick, murky liquid swirling within. Evelyn rarely used that thing unless it was a special occasion, and judging by the stench, today was one of those times. But it wasn''t just the cauldron. In the center of the room, Victoria sat cross-legged on a large carpet, or rather, a massive parchment inscribed with a blood-red magic formation. Her eyes were closed, her hands resting on her knees as she meditated¡ªor whatever it was she was doing.


    Damian''s eyes widened, and the books in his hands slipped from his grip, thudding onto the floor. "What the hell is going on?" he asked, his voice louder than he intended.


    Victoria didn''t flinch, though her lips curved into a faint smile. Without opening her eyes, she said calmly, "Welcome home, Damian."


    Evelyn emerged from the kitchen, wiping her hands on a towel. "Oh, you''re back," she said, glancing at him before gesturing toward the cauldron. "Don''t mind the smell. It''s for the ritual."


    Damian stared at her, incredulous. "Ritual? What ritual? And why does it smell like something crawled out of a grave in here?"


    Evelyn rolled her eyes. "It''s not that bad. And it''s not a grave¡ªthough there is a bit of grave dust in the mix."


    "That''s not comforting," Damian muttered, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Seriously, what are you two up to?"


    Victoria finally opened her eyes, her crimson gaze meeting his. "Today is a full moon," she said simply, as though that explained everything. "The planets are aligned."


    Damian blinked, caught off guard. "Really?"


    Evelyn smirked, folding her arms. "What, you forgot? I thought you used to study astrology."


    "I did," Damian said, frowning. "But after spending so much time in the Nullis world, I lost track. It''s not exactly easy to follow planetary alignments when what I need to do was mixing cocktails."


    Victoria''s expression softened slightly. "Then allow me to refresh your memory. The alignment of the planets amplifies the power of certain elements and mana. For someone like me," she gestured to the blood magic formation around her, "it''s an opportunity to strengthen bonds and refine power."


    Evelyn chimed in, "And for someone like me, it''s the perfect time to brew advanced potions and tonics. The mana in the atmosphere is incredibly potent tonight."


    Damian looked between them, his brow furrowing. "Right... I remember that."


    Evelyn nodded. "It''s rare to get an alignment like this, so we''re making the most of it."


    Damian sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Alright, fine. But couldn''t you have warned me first? Walking into this is like stepping into some kind of witch''s den."


    Evelyn smirked. "What did you expect? I''m a witch. You live with two of the most powerful magic users in Haven City."


    "And the most chaotic," Damian muttered under his breath, earning a sharp glance from Evelyn.


    Victoria, now fully standing, smoothed her dress and stepped away from the magic formation. "You should join us, Damian."


    He raised an eyebrow. "Join you? In what, exactly?"


    "In harnessing the power of the alignment," Victoria said, her tone almost conspiratorial, "you''ve got to understand that it''s about more than just raw mana. It''s about focus, intention, and knowing exactly what you want to achieve."


    Damian raised an eyebrow, leaning back against the couch. "Sounds like something you''d say before dragging me into another mess."


    Victoria smirked, a gleam of amusement in her crimson eyes. "And yet, you always come out stronger, don''t you?"


    He shook his head with a soft laugh and placed the books on the table. "Anyway, I''ll need these for my exam prep," he said, sinking into the couch with a sigh. "Once I get my official rank A license... hopefully, they won''t make this more difficult than it needs to be."


    Evelyn, who had been inspecting a small vial of glowing liquid, turned to him with a surprised expression. "Wait. Exam? You''re really going through with it?"


    Damian nodded, a faint grin tugging at his lips. "Yeah. Cassius and I worked out a solid story. It''s risky, but I think it''ll work."


    Victoria arched an eyebrow, intrigued. "Oh? Do tell."


    Damian shrugged, his tone casual. "We''re pinning it on Varak. The story is that during the mission, Varak had a stash of high-grade mana crystals he was planning to use for himself. But thanks to an explosion in his storage room, some of the crystals got absorbed into me."


    Evelyn frowned, setting the vial down carefully. "Using Varak''s name, though? Isn''t that dangerous?"


    "He''s dead," Damian pointed out with a smirk. "Who''s going to dispute it?"


    Victoria leaned back in her chair, crossing her legs elegantly. "I must admit, it''s a clever cover. Ties everything back to the mission and gives you an excuse for the sudden power boost. I approve."


    Damian grinned. "Thanks. Now that we''ve got the story straight, I just have to focus on the exam itself."


    Evelyn folded her arms, her expression still skeptical. "And you''re really not afraid? You know what they''ll do if they figure out who you are."


    Damian''s grin faltered for a split second before he forced it back into place. "I''m... aware," he said slowly. "But I can''t stay stuck forever. Besides, if they were going to figure it out, they''d have done it already."


    Victoria chuckled softly. "I like this new confidence. It suits you."

 Chapter 255: The Planets Are Aligned

    Warlock Ch 255. The Planets Are Aligned


    Damian gave her a mock bow from his seat. "Your approval means the world to me, Your Majesty."


    Evelyn rolled her eyes. "Alright, drama king. Since you''re so determined, what''s your plan for taking advantage of the planetary alignment? You know, to get more power?"


    "Yup! I just need to check it out from my system..." Damian tilted his head, summoning his system menu with a flick of his fingers. A glowing, semi-transparent screen materialized in front of him, illuminating his face.


    [System Menu]


    Available Upgrades:


    [Celestial Convergence: Requires Planetary Alignment]


    [Shadow Element Ultimate Skill: Requires Intimacy Bond with Partners]


    Damian''s brows furrowed as he read the last requirement. "Shadow Element Ultimate Skill... requires intimacy bond with partners?" His voice trailed off, a mix of confusion and disbelief lacing his tone.


    "What?" Evelyn asked, leaning closer to get a better look at the menu. Victoria, perched nearby with her ever-present grace, arched an eyebrow in intrigue.


    Damian cringed, rubbing the back of his neck. "It''s literally telling me I need to... uh, get intimate to unlock it."


    Victoria''s eyes lit up with amusement, her lips curling into a sly smirk. "Oh, this is going to be fun."


    Evelyn leaned over his shoulder, reading the screen carefully. "I don''t mind that," she said casually, her tone far too nonchalant for Damian''s liking.


    "Of course you don''t," Damian muttered under his breath, his face reddening slightly as he glanced away from both women.


    Victoria, clearly enjoying his discomfort, placed a finger under his chin and tilted his face toward her. "Why so shy, Damian? It''s not like this is new territory for any of us."


    Damian pulled back, groaning. "Right... of course. Of course! My system basically wants me to have sex to get stronger. What a brilliant, groundbreaking idea."


    Victoria chuckled, her crimson eyes glinting with mischief. "It''s practical, really. Strengthening bonds, quite literally, and gaining power in the process? I''d call that efficient."


    Evelyn, who had been quietly studying the rest of the screen, added, "Besides, it''s not just about the physical act. The description says ''intimacy bond.'' It might require trust, connection, and emotional depth as well."


    Damian raised an eyebrow. "You''re defending my system now?"


    Evelyn shrugged, leaning casually against the arm of the couch. "I don''t see anything wrong with it, honestly. If it works, it works."


    Victoria, seated elegantly in her usual composed manner, studied Damian closely, her crimson eyes sharp. "You don''t look entirely happy about it. Why?"


    Damian opened his mouth to respond but hesitated, the words catching in his throat. "It''s not that I''m not happy," he said finally. "I mean, unlocking the Shadow Element Ultimate Skill is huge, and I''m glad to have it. It''s just..." His voice trailed off as he tried to gather his thoughts. Deep down, he already knew the answer. He was the Warlock of Eternal Bonds, someone who drew power from deep, intimate connections. So why did this particular situation still throw him off?


    Victoria shifted closer, her movements graceful and deliberate. She reached out, her fingers brushing against his cheek and trailing down to his neck. "So," she said softly, her lips curving into a teasing smirk, "threesome?"


    Damian nearly choked. "W-What?!"


    Evelyn, sitting on the other side of him, burst into laughter, her emerald eyes glinting with mischief. "Don''t be shy, Damian. You''re not usually like this."


    "Shy and a bit surprised are two very different things," Damian retorted, shooting her a pointed look. His cheeks flushed slightly, though he quickly tried to mask it with a half-hearted grin. "You two are relentless."


    Victoria leaned in closer, her tone a sultry whisper. "Relentless? Perhaps. But you''re the one who brought us here, Damian. You''re the one who forged these bonds."


    Evelyn tilted her head, resting her chin in her hand as she regarded him with a sly smile. "She''s not wrong, you know. You''re the one who keeps tying us together, one way or another."


    Damian sighed, leaning back against the couch as he ran a hand through his hair. "You''re making it sound like I planned all of this."


    Victoria''s fingers traced lazy circles on his collarbone, her smirk widening. "Didn''t you? Even if it wasn''t conscious, it''s in your nature, isn''t it? To connect, to bind, to strengthen."


    Evelyn chimed in, her voice softer now. "And to protect. That''s what you''ve always done, Damian. Whether as Kaelan or now, you''ve always brought people together."


    Damian sighed, a mix of exasperation and amusement flickering across his face. "Yeah, well, maybe someone else should try it for once. Being the glue is exhausting."


    Victoria chuckled, her fingers lightly trailing along his jawline. "But you''re so good at it," she teased, her voice smooth as silk. "Why would we take that away from you?"


    Evelyn leaned closer, her hand brushing against his arm. "She''s got a point. You''re a natural leader, Damian. And besides..." She smirked, her eyes glinting with mischief. "You clearly enjoy having us around."


    "Enjoy is a strong word," Damian quipped, though the corners of his mouth betrayed a faint grin. "Tolerate might be more accurate."


    Victoria''s hand shifted, resting on his chest as she leaned in just a fraction closer. "You''re lying," she murmured, her tone playful. "We know you too well."


    Damian tilted his head back against the couch, groaning dramatically. "You two are impossible."


    "And you love it," Evelyn said, her voice lilting with amusement.


    Before Damian could retort, Victoria leaned even closer, her crimson eyes locking onto his. "So, Damian," she said, her voice dropping to a near whisper, "are you just going to sit there and pretend you''re unaffected? Or are you going to take advantage of this... opportunity your system has so generously provided?"


    Damian swallowed, suddenly hyper-aware of how close they both were. Evelyn''s hand was now resting lightly on his shoulder, and Victoria''s was dangerously close to his collarbone. He could feel the heat radiating from their proximity, and it was making it very hard to think clearly.

 Chapter 256: Different Chapters

    Warlock Ch 256. Different Chapters


    "Okay, hold up," Damian said abruptly, raising his hands in a gesture of surrender. "At least let me take a bath first."


    Evelyn blinked, momentarily thrown off by the sudden shift in tone. "A bath?"


    "Yes, a bath," Damian said, standing up and brushing himself off. He gestured toward the cauldron bubbling ominously near the fireplace. "And Evelyn, can you please do something about the stench in here? It''s really killing the mood."


    Evelyn burst out laughing, shaking her head. "Fine, fine. I''ll air it out."


    "And you," Damian continued, turning to Victoria with a pointed look, "don''t forget to clean up the blood after you''re done with your ritual. I''m not stepping over a magic formation to get to bed."


    Victoria smirked, clearly unbothered. "Of course, my dear. Anything for you."


    Damian grabbed his books from the table and started toward the stairs. "I''ll be waiting for you guys upstairs. Don''t take too long."


    As he reached the bottom step, Evelyn called out, "What about your dinner?"


    Damian paused, glancing over his shoulder. "I''ll eat after we''re done. I just had something at Cassius''s place."


    Victoria raised an eyebrow, her smirk widening. "After we''re done, huh? That sounds promising."


    "Don''t read into it," Damian muttered, climbing the stairs two at a time. "And hurry up! I''m not waiting all night."


    As he disappeared up the staircase, Evelyn and Victoria exchanged a look. Evelyn shook her head, still smiling. "He''s such a handful."


    Victoria''s smirk softened into something almost affectionate. "That''s what makes him worth it."


    Upstairs, Damian set his books on the bedside table and exhaled deeply, running a hand through his hair. "They''re going to drive me insane," he muttered, though there was no real malice in his tone. He grabbed a towel and headed toward the bathroom, the thought of a hot shower sounding like the only thing that could clear his head.


    The water cascaded over him. He allowed himself a rare moment of peace. The system''s demands, the bonds he''d formed, the constant teasing¡ªit all felt overwhelming at times. But beneath the chaos, there was something grounding about Evelyn and Victoria. Something that made him feel less like he was fighting alone.


    By the time he stepped out of the shower, he felt marginally more prepared to deal with whatever madness awaited him downstairs. "Alright, ladies," he muttered under his breath, wrapping the towel around his waist. "Let''s see what you''ve got."


    And, of course, he could already hear their voices drifting up the staircase, laughter and mischief laced in every word. Damian sighed, running a hand through his damp hair. "They''re not going to let me get through this night without some kind of chaos, are they?" he muttered to himself, throwing on a loose shirt and sweatpants.


    Just as he opened the door to head downstairs, the sound of footsteps reached him, and he froze. "Damn," he whispered. It was too late. The door swung open, revealing Evelyn and Victoria standing there, both with expressions that spelled nothing but trouble. And both wore lingerie...


    "Well, well," Evelyn said, her voice sweet and playful. "Look who''s trying to hide."


    "I''m not hiding," Damian said quickly, backing up slightly as they entered the room. "I was about to come down."


    Victoria smirked, closing the door behind her with deliberate slowness. "Oh, we saved you the trouble."


    Damian glanced between them, suddenly hyper-aware of the glint in their eyes. "Aren''t you guys a bit too... excited?"


    Evelyn tilted her head innocently. "Excited? Us? No, Damian, we''re just... motivated."


    Victoria moved closer, her steps slow and calculated. "We''ve been thinking," she said, her voice dropping to a near purr. "Why wait when we can make the most of this... alignment?"


    Damian raised his hands defensively, stepping back until the edge of the bed hit the back of his knees. "Hold up, hold up," he said quickly. "Can we, I don''t know, take it slow? You guys look like you''re ready to eat me up or... pounce me."


    Evelyn laughed softly, reaching out to trace a finger along his arm. "We''re all on the same page, aren''t we?"


    "Not exactly the same page," he muttered, his voice cracking slightly as Victoria stepped even closer, her hand resting lightly on his chest. "More like... different chapters?"


    "Oh, don''t be so shy," Victoria teased, leaning in slightly. Her fingers grazed his collarbone, sending a shiver down his spine. "You''re not usually this hesitant."


    "I''m not hesitant!" Damian protested, though his voice lacked conviction. "I''m just... surprised with this setup."


    Evelyn leaned closer on his other side, her voice softer now. "Surprised by what? That we actually want to help you unlock your potential? That we trust you completely?"


    "That''s not¡ª" Damian started, but Victoria cut him off, her hand pressing lightly against his shoulder.


    "Then stop thinking so much," she whispered. "Just let go."


    Before Damian could respond, he felt a firm but gentle push, and the next thing he knew, he was sitting on the edge of the bed, his back hitting the mattress as both women stood over him with matching smirks.


    "Okay," he said, raising his hands in mock surrender. "This feels a little like an ambush."


    Evelyn laughed, sitting down beside him and brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. "Ambush? Don''t be dramatic. This is teamwork."


    Victoria leaned down slightly, her crimson eyes locking onto his. "Besides," she added, her tone almost playful, "you like it when we take charge."


    Damian groaned, covering his face with one hand. "You two are going to be the death of me."


    "Maybe," Evelyn said with a grin, her fingers lightly trailing along his arm. "But at least you''ll die happy."


    Victoria chuckled, sitting on his other side. "And stronger," she added. "Don''t forget that part."


    Damian groaned, leaning his head back against the edge of the bed. "Right, because this is all about getting stronger. Definitely nothing else going on here."


    "Of course not," Evelyn said, her voice dripping with mock innocence. She leaned in closer, her hand resting lightly on his chest. "We''re purely thinking about your growth as a warlock."


    Victoria smirked, her fingers trailing along his jawline. "And your well-being, naturally. We''re very thoughtful that way."


    "You two are impossible," Damian muttered, though his tone lacked any real edge. Instead, there was a faint smile tugging at his lips, betraying his growing amusement.


    Evelyn tilted her head, her emerald eyes sparkling with mischief. "Impossible? That''s harsh. I''d say... determined."

 Chapter 257: Challenge Accepted!

    Warlock Ch 257. Challenge Accepted!


    "Determined to drive me insane," Damian shot back, though his voice cracked slightly when Evelyn''s hand moved to his shoulder, her touch feather-light but deliberate.


    Victoria leaned closer, her lips hovering near his ear. "Insane in the best way, though. Admit it."


    Damian opened his mouth to retort, but whatever he was going to say was lost when Evelyn suddenly closed the gap, her lips pressing against his in a kiss that left no room for argument. Her tongue teased his, her hands steadying him as she leaned in further.


    Damian''s eyes widened for a moment before instinct took over, his hands moving to her waist as he returned the kiss, his mind racing but his body surrendering to the moment.


    "Now that''s more like it," Victoria purred, her voice low and sultry. She shifted closer, her lips brushing against his neck in a way that sent a shiver down his spine. Her tongue flicked out, tracing a line up to his jaw as she whispered, "Relax, Damian. Let us take care of you."


    He pulled back slightly, glancing between them with a mix of disbelief and amusement. "You two planned this, didn''t you?"


    "Planned? No," Evelyn said, a playful smile dancing on her lips. "But we''re adaptable."


    Victoria smirked, tilting her head as she traced her finger along Damian''s collarbone. "Very adaptable."


    Damian leaned back slightly, propping himself up on his elbows as he eyed them with a mix of suspicion and amusement. "You two really don''t quit, do you?"


    Evelyn''s laugh was soft and melodic. "Why would we? You make it too fun."


    Damian''s heart skipped a beat as Victoria''s hands moved to the ties of her dress. With deliberate slowness, she loosened them, the fabric slipping from her shoulders and pooling at her waist. "Fun is putting it mildly," she murmured, her crimson eyes locking onto his.


    Evelyn followed suit, her hands tugging at the hem of her top before pulling it over her head. Her movements were confident but unhurried, her smirk never wavering as she watched Damian''s reaction. "What''s the matter, Damian? Cat got your tongue?"


    Damian''s gaze flicked between them, his chest rising and falling as his heart raced. "You two are something else," he said, his voice steady despite the rapid thudding in his ears. "But you''re underestimating me if you think I''m going to crumble that easily."


    Victoria arched an eyebrow, a challenge glinting in her eyes. "Oh? Are you saying we''re not persuasive enough?"


    Evelyn grinned, stepping closer until she was standing between his legs. "Maybe he''s daring us to try harder."


    "Maybe I am," Damian shot back, his smirk turning into a full grin. "Let''s see what you''ve got."


    Victoria leaned in, her hands resting on his shoulders as she pressed her lips against his ear. "Be careful what you wish for, warlock."


    Evelyn''s hands moved to his towel, her fingers grazing the edge as she glanced up at him with a mischievous gleam in her eyes. "You might not be able to handle it."


    Damian raised an eyebrow, his voice low and steady. "Oh, I can handle it. The question is¡ªcan you?"


    Evelyn chuckled, her fingers deftly untying the towel and letting it fall away. "Looks like we''re about to find out."


    Victoria''s laugh was soft but laced with challenge. "You talk a big game, Damian. Let''s see if you can back it up."


    Damian reached out, his hands finding their waists and pulling them closer. His grip was firm but controlled, his voice steady as he said, "You forget who you''re dealing with. If anyone''s going to be in control here, it''s me."


    Evelyn tilted her head, her smirk faltering for only a moment before she recovered. "Is that so?"


    Victoria leaned down, her lips brushing against his neck as she whispered, "Then prove it."


    Damian''s smirk widened as he shifted his weight, flipping their positions with practiced ease. He pinned them both beneath him, his hands on either side of them as he loomed above, his eyes gleaming with confidence. "Challenge accepted."


    Victoria raised an eyebrow, a slight tremor rippling through her frame. For a brief moment, Damian caught a flash of uncertainty in her gaze, but it vanished almost instantly, replaced with a determined expression.


    Evelyn shifted slightly, her hips arching upward in a subtle but unmistakable invitation. She tilted her head, her eyes locking onto his as she said, "Well? Show us what you''ve got."


    Damian''s gaze flicked between them, his smile still firmly in place. He reached down, his hand skimming the curve of Evelyn''s hip as he leaned forward, his lips brushing against her ear. "As your wish," he whispered, his voice low and dangerous. "I will start from you..."


    Without further ado, Damian began his assault on Evelyn, his hands trailing along her sides, his lips pressing against her neck. He started slowly, his movements deliberate and calculated, but as her breathing grew heavier, his pace quickened, his touch becoming more insistent.


    He shifted his weight, his lips trailing along her collarbone as his hand moved downward, his fingers tracing a path along her inner thigh. She shivered, her hips arching upward, a soft gasp escaping her lips.


    "Ah!" Evelyn moaned as his fingers slid inside her, his thumb grazing her clit in slow, torturous circles. "D-Damian..."


    Victoria watched, her breath catching in her throat. She could feel the heat rising inside her, her heart pounding in her chest. She wanted nothing more than have him ravage her, but she forced herself to remain still, watching the scene unfold before her with growing impatience.


    "Moan louder," Damian murmured, his lips brushing against her ear. "Show me how much you want me."


    Evelyn arched her back, her head thrown back in ecstasy. "Hnn," she gasped, her hands clutching at his shoulders. "Ah." She could feel her mind go blank, her body responding to his touch, her nerves on fire.


    "Good," Damian whispered, his fingers curling inside her. "Good."


    Victoria swallowed hard, her hand trailing down her stomach. She could feel the heat rising, the need building. She knew she couldn''t hold back much longer.


    "Damian," she whispered, her voice hoarse. "Please."


    "Please what?" he replied, his tone teasing. "Tell me exactly what you want, Victoria."

 Chapter 258: A Warlock, A Vampire And A Witch *

    Warlock Ch 258. A Warlock, A Vampire And A Witch *


    Victoria''s hands balled into fists, her eyes closing tightly. "I want you. All of you."


    "Hmm, that''s not enough," he murmured, his fingers still working their magic on Evelyn. "Be more specific."


    Victoria inhaled sharply, her eyes opening to lock onto his. " I want to feel your hands on my body, your lips on mine. I want to lose myself in you, to become one with you."


    Damian''s smirk widened, his gaze flicking between her and Victoria. "Be patient, my love. I''m not done with Evelyn yet."


    "Damian," Victoria whispered, her voice trembling. "Please."


    Damian shifted his weight, his hands sliding around Evelyn''s waist as he pulled her closer. "Just a little bit more," he murmured, his lips brushing against her neck. "Almost there."


    Evelyn shuddered, her nails digging into his shoulders. "D-Damian, please. I can''t take it anymore."


    Damian chuckled, his hands moving to her thighs. He lifted her legs, draping them over his shoulders. "Alright," he murmured, his voice dropping to a whisper. "If you insist."


    He shifted his weight, his hand reaching down to grab a fistful of her hair. With deliberate slowness, he put his cock in front of her pussy. His lips pressed against her ear. "Is this what you want?" he whispered, his tone mocking.


    "Yes," Evelyn gasped, her hands reaching up to grab his shoulders. "Yes, please."


    "Alright then," Damian murmured, his eyes flashing dangerously. "Take it."


    With a grunt, he slammed his cock into her, his movements rough and unyielding. She moaned, her back arching off the bed as he pounded into her, his pace increasing with every thrust.


    "Damian," she gasped, her nails digging into his shoulders. "Don''t stop."


    He chuckled, his fingers twisting in her hair. "Wouldn''t dream of it."


    "More," she begged, her hips bucking against his. "Please, I need more."


    "As you wish," Damian murmured, his hands gripping her waist tightly. He pulled her closer, his thrusts deepening as his pace quickened, his body shuddering with each movement.


    Victoria''s hands clenched into fists, her teeth gritted. She could feel the heat rising, the desire growing, her entire body aching with need.


    "Damian," she whispered, her eyes flashing. "I can''t wait any longer."


    He chuckled, his gaze flicking toward her. "Then don''t. Take it, Victoria."


    With a low growl, she grabbed his shoulders, pulling him toward her with unexpected strength. Her lips pressed against his, her tongue darting out to trace his lower lip.


    "That''s more like it," he murmured, his hand drifting down to grip her ass. He pulled her closer, his movements growing more insistent as he felt his orgasm approaching.


    "Damian," Evelyn whispered, her voice trembling. "I''m close."


    "So am I," Damian groaned, his thrusts growing rougher, more desperate. "Let''s finish this."


    "Yes," Evelyn moaned, her hands clutching at his shoulders.


    "Mine," he growled, his lips brushing against her neck. "You are mine."


    With a final thrust, Damian exploded, his body shuddering as he came inside her. She gasped, her body convulsing with her own orgasm.


    For a moment, they were frozen. Damian could see the system notification flash in front of him. But Victoria was impatient. She pulled him toward her, her lips seeking his.


    "Damian," she murmured, her voice hoarse. "Now, my turn."


    "Yes," Damian replied, his voice cracking slightly. He reached out, his hand resting on her cheek. She leaned into his touch, her eyes fluttering shut as she sighed. "That''s better."


    A smirk bloomed on his face as his movement turned feral, his grip on her ass tightening as he unplugged his cock from Evelyn and slammed it into Victoria with renewed vigor.


    "That''s what you wanted, isn''t it?" he asked, his tone mocking. "To be fucked by me, to feel me inside you."


    Victoria''s nails dug into his shoulder, her teeth gritting as she struggled to keep her composure. "Y-yes," she whispered, her voice breaking. She didn''t expect this at all. She thought at least Damian needed some time to recover, but the man was a beast.


    "That''s it," he murmured, his cock pistoning inside her with such force that she could feel the bed shaking. "Show me what you''re made of, Victoria."


    She moaned, her back arching off the bed as he fucked her relentlessly, his hands moving up to cup her breasts.


    He leaned forward, his tongue darting out to flick against her nipples.


    "Ah!" Victoria gasped, her nails raking across his back. "Damian."


    "I know," he groaned, his teeth grazing her neck. "I know."


    Evelyn watched them with wide eyes, her breath catching in her throat. The sight of Damian fucking Victoria, his movements rough and relentless, sent a thrill down her spine.


    "Oh my...," she whispered, her gaze drifting between them. She couldn''t help but notice how his cock seemed even larger now, the veins bulging as he slammed into her.


    "That''s it, Damian," Victoria moaned, her eyes closing as she lost herself in the moment.


    He let out a chuckle and growled, his fingers curling around her throat. "Take it, my queen. Take it all."


    "Yes," she groaned, her back arching off the bed. Her skin was flushed, her eyes shining with a mixture of desire and adoration.


    Evelyn watched them, her heart racing. She could feel her arousal growing, her body aching for release. She reached down, her fingers slipping between her thighs.


    "Don''t tease me," Victoria moaned, her hips bucking against his.


    "Wouldn''t dream of it, love," Damian whispered, his hands gripping her ass tightly. He leaned forward, his lips pressing against hers.


    "Oh," Evelyn gasped, her finger grazing her clit.


    Victoria''s eyes flew open, her gaze locking onto hers. "Join us, Evelyn."


    Evelyn hesitated for a moment before she nodded, her hands moving to Damian''s chest down to his abs.


    "Good girl," he murmured, his eyes sparkling with amusement.


    "Damian," Evelyn whispered, her voice hoarse.


    "It''s okay," he said, his tone teasing. "We have time."


    Evelyn leaned forward, her tongue flicking out to lick the side of his neck.


    "Ah," he moaned, his grip on Victoria tightening. "That''s it, Evelyn."


    "Don''t tease him," Victoria said, her tone breathless.


    "Don''t worry," Damian murmured, his cock slamming into her with renewed vigor. "I''m not done with you."


    Evelyn smiled, her hands trailing down his abs to his pelvis.


    Damian let out another chuckle and growled, his fingers curling around her throat.


    Evelyn watched them, her heart racing. She could feel the heat rising in her core, her body aching for release.


    "Now come for me, Victoria," Damian whispered, his hand drifting down to grab her ass.


    She groaned, her back arching off the bed as she felt her orgasm building.


    "That''s it," he growled, his fingers digging into her flesh.


    "Damian," Victoria moaned, her hands gripping his shoulders.


    He leaned forward, his tongue flicking against her earlobe. Victoria''s mind felt blank. She was at her limit. "OH!" she screamed, her body trembling as she came.


    "That''s right," Damian murmured, his cock pistoning inside her with an almost brutal force.


    Evelyn watched, her arousal growing stronger. She could feel the heat rising, her body aching for release.


    Damian let out a chuckle and growled. He released Victoria and turned to Evelyn. "Shall we have a round two?"

 Chapter 259: Catastrophic Damage

    Warlock Ch 259. Catastrophic Damage


    Damian sat up in bed, his muscles pleasantly sore but his mind racing. Victoria and Evelyn were asleep, curled up on either side of him, their breaths soft and even. The dim glow of his system interface hovered in the air, begging for his attention.


    He rubbed his temples and muttered, "Okay, let''s see what the damage is." He waved his hand, expanding the interface, and the cascade of notifications hit him.


    [System Notification]


    [Congratulations! New Vampire Skill Unlocked: Crimson Dominion Lv 1]


    [Crimson Dominion Lv 1]: Releases an aura of bloodlust that weakens enemies'' physical and magical defenses within a 20-meter radius. Simultaneously, allies gain lifesteal and increased attack speed. Cooldown: 3 minutes


    [Congratulations! New Vampire Skill Unlocked: Bloodforge Aura Lv 1]


    [Bloodforge Aura Lv 1]: Converts damage taken into blood energy, which can be unleashed to heal allies or deal massive damage to enemies. Cooldown: 5 minutes


    [Congratulations! New Witch Skill Unlocked: Hex Lv 1]


    [Hex Lv 1 ]: Summons a spectral weave of hexes that immobilizes enemies or turns them into animals. Cooldown: 4 minutes


    [Congratulations! New Witch Skill Unlocked: Mystic Veil Lv 1]


    [Mystic Veil Lv 1]: Envelops the caster and allies in a protective shroud that absorbs damage and nullifies one spell per person. The veil lasts 20 seconds or until broken. Cooldown: 6 minutes


    [Congratulations! Ultimate Warlock Skill Unlocked: Eternal Shadow Nova Lv 1]


    [Eternal Shadow Nova Lv 1]: Releases a massive burst of shadow energy, dealing catastrophic damage to all enemies within a 50-meter radius. Enemies hit are inflicted with Fear and have their healing abilities disabled for 15 seconds. Cooldown: 24 hours.


    His jaw dropped, and he blinked at the notifications. "Wait, what?! All of this... just from that?" He glanced at the two women in bed and shook his head with a mix of disbelief and amusement. "You two are something else."


    Slipping out of bed, Damian grabbed his pants and pulled them on before heading downstairs. His stomach growled loudly, reminding him of how much energy he''d burned. "Okay, food first, then I''ll process... all of this insanity."


    Damian descended the stairs, his mind still reeling. His fingers instinctively flicked through his system menu as he walked into the kitchen. "This is unreal," he muttered. "These skills... they''re not just strong. They''re busted." He took some food.


    Sitting at the table, he scrolled to the details of Eternal Shadow Nova. His eyes widened as he muttered the description aloud. "Catastrophic damage... fear... healing disabled? That''s like... the ultimate trump card. There''s no way I can use this in the exam. They''d throw me in a council dungeon the second I cast it!"


    He took a bite of food and leaned back in his chair, the fork dangling from his hand. His gaze drifted to the interface, and a grin tugged at his lips. "But... it''d be fun to see their faces if I did," Damian muttered, his tone half-amused, half-serious. The thought of unleashing Eternal Shadow Nova during his exam had a wicked appeal, but even he wasn''t reckless enough to pull that stunt¡ªnot yet, anyway.


    The sandwich was Evelyn''s cooking, simple and comforting. He hadn''t realized how hungry he was until now, the plate steadily emptying as he popped the last bite into his mouth. He washed it down with water and exhaled, leaning forward onto the table as he let his thoughts wander.


    That''s when his eyes caught the faint glow from the cauldron brewing near the fireplace. Its low, simmering heat cast a soft orange hue, and a bubbling sound broke the quiet hum of the night. He narrowed his eyes. Evelyn had clearly intended to leave it overnight¡ªno big deal. But the faint, rhythmic pulse of energy from Victoria''s bloody parchment on the floor was a different story.


    The magic formation glowed faintly, a deep red hue that pulsed in time with something unseen, like a heartbeat. Damian stared at it for a long moment, a strange sensation curling in his gut. ''I guess what I did to them earlier is connected to this,'' he thought. ''No way that''s a coincidence.''


    Shaking his head, he leaned back again, rolling his shoulders. The room was quiet, save for the cauldron''s bubbling and the distant hum of the magic formation. He let out a slow breath. "What am I even doing?" he muttered, running a hand through his hair. His gaze drifted to the ceiling, back to the parchment, then to the cauldron again.


    "Maybe meditating wouldn''t hurt," he muttered. "Can''t let them have all the fun." He smirked to himself, but the smirk faded as the idea settled more firmly in his mind. Meditation wasn''t something he did often anymore, not since... well, since everything. But the planets aligning like this, the subtle hum of magic in the air¡ªit was an opportunity he couldn''t ignore.


    "Fine," he said to the empty room, standing up. "But I''m not using Victoria''s blood magic formation. That''s a hard pass."


    He walked to a clear spot on the floor, away from the parchment and the cauldron, and knelt down. With a flick of his wrist, his system interface opened, and he scrolled through his skillset. ''Dark Chains, Void Rift, Shadow Barrier...'' None of them suited what he needed. Instead, he conjured a basic magical formation from his own mana, weaving shadows into the air until they coalesced into intricate, glowing lines on the floor beneath him.


    The formation shimmered with dark energy, pulsating softly. It wasn''t flashy, but it was uniquely his¡ªa reflection of his power as a warlock. Damian settled into a cross-legged position at its center, closing his eyes as he let the hum of the formation wash over him. The magic coursing through his veins synchronized with the subtle rhythm of the room''s latent energy, pulling him deeper into a meditative state.


    His breathing slowed. The world around him faded. The faint bubbling of Evelyn''s cauldron and the pulsing glow of Victoria''s blood magic dissolved into nothingness. All that remained was a vast silence, thick and all-encompassing.


    When Damian opened his eyes, he wasn''t in the living room anymore.

 Chapter 260: Trapped Demon King

    Warlock Ch 260. Trapped Demon King


    He stood in the void, a realm of swirling darkness and faint, otherworldly whispers. It was a place he''d come to recognize¡ªthe space where his mana core resided. But this time, something was different.


    The core floated before him, a massive, crystalline structure pulsating with deep, radiant energy. But what caught Damian''s attention wasn''t just the core itself. No, this time, there was something inside it.


    A faint figure stirred within the artifact. It was half humanoid, but its presence was overwhelming, radiating raw, unrelenting power. Chains, forged from Damian''s own mana, wrapped tightly around the figure, binding it in place. It struggled against them, but the binds held firm, glowing brighter with every twitch of resistance.


    Damian''s breath hitched as realization struck. "The Demon King," he muttered, his voice echoing in the void. "You''re... you''re really in there."


    The figure stirred, its form sharpening slightly as it turned toward him. Eyes, or at least the suggestion of them, bore into Damian with a mix of fury and disdain. A low growl resonated through the void, vibrating deep in Damian''s chest.


    "So," the Demon King''s voice rumbled, a deep, guttural sound that carried an edge of malice, "you''ve come back. Couldn''t resist, could you?"


    Damian folded his arms, his expression neutral but his mind racing. "I didn''t exactly plan on this. But now that I''m here... I guess it''s a good time to check on my prisoner."


    The Demon King''s laugh echoed through the void, sharp and bitter, reverberating like a distant storm. "Prisoner? Is that what you think this is?" His voice, though bound, carried a weight that made Damian''s chest tighten. "You think chaining me in your little artifact means you''ve won? Foolish warlock."


    Damian raised an eyebrow, tilting his head slightly. "You sound awfully talkative for someone who''s stuck in a glorified prison cell."


    The Demon King''s glowing eyes flared, their intensity cutting through the shadows. "Do not mistake my current position for weakness, boy. These chains may bind me, but they do not silence me. They do not diminish what I am."


    "Yeah, yeah, big scary demon speech," Damian muttered, waving a hand dismissively. "I''ve heard it all before. You''d think after centuries of existence, you''d come up with something a little more original."


    The Demon King''s growl rumbled low, a dangerous sound that seemed to shake the very void itself. "You mock what you do not understand."


    Damian took a step closer to the core, his gaze steady despite the Demon King''s presence. "Oh, I understand more than you think," he said, his tone sharp. "I understand that you''ve spent who knows how long trying to claw your way back to power. I understand that you''ve used people¡ªme included¡ªto get what you want. And now... here you are. Stuck. Trapped. Beaten."


    The chains binding the Demon King glowed brighter, reacting to his agitation. He struggled against them, but they held firm, pulsing with Damian''s own mana. "Do not delude yourself," the Demon King spat. "You have not beaten me. This... this alignment of the planets has merely allowed you to see a fraction of what lies ahead. These chains? They''re a temporary setback. Nothing more."


    Damian smirked, though the tension in his shoulders betrayed his unease. "Keep telling yourself that. In the meantime, I''ll enjoy the silence while it lasts."


    The Demon King''s laugh came again, harsher this time. "Silence? Is that what you think this is? Do you not feel it, warlock? The power coursing through you, growing stronger with every passing moment? You think that''s yours? That''s me, Kaelan."


    Damian''s jaw tightened at the mention of his old name. "I don''t go by that anymore."


    The Demon King''s grin was sharp, predatory. "You can change your name, your face, even your soul. But you cannot change what you are. You and I... we''re bound. And no matter how many chains you forge, no matter how far you run, you will never escape me."


    Damian took a deep breath, steadying himself. "Bound or not, I''m the one in control here. Not you."


    "Control," the Demon King repeated, his voice dripping with contempt. "You think this is control? You can barely hold yourself together. You feel it, don''t you? That shadow mana inside you. It''s not yours. It''s ours. The longer you use it, the closer you come to becoming what I am."


    Damian''s fingers twitched, his mind racing with the Demon King''s words. He hated how much truth there was in them, how the shadow mana within him often felt... alive, separate from himself. But he wasn''t about to give the Demon King the satisfaction of admitting that.


    "So what?" Damian said, forcing a casual shrug. "Maybe I''ll use your power. Maybe I''ll even enjoy it. But the difference between you and me? I won''t let it control me. I''m not some mindless monster."


    The Demon King leaned closer, his form pressing against the barrier of chains. "Not yet."


    Damian clenched his fists, taking another step forward. "Enough of your mind games. If you''re so powerful, so inevitable, then why are you still here? Why haven''t you broken free?"


    "Because you haven''t let me," the Demon King said, his tone almost admiring. "You''re stronger than most, I''ll give you that. But strength fades. Conviction wavers. And when yours does..." He grinned, his teeth glinting in the darkness. "I''ll be waiting."


    Damian stared at him for a long moment, his mind a whirlwind of anger, doubt, and determination. Finally, he spoke, his voice low and steady. "You''ll be waiting a long time."


    Turning on his heel, Damian began to walk away from the core, the void around him shifting and rippling with every step. The Demon King''s voice followed him, a haunting echo that refused to be silenced.


    "Run, Kaelan. Hide. Cling to your illusions of control. But remember this¡ªwhen the time comes, and it will, you''ll have no one to blame but yourself."


    Damian didn''t look back. He didn''t need to. The chains, the core, the Demon King¡ªthey were all still there, bound and contained.

 Chapter 261: Show Some Respect!

    Warlock Ch 261. Show Some Respect!


    When Damian opened his eyes, he was back in the living room. The faint hum of the magic formation beneath him had dulled, its glow fading as the energy dissipated. He exhaled slowly, his hands gripping his knees as he steadied himself. The air was still, except for the soft crackle of the fireplace in the corner.


    He let out a long breath and stood, rolling his shoulders to shake off the lingering tension. "Well," he muttered, running a hand through his hair, "that was... something."


    The Demon King''s voice echoed in his mind almost immediately. ''Something? That''s all you have to say after our little chat? Unbelievable. The arrogance of this generation...''


    Damian''s lips curved into a smirk. "Still annoying as usual," he said aloud, stretching his arms above his head. He glanced toward the kitchen. "And arrogant as usual. You''d think after all this time, you''d figure out your place."


    ''Arrogant?'' the Demon King growled, his voice heavy with indignation. ''I''m not arrogant! I''m a Demon King, you insolent child! Show some respect!''


    "Yeah, yeah, yeah, whatever," Damian muttered, waving a hand dismissively as he made his way to the kitchen. "You still sound annoying. It''s the same every time."


    ''I''m not annoying!'' the Demon King shot back, his tone bordering on petulant. ''And don''t blame me! If you hadn''t done this to me¡ªif you hadn''t bound me like some lowly beast¡ªI wouldn''t have to keep complaining in your head!''


    Damian scoffed, grabbing a teapot from the counter and filling it with water. "You wish. You can keep yelling at me all you want, but it won''t change a thing. I''ve got your power, and you''ve got... well, nothing."


    ''Nothing?'' the Demon King bellowed, his voice echoing so loudly in Damian''s mind that it made him wince. ''You have no idea what I''m capable of, do you? No idea what you''ve imprisoned in that pathetic little artifact of yours.''


    Damian set the teapot on the stove and leaned against the counter, crossing his arms. "Capable of what, exactly? Ranting in my head? That''s your big skill set now?"


    The Demon King growled low, like a predator about to pounce. ''Mock me all you want, warlock. But you''ll regret underestimating me.''


    "Oh, I''m sure I will," Damian said dryly, reaching for a mug. "Eventually. Maybe. But for now? I''m the one in charge. And you?" He tapped his temple with a finger, smirking. "You''re just a voice in my head."


    The Demon King didn''t respond immediately, which Damian took as a small victory. He poured himself a cup of tea once the water boiled, savoring the warmth as he took a sip. "Ah, much better. See? Simple pleasures. You wouldn''t understand."


    ''Simple pleasures?'' the Demon King finally said, his tone incredulous. ''You''re gloating about tea? TEA?''


    "Good tea," Damian corrected, grinning. "Don''t knock it till you try it."


    ''You''re insufferable,'' the Demon King muttered, his voice quieter than usual but still laced with his usual disdain.


    Damian rolled his eyes, reaching into the cabinet for a mug. "And you''re loud. Can''t you tone it down for once?"


    ''Loud?!'' the Demon King barked. ''You think this is loud? You haven''t heard me at full power, mortal!''


    Damian snorted as he filled the kettle and placed it on the stove. "Full power? Please. I''ve got you locked up tighter than a scroll in an ancient library. Your so-called ''full power'' is nothing but a bedtime story now."


    There was a beat of silence before the Demon King scoffed. ''If I weren''t trapped in your mana core, you wouldn''t dare speak to me like this.''


    "Probably not," Damian admitted, grabbing a teabag and plopping it into his mug. "But here we are. You''re trapped, I''m free, and I get to mock you all I want. Guess life''s unfair, huh?"


    The Demon King grumbled incoherently, and Damian smirked to himself, stirring sugar into the tea. He could almost feel the demon''s frustration crackling through the air. It was oddly satisfying.


    "You know," Damian said, leaning casually against the counter, "for someone who claims to be all-powerful, you''re really good at whining."


    ''Whining?!'' the Demon King growled. ''How dare you reduce my righteous complaints to mere whining! I am expressing my legitimate grievances, you insolent¡ª''


    "Yup. Whining," Damian interrupted, taking a sip of his tea. The warmth spread through him, and he sighed contentedly. "Textbook case of it, really."


    The Demon King fell silent, the air growing uncomfortably still. For a moment, Damian thought he''d finally gotten a moment of peace, but then¡ª


    ''You wouldn''t last a day in my position,'' the Demon King muttered, his tone quieter now, almost... pouty.


    Damian blinked, lowering his mug. "Wait..." He frowned, his brow furrowing. "Are you sulking?"


    ''No, I''m not!'' the Demon King snapped, though his voice cracked slightly.


    Damian''s lips twitched into a smirk. "You totally are." He set the mug down, crossing his arms. "Oh, this is rich. The mighty Demon King, sulking like a kid who lost their favorite toy."


    ''I am not sulking!'' the Demon King insisted, though his tone was anything but convincing. ''I am merely... reflecting on my predicament.''


    "Uh-huh." Damian tapped a finger against his chin, feigning deep thought. "Reflecting, huh? Is that what they''re calling it these days?"


    ''I can hear you mocking me,'' the Demon King grumbled.


    "Good," Damian said with a chuckle. "Wouldn''t want you to miss out on this moment of humility."


    There was another beat of silence before the Demon King sighed heavily. ''Fine. Believe what you want.''


    Damian paused, his smirk softening as he leaned against the counter. "Wow, you really are sulking," he said, more gently this time. "I almost feel bad."


    ''Almost?'' the Demon King echoed, his tone flat.


    Damian grinned. "Yeah, almost. But then I remember you''re an ancient, power-hungry demon and the sympathy just kind of... evaporates."


    ''You''re impossible,'' the Demon King muttered, his voice barely above a whisper.


    Damian tilted his head, his smirk fading slightly. He couldn''t see the Demon King, but for some reason, he could vividly imagine him sitting cross-legged in the void of his mana core, arms crossed, a pout on his regal, demonic face. The thought was absurd¡ªand oddly amusing.


    "You know," Damian said, picking up his mug again, "if you want me to take you seriously, you might want to stop acting like a brat."

 Chapter 262: The Demon King Existential Therapy Session

    Warlock Ch 262. The Demon King Existential Therapy Session


    ''Brat?!'' the Demon King roared, though it lacked his usual intensity. ''I am no brat! I am the Demon King! Ruler of the Underworld! Conqueror of¡ª''


    "Yeah, yeah," Damian interrupted, waving his hand dismissively. "Conqueror of realms, devourer of souls, yadda yadda. You''ve told me a thousand times. Honestly, you need new material."


    The Demon King let out an exasperated sigh, and for once, Damian felt a pang of something that almost resembled guilt. Almost.


    "Alright, alright," Damian said, setting his mug down again. "What''s really bothering you? You''ve been extra snarky lately. More than usual, I mean."


    The Demon King hesitated, and for a moment, Damian thought he wouldn''t answer. But then he spoke, his voice quieter and tinged with something Damian couldn''t quite place. ''Do you ever feel... insignificant?''


    Damian blinked, caught off guard. "Insignificant? What do you mean?"


    ''I mean,'' the Demon King began, his tone uncharacteristically subdued, ''like no matter how much power you have, no matter what you achieve... it''s never enough. That in the grand scheme of things, you''re just another speck in an endless void.''


    Damian stared at the countertop, his fingers drumming lightly against the surface. "Yeah," he said after a moment. "I do. More often than I''d like to admit."


    The Demon King was silent, and Damian could almost feel his contemplation. It was a rare moment of vulnerability¡ªone he wasn''t sure he''d ever get again.


    "But here''s the thing," Damian continued, his voice steady. "We''re all specks in the void, right? Doesn''t mean we can''t make our mark. Doesn''t mean we can''t matter to someone, somewhere."


    The Demon King let out a low hum, his voice barely audible. ''You''re surprisingly insightful for someone so irritating.''


    Damian chuckled, a genuine smile tugging at his lips. "Thanks, I think."


    For a moment, there was nothing but silence between them. It wasn''t awkward or tense¡ªjust quiet. Peaceful, even.


    "Well," Damian said, pushing off the counter and grabbing his mug. "I''m going to finish my tea. Feel free to keep sulking if you want. Just don''t make it a habit."


    ''I''m not sulking,'' the Demon King grumbled, though his voice lacked its usual bite.


    "Sure you''re not," Damian replied with a grin, heading toward the living room. "Whatever you say, Your Majesty."


    He settled onto the couch. The warmth of the tea spread through him, and he couldn''t help but chuckle. For all his bluster and bravado, the Demon King was, at his core, the same as the rest of them. And somehow, that made him a little easier to deal with.


    Then, the Demon King''s voice rang out in his mind again, catching him mid-sip. ''You know... can we talk like normal once in a while?''


    Damian choked on his tea, sputtering as he set the mug down and thumped his chest. "Okay... that''s definitely not normal," he managed between coughs. His brows furrowed, a mix of confusion and disbelief settling on his face.


    ''Yeah, I know,'' the Demon King replied, his tone almost sheepish. ''It''s just... I''m bored.''


    Damian blinked, leaning forward as if somehow that would help him process what he''d just heard. "I didn''t expect that."


    ''Which part?'' the Demon King asked. ''Didn''t expect that I was bored or that I told you?''


    "Both," Damian said, his voice tinged with disbelief. "You''re not usually honest with me. Usually, you''re either complaining or grumbling. Or both."


    There was a pause, the silence stretching just long enough to make Damian wonder if he''d imagined the whole thing. Then the Demon King spoke again, quieter this time. ''Yeah, well... I''m that desperate.''


    Damian stared at the wall, his thoughts scrambling to catch up. For once, he didn''t have a snarky reply or a witty comeback. The raw honesty in the Demon King''s words caught him off guard, leaving him uncharacteristically speechless.


    ''What did you expect?'' the Demon King continued, his voice tinged with frustration. ''I''ve been stuck here for a very long time. Alone. Powerless. Forgotten. You don''t think that gets to me?''


    Damian exhaled slowly, running a hand through his hair. "Okay... I didn''t think we were going to have an existential therapy session today."


    ''Neither did I,'' the Demon King admitted, his tone softening. ''But here we are.''


    Damian leaned back, crossing his arms as he stared at the ceiling. "You''re serious about this, huh? You actually want to talk. Like... normal people."


    ''I wouldn''t have brought it up if I wasn''t serious,'' the Demon King shot back, though his voice lacked its usual venom. ''I''m not saying we need to braid each other''s hair and share our deepest secrets, but... I don''t know. Maybe something less hostile for once.''


    Damian let out a low laugh, shaking his head. "This is surreal. The mighty Demon King, asking for a heart-to-heart."


    ''Laugh it up,'' the Demon King muttered. ''But you''re stuck with me, and I''m stuck with you. Might as well make the best of it.''


    "Fair point," Damian conceded, picking up his tea again. He took a sip, savoring the warmth before adding, "Alright. What do you want to talk about?"


    The Demon King hesitated, as if he hadn''t expected Damian to actually agree. ''I don''t know... anything. What''s it like out there? The world now, I mean.''


    Damian raised an eyebrow, caught off guard by the question. "You don''t know? I thought you could see what I see."


    ''Not everything,'' the Demon King admitted. ''It''s more like... glimpses. Fragments. I see the places where your power and mine overlap, but that''s it.''


    "Huh." Damian tapped his fingers against the mug, considering. "Well, cities are bigger, magic''s more regulated, and everyone''s obsessed with their rank. It''s a whole system now¡ªlicenses, exams, all that bureaucratic nonsense like usual."


    ''Bureaucracy in magic?'' The Demon King''s tone was incredulous. ''What kind of madness is that?''


    "Welcome to the modern world," Damian said dryly. "Everything''s gotta have rules and paperwork. Can''t have people running around with unchecked power, apparently."


    The Demon King let out a low hum, as if mulling over the information. ''Sounds... tedious''


    "Wait... I thought you already knew about that," Damian muttered, taking another sip of tea.


    ''Yes, I know. But demons mostly don''t need that,'' The demon king said. ''Didn''t need that,'' he corrected since he wasn''t sure about today''s situation anymore. There was a brief silence before the Demon King spoke again, his tone almost wistful. ''Do they still tell stories about me?''

 Chapter 263: Heart To Heart

    Warlock Ch 263. Heart To Heart


    Damian paused, lowering his mug. "Stories? Yeah. You''re kind of a legend. The Demon King who almost conquered everything. People still talk about you, but it''s more like myth than history now."


    ''Figures,'' the Demon King said, a hint of bitterness creeping into his voice. ''The victors write the history books, after all.''


    "True," Damian agreed, setting the mug down. "But hey, at least you''re not completely forgotten. That''s gotta count for something."


    ''Barely,'' the Demon King muttered, though his tone lacked its usual edge.


    Damian leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees. "You really care about that, huh? Being remembered."


    ''Wouldn''t you?'' the Demon King countered. ''If you spent centuries building an empire, only to have forgotten by your own kind?''


    Damian considered this, nodding slowly. "Yeah... I guess I would. But it''s better than me. I have a bad reputation now. Sad, huh? I defeated you to help them, but look at me now. I''m the villain."


    There was another pause, the air between them heavy with unspoken thoughts. Damian could feel Demon King''s emotions, raw and unfiltered, pressing against his own. It was... unsettling, but also oddly humanizing.


    "Well," Damian said, breaking the silence. "If it makes you feel any better, you''re definitely not forgotten in here." He tapped his temple, a small smile tugging at his lips. "You''re pretty unforgettable, for better or worse."


    The Demon King let out a soft chuckle, the sound low and almost reluctant. ''I''ll take that as a compliment. I think.''


    Damian grinned, leaning back against the couch. "You should. I don''t hand those out often."


    ''Noted,'' the Demon King said, his tone lighter now. ''So... what happens next? For you, I mean.''


    Damian exhaled, his gaze drifting to the window. "Next? I''ve got an exam coming up. Rank S. Gotta prove myself to the bigwigs."


    ''And you''re worried,'' the Demon King said, his voice soft but certain.


    "A little," Damian admitted. "It''s not the exam itself. It''s the attention that comes with it. I''ve been flying under the radar, and this might blow my cover."


    ''Then don''t fail,'' the Demon King said simply. ''If you''re strong enough, they won''t question it.''


    Damian laughed, shaking his head. "You make it sound so easy."


    ''It is,'' the Demon King replied. ''Power speaks louder than words. Always has.''


    "Yeah, well, let''s hope you''re right," Damian said, finishing his tea. He set the mug down and stretched, his gaze lingering on the fading glow of the magic formation. "Thanks for the talk, I guess. It was... different."


    "Don''t get used to it," the Demon King muttered, though there was a hint of warmth in his tone. "I''m not exactly the chatty type."


    Damian climbed the stairs, he couldn''t help but smile. "Could''ve fooled me," he said, his tone teasing. He smirked, his hand resting on the banister as he paused mid-step. Then he glanced back toward the living room as if he could actually see the Demon King''s expression. "But hey, let me know when you''re in the mood for another heart-to-heart. I''ll pencil you in."


    He continued up the stairs.


    ''So, should I feel honored for that?'' The Demon King asked aloud.


    "Yeah, you should," he said, laced with a mixture of mockery and sincerity.


    ''You''re the only one I can talk to, after all. Not much of a selection.''


    Damian chuckled. "Flattering. Truly. I''ll put it on my resume¡ª''Preferred conversational partner of the Demon King.''"


    ''Don''t push it,'' the Demon King grumbled, though there was no real bite to his words.


    "You''re weirdly tolerable tonight. Is it because of the planets align or something else?"


    There was a pause, and for a moment, Damian thought the Demon King had gone silent again. Then, in a quieter tone, the Demon King replied, ''Let''s just say... it''s a rare moment of clarity.''


    Damian raised an eyebrow. "Clarity, huh? That''s ominous."


    ''Take it however you want,'' the Demon King said, his tone shifting back to its usual gruffness. ''Just don''t get used to it.''


    "I''ll try not to lose sleep over it," Damian replied with a smirk. He leaned back in his chair near his desk, his gaze drifting to the window. The moon was high in the sky, casting a silvery glow over Haven City. For a brief moment, the world felt strangely peaceful.


    The Demon King broke the silence. ''Let''s talk again sometime.''


    Damian blinked, caught off guard by the sudden shift in tone. "Really? You''re actually asking for another chat?"


    ''Don''t make it weird,'' the Demon King snapped, though his voice lacked its usual venom. "Just... think about it."


    Damian leaned forward, resting his elbows on the desk. "Alright," he said, his tone softer now. "Deal. But only if you promise not to sulk like last time."


    ''I don''t sulk,'' the Demon King shot back, though it sounded more like a pout than a denial.


    "Yup, definitely sulking," Damian muttered under his breath.


    ''I heard that!'' the Demon King barked, his voice echoing sharply in Damian''s mind.


    Damian laughed, shaking his head. "Goodnight, Your Majesty," he said, his tone playful as he pushed back from the desk and stood.


    ''Goodnight, mortal,'' the Demon King replied, quieter now, almost... content.


    Damian exhaled a slow breath. For all the chaos and unpredictability of his current life, there was something oddly grounding about the Demon King''s occasional moments of honesty¡ªhowever rare they might be.


    He muttered to himself, "I should go to sleep too," pushing his chair back and standing up. Stretching his arms over his head, he glanced at the scattered books and notes on his desk, briefly considering tidying up before dismissing the idea.


    The walk to his bedroom felt longer than usual, the house unusually quiet save for the faint creak of the floorboards under his steps. When he reached the doorway, his eyes immediately fell on the bed. Victoria and Evelyn were sprawled out in a tangle of sheets and limbs, their soft, even breathing the only sound in the room.


    Damian paused, leaning against the doorframe as a small smile tugged at the corners of his lips. The sight was almost too peaceful. It was moments like this that made everything feel... manageable.


    He muttered softly, "Good night, everyone," before quietly making his way to the bed. He slipped between them and went to sleep.

 Chapter 264: Bedtime Story

    Warlock Ch 264. Bedtime Story


    ''Really? After all that conversation, you went to sleep?'' The Demon King''s voice was loud and incredulous, ringing in Damian''s head just as he was slipping into unconsciousness.


    Damian sighed internally, half-annoyed, half-amused. ''Yeah, I did. What else was I supposed to do? Write you a bedtime story?'' His voice was thick with fatigue.


    ''You do realize that when you sleep, you come here, right?'' The Demon King pressed, his tone verging on exasperation.


    ''I know,'' Damian muttered aloud, keeping his voice low to avoid waking Victoria or Evelyn. ''But here''s the deal¡ªif you don''t want to talk, I won''t talk. Just... sleep, okay?''


    The Demon King was silent for a moment, as if considering the offer. Then, with a low grumble, he muttered, ''Fine. But only because I''m tired of your sarcasm.''


    For the first time in what felt like an eternity, nothing happened. No fiery landscapes. No ominous confrontations in the void. Just... peace.


    The next morning, Damian stirred. He rolled over slightly, expecting to hear Evelyn''s teasing voice or feel Victoria''s possessive nudge, but instead, something heavy was pressing down on his chest.


    "What the..." he muttered groggily, his eyes fluttering open. His vision was greeted by a small, shadowy figure perched squarely on his torso.


    "Finally awake," the shadow servant said in a flat, unimpressed tone. It was one of Cassius''s, the familiar flicker of its smoky form unmistakable. "You need to get ready. Master Cassius is waiting."


    Damian blinked, his brain still catching up. "What? Already? It''s barely morning."


    The servant crossed its tiny arms. "Master Cassius said you''re to meet him at the usual place. He''s taking you to the Sanctum of Trials. The officials want to meet you in person."


    Damian groaned, throwing an arm over his eyes. "Didn''t he just submit the crystal last night? Why are they so fast?"


    "I don''t know anything about that," the servant replied curtly. "I only know you need to get moving."


    Damian sighed heavily, carefully sliding the shadow servant off his chest and sitting up. "Of course you don''t know," he muttered. "You''re just the messenger."


    Victoria stirred beside him, her eyes opening slightly. "What''s all the noise about?" she murmured, her voice heavy with sleep.


    "Cassius sent his little errand boy to wake me up," Damian said, gesturing to the shadow servant, which gave an indignant huff. "Apparently, I''m meeting the officials today."


    Victoria yawned and stretched lazily, her crimson hair spilling over the pillow. "Already? That''s fast."


    Evelyn propped herself up on one elbow, her dark eyes narrowing. "Are you ready for this? Meeting the officials isn''t exactly a casual outing."


    Damian shrugged, running a hand through his hair. "Do I have a choice?"


    The shadow servant tapped its foot impatiently. "You don''t."


    Damian smirked at the tiny creature. "You''re awfully bossy for someone so small."


    The servant glared back. "And you''re awfully slow for someone with a meeting to attend."


    Evelyn chuckled, her laughter soft but teasing. "He''s got you there."


    Victoria sat up fully, her regal composure returning despite the early hour. "You should get ready. The Sanctum of Trials isn''t a place to keep people waiting."


    Damian sighed, standing and stretching before heading to the wardrobe. "Guess I better make myself presentable."


    The shadow servant watched him closely. "Master Cassius said to remind you not to be late."


    "Yeah, yeah," Damian waved dismissively, pulling out an outfit suitable for the occasion. "Tell him I''ll be there."


    The servant didn''t move, its glowing eyes fixed on him. "I''m to accompany you until you leave."


    Damian shot it a look. "Seriously?"


    The servant didn''t respond, but the silence was answered enough.


    Evelyn swung her legs over the side of the bed, watching the exchange with a bemused expression. "Good luck with that."


    Victoria stood, her gaze lingering on Damian as he dressed. "Don''t forget¡ªkeep your story consistent. The officials won''t hesitate to dig deeper if they sense anything off."


    "I know," Damian replied, adjusting his coat and glancing at his reflection. "Don''t worry. I''ve got this."


    The shadow servant cleared its throat¡ªor at least made a sound resembling it. "Time''s up. We need to leave."


    Damian rolled his eyes, grabbing his amulet and slipping it around his neck. "Alright, alright. Let''s go."


    As he made his way toward the door, Victoria stepped forward, placing a hand on his arm. "Be careful."


    He offered her a small, reassuring smile. "Always."


    Evelyn joined them, her expression softer than usual. "And remember, we''ve got your back. If anything happens..."


    Damian cut her off with a smirk. "I''ll be fine. Besides, it''s not like I''m walking in there unprepared."


    With that, he stepped out of the house, the shadow servant trailing closely behind. The cool morning air hit him, refreshing and invigorating. He took a deep breath, his mind already focused on the task ahead.


    As they walked, the shadow servant broke the silence. "You seem unusually confident."


    Damian glanced at it, a grin tugging at his lips. "Confidence is half the battle. The other half? Well... you''ll see."


    The shadow servant didn''t reply, but the skeptical tilt of its head said everything. They moved through Haven City''s bustling streets, the morning air filled with a mix of bakery aromas and the faint tang of smoke from the early risers starting their forges. The city pulsed with life, but Damian''s focus remained ahead, his mind flickering between the meeting and the gnawing emptiness in his stomach.


    By the time they reached Cassius''s place, Damian''s stomach growled audibly, and he groaned. "I haven''t had breakfast yet, or even bathed for that matter. You dragged me straight out of bed for this."


    Cassius, leaning casually against the doorway, raised an eyebrow. "And yet you''re still late."


    Damian huffed, stepping past him into the familiar space. "Blame your miniature drill sergeant here. Didn''t even let me grab a sandwich."


    Cassius chuckled. "You know the officials don''t wait. They called, and you''re going. But don''t worry, I made arrangements." He gestured toward a small table where a plate of fresh bread, fruit, and a steaming cup of tea awaited.


    Damian''s eyes lit up. "You''re a saint."


    "I wouldn''t go that far," Cassius replied dryly, taking a seat as Damian dove into the meal with gusto. "But don''t take too long. They''re expecting us."


    Between bites, Damian glanced at him. "You know, for someone who''s usually stoic and borderline scary, you''re surprisingly thoughtful."


    Cassius smirked. "Don''t get used to it. This is a one-time deal."


    Damian grinned, polishing off the bread and reaching for the tea. "Noted. Still, you could''ve let me shower."


    Cassius shrugged. "We''re dealing with magus officials, not a royal banquet. They won''t care about your hair."


    "That''s easy for you to say," Damian muttered, finishing the tea and standing. "You''re not the one they''re scrutinizing."


    "Not directly," Cassius admitted. "But I''ll be there. And as long as you stick to the story, everything will be fine."

 Chapter 265: Sanctum of Trials

    Warlock Ch 265. Sanctum of Trials


    They walked toward the Sanctum of Trials. Damian kept his pace steady, though his mind buzzed with thoughts. "So, what exactly are we expecting here? An interrogation? A trial?"


    "Neither," Cassius replied, his tone calm. "It''s more of a formality. They want to see the man behind the crystal."


    Damian raised an eyebrow. "And make sure I''m not some rogue lunatic who stumbled into power?"


    "Essentially," Cassius confirmed. "But you''re not a rogue, Damian. You''ve got me, Evelyn, and Victoria backing your story."


    Damian sighed. "Great. No pressure then."


    Cassius smirked. "Relax. You''ve faced worse."


    "True," Damian muttered, his hand brushing against the amulet hanging around his neck. "But this still feels like walking into a trap."


    "Then stay sharp," Cassius said simply. "You''re good at that."


    They arrived at the towering structure of the Sanctum of Trials, an imposing building carved from obsidian and infused with runic magic that made the very air around it hum with energy. The arched entrance bore intricate sigils that glowed faintly, pulsing in sync with the ley lines that ran beneath the city. Tall spires clawed at the sky, and the entire structure seemed to absorb light rather than reflect it, creating an eerie, almost foreboding presence.


    The massive doors opened soundlessly as they approached, and a robed figure stepped forward, bowing slightly. "Master Cassius," the figure said, their voice low and measured. "And this must be the apprentice."


    Damian resisted the urge to roll his eyes. "Yup, that''s me. The apprentice," he grinned like an idiot.


    The figure''s gaze lingered on him for a moment before gesturing for them to follow. They walked through a series of hallways, the air growing cooler with every step. The walls were lined with intricate magical runes that pulsed faintly, casting shifting shadows along the stone corridors.


    The robed figure spoke again, directing their question to Cassius. "The officials have taken an interest in him rather quickly. I assume you''ve prepared him for their scrutiny?"


    Cassius kept his expression neutral. "Damian is capable of handling himself."


    The figure glanced at Damian, assessing him with an almost clinical detachment. "He seems... young."


    Damian smirked, keeping his head down as he continued walking. "I get that a lot."


    "His rank progression has been rapid," the figure continued. "That will raise suspicions."


    Cassius barely flicked an eyelid. "He''s talented. That shouldn''t be surprising."


    The figure hummed in thought but didn''t push further. They reached the entrance to the main chamber, and the doors swung open, revealing a grand circular room.


    Damian''s eyes immediately went to the group of individuals seated around the perimeter. Their robes were adorned with various symbols of rank and allegiance, and their expressions ranged from curious to downright suspicious.


    "Master Cassius," one of them said, their tone sharp. "And the apprentice. Welcome."


    Cassius inclined his head. "Thank you for seeing us on such short notice."


    Damian felt their gazes shift to him, and he resisted the urge to fidget. Instead, he offered a polite smile. "It''s an honor to be here."


    One of the officials, a stern-looking man with silver hair, leaned forward. "Tell us, apprentice, about the incident involving Varak."


    Damian nodded, his expression carefully neutral. "Of course. During the mission, we encountered a storage area containing high-grade mana crystals. An explosion triggered by the battle caused the crystals to destabilize, and I was caught in the blast. Some of the crystal''s energy... merged with me."


    The room was silent for a moment before another official, a woman with piercing blue eyes, spoke. "And you''re certain this wasn''t deliberate?"


    Damian met her gaze evenly. "Absolutely. I didn''t even know the crystals were there until it was too late."


    Cassius chimed in, his tone steady. "I can vouch for that. The situation was chaotic, and Damian''s reaction was purely instinctual."


    The officials exchanged glances, their expressions unreadable. Finally, the silver-haired man nodded. "Very well. We''ll need to conduct a brief examination to verify your claims."


    Damian suppressed a groan, his polite smile never wavering. "Of course."


    Cassius placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder as the officials prepared the examination. "Just stay calm. This is the easy part."


    "Easy for you to say," Damian muttered under his breath. "You''re not the one being poked and prodded."


    The robed attendants moved forward, gesturing for Damian to stand in the center of the room. A circular array of glowing runes flickered to life beneath his feet, the intricate magic weaving itself into the air like a web. Damian exhaled slowly, watching as the examiners activated their spells.


    "Remain still," the silver-haired official instructed.


    Damian resisted the urge to roll his eyes. "Sure, because I was totally planning to break into a tap dance."


    Cassius shot him a look that said ''shut up'', and Damian sighed, keeping his mouth shut as the magic settled around him.


    The first wave of energy rippled through him, testing his mana flow. He could feel the sensation of invisible hands probing at the core of his being, searching for inconsistencies or signs of forced power acquisition.


    The blue-eyed woman murmured something under her breath, and a new pattern of sigils appeared, this time tracing the shape of his warlock mark. Damian inhaled sharply as the energy coiled around it, analyzing its origins.


    A low murmur passed through the council members.


    "His warlock core is... unusual," one of them noted. "There are traces of something powerful here."


    Damian forced himself to stay relaxed. ''Shit. Don''t look guilty. Don''t look guilty.''


    The silver-haired official frowned. "His mana signature is stable, but there are residual traces of¡ª"


    "Of the crystal''s influence," Cassius interjected smoothly. "It''s to be expected, given the nature of the explosion."


    Another pause. The officials exchanged glances again, clearly debating amongst themselves.


    The woman with blue eyes leaned back in her chair. "His mana reserves have increased significantly in a short time. Even with the crystal exposure, that is... impressive."


    Damian allowed himself the smallest smirk.


    Cassius sighed, rubbing his temple.


    The silver-haired man nodded slowly. "Very well. His story checks out. His mana has been altered, but there''s no sign of intentional tampering or corruption. He may proceed."

 Chapter 266: A Rare Animal In A Cage

    Warlock Ch 266. A Rare Animal In A Cage


    Damian barely kept himself from sighing in relief.


    Cassius inclined his head. "Thank you."


    The officials gave a final, lingering glance at Damian before dismissing them. As they left the chamber, stepping back into the hallways of the Sanctum, Damian exhaled loudly.


    "Well, that was fun," he muttered.


    Cassius shot him a look. "You got off easy."


    "Sure, if ''easy'' means being stared at like a rare animal in a cage."


    Cassius smirked. "Congratulations, apprentice. You''re officially a Rank A warlock."


    Damian huffed. "Great."


    Cassius raised an eyebrow. "That doesn''t sound like someone who just got a promotion."


    Damian ran a hand through his hair, exhaling slowly. "Yeah, well... I''m not exactly thrilled about this place."


    Cassius gave him a knowing look. "I figured. You''ve been glancing around like you expect someone to stab you in the back."


    Damian crossed his arms, his jaw tightening. "I mean, wouldn''t be the first time."


    Cassius'' smirk faded slightly. He knew exactly what Damian meant. The last time he¡ªKaelan¡ªstood in this place, the mages nearly ripped him apart trying to dissect his power. Back then, he had nothing to hide behind. No amulet masking his warlock nature. No artifacts shielding the raw force of the demon king within him. They had seen everything, and they feared it.


    Now? Now he had layers of protection. The artifact caged the demon king''s essence deep inside his mana core, and the amulet masked his true strength. To them, he was just another rising warlock. Strong, yes. Talented, absolutely. But not a threat. Not yet.


    Cassius sighed. "Still, you made it through."


    "Yeah, yeah. But don''t think I''ve forgotten the part where I have to do it again."


    Cassius smirked again. "Glad you remember." He clapped a hand on Damian''s shoulder. "Because we''re registering you for the S-rank exam. Right now."


    Damian stopped dead in his tracks, staring at him. He wanted to say "You''re joking." But yeah, it was the plan.


    Cassius kept walking. "Do you want to say something?"


    Damian exhaled a long breath to calm himself. "No," he answered.


    Cassius glanced at him, amusement flickering in his eyes. "You want to develop, don''t you?"


    Damian hesitated. That was the problem. He did. As much as he hated this place, as much as he wanted to put as much distance between himself and the Sanctum as possible, he knew that stagnation wasn''t an option. He wasn''t just trying to survive¡ªhe was trying to become something more.


    Cassius waited, studying him.


    Damian sighed, glancing around the towering halls of the Sanctum, the cold runes glowing faintly along the walls. The air here felt sterile, but beneath it, he could still feel the weight of the past pressing down on him. He didn''t like this place. He never did.


    But he wasn''t the same person he was back then. And he wasn''t going to let this place decide his fate again.


    "Yes," he finally said. "Let''s do it."


    Cassius gave him a sidelong look. "You don''t sound happy."


    Damian scoffed. "Oh, gee, I wonder why."


    Cassius smirked, but there was a flicker of understanding in his eyes. "You''ll be fine."


    Damian muttered under his breath, "Says the guy who''s not the one being poked and prodded."


    Cassius ignored him, leading him deeper into the Sanctum.


    As they passed through the halls, Damian couldn''t help but feel like the walls were watching him. He knew it was just the enchantments¡ªmagical wards woven into every inch of the building to detect anomalies. But still, a part of him couldn''t shake the feeling that this place remembered him.


    They stopped at a large set of double doors adorned with intricate magical carvings. Cassius placed a hand on them, and with a soft hum, the doors opened, revealing a wide chamber. Inside, several figures were seated, their robes marking them as high-ranking members of the mage council.


    Damian''s shoulders stiffened. ''Here we go again.''


    A man with sharp, bird-like features adjusted his glasses and glanced at Cassius. "Master Cassius. I assume you''ve come to finalize the S-rank exam registration?"


    Cassius nodded. "Correct. Damian Blackthorn will be taking the trial."


    Damian felt all eyes shift to him.


    The man¡ªwho Damian instantly decided to mentally nickname Owl-Face¡ªstudied him with a calculating gaze. "Damian Blackthorn. You''ve only just been confirmed as Rank A. And now you seek S-rank so soon?"


    Damian forced a polite smile. "I like a challenge."


    A few murmurs passed through the council members. Some looked amused, others skeptical.


    Owl-Face narrowed his eyes. "You do realize that the S-rank trial is not something to be taken lightly? You could die."


    Cassius spoke before Damian could. "He knows."


    Damian nodded. "Yeah, I get it. But I''m ready."


    Owl-Face studied him for a long moment before leaning back in his chair. "Very well. The official registration will be processed, and you will receive your trial details within the next two days."


    Damian exhaled, trying to mask his relief. "Sounds good."


    Another council member, an older woman with piercing gray eyes, leaned forward. "One more thing, Mr. Blackthorn. The trial will test not only your power but your adaptability. You will be facing unpredictable conditions."


    Damian smirked. "Sounds like my usual day."


    The woman didn''t react to his attempt at humor. "We shall see."


    Cassius inclined his head. "We appreciate your time."


    The council members dismissed them, and as they walked out of the chamber, Damian finally let out a breath.


    "I hate them," he muttered.


    Cassius shot him a look. "You''re not done yet."


    Damian groaned. "I know, I know."


    They walked in silence for a moment before Cassius spoke again. "You''re handling this better than I expected."


    Damian raised an eyebrow. "Were you expecting me to throw a fit?"


    Cassius smirked. "Not a fit. But I figured you''d at least try to find a loophole."


    Damian chuckled. "Trust me, I thought about it."


    They reached the exit of the Sanctum, and Damian took in the fresh air as they stepped outside.


    Cassius glanced at him. "You ready?"


    Damian rolled his shoulders. "I guess I have to be."


    Cassius nodded. "Then let''s get you prepared."

 Chapter 267: You Are In Pain...

    Warlock Ch 267. You Are In Pain...


    "Yeah, yeah, yeah," Damian replied nonchalantly, rolling his shoulders as they walked toward the gate. He was already bracing himself for the grueling training Cassius was bound to put him through. That man took ''preparation'' way too seriously.


    But just as they were about to step out, something¡ªor rather, someone¡ªcaught his attention.


    A woman.


    No, a fae.


    She wasn''t dressed extravagantly, just a simple flowing dress, void of any elaborate embroidery or jewelry. And yet, she radiated an undeniable presence. Her hair, a cascade of shimmering silver, framed a face so ethereal it felt almost unreal. Her eyes, a deep, haunting shade of violet, carried an otherworldly intensity. The way she moved was almost like gliding, each step graceful, precise¡ªlike she existed on a different rhythm than the rest of the world.


    Behind her stood a knight¡ªan elf, tall and clad in sleek, dark combat armor. A combat mage, by the look of his aura. A strong one. Which meant this fae woman wasn''t just anybody.


    Damian''s instincts flared.


    ''She''s important.''


    And yet, there was something else. Something deeper.


    Their eyes met as they passed each other.


    A shiver ran down his spine¡ªnot out of fear, but familiarity.


    ''I know her.''


    Not in the way he''d remember a random noble or an opponent. This was something older. Something buried. A half-forgotten echo in the back of his mind. Read exclusive chapters at My Virtual Library Empire


    "You are in pain..."


    A female voice whispered in his head.


    It was soft. Sad.


    His memory.


    He stopped in his tracks.


    The fae woman, as if sensing his hesitation, did the same. She turned, her gaze locking onto his once more, this time with curiosity flickering behind her eyes.


    She felt it too.


    Damian opened his mouth to speak, to ask, but before he could, the elf guard stepped forward, his sharp green eyes narrowing.


    "Do you need something with Her Highness?" His tone was clipped, professional, but there was an edge of warning beneath it.


    ''Her Highness?''


    Damian blinked, momentarily caught off guard.


    That wasn''t just a noble''s title.


    That meant she was royalty.


    ''A princess?''


    He hadn''t expected that. Fae royals weren''t exactly common, and they never mingled freely outside their domains.


    His mind scrambled for something to say, something to justify why he''d suddenly stopped and stared at her like an idiot.


    "...No," he finally said, shaking his head. "Just¡ªthought I recognized her."


    The guard held his gaze for a beat longer before giving a small, curt nod. Satisfied but still wary.


    Damian turned away, exhaling sharply as he picked up his pace, chasing after Cassius, who had¡ªpredictably¡ªkept walking like nothing happened.


    Without even looking at him, Cassius spoke. "So? What is it this time?"


    Damian scowled. "Do you have to phrase it like that?"


    Cassius smirked. "You keep stopping for things only you can see or feel. Forgive me for assuming."


    Damian sighed, rubbing his forehead. "It triggered something, yeah. But I only heard a voice. She said... ''You are in pain.'' That''s it."


    Cassius finally glanced at him. "Do you know who she is?"


    "Was about to ask you that."


    Cassius shook his head. "Unfortunately not. But since her guard called her ''highness''... she''s not just some noble."


    Damian huffed. "Great. A princess fae. That narrows it down."


    Cassius shot him a sidelong look. "You sound disappointed."


    Damian frowned, his mind racing. "Not disappointed. Just confused." He hesitated. "I don''t... I don''t think I ever had anything to do with the fae. At least, not that I remember."


    Cassius arched an eyebrow. "Not even in your past life?"


    Damian shook his head. "No. The fae have always been the most neutral of all the races. They never sided with the mages, the warlocks, the demons¡ªno one. They never hunted me." He frowned deeper. "So why the hell would I have a connection to one of their princesses?"


    Cassius remained silent for a moment, considering.


    Then he shrugged. "Only one way to find out."


    Damian groaned. "Yeah, yeah. But that''s a problem for future me." He exhaled and glanced back toward the Sanctum''s entrance, but the fae princess was already gone. As if she was never there.


    Damian shuddered.


    ''Who the hell are you?''


    Cassius clapped a hand on his shoulder, pulling him back to the present. "Come on. We''ve got work to do."


    Damian scowled but followed. "Can''t wait."


    Something told him, though, that whatever just happened¡ªit wasn''t over.


    -----


    Selena walked through the grand halls of the Sanctum, her steps measured, her expression unreadable. The soft glow of magic-infused torches illuminated the intricately carved stone walls, casting flickering shadows that danced as she passed. She barely paid attention to them. Her mind was elsewhere.


    Deep in thought.


    She couldn''t shake the strange sensation that had settled in her chest since locking eyes with that warlock.


    "Your Highness?"


    Her knight''s voice brought her back to the present. She turned her head slightly, acknowledging him without fully facing him. The elf knight, Alric, walked beside her, his sharp green eyes studying her closely. He was ever-watchful, ever-attentive, just as he had always been.


    "Does that warlock bother you?" Alric asked, his voice calm but laced with curiosity.


    Selena shook her head. "Nothing..."


    Nothing, yet everything.


    She had no reason to recognize him. His face was unfamiliar, his presence new. And yet, his mana flow...


    That was different.


    That was familiar.


    She had felt it before. A long, long time ago.


    Her hands clenched at her sides as her mind drifted to an old memory, one buried so deep that she had almost convinced herself it was a dream.


    A male voice whispered in her mind, unbidden. "Why did you run away, princess?"


    Her breath hitched. That voice...


    She remembered.


    It had been years ago, during one of those suffocating royal gatherings. Boring, predictable, filled with false smiles and polite words that meant nothing. She had had enough. The need to breathe had sent her outside, away from the golden chandeliers and endless flattery, into the cool embrace of the night.


    She had wandered too far.

 Chapter 268: Masked Warlock

    Warlock Ch 268. Masked Warlock


    The forest near the castle had always been a sanctuary, a place untouched by the formalities of court. The scent of earth and magic lingered in the air, the whisper of leaves soothing against her skin. She had walked deeper, lost in thought, not realizing how dangerously close she had come to the cliffside.


    Then she slipped.


    Her wings had snapped against a sharp branch as she tumbled down, a sharp pain tearing through her back as her vision spun. She had braced for impact, for the crash of stone and dirt, for the inevitable pain that would follow.


    But it never came.


    Instead, she floated.


    Suspended mid-air, her body wrapped in a soft glow of telekinetic magic.


    And that was when she saw him.


    A masked warlock.


    Perched lazily on the branch of a towering oak, one leg dangling over the edge, the other bent at the knee as if he belonged there.


    His gaze was sharp, amused, his smirk both arrogant and strangely captivating.


    "Falling for me already?" he had teased, his voice carrying an effortless confidence that had both irritated and intrigued her.


    She had scowled, struggling against the telekinetic grip he had on her, but it was useless. He controlled her fall with ease, lowering her gently onto the forest floor.


    "Who are you?" she had demanded, brushing dirt from her dress.


    He hadn''t answered. Instead, he had simply tilted his head, studying her with an intensity that sent an odd shiver down her spine.


    "You''re hurt," he had noted, his gaze flickering to her injured wing.


    She had glanced back, wincing at the sight of the torn membrane. A deep, jagged cut marred the delicate structure, blood staining the tips of her feathers.


    Before she could react, he had moved.


    A hand had reached out, fingers brushing lightly over the wound. Magic had flared, warm and soothing, spreading through her body in waves. The pain had dulled, the torn skin knitting itself back together in seconds.


    She had inhaled sharply, looking at him with wide eyes.


    "That should do it," he had murmured, retracting his hand.


    She had touched her wing, flexing it carefully. It was healed. Completely. She had looked up at him again, wariness creeping into her gaze.


    "How come you have healing magic? You are a warlock, right?" she had asked, her voice guarded.


    His smirk had softened into something almost thoughtful.


    "That''s because I''m special."


    And just like that, the tension had eased.


    They had talked.


    For hours, they had sat beneath that oak tree, watching the moonlight filter through the leaves. He had been infuriatingly smug, quick-witted, and far too charming for his own good. And yet, he had listened. Not like the nobles at court who only pretended to hear her words. He had truly listened.


    For the first time in what felt like forever, she had felt free.


    By dawn, he was gone.


    Vanished, as if he had never existed.


    The guards had found her soon after, asleep against the trunk of the tree, her wings whole, her heart aching with that untold story.


    She had never told anyone.


    Not about him. Not about that night.


    Because he had never told her his name.


    She had searched for him, tried to find any trace of a warlock with his abilities, but there had been nothing.


    For years, she had convinced herself that he was just a fleeting memory, a ghost of her past that had disappeared with the dawn. And yet, here she was, standing inside the grand halls of the Sanctum, her pulse quickening at the thought that he was closer than ever. She would find him.


    The sound of approaching footsteps snapped her out of her thoughts. Selena turned her gaze forward as a robed official bowed in greeting. His expression was respectful, yet tinged with a curiosity he couldn''t quite suppress.


    "Your Highness," the official spoke, his voice steady yet laced with confusion. "To what do we owe the honor of your presence here at the Sanctum?"


    Selena smiled, a serene and practiced expression she had perfected over the years. "I am here to take the S-Rank exam."


    A heavy silence followed her words.


    The official blinked. Then blinked again, as if trying to process what he had just heard. "You... wish to take the commoner''s S-Rank exam?" he asked cautiously.


    "Yes," Selena answered without hesitation.


    The official glanced at her knight, Alric, as if expecting some kind of clarification, but the elf merely nodded, his expression unreadable.


    Read the latest on My Virtual Library Empire


    The official cleared his throat. "Your Highness, forgive me for asking, but... why? There is a designated noble and royal path for individuals of your status. It is far more controlled, far safer, and tailored for those of high standing. The commoner''s path is¡ª"


    "Unpredictable," Selena finished for him, her eyes gleaming.


    "Exactly," the official said, nodding. "The trials are grueling, filled with unknown variables, and the risk of injury is much higher. Why subject yourself to such conditions when you can take the royal path, which ensures fairness and safety?"


    Selena tilted her head slightly, the small smile never leaving her face. "Fairness?" she echoed, her tone laced with amusement.


    The official hesitated. "Well, yes. The noble and royal candidates undergo structured evaluations without unnecessary risks¡ª"


    "So you think I am too weak to handle the common trials?" she interrupted, her voice smooth but carrying an edge.


    The official paled slightly. "That is not what I meant, Your Highness."


    "Then what do you mean?" Selena asked, her smile unwavering.


    The official opened and closed his mouth a few times before sighing. "The commoner''s path is... brutal. There are no safeguards for status, no courtesy given for titles. You would be treated as an equal to them."


    "That is exactly what I want," Selena said simply.


    The official frowned. "But why? You have no need to prove yourself in such a way."


    Selena''s gaze softened, though her resolve remained firm. "I have my reasons."


    She wasn''t about to tell them the truth¡ªthat she wanted to find him. That warlock who had haunted her dreams for years. That warlock who had saved her once upon a time.

 Chapter 269: Her Choice

    Warlock Ch 269. Her Choice


    "Your Highness," the official began again, trying a different approach. "Even if you were to take the commoner''s path, you would still be a target. Your identity alone would draw attention, and not all of it would be good. There are those who would seek to use your presence for their own gain."


    "I am aware," Selena replied.


    The official studied her for a long moment before sighing. "This is highly unusual."


    Selena merely smiled again. "Then let''s make it even more unusual."


    The official exhaled, rubbing his temples. "We will need to discuss this with the council."


    Selena inclined her head. "Of course."


    The official turned to Alric, as if seeking assistance in convincing her otherwise. But Alric merely shrugged, his arms crossed. "Her Highness has made her decision."


    The official sighed again, clearly defeated. "Very well. But you must understand, Your Highness¡ªonce you enter this path, there is no going back. You will be evaluated like any other candidate, with no special treatment."


    "That is precisely what I desire," Selena said.


    The official gave her one last wary look before nodding. "I will make the arrangements. But I still urge you to reconsider."


    "I appreciate your concern," Selena said, offering a slight nod of gratitude. "But my mind is made up."


    The official hesitated for a moment longer before bowing deeply. "Then may the Sanctum guide you, Your Highness."


    He turned and walked away, Selena let out a slow breath. That was easier than expected.


    Alric stepped beside her, his voice low. "There''s still time to turn back."


    Selena didn''t even glance at him. "No."


    Alric sighed, crossing his arms. "I figured you''d say that." His sharp green eyes flickered toward her, his expression unreadable. "You do realize what you''re getting yourself into, right?"


    Selena''s golden gaze remained steady as she looked ahead. "I know exactly what I''m doing."


    Alric scoffed. "Oh? Because from where I''m standing, it looks like you''re about to jump into a battlefield without armor."


    She smirked. "Wouldn''t be the first time."


    "That''s not reassuring."


    Selena finally turned to him, her expression softer but still unshaken. "I appreciate your concern, Alric. I do. But this is my choice."


    Alric narrowed his eyes. "It''s reckless."


    Selena chuckled. "That''s what they said about my mother when she took the throne."


    Alric huffed. "Your mother was a warrior. She had years of experience before she made decisions that could cost her life. You? You''ve been in a gilded palace your whole life." Find exclusive stories on My Virtual Library Empire


    Selena''s gaze darkened slightly. "And you think that means I don''t understand struggle?"


    "I think it means you underestimate what it means to fight like a commoner."


    Selena tilted her head slightly, studying him. "You still don''t trust my decision."


    Alric let out a slow breath. "I trust you. But I don''t trust the people in that exam."


    She smiled slightly. "Then stay close."


    Alric frowned. "It''s not that simple. The moment you step into that trial, your title means nothing. You will be treated like any other warlock, mage, or whatever else shows up. No special treatment, no safety nets. Are you truly prepared for that?"


    Selena''s eyes gleamed. "Yes."


    Alric exhaled sharply, shaking his head. "You''re impossible."


    Selena''s smirk widened. "And yet, you remain by my side."


    Alric shot her a dry look. "For my sins."


    She let out a small laugh.


    "I won''t stop you," Alric said after a pause. "But if anything happens, I will step in."


    Selena glanced at him. "No, you won''t."


    Alric scowled. "Excuse me?"


    "If I take this exam, I will take it as a candidate. Not as a princess. You will not interfere."


    Alric looked at her like she had lost her mind. "I am your knight. Your protection is my duty."


    She smiled. "Then do your duty and let me fight."


    Alric was silent for a long moment, his expression unreadable. Finally, he sighed. "You''re stubborn."


    Selena grinned. "You''re just figuring that out now?"


    Alric groaned, pinching the bridge of his nose. "I hate this."


    Selena patted his arm. "You''ll survive."


    Alric sighed again before glancing toward the Sanctum doors. "Do you at least have a plan?"


    Selena grinned, mischief flickering in her golden eyes. "Yup. Fairy Dust."


    Alric blinked. "Fairy Dust?"


    She nodded, her expression entirely too smug. "That will make this all easy."


    Alric pinched the bridge of his nose. "You are not seriously thinking of using enchanted Fae Dust in an exam meant to measure your raw abilities."


    Selena shrugged. "Why not? It''s not cheating. It''s... creative problem-solving."


    Alric muttered something under his breath, but before he could argue further, the Sanctum doors creaked open once more. A robed official stepped out, their eyes sweeping over the two before nodding.


    "Her Highness, Princess Selena, and her guard. The council is ready to receive you."


    Selena shot Alric a triumphant smile before stepping forward, her stride graceful and deliberate. Alric followed, shoulders tense, his instincts screaming at him that this was a terrible idea.


    The official led them through the Sanctum''s winding corridors, past glowing magical sigils etched into the walls, their eerie blue light casting long shadows as they moved. The air smelled faintly of parchment and burning incense¡ªa mixture of knowledge and judgment.


    As they approached the grand chamber, Selena stole a glance at Alric. "Relax. You look like you''re marching to your execution."


    Alric gave her a withering look. "Maybe because I feel like I am."


    Before Selena could respond, they entered the council chamber.


    The room was massive, circular, with high vaulted ceilings that seemed to stretch endlessly upward. The walls were lined with floating scrolls and ancient texts, pulsing with magic. Seated in a crescent formation were the council members, their robes adorned with symbols of various magical factions.


    An older man with silver hair and sharp, hawk-like eyes leaned forward. "Princess Selena. This is quite the... unexpected request."


    Selena smiled politely. "I like to keep things interesting."


    A woman with piercing blue eyes, her robes embroidered with intricate runes, studied her carefully. "You wish to take the S-Rank exam through the common path rather than the noble or royal selection process?"


    Selena nodded. "Correct."


    Murmurs rippled through the council.


    Another member, a stern-looking elf with sharp features, spoke next. "May we inquire as to why?"


    Selena''s smile didn''t falter. "I wish to experience the trials as any other candidate would. No shortcuts, no advantages."


    The blue-eyed woman''s lips pressed into a thin line. "That is noble in thought, but reckless in practice. Do you understand what this entails?"


    "I do," Selena said without hesitation.


    The silver-haired man exhaled slowly, exchanging glances with the others before his gaze landed back on her. "You will be required to sign an agreement. You will receive no special treatment, nor will your title offer you any protections within the trials. Once inside, you are just another candidate."


    Selena inclined her head. "Understood."


    Alric, who had been silent until now, finally spoke. "And what of her safety?"


    The elf councilman''s gaze flicked to him. "Every participant assumes responsibility for their own well-being. If the princess wishes to compete, she will be treated no differently than the others."


    Alric clenched his jaw. "And if something happens to her?"


    A smirk played at the corner of the silver-haired man''s lips. "Then I imagine she will have to survive like the rest."


    Selena turned to Alric with an almost teasing smile. "See? Fair and square."


    Alric scowled. "I hate this."


    Selena laughed softly before stepping forward to the grand table in the center of the room. A thick parchment was laid out before her, glowing faintly with enchantments.


    "By signing this," the blue-eyed woman said, "you acknowledge that your rank, status, and affiliations hold no weight within the exam. You will be subject to the same rules as any other candidate. There will be no interventions, no special considerations."


    Selena picked up the quill. "I understand."

 Chapter 270: A Terrible Influence

    Your journey continues with My Virtual Library Empire


    Warlock Ch 270. A Terrible Influence


    The sun was setting when Damian finished his training with Cassius. The sky outside bled into deep hues of violet and gold, casting long shadows across the towering shelves of ancient tomes and scrolls. The air inside was thick with the scent of parchment, ink, and faint traces of protective enchantments that shimmered against the walls like invisible threads of power.


    Damian strolled along the lower shelves, fingers brushing over the spines of countless books, his eyes scanning for anything useful. Meanwhile, Cassius hovered above him¡ªliterally walking on air, effortlessly defying gravity as he inspected the higher shelves. Every so often, he would grab a book, examine the title, and either return it or casually let it drop, making Damian catch it.


    "You sure this is how a NORMAL mentor is supposed to help?" Damian muttered as he barely caught another thick leather-bound book before it smacked him in the face.


    Cassius didn''t bother looking down. "If you can dodge a falling grimoire, you can dodge an attack. Consider it part of your training."


    Damian rolled his eyes, flipping the book open for a quick glance. "Advanced Warlock Formations." He frowned and snapped it shut. "This one''s just a theory. No practical spells."


    Cassius sighed and snatched another book from the top shelf. "You need theory. You''re already strong, but knowledge is what separates a reckless fool from an actual warlock."


    Damian smirked. "Oh? Is that why you never took an apprentice before? Afraid they''d surpass you?"


    Cassius finally looked down, unimpressed. "More like I never found one worth my time, not to mention those damn councils. And yet, here you are."


    Damian scoffed. "Gee, thanks."


    Another book dropped. Damian caught it one-handed and checked the cover. "Rune Crafting for Advanced Warlocks." He kept that one.


    "So," he said, setting the books he''d chosen into a neat stack on the nearest table. "The exam should still be the same as before, right? When I left?"


    Cassius floated down, landing lightly beside him. "Maybe," he admitted, running a hand over the titles he''d picked. "I never had an apprentice, remember? And I don''t know much about the methods they''ll use. The exam isn''t public knowledge."


    Damian hummed in thought. "But dangerous, for sure."


    Cassius nodded. "Always. The exam isn''t for everyone, and you know it. The danger is real. Some don''t even make it out alive."


    Damian''s grip on the book in his hands tightened slightly. He did remember. The S-Rank Warlock Exam wasn''t just a test¡ªit was a battlefield disguised as a trial. A place where warlocks, magi, and other powerful magic users tested their limits. It was also a place where ambitious participants had the chance to eliminate competition under the guise of "accidents."


    Cassius leaned against the nearest shelf, arms crossed. "Not to mention, some of the participants won''t hesitate to get rid of their opponents. The fewer strong competitors, the higher their chances of passing."


    Damian exhaled, flipping through the book in his hands without really reading it. "Yeah, I remember that."


    Back in the day, he had seen it happen. Warlocks throwing around hexes disguised as "misfires," competitors sabotaging each other''s formations, poisoning supplies, summoning cursed creatures to thin the ranks. It wasn''t just about skill. It was about survival.


    "You''re ready for this?" Cassius asked, watching him carefully.


    Damian smirked. "What? Worried about me? Now? Too late for that."


    Cassius snorted. "I''m worried about the idiots who will underestimate you."


    Damian chuckled, but there was a flicker of something dark in his eyes. "I won''t hold back."


    Cassius gave him a long look before nodding. "Good."


    He turned back to the shelves and pulled another book free, handing it to Damian. "This one might help."


    Damian took it and read the title. "Soul Chains & Forbidden Magic: A Study of Warlock Bonds."


    His eyebrows raised slightly. "Isn''t this book banned?"


    Cassius smirked. "Only if you get caught with it."


    Damian chuckled, shaking his head. "You''re a terrible influence."


    Cassius waved a hand dismissively. "You need all the knowledge you can get. You''re going into that exam with an unknown past, an artifact housing a Demon King in your mana core, and an entire council watching your every move. You need to be prepared for every possible scenario."


    Damian ran a finger over the book''s embossed title, considering his words. He wasn''t wrong.


    "Alright," Damian finally said, setting the book on top of his pile. "I''ll take them all."


    Cassius nodded approvingly. "Good choice."


    The two of them moved to the front, passing Cassius'' shadow servant near the entrance. "Alright," Cassius said, stretching. "That should be enough preparation for tonight."


    Damian picked up his stack, adjusting them under one arm. "You say that like I''m going to study."


    Cassius arched a brow. "You better."


    Damian grinned. "I''ll skim."


    Cassius rolled his eyes and gestured toward the door. "Get out."


    Damian laughed, heading toward the exit. The sky outside had turned a deep indigo, stars beginning to peek through the twilight. He stepped out into the cool evening air, inhaling deeply.


    Cassius stopped beside him, looking up at the sky. "You should rest. The exam isn''t until next week, but you''ll need to be sharp."


    Damian nodded but didn''t move. His mind was still lingering on the fae princess he had seen earlier. That nagging feeling of familiarity wouldn''t leave him.


    Cassius noticed his expression. "Still thinking about her?"


    Damian sighed. "Yeah."


    Cassius studied him for a moment before shaking his head. "Figure it out later. Focus on what''s in front of you."


    Damian exhaled sharply, forcing the thoughts aside. "Yeah, yeah. I know."


    Cassius smirked. "Good. Now go home. And actually study."


    Damian rolled his eyes. "No promises."


    With that, he turned on his heel, heading back toward Evelyn''s house, the books under his arm feeling oddly fitting.


    One week. One week until the exam.


    And he knew it wouldn''t be as simple as a test of skill.


    No, the S-Rank Warlock Exam was never just about power. It was a proving ground, a battlefield wrapped in bureaucracy. A place where reputations were built and destroyed in equal measure. It was also the perfect opportunity for those in the shadows to make their move. And he was sure¡ªdamn sure¡ªthat someone would be watching him.

 Chapter 271: Bossy

    Warlock Ch 271. Bossy


    Damian pushed the door open, stepping into the familiar warmth of the house. "I''m home."


    The door clicked shut behind him with a flick of his fingers, his telekinesis sealing it without him sparing it a glance. He strode towards the table, dropping the heavy bags filled with books onto its surface with a dull thud. The weight had started to strain his arms towards the end, but he wouldn''t admit that out loud.


    Victoria was the first to greet him, her voice carrying a teasing lilt. "I''m surprised you didn''t order your servants to carry those heavy bags."


    Damian glanced at her, watching as a red aura shimmered around her hands, the bloody orb of energy hovering above her palm. She was busy controlling her puppet, probably handling something crucial, and yet she spoke as if she was merely having a casual conversation.


    He shrugged, rolling his shoulders to ease the slight tension. "No, I thought of working out a little after some training."


    Victoria arched a brow. "That''s very unusual." Continue your adventure with My Virtual Library Empire


    "I only did some light training earlier, not as intense as usual. So I figured I''d add a bit more."


    She smirked, nodding approvingly. "Makes sense."


    His gaze drifted towards Evelyn, who was near the cauldron, her lips moving in a low chant as she weaved magic into the bubbling mixture. The scent in the air was a strange mix of herbs¡ªstrong but not as pungent as yesterday. The concoction in the cauldron glowed faintly, shifting colors as the spell settled into it.


    "She''s busy, huh?" Damian mused, watching the fluid swirl.


    "Always," Victoria said. "She''s got a gift for this kind of thing."


    Damian knew that well. Evelyn had always been an expert in potion crafting, something he had dabbled in before, but nowhere near her level. There was an artistry to her work, an intuitive finesse that turned even the most complex of brews into something manageable. He leaned against the table, arms crossed as he observed.


    Evelyn finally turned to them, her brows furrowing. "If you two are just going to stand there staring, at least be useful and bring me the jar of phoenix ash from the shelf."


    Damian chuckled, pushing off the table. "So bossy."


    Victoria smirked. "You like it."


    "I tolerate it." He grabbed the jar from the shelf and handed it over, watching as Evelyn carefully measured the fine ash before sprinkling it into the cauldron. The mixture sizzled upon contact, dark smoke rising before dissipating into nothing.


    Damian rested his chin on his hand. "And this one is for...?"


    "A reinforcement potion," Evelyn answered, stirring slowly. "A variation of the standard resilience elixir, but I''ve modified it with some old alchemy formulas. It should enhance stamina and magic recovery."


    His lips curled into a smirk. "So, you''re finally making something I can actually use?"


    Evelyn shot him a look. "Not everything is about you, you know."


    "Debatable," he quipped.


    Victoria chuckled, flexing her fingers. "You''re putting a lot of effort into this batch. Something tells me you''re expecting a certain warlock to come back from his exam half-dead."


    Evelyn sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose. "Look, I know you''ll be fine, Damian. But that doesn''t mean I won''t prepare just in case."


    Damian leaned against the counter, arms crossed, his smirk softening slightly. "I appreciate the thought, but I''ll pass the exam just fine."


    Evelyn gave him a dry look. "Uh-huh. Says the man who''s spent the last few weeks saying the exam will be a massive headache."


    "Doesn''t mean I''ll fail it."


    Victoria hummed. "You sound confident."


    "I have to be," Damian replied easily. "Confidence is half the battle. The other half is actually knowing what the hell you''re doing," he repeated.


    Evelyn poured a portion of the potion into a small vial, eyeing him. "And do you?"


    He grinned. "I guess we''ll find out."


    Victoria let out a small chuckle before gesturing towards the books he had dropped earlier. "And what are those? Light reading before bed?"


    Damian glanced at the bags and exhaled. "More like study material. Cassius helped pick out a few that might be useful."


    Victoria arched a brow. "Cassius helped?"


    "He tossed a bunch of books at my head while floating around the library like some kind of cryptid."


    Evelyn snorted. "Sounds about right."


    Damian opened one of the bags and pulled out a particularly thick tome, flipping through the pages absentmindedly. "Most of it''s stuff I already know, but I figured it wouldn''t hurt to refresh my memory. Especially with the sanctum watching me like a damn hawk."


    Victoria''s eyes flickered with amusement. "They are watching you. Closely."


    Evelyn set down the vial and crossed her arms. "Which is why you need to be careful. The second they suspect something, they''ll dig deeper."


    Damian sighed, rubbing his temple. "Yeah, I know that. Which is why I''m not planning on standing out more than I have to."


    "Not standing out?" Victoria tilted her head, smirking. "You, of all people, saying that?"


    Damian groaned. "I mean, in this specific scenario."


    Evelyn leaned against the counter, a knowing smile on her lips. "Just don''t do anything reckless."


    Damian met her gaze. "No promises."


    Victoria laughed. "I''d be disappointed if you did."


    He smirked, shaking his head before glancing back at the cauldron. "So, when will this be ready?"


    Evelyn examined the potion''s consistency before nodding. "A few more hours. It needs to settle."


    "Perfect," Damian stretched. "That gives me enough time to take a break before reading through this pile of books."


    Victoria leaned on the table, looking amused. "A break? That''s rare."


    He gave her a lazy grin. "Even warlocks need a little downtime."


    Evelyn smirked. "I''ll believe it when I see it."


    Damian sighed dramatically. "The lack of faith in me is astounding."


    Victoria chuckled. "Oh, we believe in you, Damian. Just not when you say you''ll take it easy."


    He rolled his eyes, reaching for a book and flipping it open. "Fine. I''ll pretend to take it easy while I study."


    Evelyn and Victoria exchanged a knowing look before turning back to their tasks.


    As Damian settled in, his mind still whirled with thoughts of the exam, of the sanctum, and of a certain fae princess whose presence still lingered in the back of his mind.


    He had a feeling things were going to get very interesting soon.

 Chapter 272: Exam Day [Part 1]

    Warlock Ch 272. Exam Day [Part 1]


    A week passed in a blink.


    Damian barely had time to register the days slipping by before the morning of the exam arrived. He groggily opened his eyes, his body refusing to move for a few moments as he stared at the ceiling. His muscles were sore¡ªnot from exhaustion, but from all the training and preparation he had crammed in over the past few days. His mind had been a whirlwind of strategy, old lessons, and Cassius'' dry lectures. Now, it was time to put all of that to the test.


    The smell of breakfast wafted through the air, coaxing him out of bed. He sat up, running a hand through his messy hair before dragging himself out from under the sheets. As he stood, his gaze flickered toward the window¡ªHaven City was already awake, the glow of early morning casting long shadows across the streets.


    He dressed quickly, slipping into his usual warlock attire but ensuring that it looked respectable enough for the Sanctum. A rank A warlock was still technically an apprentice in the eyes of the higher-ranked ones, but today was about proving himself. Today, he was going to make it to rank S.


    When he walked downstairs, Victoria was already at the table, sipping blood tea with an unreadable expression. The plates before her were neatly arranged¡ªtoast, eggs, and fresh fruit, all looking surprisingly normal considering she was a vampire. Evelyn, on the other hand, was at the counter, checking over a set of vials and potion bottles, murmuring small incantations under her breath as she double-checked their potency.


    Victoria glanced up first. "Took you long enough," she said smoothly. "I was starting to think you were planning to sleep through the exam."


    Damian smirked, stretching slightly as he took a seat. "Tempting, but I don''t think the Sanctum would appreciate that."


    Evelyn turned, setting down a potion bottle with a sharp click. "They''d probably just drag you there themselves," she said. "Here." She picked up a small pouch and tossed it toward him. Damian caught it with ease, peeking inside.


    "Mana restoration, stamina recovery, and a basic healing potion," Evelyn listed off. "All within the regulations. You''re allowed to bring items for survival, just nothing offensive."


    "Good," Damian muttered, securing the pouch to his belt. "At least that means no one can sneak in an explosive crystal and blow up half the arena."


    Victoria''s lips curved slightly. "You sound so optimistic."


    Damian grabbed a piece of toast and took a bite. "Just realistic."


    Evelyn crossed her arms. "You sure you''re ready for this?"


    He met her gaze, chewing thoughtfully before swallowing. "Yeah. I''m ready."


    Victoria set down her cup. "Careful, Damian. Even if you are ready, there are others who will see you as a threat. The exam is dangerous not just because of the trials, but because of the participants."


    Evelyn nodded. "Some people will do anything to win. Just don''t let your guard down."


    Damian smirked. "You guys are making it sound like I''m walking into a death match."


    Victoria arched a brow. "Aren''t you?"


    "...Fair point."


    Evelyn sighed, but a small smile played on her lips. "Be careful, alright? We''ll come watch later."


    Victoria leaned back, crossing one leg over the other. "Yes, we must witness our dear warlock proving himself."


    Damian rolled his eyes. "I love how much confidence you two have in me."


    "Good," Victoria said simply. "Then show us that it''s justified."


    Damian took another bite of his toast, chewing as he watched Victoria swirl her tea with an amused smirk. Evelyn was still sorting through the rest of the potions, muttering small incantations under her breath to ensure their effectiveness.


    Victoria arched a brow. "You''re awfully quiet. Getting nervous?"


    Damian scoffed. "I don''t get nervous."


    Evelyn snorted. "Liar. You get nervous, you just pretend you don''t."


    He smirked. "Alright, maybe a little. But that''s just part of the fun."


    Victoria set her cup down, resting her chin in her hand as she studied him. "Fun? That''s an interesting way to put it."


    Damian leaned back in his chair. "What? You don''t think risking my life in front of a crowd of judgmental officials sounds like a blast?"


    Evelyn rolled her eyes. "Oh yes, so much fun. Maybe next time you can try fighting a dragon while blindfolded. That would really complete the experience."


    Damian pointed at her. "That actually sounds kind of interesting."


    Victoria sighed dramatically. "If you die, I''m going to be very annoyed. Do you know how difficult it is to find a warlock who''s both competent and entertaining?"


    Damian chuckled. "I appreciate your faith in me."


    Evelyn crossed her arms. "We''re serious, Damian. The S-rank exam isn''t just some test. It''s brutal. People die."


    He met her gaze, his smirk fading just slightly. "I know." He tapped the side of his head. "And I''m ready for it."


    Victoria lifted a brow. "Are you?"


    "I guess we''ll find out." Damian stood, adjusting his coat. "Alright then." He grabbed the pouch of potions and secured it properly before heading toward the door. "Wish me luck."


    Evelyn smirked. "You don''t need luck."


    Victoria raised her cup in a mock toast. "Luck is for mortals."


    Damian chuckled, shaking his head as he stepped out onto the street.


    Instead of heading to Cassius'' place, he made his way directly to the Sanctum of Trials. The streets were bustling with life, but Damian paid little attention to the noise of the city. His mind was focused, his steps steady. The weight of the upcoming test sat on his shoulders, but it wasn''t an unfamiliar feeling. He had been through worse. He had fought stronger enemies, faced more dangerous odds. But this... this was different.


    This was stepping back into a world that once tried to break him.


    Discover stories with My Virtual Library Empire


    As the Sanctum came into view, towering with its arcane symbols and imposing structure, Damian exhaled slowly. His eyes scanned the entrance, spotting Cassius already waiting for him.


    Cassius, as usual, didn''t even glance his way at first. He had his arms crossed, observing the other exam participants who were already gathering at the entrance.


    "Glad to see you actually showed up," Cassius finally said as Damian approached.

 Chapter 273: Exam Day [Part 2]

    Warlock Ch 273. Exam Day [Part 2]


    "Would''ve been rude to waste your time," Damian quipped.


    Cassius scoffed. "You''re still good at talking."


    "It''s a skill," Damian grinned before his expression grew more serious. "So, any last-minute advice?"


    Cassius finally looked at him, his sharp gaze assessing. "The exam is different every time. No one knows exactly what the trials will be until they''re announced. But one thing remains the same¡ªonly the strongest make it through. The ones who hesitate, the ones who underestimate their opponents... they don''t."


    Damian nodded, rolling his shoulders. "Got it."


    Cassius eyed him for a moment longer before exhaling. "Don''t get killed."


    Damian smirked. "You say that like it''d be easy."


    Cassius shook his head. "For most people, it would be. For you? I have my doubts."


    Damian chuckled, stepping toward the entrance. "Guess we''ll see."


    He walked through the grand doors of the Sanctum and could feel the eyes of the officials, the other participants, and the watching audience all turn toward him. The expectation settled on his shoulders.


    He wouldn''t just survive this exam.


    He was going to dominate it.


    Damian stepped deeper into the Sanctum. All the watching eyes barely fazed him. He could already feel the tension thick in the air, the anticipation humming between the participants as they awaited the exam''s details. The Sanctum officials moved like clockwork, their robed figures gliding across the stone floor, their voices hushed but firm as they directed exam candidates toward the designated hall. Read the latest on My Virtual Library Empire


    And then, just as he reached the waiting area, he saw her.


    Selena.


    The fae princess.


    His gaze flickered toward her immediately, though he forced himself to remain composed. The investigation he and Cassius had conducted over the past week had confirmed what he already suspected¡ªSelena wasn''t just some noble playing pretend in the commoner''s exam. She was royalty. The fae princess.


    And yet, here she was, standing among commoner magi and warlocks as if she belonged, her simple dress and lack of extravagant accessories making her look oddly... unassuming. If it weren''t for the way she carried herself¡ªwith that effortless grace and confidence that only someone born into power could possess¡ªshe could have passed for an ordinary participant.


    Her knight was, as always, close by. The elven combat mage stood like a sentry at her side, his sharp eyes scanning the room as if daring someone to get too close.


    Damian forced himself to look away, slipping into his usual relaxed posture. Cassius, however, caught the shift in his attention.


    "You''re looking again," Cassius muttered, not even bothering to lift his gaze from the roster he had been reviewing.


    "Of course, I am," Damian replied under his breath. "She''s a fae princess who voluntarily chose to take the commoner''s exam instead of the noble or royal paths. That doesn''t scream ''suspicious'' to you?"


    Cassius finally glanced at him. "Oh, it absolutely does. But let me guess¡ªyou want to know why?"


    Damian scoffed. "Obviously. And since you love digging up dirt, I assume you already figured it out."


    Cassius shrugged. "You give me too much credit. Even I don''t know why she''s doing this."


    Damian blinked. "Wait. You''re telling me you don''t know?"


    "I said what I said." Cassius tucked the roster away and crossed his arms. "Selena''s reasons are a mystery even to the fae council. No official records, no political maneuvering that suggests why she''d do this. It''s like she just... woke up one day and decided this was the path she wanted."


    Damian''s brows furrowed. "That makes no damn sense."


    "Agreed."


    They both stood in silence for a moment, watching as Selena greeted one of the Sanctum officials with a polite nod. The official, clearly taken aback, bowed deeply before leading her toward the registration desk. Even among royals, fae princesses were rare to see in these circles. The reaction was expected.


    "Do you think it has anything to do with me?" Damian finally asked.


    Cassius sighed. "I don''t know. Maybe. It wouldn''t be the first time your past decided to haunt you in unexpected ways."


    Damian exhaled slowly, rubbing his temples. "Great. Just what I needed."


    Cassius smirked. "You''re handling this better than I expected."


    Damian shot him a dry look. "Oh, trust me, I''m screaming internally."


    Cassius chuckled. "Well, keep it together. The last thing we need is for you to attract any more attention than you already do."


    "Too late for that," Damian muttered, glancing up just in time to see Selena''s eyes flicker toward him.


    Their gazes met¡ªjust for a second.


    It was brief, barely a moment, but something passed between them. Recognition? Curiosity? Something. Damian wasn''t sure, but his gut told him this wasn''t the second time they had locked eyes. And judging by the slight tilt of her head, the almost imperceptible narrowing of her gaze, Selena felt the same way.


    Once again, the moment was broken when her knight stepped forward, placing himself subtly between them. A silent warning. Damian smirked to himself. ''Protective. As expected.''


    Cassius followed his gaze and let out a quiet sigh. "Try not to make enemies before the exam even starts."


    "Try telling him that," Damian murmured, nodding toward the elven knight. "Pretty sure he already hates me though I didn''t do anything."


    Cassius smirked. "That''s an improvement. Normally, you get yourself nearly assassinated within the first five minutes."


    "Hey, I''m learning," Damian grinned, then turned serious again. "So, what now? Do we ignore her?"


    Cassius considered it for a moment. "For now, yes. Until we know what she wants, it''s better to observe."


    Damian nodded, slipping his hands into his pockets as he leaned against one of the pillars. "Fine. But something tells me she won''t be easy to ignore."


    As if proving his point, Selena turned away from the officials and started walking again, her stride was confident. But when she passed by, she paused¡ªjust slightly¡ªbefore continuing on.


    Damian let out a slow breath. ''Yep. Definitely not going to be easy,'' he thought.

 Chapter 274: Only One Winner

    Warlock Ch 274. Only One Winner


    Damian let out a slow breath. ''Yep. Definitely not going to be easy,'' he thought.


    The murmurs in the hall rose as the officials stepped forward, their robes billowing slightly from the lingering magical energy in the air. The anticipation thickened, a silent weight pressing down on the room as the Sanctum official, an older magus with a deep voice and sharp eyes, cleared his throat.


    "Attention, all exam participants," his voice carried through the chamber, cutting through the noise. "The Rank S exam will begin shortly. Once it starts, no participants will be allowed to leave. If any of you wish to withdraw, now is your final chance."


    Silence.


    No one moved at first, but then a few hesitant glances were exchanged. One warlock¡ªa younger man who looked barely old enough to take this exam¡ªfidgeted before stepping back toward the exit. A second later, another participant followed. A few more hesitated, shifting on their feet, but ultimately, no mass exodus occurred.


    Damian smirked to himself. Expected.


    The official continued. "The trial will be divided into three segments. The details of each trial will be revealed once the exam begins. You will not be given time to prepare between them."


    Another round of murmurs rippled through the hall. Some participants looked uneasy, gripping their weapons or adjusting their robes as if already regretting their decision to stay.


    "As always, the Sanctum does not guarantee the safety of any participant." The official''s tone was cold, almost indifferent. "Injuries, curses, or even death are possible outcomes. Should you choose to remain, you do so at your own risk."


    This time, a few more people walked away.


    Damian remained relaxed, arms crossed over his chest, watching as the weaker-willed ones made their exit. He didn''t blame them. This wasn''t a test for the faint-hearted.


    Then the official dropped the real bomb.


    "This year," the man said, his voice heavy, "only one participant will pass."


    The reaction was instant.


    A wave of shocked whispers filled the chamber. Some voices raised in protest. Continue your adventure at My Virtual Library Empire


    "What?! Only one?!"


    "That''s insane!"


    "There''s always at least three or four who make it through!"


    "I came all this way for this?!"


    Damian''s smirk widened as he leaned toward Cassius, his voice low enough that only the warlock beside him could hear. "Reminds you of the past, huh?"


    Cassius barely reacted, only exhaling slightly. "Yeah... back then, there was only supposed to be one who passed."


    Damian hummed. "And yet, somehow, we both did."


    Cassius gave him a side glance. "Because we were too damn stubborn to let the other win."


    Damian chuckled. "Some things never change."


    The officials waited patiently for the murmurs to die down before continuing.


    "There is no negotiating this rule," the older magus stated. "This year, only one rank S position is available. If you wish to step down, the door is still open."


    This time, no one moved.


    The ones who had already decided to leave had gone. The ones who remained were either desperate, foolish, or strong enough to believe they could win. Maybe a mix of all three.


    Damian''s gaze flickered toward Selena. She stood tall, unmoving, her expression unreadable. If she was rattled by the announcement, she didn''t show it. But her knight, Alric, was clearly unhappy. He leaned in to whisper something to her, but she merely shook her head slightly, her resolve clear.


    Cassius muttered, "So much for trying to keep a low profile."


    Damian shrugged. "Not like we had a choice. This was always going to get messy."


    A different Sanctum official stepped forward. "With that, we shall begin preparations for the first segment. All participants will follow the attendants through the designated passageway."


    Damian straightened as the large doors on the far side of the chamber creaked open.


    "Well," he murmured, "let''s get started."


    Cassius smirked. "Try not to die."


    Damian shot him a grin. "I won''t."


    And with that, he stepped forward into the unknown, just like he had done all those years ago.


    The doors shut behind them with a resounding boom, sealing them inside the vast, dark chamber. Shadows stretched long across the polished stone floors, and the only source of illumination came from dimly glowing runes inscribed into the walls. The energy in the air crackled, thick with latent magic, a warning of what was to come.


    Damian stood among the other participants, arms crossed, his gaze flicking over the crowd. The tension was almost palpable. No one spoke, though their eyes darted toward one another with wary glances. Everyone here understood what was about to happen¡ªthis was no ordinary test. This was a culling.


    A voice echoed through the chamber, amplified by magic.


    "This is Segment One. The Abyssal Labyrinth. It will test your survival and resource management."


    A murmur rippled through the participants. Some shifted uneasily, others squared their shoulders in preparation.


    The voice continued, unfazed. "Your objective is simple. Escape the labyrinth while collecting five sigils. The sigils are held by abyssal creatures that roam the maze. Each of you begins with nothing. You must find your own resources, fight your own battles, and secure your own sigils. Those without five sigils at the end of the round will be eliminated."


    Damian frowned slightly. ''So they really are forcing direct competition... Figures.''


    "The deeper you go, the more dangerous the monsters and traps become. The exit will only appear once half of the participants have been eliminated."


    That was when the real uproar began.


    "What?!"


    "Half?!"


    "They want us to kill each other off?!"


    "This isn''t a damn test! It''s a death match!"


    Damian barely flinched as voices rose in outrage around him. He just sighed, rubbing his temples. ''Of course, they made it brutal. Rank S isn''t for the weak, after all.''


    Among the chaos, his gaze flickered toward Selena. The fae princess stood motionless, her posture perfectly poised despite the clear hostility brewing in the air.


    Damian frowned. ''Why is she even here? A princess willingly stepping into something this brutal? Either she''s reckless, or she has a damn good reason.''


    Before he could think too much about it, the ground beneath them began to glow. The magic circle spanning the floor pulsed ominously, and Damian immediately recognized the signs.


    Teleportation magic.


    "Damn," he muttered, just as the floor beneath him vanished.

 Chapter 275: Temporary Alliance

    Warlock Ch 275. Temporary Alliance


    He landed on his feet, the impact light but disorienting. The sensation of teleportation was never pleasant¡ªlike being yanked through space by an unseen force.


    Around him, towering stone walls loomed, stretching impossibly high into the darkness. The Abyssal Labyrinth lived up to its name. A shifting maze, where the pathways twisted and changed at random. Already, he could feel the air thrumming with magic, warping reality itself.


    Damian inhaled, steadying himself. ''Alright, time to move.''


    A low growl echoed from somewhere deep within the corridor ahead.


    ''And time to fight.''


    He muttered under his breath, "This is going to be a long day."


    Before he took his first step, he heard a voice¡ªa familiar one.


    "I know you''re there, warlock."


    Damian turned sharply.


    Selena.


    The fae princess stood at the far end of the corridor, her pale hair glowing faintly in the dim light.


    Damian let out a slow breath, forcing himself to remain calm. "And here I thought I was being subtle."


    Selena''s lips quirked slightly. "You weren''t."


    Damian took a step closer, hands casually tucked in his pockets. "Let me guess. You want an alliance."


    "Yes," Selena answered.


    Damian arched a brow. "Bold move. Why me?"


    Selena met his gaze directly. "Because you''re strong."


    Damian chuckled, shaking his head. "Flattery will get you nowhere, princess."


    Selena remained unfazed. "You don''t need to trust me. Just work with me."


    He studied her for a long moment. Her expression was unreadable, but her body language was composed¡ªtoo composed. She wasn''t desperate, wasn''t afraid. She was confident.


    Which meant she was either hiding something, or she had enough faith in her abilities that she truly believed she could hold her own.


    Damian exhaled through his nose. "Fine. Temporary alliance."


    Selena smirked slightly. "Then let''s get started."


    A sound echoed from the corridor ahead¡ªsomething shifting, something big.


    Damian rolled his shoulders. "Guess we''re about to see if this alliance is worth it." Your next read is at My Virtual Library Empire


    Soon, the ground trembled beneath them, and a guttural, ear-splitting screech tore through the air. Then came the growls. Five hulking creatures emerged from the shifting shadows of the labyrinth''s corridors, their bodies pulsating with abyssal energy, their glowing crimson eyes scanning the room full of prey.


    "[Observation]"


    [Observation Activated. Analyzing¡ª]


    Abyssal Reapers <Level 91>


    Race: Abyssal Construct


    Weaknesses: Holy Magic, High-Powered Fire Attacks, Mental Disruption


    Abilities: Shadow Rend, Void Pulse, Abyssal Regeneration, Summon Minions.


    Damian exhaled sharply. ''Yeah... we need to get the hell out of here.''


    Chaos erupted instantly. Nearly a hundred participants had been crammed into this segment of the labyrinth, and now the battlefield had turned into sheer madness. The creatures wasted no time¡ªone of the Abyssal Reapers lunged at a nearby warlock, its jagged claws tearing through the man''s defensive barrier like it was paper. Blood splattered the ground as the participant was thrown into the air before being slammed into the wall with a sickening crunch.


    Selena barely flinched. "Prepare to fight them."


    Damian''s eyes flicked around, taking in the sheer chaos. Participants were already casting spells, weapons igniting in different hues of magical energy. The air buzzed with mana, and he could already feel the monstrous creatures locking onto those who used magic the most.


    ''They''re drawn to magic.'' Damian clenched his jaw. ''Too many people. Too much energy in one space. This place is about to become a slaughterhouse.''


    He grabbed Selena''s wrist. "No. We need to go. Now."


    Selena frowned. "Why?"


    "Too crowded. This place will be a massacre. If you want to survive, trust me."


    She hesitated for a fraction of a second, but then nodded. "Fine."


    The creatures roared, one of them slamming its claws into the ground, sending jagged void spikes through the stone beneath their feet. The attack sent multiple participants flying¡ªsome screamed in agony as dark energy ate away at their flesh.


    Damian didn''t wait. He yanked Selena forward and sprinted toward the outer edge of the chaos.


    Selena barely had time to adjust before he shouted, "Speed up your agility! We''re breaking through them!"


    With no hesitation, Selena chanted, her body glowing faintly. Her [Fae Windstride] activated, boosting her agility and allowing her to move almost weightlessly.


    Damian activated [Spectral Surge], his body surging with raw speed and power. The world blurred as he and Selena dashed forward.


    The second Abyssal Reaper lunged at them, claws flashing.


    Damian was about to use his [Shadow Step], but he couldn''t. It was too flashy. Instead, he sped up and reappeared mid-air behind the monster. He twisted his body, summoning [Hellfire Spear], and hurled it toward the creature''s exposed back.


    The fiery projectile speared through its shoulder, detonating on impact with a violent burst of searing flames. The creature screeched in rage, its flesh regenerating instantly. ''Tch. Regeneration.'' Damian gritted his teeth.


    Selena, still in motion, weaved through the combatants like a ghost. A participant tried to grab her in desperation, but she flicked her wrist, a faint shimmer of golden dust dispersing from her palm. [Fae Dust: Confusion]¡ªthe man immediately lost his focus, spinning in place before stumbling away.


    Ahead of them, the path was blocked by another Reaper, its claws raised.


    Selena''s eyes flashed. "Allow me."


    She raised her hands, whispering a spell. A surge of emerald light spiraled around her fingers before a [Fae Thornbind] spell lashed forward. Razor-sharp vines erupted from the ground, snaring the creature''s limbs and momentarily holding it in place.


    "Move!" she ordered.


    Damian didn''t hesitate. He surged forward, summoning [Dark Chains] as he passed. The cursed chains wrapped around the Reaper, weakening it further.


    Selena leaped over its immobilized body with graceful ease. Damian followed, landing beside her just as they cleared the chaos behind them.


    The roar of battle still raged on behind them. Bodies slammed into walls, spells exploded, and screams echoed through the labyrinth as the carnage unfolded.


    Selena glanced at him. "So what now?"


    Damian exhaled, rolling his shoulders. "Now? We keep moving before they realize there are more monsters ahead of them. Why stuck at the entrance? Besides, the place is too cramped they will have a hard time attacking and the attacks will land on each other."


    A distant explosion shook the maze. Followed by some painful grunts.


    Selena muttered, "You are right."


    "Get used to it," Damian said, smirking. "Now, let''s find those sigils."

 Chapter 276: The Abyssal Labyrinth [Part 1]

    Warlock Ch 276. The Abyssal Labyrinth [Part 1]


    The deeper they ventured into the labyrinth, the quieter it became. The sounds of battle faded behind them, replaced by an eerie silence. The shifting walls of the maze groaned and creaked, rearranging themselves in real-time, making every step feel like walking into the unknown.


    Selena was focused, her gaze sharp as she scanned their surroundings. "The others are too busy fighting back there. If we keep moving forward, we''ll avoid unnecessary fights."


    Damian chuckled. "Oh? Does that mean you''re trusting me now?"


    She shot him a look. "Let''s not get ahead of ourselves."


    They pressed on. The corridors twisted unpredictably, occasionally revealing dead ends or sudden drops. The deeper they went, the more the oppressive energy of the Abyssal Labyrinth thickened. It clung to their skin, making the air feel heavy.


    Then, just as they turned a corner, another hulking form emerged ahead of them.


    Guardian Abyssal Reaper <Level. 91>


    Selena tensed, preparing to summon her magic, but Damian grabbed her wrist. "No."


    She frowned. "Why not?"


    Damian smirked. "Because we''re not fighting it. We''re passing it."


    Selena narrowed her eyes. "You want to sneak around it?"


    "Exactly," Damian said, his voice relaxed as if he were suggesting something as simple as a morning stroll. "These monsters are perfect distractions. If other participants come this way, they''ll have to deal with it. Not us."


    Selena hesitated for a moment but then nodded. "Fine. But if it notices us, we fight."


    Damian grinned. "Fair deal."


    They moved carefully, keeping to the shadows, their footsteps silent as they slipped past the massive creature. It stood motionless, its jagged claws twitching as if sensing something, but it did not turn toward them.


    Just as they passed, however, a distant explosion from the earlier battlefield echoed through the corridors, sending a vibration through the floor.


    The Abyssal Reaper''s head jerked upward, its glowing crimson eyes flaring to life. A guttural growl rumbled in its throat as it turned in the direction of the noise.


    Damian gave Selena a smug look. "See? It''s got bigger problems."


    They hurried forward without looking back.


    After what felt like another half-hour of maneuvering through the shifting labyrinth, they encountered their next challenge¡ªa pack of five Abyssal Reapers blocking the only clear passage forward.


    Selena cursed under her breath. "Five of them. No sneaking past this time."


    Damian sighed dramatically, cracking his knuckles. "Guess it''s time to stretch a little."


    Selena shot him a look. "You''re acting way too calm about this."


    "Relax," Damian said, his tone casual. "If we keep our heads, this will be fun."


    Selena didn''t reply, but she could see it¡ªthe absolute confidence in his stance, the lack of tension in his body. He wasn''t just prepared. He was enjoying this.


    Selena tightened her grip, her eyes narrowing as the five Abyssal Reapers spread out, their distorted, wraith-like forms flickering as they stalked forward. The creatures loomed over them, grotesque and monstrous¡ªeach over three meters tall, their elongated claws dripping with corrosive shadow energy. Their faces were twisted into skeletal grins, empty eye sockets burning with abyssal fire.


    Their raspy breaths filled the corridor, an eerie synchronization of death and decay.


    Selena glanced at Damian, her stance firm. "We need to take them out fast."


    Damian stretched his shoulders, rolling his neck lazily. "Relax. We''re not in a rush."


    Selena looked at him like he was insane. "Are you¡ª?!"


    A piercing shriek interrupted her. One of the Reapers lunged, claws swiping downward, aiming to rip through Damian''s chest.


    He didn''t move.


    At the last second, a mass of obsidian rock erupted from the ground.


    His Stoneback Golem.


    The Reaper''s claws scraped uselessly against the hardened stone.


    Damian sighed. "Tsk. Rude."


    He flicked his wrist, and a serpentine shadow slithered between the golem''s legs.


    His Spectral Serpent.


    The transparent creature darted forward, coiling around the nearest Abyssal Reaper and sinking its fangs into its spectral flesh. The Reaper shrieked, its form writhing as venom pulsed through it.


    Selena leaped into action, spinning mid-air as shimmering fae runes spiraled around her. She whispered an incantation. [Fae Starlight Burst]. Golden energy exploded outward, slamming into the second Reaper and sending it flying into the stone wall with a sickening crunch.


    Damian grinned. "Nice."


    "No time for compliments¡ªmove!" she shouted, twisting as she dodged another claw strike.


    Damian casually stepped aside as one of the Reapers swiped at him. He didn''t even bother countering immediately, letting the monster stumble forward from the failed attack.


    "Wow," he muttered. "For high-level creatures, they sure lack patience."


    The Abyssal Reaper turned on him with a snarl.


    Damian exhaled dramatically and raised a hand. [Dark Chains].


    The moment he activated the skill, jet-black chains shot from the ground, wrapping around the Reaper''s limbs. It screeched, thrashing violently, but the chains tightened, rendering it immobile.


    Selena twirled her fingers, vines bursting from the earth as she cast [Fae Thornbind] on another Reaper. Its skeletal body struggled against the thick, thorny vines constricting its frame.


    "That makes two," Damian noted casually.


    The remaining three Abyssal Reapers weren''t waiting around. They roared in unison, their eyes burning brighter as they lunged forward at the same time.


    Selena flipped backward, avoiding their razor-sharp claws by inches. "This is getting out of hand!"


    Damian yawned. "Nah. I''ve got it."


    [Dark Dominion]


    A suffocating wave of dark energy exploded from Damian, flooding the chamber in an oppressive aura of terror. The Reapers faltered, their bodies trembling as if some primal fear had been awakened inside them.


    Selena shuddered. "Okay, that was excessive."


    Damian smirked. "Had to remind them who''s in charge."


    Two of the Reapers screeched and lunged toward him, resisting the Terror effect. He clicked his tongue. "Fine, fine."


    With a snap of his fingers, [Hellfire Spear] manifested in his grasp, crackling with dark crimson flames. He twirled it once before launching it straight into one of the Reapers'' skulls.


    -BOOM!


    The creature''s head exploded into nothingness, its body convulsing before vanishing into shadowy mist.


    Selena didn''t miss a beat, raising her hand as shimmering golden glyphs formed around her. She thrust her palm forward, unleashing [Fae Moonfall Strike], a concentrated beam of pure fae energy.


    The light carved straight through the chest of the second Reaper, obliterating it in a flash.


    Three down. Two to go.

 Chapter 277: The Abyssal Labyrinth [Part 2]

    Warlock Ch 277. The Abyssal Labyrinth [Part 2]


    Selena turned, panting lightly. "Almost done."


    Damian cracked his knuckles. "Let''s wrap this up."


    The last two Reapers¡ªone still bound in vines, the other restrained by chains¡ªlet out unholy screeches as they struggled.


    Damian casually walked toward the one he had captured. He reached forward, placing his hand against its forehead.


    "Shh," he whispered mockingly. "Just go to sleep."


    With a sharp twist of his wrist, [Curse of Agony] activated.


    The Reaper convulsed violently as blackened veins spread across its body. It let out one final shriek before collapsing into dust.


    Selena turned toward the final Reaper, still bound by her vines. Her eyes gleamed. "My turn."


    She raised her hand high, and the vines tightened like a noose. The Reaper struggled, but the thorns embedded themselves deeper.


    Selena whispered a single word. "Perish."


    A pulse of light erupted from her palm. The vines exploded, ripping the Reaper apart.


    The battlefield fell silent.


    Damian let out a long breath, rolling his shoulders. "Well, that was fun."


    Selena shot him an incredulous look. "You enjoyed that?"


    He grinned. "You didn''t?"


    She huffed, shaking her head as she collected herself. Then, floating above the defeated Reapers, five sigils appeared.


    Damian smirked. "Would you look at that. Free loot."


    Selena reached out and plucked one from the air. "Don''t get cocky. We''re far from done."


    Damian grabbed the remaining sigils, tucking them away. "Oh, I know. But let''s be real¡ªnone of the other participants are going to have as much fun as we are."


    She sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose. "Let''s just move."


    Damian chuckled as they continued deeper into the abyss, the shadows shifting hungrily around them. The air was thick with an eerie silence, broken only by the occasional distant echo of battle somewhere deeper in the labyrinth. He moved with an effortless ease, hands tucked into his pockets as if he was taking a casual stroll through a garden instead of a death trap filled with monsters and desperate participants.


    Selena, on the other hand, was deep in thought. Her golden eyes flickered to the warlock beside her, watching as he whistled a nameless tune, completely unbothered by the carnage that had just unfolded behind them.


    She had chosen to ally with him based on instinct, something in her gut told her he was the right choice. But now, walking beside him, she was beginning to question whether she made the right decision. He resembled the warlock she had been looking for¡ªthe same dark, unruly hair, the same air of effortless confidence, the same damn smirk. But there was something else, something unsettling.


    The masked warlock from her past¡ªif he were here, he''d be doing the same thing. Walking carelessly, as if none of this mattered. As if danger itself was nothing but a minor inconvenience.


    Damian suddenly tilted his head toward her, catching her staring. "You''re awfully quiet, princess," he mused, his smirk widening. "What''s the matter? Missing your knight already?"


    Selena blinked, pulled out of her thoughts. "No," she answered smoothly, shaking her head. "I just feel like... we''ve met before."


    Damian raised an eyebrow, his pace slowing slightly. "Have we?"


    "I don''t know," she admitted. "You seem... familiar."


    He let out a short laugh. "I get that a lot."


    She tilted her head, scrutinizing him. "What''s your name?"


    "Damian," he answered simply, then smirked. "Damian Blackthorn."


    "Nice to meet you, Damian," she said, her voice smooth but her eyes still studying him. "I assume you already know my name, since you keep calling me ''princess''?"


    "Yeah," he admitted with a shrug. "Hard not to. A royal fae taking the S-rank exam? That''s not something you see every day."


    Selena''s expression didn''t change. "And I don''t understand why you''re taking this exam," he continued. "Why not take the royal route? It''s safer."


    She hesitated for a second, then smirked. "And here I thought you''d be the last person to question someone about making reckless choices."


    "Touche?," Damian said with a grin, kicking a loose stone out of his way. "But seriously. This isn''t the kind of place for someone like you."


    "And what kind of place is it?" she asked, tilting her head slightly.


    "The kind where people will do anything to win. The kind where alliances mean nothing when survival is on the line. The kind where a single mistake gets you killed," he said casually, as if he were talking about the weather.


    Selena didn''t flinch. Instead, she held his gaze and said, "Then why are you here?"


    Damian chuckled. "Fair question. I guess I like a challenge."


    "Liar," she said bluntly.


    His grin widened. "Maybe."


    Selena studied him for a moment longer before finally looking away. "And what about you?" Damian asked. "What''s your reason?"


    She hesitated, her fingers brushing the hilt of the hidden dagger strapped to her thigh. "I have my reasons."


    "That''s not an answer, princess."


    "It''s the only one you''re getting."


    Damian let out an exaggerated sigh. "Fine. Be all mysterious about it."


    "You''re one to talk," she muttered.


    Damian smirked. "Fair."


    The silence returned, but this time it wasn''t as heavy. Selena still seemed lost in thought, but at least she was engaging with him now. And as much as she tried to hide it, Damian could tell she was watching him, still trying to figure him out.


    She wouldn''t be the first.


    They continued walking, the path twisting and shifting ahead of them like a living thing. The deeper they went, the more the air thickened with dark mana, pressing against their skin like an unseen force.


    Selena finally broke the silence again. "You fight like someone who''s been through this before."


    Damian chuckled. "What gave it away?"


    "You don''t hesitate. You don''t even look surprised when things go south. And you never take a fight seriously unless you have to."


    Damian shrugged. "Some people fight to survive. I fight because it''s fun."


    Selena frowned. "That''s a dangerous mindset."


    "Is it?" He grinned. "Or is it the best one to have in a place like this?"


    She sighed, shaking her head. "You''re reckless."


    "You''re observant."

 Chapter 278: The Abyssal Labyrinth [Part 3]

    Warlock Ch 278. The Abyssal Labyrinth [Part 3]


    She gave him a dry look. "That wasn''t a compliment."


    "Wasn''t it?"


    Selena huffed but didn''t respond. Damian just chuckled again.


    They walked for a few more minutes before Damian suddenly stopped. Selena noticed immediately.


    "What is it?" she asked.


    Damian''s expression didn''t change, but his voice dropped slightly. "We''re not alone."


    "Monsters?"


    "No," he said slowly, eyes scanning the shifting darkness around them. "Other participants."


    Selena''s eyes flickered. "They''re watching us."


    "Mm-hm," Damian hummed. "Waiting for the right moment."


    Selena turned slightly, scanning the shadows. "How many?"


    Damian tilted his head, listening. "Three. Maybe four."


    "And what do we do?"


    He grinned. "We wait."


    "For what?"


    "For them to make the first move."


    Selena narrowed her eyes. "And if they don''t?"


    "Oh, they will," Damian said, rolling his shoulders. "People get impatient when they think they have the upper hand."


    Selena didn''t argue, but she kept her senses sharp, waiting for the inevitable.


    And sure enough, a few moments later, the air shifted.


    A faint rustling. A flicker of movement.


    Then¡ªan attack.


    Damian smirked.


    "Finally."


    Damian smirked as the first masked combat mage lunged at them, a blade wreathed in crackling energy aimed straight for his throat. He shifted his weight at the last moment, dodging effortlessly as the blade sliced through empty air. His grin widened. "Oh, you guys are quick. This might actually be fun."


    Selena moved beside him, her stance shifting into a defensive posture. Unlike Damian, who treated this like a game, she was focused, her entire body coiled like a spring, ready to strike. The second attacker closed in, hands glowing with golden sigils as he unleashed a wave of arcane energy straight at them.


    Damian clicked his tongue and raised a hand. [Shadow Barrier]! A shimmering dark field erupted between them, absorbing the blast in an instant. The force sent ripples through the air, but Damian didn''t even flinch. "Nice try," he muttered. "But you''re gonna have to do better than that."


    The third and fourth assailants circled from the sides, their movements coordinated, precise. Damian noted their form¡ªtrained, disciplined, and moving with lethal intent. These weren''t just random participants trying to eliminate the competition. No, they had a specific target.


    His eyes flickered toward Selena.


    They weren''t after the sigils.


    They were after her.


    His smirk faltered slightly. "Huh. That''s interesting."


    Selena didn''t respond, too focused on the mage in front of her. The attacker raised his hands, the glowing runes on his arms shifting as he chanted under his breath. A second later, chains of golden light shot forward, wrapping around her wrists like living snakes.


    Selena gritted her teeth and yanked back, but the bindings held firm. "Watch out!"


    "On it," he cut in, already moving. He extended a hand, [Dark Chains]! The magic roared to life as his own obsidian-black chains surged forward, slamming into the golden ones, shattering them in an instant.


    Selena broke free, flipping backward just in time to avoid a blade aimed for her ribs. She landed smoothly, her violet eyes flashing with understanding. "They''re trying to capture me," she said.


    "Yup," Damian confirmed, blocking another strike from an enemy''s sword with a flick of his wrist. "So, princess, who did you piss off enough to get assassins after you?"


    Selena didn''t answer immediately. Instead, she ducked under a sweeping attack, twisting her body mid-air as she delivered a sharp kick to her opponent''s chest, sending him staggering back. "Does it matter?"


    "Not really," Damian admitted, stepping forward. His magic surged around him, dark energy crackling at his fingertips. "But it does make this more interesting."


    Two attackers charged him at once, one from the front, the other from the side. Damian grinned, [Spectral Surge]! His speed skyrocketed as he twisted his body, narrowly avoiding both strikes. In the same motion, he flicked his hand forward, [Arcane Bolt]! A streak of blue energy shot through the darkness, slamming into the chest of the closest attacker, sending them flying into a nearby wall.


    The other assassin didn''t hesitate, swinging his enchanted sword in a deadly arc. Damian tilted his head, almost lazily, before catching the blade mid-air with his bare hand.


    The assassin''s masked face showed the barest hint of shock.


    Damian grinned. "What, you thought that would work?"


    His grip tightened. Magic pulsed through his veins. [Blood Manipulation]! The veins in the assassin''s arm bulged as Damian forced his own blood to rebel against him. The attacker gasped, dropping the sword, staggering back as his muscles seized. He did it in secret as if the attacker made a mistake.


    Selena took advantage of the opening. She darted in, moving with effortless speed, and slammed her elbow into the assassin''s throat, following up with a sweeping kick that sent him crashing to the ground. She exhaled sharply, eyes flicking to Damian. "You''re enjoying this."


    "Of course I am," Damian said cheerfully. "A surprise assassination attempt? That''s a lot more fun than just killing monsters."


    Selena didn''t reply, but he caught the faintest twitch of her lips before she turned back to the remaining two opponents.


    One of them, the mage who had tried to bind her earlier, had stepped back, hands weaving through the air as he summoned a massive sigil beneath their feet.


    Damian''s grin faded. "Oh, that''s not good."


    The ground beneath them trembled as glowing golden spikes shot upward, forming an intricate magic formation that expanded outward like an ever-growing cage.


    Selena''s eyes narrowed. "They''re sealing us in."


    "Yeah," Damian muttered. "That''s annoying."


    The last assassin lunged toward Selena, his hands wreathed in a violet aura, his fingers curling like claws. A hex, if he had to guess. If that landed, it would either paralyze or transmute her into something weak.


    Not happening.


    Damian moved, [Hellfire Spear]! A burning spear materialized in his hand, glowing with searing heat. He hurled it forward, the weapon slicing through the air before piercing the assassin''s shoulder. The impact sent him staggering back, his hex unraveling into nothing.


    Selena wasted no time. She dashed forward, her hands glowing with raw mana as she formed a blade of pure energy in an instant.

 Chapter 279: Assassination

    Warlock Ch 279. Assassination


    With a precise slash, she severed the assassin''s arm at the elbow before pivoting on her heel and driving her foot into his chest. The force sent him crashing into the nearby wall, where he slumped unconscious, the wound sizzling from the residual magic.


    "That''s three down," she breathed.


    "Yeah, but the last one''s being annoying," Damian muttered, eyeing the mage who was still focusing on his formation.


    Selena frowned. "He''s trying to buy time."


    "To do what?"


    As if in answer, a sudden pulse of mana erupted from the formation. The air grew heavy, thick with something old, something powerful. Damian''s eyes narrowed. "Oh. That."


    A summoning.


    The assassin wasn''t trying to win the fight.


    He was calling for backup.


    "Well, that''s irritating," Damian muttered.


    Selena tensed. "Can you stop it?"


    Damian hummed in thought. "I could, but where''s the fun in that?"


    Selena shot him a look. "Seriously?"


    "Alright, alright," he sighed. "I''ll break it."


    His fingers twitched. "[Void Rift]!" A swirling portal of darkness opened beneath the mage, the gravitational force sucking at his robes. The assassin''s eyes widened as he realized too late what was happening. The pull intensified, dragging him down before swallowing him whole.


    The summoning spell collapsed instantly.


    The formation cracked, then shattered into thousands of glimmering pieces.


    Selena exhaled sharply, her shoulders relaxing. "That was reckless."


    Damian smirked. "You''re welcome."


    She didn''t say thank you. Instead, she turned her gaze toward the unconscious bodies of their attackers. "Who sent them?" she murmured, more to herself than him.


    Damian shrugged. "Beats me. But someone wants you dead, princess."


    Selena frowned but didn''t argue.


    Damian ran a hand through his hair, stretching slightly. "Well, that was fun. But we should keep moving before more show up. We need five more sigils, after all."


    Selena hesitated, then nodded. "Agreed."


    As they stepped past the fallen bodies, Damian stole one last glance at her. She was still composed, still carrying herself like royalty even in the middle of a battlefield. But there was something else now¡ªa flicker of uncertainty in her eyes.


    She was starting to realize something.


    This wasn''t just a test.


    It was a game of survival.


    And someone had just made their first move.


    Damian smirked. "Hope you''re ready, princess."


    Selena didn''t reply.


    But her grip tightened. Selena could feel the fatigue creeping into her limbs, but she refused to let it slow her down. They had come too far to falter now. She turned her gaze to Damian, who, as usual, looked entirely unbothered by their dire situation. His posture was relaxed, almost lazy, as if this was nothing more than a morning jog. It was both infuriating and oddly reassuring.


    They needed five more sigils to advance, and the only way to get them was to take down the monsters that guarded them. That meant another battle, another moment where death loomed closer than before.


    Selena exhaled sharply. "Five more. That''s all we need."


    Damian smirked, his crimson eyes gleaming under the faint luminescence of the labyrinth. "Easy enough. I was hoping for a challenge."


    Selena scoffed. "Because almost getting assassinated wasn''t enough?"


    Damian shrugged, rolling his shoulders as if loosening up before a casual workout. "Eh. Could''ve been harder."


    Before she could retort, a deep, guttural growl echoed through the narrow corridor ahead. The air thickened, the pressure shifting around them as five hulking figures emerged from the shadows. Their elongated, grotesque limbs twitched unnaturally, blackened veins pulsing beneath ashen flesh. Their eyes glowed a sickly yellow, devoid of reason, only primal hunger.


    Abyssal Terrors <Level 92>


    Selena instinctively stepped back, gripping the edge of her tattered cloak. "These aren''t like the others."


    "Nope," Damian said, cracking his knuckles. "They''re uglier."


    The largest of the Abyssal Terrors let out an ear-splitting shriek before lunging. Its elongated claws sliced through the air, aimed directly at Selena. She twisted her body, barely evading the strike, but the sheer force sent a gust of wind strong enough to kick up dust and debris.


    Damian''s hand flicked up. "[Dark Chains]."


    Thick black chains materialized, snaking around the creature''s limbs, halting its movement mid-strike. The Abyssal Terror snarled, its muscles bulging as it thrashed against the restraint.


    Selena didn''t waste time. She darted forward, her mana-infused hands glowing as she pressed her palm against its torso. "[Faebane Pulse]!"


    A burst of pure arcane energy surged through the beast''s body, sending it convulsing before it collapsed, twitching violently. A second later, the glow in its eyes faded, and its body crumbled into black ash.


    Damian let out a low whistle. "Efficient."


    Selena rolled her eyes. "Less talking. More fighting."


    The remaining Abyssal Terrors roared in response to their fallen kin, their frenzy escalating. One of them leaped high, aiming to crash down on Damian.


    Damian clicked his tongue. "[Infernal Javelins]."


    Ten burning spears of molten darkness materialized above him, each crackling with deadly intent before launching toward their target. The spears impaled the monster mid-air, tearing through its torso before detonating in a fiery explosion. The creature''s remains splattered across the stone floor, sizzling as they burned away into nothingness.


    Selena didn''t give herself time to marvel at the display. Two more Abyssal Terrors came at her simultaneously. One from the front, another circling to attack from behind.


    She adjusted her stance, her muscles tensing as she prepared for the assault. The first one swiped at her with elongated claws, but she ducked low, rolling to the side to avoid the follow-up strike. The second beast lunged at her, jaws wide open, but she raised her arms, bracing herself for impact.


    The creature slammed into her, its weight forcing her back as its clawed hands grasped at her shoulders. Gritting her teeth, Selena twisted, using the beast''s own momentum to throw it off balance before slamming her knee into its ribcage.


    Damian saw her struggle and muttered, "Golem."


    With a low rumble, the earth shifted beneath them, and a hulking stone guardian emerged, its massive arms slamming down onto the creature pinning Selena. The Abyssal Terror screeched, its body cracking under the pressure before it was crushed into the dirt.

 Chapter 280: I’m Not Noble Enough For You?

    Warlock Ch 280. I''m Not Noble Enough For You?


    Selena rolled to her feet, panting. "Could''ve done that sooner."


    "Wanted to see if you could handle it," Damian said with a grin.


    She glared at him, but there was no time to argue. The final Abyssal Terror circled them, its movements slower but more calculated. It wasn''t like the others¡ªit was watching, waiting for the right moment to strike.


    Selena steadied her stance. "It''s learning."


    Damian smirked. "Too bad it''s too dumb to realize it''s already lost."


    With a flick of his wrist, he commanded his Spectral Serpent forward. The ghostly snake slithered through the air, its ethereal form flickering as it darted toward the beast. The Abyssal Terror let out a distorted howl as the serpent coiled around its limbs, binding it in place.


    Selena wasted no time. She dashed forward, ducking beneath the monster''s wild swings before driving her mana-infused fist into its skull. The impact sent shockwaves rippling through its body, the corrupted energy within it destabilizing.


    The creature convulsed violently before, at last, its form crumbled into dust, leaving behind the final sigil they needed.


    Damian dusted off his hands. "And that''s five."


    Selena bent over slightly, hands on her knees, catching her breath. "You are seriously not human."


    He grinned. "But you''re impressed, right?"


    Selena huffed, straightening. "Let''s just wait for the exit to open."


    The tension in the air remained thick. Even with their hard-earned sigils, they weren''t out of danger yet. They had no choice but to wait for the labyrinth to claim half of the remaining participants before the exit revealed itself.


    Damian leaned against the stone wall, arms crossed. "So... how long do you think it''ll take?"


    Selena''s fingers twitched slightly. "Considering the level of monsters, assassinations, and people desperate to get ahead? Not long."


    He tilted his head. "You seem really calm for someone who''s being hunted."


    Selena didn''t respond right away. Her eyes flickered with something unreadable before she turned her back to him. "I''ve been through worse."


    Damian raised a brow, watching her with vague amusement. "Right. And yet, you still won''t tell me why you''re really here."


    Selena stiffened for a fraction of a second before relaxing. "Does it matter?"


    He studied her for a moment before shrugging. "Not really. Just curious."


    A few moments of silence passed between them before Selena let out a slow breath.


    "The warlock I''m looking for... he saved me once. A long time ago."


    Damian blinked. "Huh."


    She glanced at him. "That''s all you have to say?"


    "I mean... that''s sweet. A little dramatic. But hey, to each their own."


    Selena rolled her eyes, but didn''t say a word. She couldn''t shake the feeling that she had made a mistake. That he wasn''t him. The warlock from her past, the one who had saved her, had been different¡ªstrong, noble, a mystery that had lingered in her mind for years. Damian, on the other hand, was... well, he was a rogue. A trickster. A man who looked at danger with amusement rather than caution.


    Yet, she had still chosen him.


    Damian''s eyes studied her, his expression unreadable. He wasn''t used to feeling uncertain. His memories had been returning ever since he reawakened, yet there were still gaps. Small ones, insignificant ones. At least, that''s what he had thought. But the voice that echoed in his head when they met for the first time, told him otherwise.


    "Pardon me, princess."


    Before she could react, Damian clamped his hands on either side of her head, tilting her face toward his as he stared into her eyes with unnerving intensity. He wasn''t trying to intimidate her¡ªwell, maybe just a little¡ªbut he was hoping that, by looking at her like this, something would spark. A memory, a moment, a flash of recognition.


    Nothing. Just silence.


    Selena shoved his hands off, her expression somewhere between shock and indignation. "What the hell are you doing?"


    Damian frowned, rubbing his chin. "Nothing. Who knows that warlock is me."


    She huffed, crossing her arms. "You don''t remember me. Because you''re not him." She hesitated, looking away. "A warlock I met a long time ago. A noble warlock."


    He arched a brow, amused. "Oh? And you''re saying I''m not noble enough for you?"


    Selena scoffed. "You look like a rogue."


    Damian smirked. "But you still chose me."


    That made her pause. She hated that he was right. She had chosen him. Despite all logic, despite her better judgment, she had gravitated toward him. Why? Was it because, deep down, she wanted him to be that warlock? Or was it just a coincidence?


    She shook her head. "You just happened to be in the right place at the right time."


    Damian chuckled. "Right. Keep telling yourself that."


    She turned to walk away, but his voice stopped her.


    "If I were this warlock of yours, what would that change?"


    Selena hesitated but didn''t turn around. "Everything."


    Damian watched her closely, his gaze narrowing slightly. "You sound awfully sure of that."


    "I am."


    He could hear the conviction in her voice, but there was something else there too¡ªdoubt. She wasn''t entirely sure. And that was enough for him to push just a little further.


    "You said he saved you," Damian said, stepping beside her. "How? From what?"


    Selena exhaled slowly. "It''s not important."


    "It is to me."


    She turned sharply, eyes narrowing. "Why? Why do you care?"


    Damian was quiet for a moment before he answered. "Because..." He paused, his mind working fast. He couldn''t exactly say ''Hey, I actually lost my memories and I may or may not be the warlock you''re looking for but also, surprise! I''m supposed to be dead.'' That would be a disaster.


    Selena''s lips curled into a smirk of her own. "Cat got your tongue?"


    Damian huffed. "Kinda."


    She folded her arms, eyeing him with mild amusement. "If you''re trying to act noble because of my status, you better forget it. I''ve heard about you before."


    That made him raise a brow. "Oh? Do tell."


    "You''re Cassius'' apprentice, aren''t you? The one who just received an honor from the vampire queen?" She tilted her head. "You seem to have a pretty good righteous instinct."

 Chapter 281: You Didn’t Know My Name?

    Warlock Ch 281. You Didn''t Know My Name?


    Damian couldn''t help but chuckle. "Righteous instinct? That''s a new one."


    Selena gave him a pointed look. "Oh, don''t worry. I''ve also heard that you''re unpredictable and a bit reckless."


    Damian smirked. "Now that sounds more like me."


    She sighed. "Figures."


    He tilted his head. "But if I''m so ''famous,'' why didn''t you know my name before?"


    Selena shrugged. "They only ever called you ''Cassius'' apprentice,'' not your actual name."


    Damian cringed, rubbing the back of his neck. ''Cassius'' apprentice, huh? Not even a name. Just a title.'' He felt like complaining, but¡ªhell, wasn''t this better? If his name wasn''t widely known, it meant fewer people digging into his past. That was a good thing. Right?


    "Well," he muttered, "isn''t that just fantastic."


    Selena smirked. "What? You wanted to be famous?"


    "Not particularly." He sighed dramatically. "But, you know, a little name recognition wouldn''t hurt."


    She rolled her eyes. "Yeah, yeah. Cry me a river."


    Damian smirked, placing a hand on his chest in mock hurt. "Ouch. So cold, Princess. And here I was, thinking we were starting to bond."


    Selena crossed her arms, tilting her head. "I don''t bond with rogues."


    He let out a short laugh. "Yet you picked me over every other participant here."


    She scoffed. "I already told you why."


    "Oh yeah?" He leaned in slightly, his gaze playful but piercing. "And you''re sure that''s the only reason? No secret admiration? No fluttering heart when you saw me in action?"


    Selena''s expression remained unreadable, but there was the slightest twitch in her brow. "Do you want me to fall for you that badly?"


    Damian grinned. "I mean, I wouldn''t mind."


    Selena exhaled sharply through her nose, clearly trying to suppress either laughter or exasperation. "You''re impossible."


    "And yet, here we are," he repeated smoothly, spreading his arms. "Stuck together. Fate is funny like that."


    She gave him a long, unreadable look before shaking her head. "You really don''t act like a normal warlock."


    He grinned. "That''s because I''m not."


    For a split second, her gaze flickered with something¡ªcuriosity, maybe even recognition¡ªbut she masked it quickly. "Well, I hope you at least live up to your reputation."


    Damian smirked. "Oh, don''t worry, Princess. I never disappoint."


    Selena sighed, rubbing her temples. "Okay, so what should we do next? Walking around is dangerous, but waiting here is just as bad. The door still hasn''t opened."


    Damian''s smirk faded slightly as he surveyed their surroundings. The labyrinth walls, shifting and pulsing as if they were alive, seemed to press in closer. They''d already fought enough monsters and gathered enough sigils to pass, but the exit would only open once half the contestants were eliminated. That meant...


    "We''re at a standstill," Damian muttered. "We''ve done everything we need to, but we can''t advance until enough people are out."


    Selena frowned. "Which means either we wait... or we make sure more contestants get eliminated."


    Damian''s eyes gleamed with amusement. "Oh? Is the noble princess suggesting we speed things along? I don''t mind. I love playing around with people."


    "I''m suggesting we don''t sit here like helpless targets," she corrected sharply. "If we stay still, we''re at a disadvantage."


    He stretched his arms lazily. "Fine. So we make a move. But where to? Deeper into the labyrinth, or do we find some unlucky competitors and¡ª" he mimed slashing his throat.


    Selena gave him a flat look. "You enjoy this too much."


    Damian grinned. "Maybe."


    Selena shook her head. "We go deeper. We don''t waste energy fighting unnecessary battles."


    "Boring," Damian drawled. "But fine. Deeper we go."


    They began moving cautiously through the ever-shifting corridors, their footsteps barely making a sound against the eerie stone floor. Damian could sense Selena''s tension¡ªher shoulders were stiff, her fingers twitching slightly, ready to summon magic at a moment''s notice.


    "You''re too tense," he murmured. "Relax a little."


    She shot him a glare. "Relax? We''re in the middle of a death trap."


    "Yes, and panicking will only make you sloppy," he countered. "You were more composed when we were fighting."


    "That''s because I had to be," she said through gritted teeth.


    He smirked. "And now you don''t?"


    She sighed. "I don''t trust this place."


    "Good. You shouldn''t." Damian''s tone was unusually serious. "Labyrinths like these? They don''t just test skill. They test endurance, instincts... and patience."


    Selena exhaled. "So what, we just keep walking and hope we''re not the next ones targeted?"


    Damian glanced at her. "Hope? No. We make sure we''re not the next ones targeted."


    Selena frowned. "How---"


    Before Selena could question him further, the distant sound of footsteps grew louder. Two figures approached cautiously from the labyrinth''s dimly lit corridors. Contestants. And judging by their posture¡ªlow, hesitant, hands near their weapons¡ªthey weren''t just passing by.


    "They''re scouting for prey," Damian whispered, barely moving his lips. "Checking if we''re weak enough to take down."


    Selena kept her gaze forward but her hand twitched slightly, ready to summon magic. "And what do you want to do?"


    Damian grinned. "Let me show you."


    Without warning, he stepped forward, rolling his shoulders as if shaking off tension. The second the contestants locked eyes with him, he let his expression shift¡ªhis casual smirk turning into something wild, unhinged.


    "Well, well," Damian drawled, dragging out his words, his voice low and predatory. "What do we have here?"


    The contestants stiffened.


    One of them, a wiry man with daggers strapped to his thighs, narrowed his eyes. "Who are you?"


    Damian tilted his head, his grin widening. "Me?" His voice took on a playful, mocking tone. "Oh, just a warlock who really needs some sigils." He let out a chuckle¡ªlow at first, then building into a full-blown manic laugh. His head tipped back as if he were drunk on bloodlust.


    The second contestant, a broad-shouldered man gripping a staff, took an uneasy step back. "You''re lying."


    Damian''s grin sharpened. "Am I?"


    Selena watched silently, barely moving. She had seen many types of warlocks before. Those who were strategic, those who were power-hungry, and those who were reckless. But Damian? Right now, he was playing them. And she wasn''t sure if she was more impressed or disturbed.

 Chapter 282: Maniac [Part 1]

    Warlock Ch 282. Maniac [Part 1]


    The first contestant''s hand twitched toward his daggers. "You expect us to believe you don''t have any sigils? That you''ve just been running around empty-handed?"


    Damian took a slow step forward, letting his magic hum around him, flickering like a hungry beast waiting to be unleashed.


    "Believe whatever you want," he whispered, voice barely above a growl. "But I''m starving."


    Then he moved.


    A blur of darkness.


    One second he was standing still, the next he lunged forward, hand outstretched like a predator reaching for its prey. The contestants barely had time to react before he was upon them.


    The dagger-wielder cursed, jumping back just in time. "Shit! He''s fast¡ª!"


    Too late.


    Damian''s hands crackled with energy, and without hesitation, he unleashed [Dark Chains].


    Thick, obsidian chains burst from the ground, wrapping around the second contestant''s staff, yanking it from his grip.


    "Oops," Damian sang mockingly, his grin widening.


    The man panicked, reaching for another spell, but Damian didn''t give him the chance. He lunged again, his speed unnatural. His hand shot forward, grabbing the contestant''s collar and slamming him into the nearest wall.


    The contestant let out a choked sound, gasping as his back hit the stone.


    "Look at you," Damian murmured, his voice dripping with amusement. "So fragile. So weak." He pressed closer, his breath warm against the man''s ear. "You really thought you could take me down?"


    The dagger-wielder hesitated. He was clearly torn between helping his partner and saving himself.


    Damian laughed again¡ªlouder, wilder.


    It was the sound of someone unhinged, someone who enjoyed the thrill of the hunt.


    The contestant flinched.


    And that was all the hesitation Damian needed.


    With a snap of his fingers, [Curse of Agony] activated. The bound contestant let out a strangled scream as his body convulsed, the curse eating away at his energy, sapping his strength.


    The dagger-wielder cursed. "Damn it! We''re wasting time¡ª!"


    Damian turned to him sharply, eyes alight with a manic gleam.


    "Oh no, no, no," he cooed. "The fun''s just getting started."


    With a flick of his wrist, [Dark Dominion] erupted around him. A suffocating wave of darkness expanded, the air thickening with a terrifying aura. The contestants gasped as fear took root in their bones, their movements sluggish, their instincts screaming run.


    But Damian wasn''t done.


    He licked his lips. "Maybe I should take my time," he mused. "Rip you apart piece by piece." His fingers twitched, and his [Hellfire Spear] materialized in his grasp, glowing with molten destruction.


    The dagger-wielder bolted.


    "NOPE, SCREW THIS¡ª!"


    His partner, still bound, panicked. "Wait! Don''t leave me¡ª!"


    Damian cackled. "Oh, you boys are no fun!" His voice rang through the corridor, the sound bouncing off the walls in eerie echoes.


    Selena just... watched.


    Not with fear. Not with disgust. But with understanding.


    He had planned this. Every little action. Every word. He knew exactly what would happen.


    And it worked.


    The two contestants disappeared down the labyrinth, their hurried footsteps fading into the distance.


    Damian straightened, rolling his shoulders before flashing Selena an easy grin. "Well, that was entertaining."


    Selena exhaled, shaking her head. "You''re insane."


    He smirked. "You''re just now figuring that out?"


    She crossed her arms. "You acted like a maniac."


    Damian grinned, stretching his arms behind his head. "Yeah, that''s the idea."


    Selena scoffed. "And that''s supposed to be a good thing?"


    He leaned slightly toward her, voice lowering to a conspiratorial whisper. "Think about it. No normal person wants to deal with a lunatic with a twisted mind. They prefer an opponent who fights with logic. Strategy. Someone they can predict." His smirk deepened. "But a madman? That''s an entirely different problem."


    She wanted to argue, but¡ªdamn it¡ªhe was right. His erratic, unhinged display had completely thrown those contestants off. No one wanted to fight someone who enjoyed the battle too much. It was terrifying. Unpredictable.


    "I hate that this actually makes sense," she muttered.


    Damian laughed. "See? You''re learning."


    Selena sighed, rubbing her temple. "Fine. But what if this strategy doesn''t work next time?"


    He shrugged. "Then we fight them normally. You don''t mind that, right?"


    She met his gaze, her expression steady. "No. I know it''ll come to that eventually."


    "Good." He tilted his head, eyes scanning the dimly lit corridor they had taken cover in. The labyrinth walls pulsed faintly, a sign that the structure was still shifting. But something on the ground caught his eye. A faint glimmer¡ªsmall, but unmistakable.


    A crystal.


    Someone must''ve dropped it in their panic.


    "Well, look at that," Damian murmured, crouching down to pick it up. He turned it between his fingers, examining the faint glow within. "Let''s see what little gift they left us."


    With a flick of his fingers, he activated [Observation].


    [Stealth Veil Crystal]


    Type: Consumable


    Effect: Grants the user temporary invisibility for 30 seconds when crushed. The effect is weakened against detection-type magic. One-time use.


    Damian''s eyebrows lifted slightly. "Huh. Interesting."


    Selena leaned in, glancing at the notification. "A stealth crystal?"


    "Looks like it. Thirty seconds of invisibility." He smirked. "Not bad. Could be useful for an ambush. Or escaping."


    She frowned. "It''s weakened against detection magic."


    "Most things are," Damian pointed out, pocketing the crystal. "Still, it could buy us a few seconds when we need them."


    Selena hummed in thought. "Wouldn''t it be better to use now? To avoid unnecessary fights?"


    Damian clicked his tongue. "Nah. It''s a one-time use, and we don''t know what''s waiting deeper in the labyrinth. Better to save it for when we really need it."


    Selena hesitated before nodding. "Fair point."


    Damian dusted off his hands and stretched. "Alright, let''s keep moving."


    They walked side by side, deeper into the twisting corridors. The further they went, the quieter it became. No distant sounds of battles, no echoes of spells being cast. Just the faint hum of the living maze shifting around them.


    Selena finally broke the silence. "You don''t seem worried."


    Damian raised a brow. "Worried about what?"


    "About how this whole thing is designed for people to kill each other," she said bluntly. "Most competitions, even brutal ones, still have some sense of fairness. But this?" She gestured around them. "It''s a bloodbath disguised as an exam."

 Chapter 283: Maniac [Part 2]

    Warlock Ch 283. Maniac [Part 2]


    Damian chuckled. "You say that like it''s a surprise."


    She gave him a pointed look. "It doesn''t bother you?"


    He shrugged. "Of course it does. But getting pissed won''t change anything. The rules are the rules. If we want to win, we play along." His eyes flicked to her. "Or do you want to back out now? Well, it''s too late though."


    Selena let out a small huff. "I already said I''m not backing out."


    "Then stop thinking about it so much." Damian shot her a grin, his tone light despite the tension in the air. "You''re wasting brainpower on things you can''t change."


    Selena rolled her eyes but didn''t argue. Instead, she kept her pace steady beside him, scanning their surroundings for any movement. The deeper they went into the labyrinth, the quieter it became. No sounds of battle, no distant echoes of spells clashing. Just the faint hum of the shifting walls around them.


    "Too quiet," she muttered.


    Damian hummed in agreement. "Which means either we''re ahead of the pack... or walking into something nasty."


    Selena glanced at him. "You say that like both options are equally bad."


    "They usually are." He let his fingers trace along the cold stone wall as they walked, his pace casual, as if they weren''t in the middle of a death game. "If we''re ahead, that means we''re closer to whatever fresh hell they have waiting. If we''re behind, it means we''ll have to deal with whatever''s left of the competition. And trust me, desperate contestants are the worst kind."


    Selena exhaled sharply. "I hate that you make sense."


    "I get that a lot." He shot her a wink.


    She rolled her eyes but didn''t look away. "You''re really not bothered by all of this, huh?"


    "Oh, I am," Damian admitted with a lopsided grin. "I just hide it better than most."


    Selena studied him for a moment before shaking her head. "You''re either incredibly brave or incredibly reckless."


    "Why not both?"


    They continued in silence for a few more minutes, the labyrinth eerily quiet around them. No signs of monsters, no distant sounds of battle. Just the occasional shifting of the walls as the structure rearranged itself.


    It was unsettling.


    Selena slowed slightly, eyes narrowing. "Something''s not right."


    Damian let out a slow breath. "Yeah, I noticed."


    The air was thick, heavy with something unseen. Not magic, exactly, but a presence. Like they were being watched.


    Then, the ground beneath them shifted.


    Damian barely had time to react before the stone under their feet gave way. He grabbed Selena''s wrist as the floor disappeared, pulling her with him as they plummeted downward.


    They landed hard in a lower chamber, dust and debris kicking up around them. Damian grunted as he rolled to his feet, keeping his grip on Selena''s wrist to steady her.


    She coughed, waving a hand in front of her face. "What the hell just happened?"


    "The labyrinth happened." Damian dusted himself off. "Guess we triggered a trap."


    Selena exhaled through her nose, clearly annoyed. "Fantastic."


    Damian''s eyes flicked around the chamber. The walls were darker here, covered in strange markings that pulsed faintly. A deep red mist clung to the ground, thick and unnatural.


    That wasn''t a good sign.


    "Stay close," he murmured, his tone losing its usual playfulness.


    Selena nodded, moving in beside him.


    Then, the mist shifted.


    It coiled unnaturally, as if responding to their presence, before something stepped out from within it.


    No¡ªsomethings.


    Three figures emerged, each one moving with unsettling precision.


    Masked warriors.


    Their armor was sleek and form-fitting, their weapons sharp and clean. But there was something off about them. The way they moved, the way their heads tilted slightly, as if studying their prey.


    Damian''s grip on his weapon tightened. "Well, shit."


    Selena''s eyes sharpened. "This isn''t random, is it?"


    "Nope." Damian exhaled, his stance shifting into something more battle-ready. "These guys were waiting for us."


    Selena''s fingers curled, her muscles tensing. "They''re after the sigils?"


    Damian''s lips pressed into a thin line. "Doubt it."


    One of the masked warriors took a step forward, tilting his head slightly, and then¡ª


    They lunged.


    The fight exploded in an instant.


    Selena was already moving, her agility putting her ahead of the attack. She ducked low, her speed making her a blur as she spun around one of the warriors, striking at his side with brutal efficiency.


    Damian, on the other hand, didn''t bother dodging. He met the first attacker head-on.


    His fist cracked against metal as he slammed his knuckles into the masked warrior''s face, sending him stumbling back. The moment of stagger was all he needed¡ª[Dark Bolt] crackled to life in his palm, a swirling mass of pitch-black energy before he launched it straight into the warrior''s chest. The impact sent him flying, crashing into the stone wall with a sickening crunch.


    Without missing a beat, Damian twisted, sweeping his leg under another''s feet and bringing him crashing down. The assassin rolled mid-air, recovering too fast. Too precise.


    "Don''t let them surround us!" Selena called, her voice sharp as she blocked a strike with her forearm before retaliating with a brutal kick to the ribs. The force sent her attacker staggering, but again¡ªno hesitation. No flinch of pain. Just immediate retaliation.


    "Wasn''t planning on it." Damian''s smirk widened as he caught another warrior''s wrist mid-swing, twisting it with a sickening pop. The blade clattered to the floor, but the warrior barely reacted. Instead, he stepped in closer, attempting to grapple Damian like an unfeeling machine.


    Damian narrowed his eyes. ''That''s weird.''


    Selena was already piecing it together. "This isn''t normal." She ducked another strike, her movements sharp and precise. But there was something wrong with their opponents.


    No wasted movements. No emotion. Just pure, methodical violence.


    "They aren''t fighting to win," Damian muttered. His gaze flicked to the subtle markings on their armor, barely visible under the dim lighting. "They''re fighting to eliminate."


    Selena''s heart pounded. "This isn''t just an ambush." She dodged a precise strike aimed at her neck. "This is an assassination."


    The three masked warriors moved in perfect sync, shifting seamlessly from offense to defense. One fainted an attack on Selena before pivoting to Damian, his sword slicing through the air.

 Chapter 284: Obsidian Council

    Warlock Ch 284. Obsidian Council


    Damian caught the blade mid-swing with his bare hand.


    Selena''s breath hitched. "What the¡ª"


    Dark energy crackled from his fingertips as he gripped the steel, his [Shadow Barrier] absorbing the force entirely. The assassin didn''t hesitate¡ªhis other hand went straight for Damian''s throat.


    Damian scoffed. [Dark Chains] erupted from the floor, twisting around the assassin''s arm like living serpents. The assassin thrashed, trying to free himself, but the chains held firm.


    "Slow down," Damian taunted, twisting his fingers. The chains tightened, locking the warrior in place. "Let''s talk about this. Who sent you?"


    The assassin didn''t respond. Didn''t even react. Instead, his free hand reached up¡ªtoward his own mask.


    ''Shit.''


    Damian released the chains and kicked the assassin back just in time. A split second later, the warrior self-destructed. A surge of dark energy exploded outward, the sheer force throwing both Damian and Selena backward.


    The remaining two warriors didn''t even acknowledge the loss of their ally. They charged.


    Selena recovered first, ducking under a vicious swing before twisting into a counterattack. Her elbow slammed into one''s ribs, but again¡ªno reaction. Instead, he pivoted, using her momentum to force her backward.


    Damian cursed under his breath. "Okay, now you''re pissing me off."


    One of the warriors lunged at him, blade aimed straight for his heart.


    [Hellfire Spear] ignited in Damian''s grip, the flaming weapon searing through the darkness as he swung it in a brutal arc. The warrior barely dodged, but the heat singed his armor. Damian took advantage of the distraction, slamming his knee into the assassin''s gut before following up with a devastating downward strike of his spear.


    -CRACK!


    The warrior''s helmet split. His body crumpled.


    One down.


    Selena wasn''t far behind. The last warrior lunged at her, too fast for her to fully dodge. His blade nicked her shoulder¡ªbut that was all he managed.


    Selena twisted, grabbing his wrist mid-slash. With sheer, brutal force, she snapped his arm at the elbow before planting her knee into his chest and throwing him onto the ground. Before he could react, she stomped on his throat.


    He stilled.


    Damian straightened, dusting himself off. His Hellfire Spear flickered before vanishing into embers. "Well," he exhaled, rolling his shoulders. "That was fun."


    Selena shot him a look. "That was an assassination attempt."


    "And?" Damian smirked. "It failed."


    Selena huffed, pressing a hand to her wounded shoulder. The cut was shallow but irritating. "They were after me."


    Damian scoffed, crossing his arms. "Obviously. There''s no way they were after me." He rolled his shoulders, then muttered under his breath, "There''s no way... right?"


    That thought made him pause.


    No, no, impossible. No one outside his circle should know his identity. His cover was airtight. Still, the nagging feeling in the back of his mind refused to go away.


    He crouched beside one of the fallen warriors, fingers curling around the fabric of the man''s armor. "Let''s see if we can find out who sent them."


    Selena moved closer, eyes scanning the dead assassin as Damian tugged at his collar. The moment the fabric gave way, he stilled.


    A brand.


    Burned into the assassin''s flesh.


    Selena sucked in a sharp breath. "...That''s the mark of the Obsidian Council."


    Damian raised an eyebrow. "I''m guessing that''s bad."


    Selena''s expression darkened. "Very."


    The Obsidian Council. A shadow faction operating beneath the radar of every major governing body. They were known for one thing: eliminating high-value targets. Their assassins didn''t come cheap, and they never missed.


    Damian whistled lowly. "Well, Princess. Looks like someone really wants you dead."


    Selena clenched her jaw. "And they''re willing to use the exam as cover to do it."


    Damian tilted his head. "So the question is¡ªwhy and who?"


    Selena didn''t answer immediately. Her eyes flickered with something unreadable, thoughts racing behind those violet irises.


    Damian watched her closely. "You know something."


    She hesitated.


    Then, finally, she spoke.


    "...I think I do."


    Damian leaned back, smirking. "Now that''s interesting."


    Selena exhaled sharply, forcing herself to focus. "We need to move. If they sent three, they might send more."


    "Agreed." Damian straightened, cracking his neck. "So, we kill our way through and get to the next round before more show up?"


    Selena sighed. "I hate that you make sense."


    Damian grinned. "You keep saying that."


    She rolled her eyes but didn''t argue. Instead, she wiped the blood off her hands and turned toward the corridor ahead. The labyrinth was still shifting, its stone pathways twisting and rearranging themselves in unnatural ways.


    The fight wasn''t over yet.


    And whoever was pulling the strings?


    They moved fast.


    Selena kept a steady pace beside him, but Damian could tell she was distracted. That assassin attack had rattled her, though she was too stubborn to admit it.


    Damian side-eyed her. "You gonna tell me what''s on your mind, or are we playing the silent brooding game now?"


    Selena frowned. "I don''t brood."


    "That''s exactly what a brooding person would say."


    Selena gave him a look but didn''t rise to the bait. "This exam... it was supposed to be difficult, but not this deadly. Even for someone like me."


    "You think someone leaked that you were gonna be here?"


    Selena''s jaw tightened. "...Yes."


    Damian exhaled through his nose. "Well, that''s just fantastic."


    "Whoever it is, they''re making sure I don''t make it out."


    Damian smirked. "Yeah, well, they didn''t count on me being here, did they?"


    Selena stopped walking. "And what is your deal, anyway?"


    Damian blinked. "Excuse me?"


    "You''re... different." Selena studied him. "You act like a rogue, but you fight like a seasoned warlock. You don''t flinch at ambushes. You don''t hesitate to kill. And your power..." She tilted her head. "It''s familiar."


    Damian''s smirk didn''t waver. "That''s a lot of compliments, Princess. I''m flattered."


    She ignored his teasing. "You''re hiding something."


    Damian chuckled, stepping closer. "And what about you?"


    Selena raised an eyebrow.


    "You''re a princess. You should be taking the noble path," Damian said smoothly. "Yet, here you are, slumming it in the commoner''s exam. Risking your life like the rest of us." He smirked. "So, what are you hiding?"


    Selena huffed, crossing her arms. "I stated my reasons already."


    Damian raised a brow. "Right. That mysterious warlock guy." His tone dripped with amusement. "Just because he saved you?"


    Selena shot him a glare. "Yes."

 Chapter 285: A Blind Game

    Warlock Ch 285. A Blind Game


    He scoffed. "Do you have a crush on him or something?"


    Her face turned a shade darker, and Damian immediately zeroed in on it.


    "Oh, my god. You do." His smirk widened. "You''re actually throwing yourself into danger to search for some mystery man? That''s the stupidest thing I''ve ever heard."


    Selena pouted, turning her face away. "It''s not stupid. It''s worth it."


    "Worth it?" Damian ran a hand down his face, exhaling heavily. "Okay, Princess, let me get this straight¡ªyou met a guy once, he saved you, and now you''re tossing yourself into a death tournament just to find him?"


    Selena nodded, her expression firm. "Yes."


    "...Tell me, what does he looks like? Is he that handsome?"


    She hesitated. "Well... he wore a mask."


    Damian physically had to stop himself from cringing.


    "Right," Damian drawled, pinching the bridge of his nose. "So you don''t know his face either. Great."


    Selena scowled. "I know what I''m doing."


    "No, you don''t," Damian shot back. "You''re literally playing a blind game of ''Where''s Warlock?'' with a guy you saw once."


    She pursed her lips, clearly irritated. "You wouldn''t understand."


    "Oh, I understand perfectly, Princess. You''re hopeless."


    Selena huffed and walked ahead of him. Damian shook his head and followed.


    "Okay," he said, after a moment. "Let''s say you do find him. What''s your plan? What will you do?"


    "A lot."


    Damian rolled his eyes. "Wow. Such a detailed plan."


    Selena turned slightly, still walking. "I just need to find him. Then, I''ll figure out the rest."


    Damian snorted. "Oh yeah. That''s gonna go great."


    Selena glared at him. "Why do you care?"


    "I don''t," Damian said. "I''m just fascinated by your level of insanity."


    She scoffed and picked up the pace.


    Then, Damian smirked. A thought hit him.


    "Alright, humor me," he said. "Let''s say that warlock... is me."


    Selena stopped dead in her tracks.


    Damian casually leaned against the labyrinth wall, watching her reaction with amusement.


    Her shoulders tensed. Her hands clenched. Her lips parted slightly¡ªlike she was about to say something, but stopped herself.


    ''Interesting.''


    "You''re not him," she finally said, voice steady.


    Damian tilted his head. "But what if I was?"


    Selena turned away. "I wouldn''t believe it."


    Damian chuckled. "You really don''t think things through, do you, Princess?"


    Selena shot him a glare, but he could see the slight hesitation in her stance. She was still thinking about what he said.


    "Okay, let''s make this a what-if situation," Damian continued, his tone casual. "If that noble warlock is me, what are you going to say or do? Are you going to hug me? Cry? Swear your undying love?"


    Selena hesitated. Her fingers curled slightly, but she didn''t turn to face him. "No..." she whispered. "I don''t know..."


    Damian exhaled through his nose. ''That''s the problem.''


    "You should value your life more, Princess," he said, softer this time. "I bet that noble warlock wouldn''t want to see the woman he saved once throwing herself into danger for him. If he''s half as noble as you say, he''d want you to live."


    Selena flinched slightly. She pressed her wounded shoulder, wincing.


    Somehow... It hurt more than before.


    Maybe it was because of his words.


    Damian turned and continued walking. He didn''t wait for her to respond, didn''t push for an argument. He had already said what needed to be said.


    Selena frowned but found herself following him again.


    Soon, a sudden clang echoed in the distance.


    Her head snapped up.


    Damian paused, his smirk returning. "Another fight."


    Selena rolled her shoulders, pushing past the dull ache. "Should we go around?"


    Damian cracked his knuckles. "Why? This might be fun."


    Selena exhaled sharply. "You''re impossible."


    They moved forward, staying hidden in the shifting shadows of the labyrinth. As they got closer, three figures came into view.


    One magi.


    One warlock.


    One elf.


    All of them looked like they''d been through hell¡ªarmor dented, spells nearly depleted, faces grim with exhaustion. They hadn''t seen them yet, too focused on catching their breath.


    Damian straightened slightly. Then, out of nowhere, he let out a loud, crazed laugh.


    The contestants froze.


    Selena barely had time to react before Damian launched himself forward, eyes gleaming with unhinged delight.


    He grinned wide, baring his teeth like some bloodthirsty madman.


    "AH, PERFECT! THREE MORE TO SLAUGHTER! MUAHAHAHAHA!"


    The contestants visibly recoiled.


    The magi let out a string of curses. The warlock stumbled back. The elf tensed, gripping his weapon as if reconsidering his entire life.


    Selena just blinked.


    For a solid second, there was complete silence.


    Then¡ª They ran!


    No hesitation. No second thoughts.


    Just full-blown, terror-driven flight.


    Damian''s wild grin widened as he watched them disappear into the twisting maze.


    Selena exhaled, placing a hand on her forehead. "Oh God!"


    Damian laughed. "Survival of the fittest."


    She narrowed her eyes. "You really enjoy pretending to be insane, huh?"


    He gave her a slow, smug smirk. "Who said I was pretending?"


    She groaned. "I hate that this worked."


    "Why?" Damian turned, walking forward without a care in the world. "Now we don''t have to waste energy fighting them. Efficiency, Princess."


    Selena rolled her eyes, exhaling through her nose. "You''re impossible."


    He smirked. "And yet, you''re still here."


    She didn''t dignify that with a response.


    Instead, she pressed her hand against her shoulder, wincing slightly as she felt the raw sting of the wound. It wasn''t deep, but it was irritating.


    Damian, of course, noticed.


    His eyes flickered toward her wound, then back to her face. "Do you want me to check on that?" His tone was casual, but there was a glint of concern in his gaze.


    Selena scoffed. "No need. It''s just a scratch."


    Damian raised a brow. "Just a scratch? You keep flinching."


    She stiffened but didn''t move her hand away. "That''s because your words hurt more."


    Damian smirked. "So what you''re telling me is that my brutal honesty did more damage than the assassins who were actively trying to kill you?"


    Selena pursed her lips. "...Shut up."


    His grin widened. "Should I assume that as a compliment?"


    She shot him a glare. "You should assume it as I''m trying really hard not to punch you."


    Damian let out a low chuckle, shaking his head. "Noted."

 Chapter 286: Insanity

    Warlock Ch 286. Insanity


    Selena exhaled slowly, rolling her shoulders. The wound still throbbed. She hated to admit it, but maybe she should let him check it. Still, her pride wouldn''t let her say it outright.


    "I just need some time," she muttered. "It''s nothing serious."


    Damian hummed, unconvinced. "Fine. But don''t pass out from blood loss later. I don''t feel like carrying you."


    She scowled. "As if I''d let you carry me."


    His smirk was instant. "You say that now, but I have a feeling you''d like it."


    She definitely did not.


    Ignoring him, she focused ahead. They walked in silence for a moment, the shifting walls of the labyrinth humming faintly as they twisted and rearranged themselves in the distance.


    Damian glanced at her, his sharp eyes taking in every detail. Her steps were steady, her posture straight, but something felt off. She looked paler than before. Was it the wound on her shoulder? The energy she had used during the fights?


    ''She needs a rest.''


    He clicked his tongue and stretched his arms lazily, feigning a yawn. "We should find a place to rest. We don''t know how long we''ll be stuck waiting for the next phase."


    Selena frowned at him. "Sure. But you realize resting just makes us sitting targets, right?"


    Damian matched her frown. "Then what do you suggest?"


    She crossed her arms. "Well, we can keep moving."


    He resisted the urge to roll his eyes. Of course she''d say that. Stubborn as ever. If he told her she needed a break, she''d just push herself harder out of pride.


    So he had to change his approach.


    With an exaggerated sigh, Damian dramatically dropped himself onto the ground, leaning back against the cold stone wall. "But I''m tired."


    Selena blinked. "What?"


    He let out a dramatic huff. "This damn test requires me to walk around for hours. It''s stupid. Why does it have to be so long? Why can''t they just say, ''Hey, you can fight for your life, but we''ll at least give you chairs?''" He groaned, stretching his legs out in front of him.


    Selena stared at him, unimpressed. "You are so weird."


    He smirked up at her. "That''s not news."


    "One moment, you act like a maniac," she muttered. "Then the next, you act like a spoiled child."


    Damian shrugged. "A man can be multifaceted, Princess."


    She placed her hands on her hips, lips pursed. "You''re not really tired, are you?"


    "Who knows?" He closed his eyes, resting his head against the wall. "But if I say I am, will you sit down?"


    Selena frowned, clearly debating whether she should give in or call his bluff.


    He cracked an eye open, catching her hesitation. "C''mon. We both know we''re ahead of most of the competition. Nobody''s gonna ambush us in the next ten minutes."


    She let out a slow breath before finally sitting down beside him. "Five minutes."


    He smirked. ''Gotcha.''


    She rested her arms on her knees, exhaling. Now that she was sitting, she really felt the exhaustion creeping in. The dull ache in her shoulder pulsed in sync with her heartbeat. The adrenaline had kept it at bay for a while, but now that she was still, the pain was annoyingly persistent.


    Damian, standing nearby, tilted his head and watched her with a thoughtful expression before casually dropping down beside her. "Since we''re just sitting around doing nothing, how about letting me check your wound?"


    Selena looked at him, suspicion clear in her gaze. "No."


    His lips quirked. "That was fast."


    She frowned. "What do you want? Why do you sound so lewd?"


    Damian''s deadpan stare could have rivaled a statue''s. "Here I am, actually worried about you, and you say I''m the lewd one?" He placed a hand over his chest, looking deeply offended. "Fine. I won''t ask anymore."


    Selena rolled her eyes, but Damian wasn''t finished.


    He dramatically pouted, his voice taking on an exaggerated wounded tone. "I thought you trusted me. I mean, you were the one who came to me and asked to work together. Turns out you didn''t actually trust me at all. How tragic."


    Selena pursed her lips, staring at the ground for a long moment before muttering, "It''s not that I don''t trust you..."


    Damian''s smirk started creeping back.


    "...but at least¡ªI don''t want to get too emotionally attached to you."


    The smirk faded. His brows lifted slightly. "Huh."


    She looked at him, her expression unreadable. "You heard what they said, right? There''s only one person who can get an S Rank in this exam. If we make it to the last segment, that means only one of us can win."


    Damian leaned back against the stone wall, folding his arms. His expression was calm, almost bored. "Which is a great reason to make me emotionally attached to you."


    Selena frowned. "What?"


    Damian smirked. "If I get emotionally attached to you, who knows¡ªmaybe I''ll just give up without a fight." He exhaled, as if already considering it. "That''d make it an easy win for you."


    Selena blinked at him.


    Then she cringed. "That is literally the dumbest thing I''ve heard."


    "Oh, come on, it makes sense." Damian spread his arms as if explaining something painfully obvious. "And it works both ways! If you fall for me, then I get an easy win."


    Selena stared at him, processing his absolute insanity. "Are you seriously suggesting we should emotionally manipulate each other for an easier chance at victory?"


    "Exactly." Damian nodded sagely. "Or¡ªand hear me out¡ªone of us falls first, and the other just reaps the benefits."


    She dragged a hand down her face. "This is beyond stupid."


    "It''s a strategy."


    "It''s insanity."


    Damian grinned. "They''re not that different, Princess."


    Selena groaned, massaging her temples. "I regret teaming up with you."


    "You love teaming up with me."


    She clenched her jaw but didn''t deny it.


    Instead, she muttered, "Just shut up."


    Damian chuckled, leaning closer. "But you''re still thinking about it, aren''t you?"


    Selena tensed, avoiding his gaze.


    Damian smirked. "That means I win."


    "You win nothing." She exhaled sharply and turned her head toward the shifting walls of the labyrinth. "And you didn''t answer my question."

 Chapter 287: Slave Driver

    Warlock Ch 287. Slave Driver


    "Hm?" He tilted his head.


    She glanced at him from the corner of her eye. "Are you planning to give up if it''s the two of us at the end?"


    Damian was silent for a moment. Then, he grinned. "Wouldn''t you like to know?"


    Selena huffed, crossing her arms. "Figures."


    Damian laughed softly, letting the conversation settle. He stretched out, resting his weight on his hands. But before he could get too comfortable, Selena abruptly stood up.


    "Okay, five minutes is up. We need to move now."


    Damian exhaled dramatically, rolling his shoulders. "Fine, fine. Slave driver."


    She crossed her arms. "Would you rather sit here until someone finds us?"


    He grinned. "Maybe. But you make a compelling argument."


    She scoffed, already turning to walk. Damian followed, adjusting his coat as they moved deeper into the shifting maze.


    A booming voice echoed overhead.


    "Attention contestants. The number of participants has decreased to 50%. The exit is now open. The door will close in fifteen minutes."


    At the same time, a bright beam of light shot up into the air, marking the exit.


    Damian tilted his head, taking it in. "Well, that''s convenient."


    Selena''s eyes flickered toward him. "Yeah, but we don''t know the way there."


    He smirked. "I do."


    Before she could ask what he meant, he lifted his hand. "Raven" he summoned.


    A moment later, a shadowy blur streaked across the labyrinth ceiling, followed by the sound of flapping wings.


    A large raven descended, landing neatly on his outstretched arm.


    Selena blinked. "You have a raven?"


    Damian grinned. "A very good raven." He turned to the bird. "Alright, buddy. We need a shortcut. Take us there."


    The raven let out a low, guttural caw before flapping its wings and taking off again.


    Selena eyed him. "And you''re sure it knows where to go?"


    Damian smirked. "Trust the bird, Princess."


    She muttered something under her breath but didn''t argue.


    A moment later, the raven circled back, swooping low. Damian grabbed Selena''s wrist. "Hold on."


    "What¡ª"


    Before she could finish, he tugged her forward, and in the next second, they both grabbed onto the raven''s legs.


    Then, they were flying.


    The wind rushed past them, and Selena instinctively tightened her grip. "Are you insane?!"


    "Define insane," Damian shouted back, his grin wide.


    The raven soared over the labyrinth, its wings slicing through the air. Below, Selena could see chaos¡ªcontestants clashing with each other, desperate battles unfolding. And worse¡ª


    Monsters.


    A lot of them.


    She gritted her teeth. "It''s a warzone down there."


    Damian muttered, "Seriously?" His eyes narrowed as he took in the sight.


    Contestants fought each other in frenzied desperation, their weapons clashing, spells colliding. Some were still struggling to gather enough sigils, while others were just outright slaughtering the competition. And between them, abyssal monsters stalked the battlefield, tearing through anything that moved.


    Selena clenched her jaw. "Looks like some people still don''t have the sigils."


    "And some people are just bloodthirsty," Damian muttered.


    He knew they had to be careful. If they flew too low, they''d be easy targets. If they landed too soon, they''d be forced into the brawl.


    Selena was already gripping his sleeve. "How do we get past this?"


    He grinned. "Something fun."


    Selena immediately regretted asking.


    One second, she was gripping onto the raven''s legs, soaring through the chaos of the battlefield below.


    The next¡ªDamian grabbed her hand. "Hang on."


    Her eyes widened. "Wait¡ª"


    He unsummoned the raven.


    The moment its body vanished into dark mist, gravity took hold. They plummeted.


    Selena barely had time to let out a startled gasp before Damian yanked her against him, wrapping his arms tightly around her as they fell. Her stomach lurched, the ground rushing up to meet them far too fast.


    "This is too much!" she hissed, trying to push away, but his grip was unyielding.


    "Stay still," he muttered, his focus elsewhere.


    At the last second, he lifted a hand.


    [Telekinesis].


    An invisible force caught them midair, slowing their descent just before impact. They landed lightly, Damian absorbing the force with a controlled crouch.


    Selena found herself still held against his chest. She was shocked since the feeling was the same as when the masked warlock used the Telekinesis on her, but... Damian was a rank A warlock. There was no way he could use Telekinesis yet.


    A long, tense pause.


    "This is too much," she muttered again, trying to pull away.


    Damian, still holding onto her, exhaled. "Shut up."


    She froze.


    His eyes flickered, scanning the battlefield around them. Chaos was still raging¡ªcontestants fighting, monsters rampaging. The door was in sight, but it was heavily guarded. Some contestants had set up an ambush, waiting to take down anyone who tried to get through.


    Selena followed his gaze. "We''ll have to fight our way¡ª"


    "No," Damian cut her off. He finally loosened his grip on her, but before she could step back, he caught her wrist. "We''ll pass through silently."


    She frowned. "How¡ª"


    He pulled something from his coat.


    The crystal.


    Her eyes widened. "Wait," she whispered. "That''s¡ª"


    "Thirty seconds of stealth," he murmured, crushing the crystal between his fingers.


    A shimmer of energy washed over them.


    Selena could feel the change¡ªher body felt weightless, the air around her thick with magic. When she glanced down, her form flickered and blurred. She was completely invisible.


    She had to admit... She was impressed.


    Damian turned his head toward her, his voice soft but firm. "We run. No sound. No mistakes."


    She nodded.


    He activated [Spectral Surge].


    His entire form buzzed with speed, the afterimage of his body leaving faint distortions in the air. Selena barely had time to brace before he grabbed her hand again and sprinted.


    The world blurred.


    They moved like shadows, weaving through the battlefield at a speed no normal person could react to.


    Contestants clashed just inches away from them¡ªflashes of steel, bursts of magic¡ªbut no one noticed them. They passed behind duels, slipped through monster attacks, and ducked under spells without even being seen.


    Selena''s heart pounded. This was insane.


    They were cheating the system.

 Chapter 288: Beat The System

    Warlock Ch 288. Beat The System


    A contestant wielding dual swords lunged toward the exit, only to be intercepted by three others who tackled him to the ground.


    A beast lunged at a warlock, sinking its claws into his chest.


    Selena flinched but kept running.


    They were getting close.


    Fifteen meters.


    Ten.


    Five.


    Then, finally¡ª They reached the exit.


    Damian''s fingers tightened around hers as they dived through just as the invisibility started fading.


    The moment their feet touched solid ground, a flash of light surged behind them.


    Then... Silence. They managed to pass the first segment.


    Selena, panting, barely turned her head in time to see the remaining contestants on the other side. She swallowed, turning back to Damian.


    He smirked, completely unfazed.


    "Well," he said. "That was fun."


    Selena shot him a look, still catching her breath. "You call that fun?"


    Damian stretched, rolling his shoulders. "Beating the system? Walking past a battlefield without lifting a finger? Yeah, I''d say that was very fun."


    She exhaled, placing a hand on her hip as she glanced back at the now-sealed door. The shimmering portal pulsed slightly, a faint hum emanating from it. They couldn''t see what was happening in the maze anymore¡ªonly their reflections in the glowing surface.


    "What about the others?" she asked, not taking her eyes off the door.


    Damian shrugged. "Dunno. Guess we just need to wait until the time is up."


    Selena frowned but didn''t argue. She turned her attention to their surroundings. The space they had entered wasn''t nearly as ominous as the labyrinth. It looked more like a... waiting room?


    Simple, clean, and eerily quiet.


    A few wooden chairs were scattered about, paired with long tables stacked with food and drinks. Bread, meat, fruits, water, and even wine.


    Selena blinked. "They''re feeding us?"


    Damian smirked. "Guess we deserve a reward for surviving."


    She stepped toward the table, her stomach growling at the sight. But before her fingers could touch a piece of fruit, Damian''s hand shot out, catching her wrist.


    She turned to him, confused. "What?"


    His expression had lost its usual amusement, replaced with something far more serious. "Let me check first."


    Selena raised an eyebrow. "You think they poisoned the food?"


    "Wouldn''t be the first time someone tried to wipe out contestants outside of combat," he muttered. "And considering someone really wants you dead? Wouldn''t put it past them to lace every bite with something nasty."


    "...Fair point." She took a step back, crossing her arms.


    Damian exhaled and activated [Observation].


    A faint glow flickered in his eyes as the skill scanned the food and drinks before them. He focused, waiting for the system''s analysis.


    [Observation Successful.]


    [Food Status: Safe.]


    [Freshly prepared. No traces of poison or magical tampering detected.]


    [Drink Status: Tampered.]


    [Liquid appears normal, but contains Mana Corrupting Agent].


    [Effect: Slows mana flow by 30% for 1 hour. Spellcasting efficiency reduced by 20%.]


    Damian''s smirk returned, but this time it carried an edge of amusement. "Well, well."


    Selena stiffened. "What?"


    He gestured toward the drinks. "Someone was very thoughtful. The food''s fine, but the drinks? Spiked."


    Her lips pressed into a thin line. "Poison?"


    He tilted his head, reading further into the details. "Not lethal. Something... subtler. Slows reaction time. Impairs mana flow."


    Her eyes darkened. "So they want us vulnerable for the next segment."


    "Looks that way." Damian tapped his chin. "Though, I''m almost flattered they put in this much effort."


    Selena sighed. "So we stick to the food."


    "And drink nothing from this table," he added. "Not even a sip."


    She nodded, grabbing a piece of bread and sitting down. Damian followed, picking up a chunk of roasted meat.


    The silence between them was surprisingly comfortable as they ate. The tension of the exam, the constant battle for survival¡ªit all seemed distant for the moment.


    "You don''t eat like a warlock," Selena said suddenly, watching him.


    Damian raised an eyebrow. "And how exactly does a warlock eat?"


    She smirked. "Messier. More... unhinged."


    He chuckled. "Sorry to disappoint. I save the unhinged act for special occasions."


    She popped a grape into her mouth. "I noticed."


    "Anyway," Damian said, tossing the bread into his mouth, "if you think I eat weirdly, you should see how Cas¡ªI mean, Master Cassius eats. He''s a warlock, but he eats like a privileged high noble magus."


    Selena gave him a dubious look. "I can''t tell if you mean that as a compliment or an insult."


    "Both," Damian admitted shamelessly. "He''s got that ''I own everything in the room'' energy, you know? Even when he''s just cutting steak, it''s like he''s planning how to conquer a country."


    Selena raised an eyebrow. "So you eat like a... normal person?"


    "Shocking, I know."


    She tilted her head slightly, gaze still locked onto him. "You''re weird."


    "That''s what they tell me," Damian said with a smirk.


    There was a small pause before he spoke again. "Just asking, you''re a fae, right? Why don''t you fly at all? I mean, you can fly."


    Selena blinked at the sudden shift in topic but didn''t hesitate to answer. "The rules say that. The vampires can''t turn into bats. The werewolves can''t shift into beast mode. And fae... we can''t fly."


    Damian frowned. "Why?"


    She shrugged. "We agreed."


    "That doesn''t make sense."


    Selena gave him a look. "Because keeping a fair playing field makes no sense?"


    Damian opened his mouth to argue, to say that in his own S-rank exam years ago, there were no such restrictions. Back then, it was pure survival, a brutal test of strength, wit, and endurance. No holding back, no limitations. But then he stopped himself.


    He couldn''t say that. Not without explaining why he knew that.


    Instead, he just shook his head. "No, I mean... in an exam like this, wouldn''t flight be an important survival ability? It''s like telling a mage they can''t use spells. It defeats the purpose."


    Selena huffed. "It''s different. We signed the agreement. Fae magic has a lot of advantages, and flight gives us too much mobility. They thought it would be unfair."


    Damian scoffed. "And you agreed to that?"


    "Of course. That''s the rule."


    He gave her a deadpan stare. "Rules are meant to be broken."

 Chapter 289: Survival is Our Top Priority

    Warlock Ch 289. Survival is Our Top Priority


    She rolled her eyes. "Oh, here we go. Let me guess¡ªyou didn''t follow the rules when you took your exam, right?"


    Damian smirked but said nothing. She wasn''t wrong.


    "Figures," she muttered, shaking her head. "You''re the type who just does whatever he wants."


    "You say that like it''s a bad thing," he teased.


    "It is when you''re supposed to be on my side."


    He leaned back, propping his feet up on the table. "Hey, I haven''t done anything to screw you over yet."


    "Yet," she repeated, unimpressed.


    Damian simply grinned.


    Selena sighed, rubbing her temples. "Look, I know you don''t care about rules, but for some of us, rules are what keep us from getting killed. Or worse."


    His smirk faded slightly. "You mean the assassination attempts."


    She went quiet. "Yeah," she muttered.


    Damian tapped his fingers against the table. "Alright, Princess. Since you''re so big on rules, let me ask¡ªwhat do you think is gonna happen in the next phase?"


    She glanced at him. "What do you mean?"


    "Do you really think this is going to get any easier?" He leaned forward slightly, voice lower. "They already threw assassins at you. This whole test is just an excuse to let people kill each other off. Do you really think the next stage will be any different?"


    She hesitated.


    "And if you get targeted again," he continued, "what then? You still gonna follow the rules?"


    Selena exhaled slowly. "...I don''t know."


    Damian studied her for a moment before shrugging. "Well, let me know when you figure it out."


    Selena didn''t answer immediately, instead chewing on the grape she had just taken. Her eyes flickered, thoughts clearly churning behind them. Damian wasn''t exactly trying to be wise or philosophical, but if his words managed to drill some sense into her stubborn head, that was a bonus.


    He smirked, leaning back against his chair. "Here''s my advice, princess. Survival is your top priority. You can take the exam next time as long as you still have your life."


    Selena fell silent again. Her expression was unreadable. Then, after a long moment, she sighed. "I know."


    "Good," Damian said simply and took another bite of food.


    The room remained relatively quiet for a moment, the tension from their earlier discussion lingering in the air. But before anything else could be said, the quiet was shattered by the sudden burst of the exit door slamming open.


    Three contestants stumbled in, panting heavily, their bodies covered in scratches, dirt, and¡ªmost notably¡ªblood. They were exhausted, barely able to stand, but clearly alive.


    Damian, without missing a beat, clapped his hands together with an easy grin. "Welcome, friends! You made it!"


    The three contestants froze mid-step. Their eyes darted toward him, and as recognition dawned, their exhaustion was swiftly replaced with alarm.


    One of them, a young man with disheveled dark hair, visibly flinched. "Y-You!" He pointed at Damian, his voice trembling slightly. "You''re that lunatic!"


    ''Oops,'' thought Damian.


    Selena raised an eyebrow, about to open her mouth and clarify, but Damian lifted a hand, subtly stopping her. No, no. This was good. Let them fear him. Let them hesitate. Fear was a powerful weapon, after all.


    So instead of clearing the misunderstanding, Damian did the exact opposite.


    He grinned, his expression twisting into something deranged. "Oh? We meet again." His voice dropped into a chuckle, dark and unhinged, sending visible shivers down their spines. "Too bad this is the waiting room and we can''t kill each other here. If not..."


    He trailed off, letting the sentence hang in the air. Letting their imaginations do the work.


    The three contestants paled, visibly recoiling. One of them instinctively reached for a weapon but quickly thought better of it.


    Slowly, cautiously, they shuffled toward the opposite side of the room, seating themselves at a table far away from him.


    Selena exhaled sharply through her nose, shaking her head. "You enjoy this too much."


    Damian leaned back, smug. "It''s efficient."


    "It''s ridiculous."


    "It''s working."


    Selena muttered something under her breath but didn''t argue further.


    The waiting room began to fill up. More contestants poured in, one after another. Some were limping, others covered in blood, but they were alive. The final count landed at twenty-five.


    Less than half of the original participants had survived the first segment.


    A few of them glanced around the room, scanning their remaining competitors. The realization hit them¡ªevery single person in here was strong. That was the only way they made it this far.


    Damian observed them, taking note of the ones who stood out.


    There was a broad-shouldered werewolf man, his eyes sharp and calculating. A vampire woman with pale skin and cold, piercing red eyes sat near the back, sipping from a small vial of blood. A dark elf with intricate silver markings along his arms adjusted the straps of his armor, while a burly human combat mage leaned against the wall, arms crossed.


    All powerful. All dangerous.


    And all now competitors.


    Selena exhaled quietly. "Less than half made it."


    Damian nodded. "Means the next phase will be worse."


    She grimaced. "Can''t wait."


    The room hummed with quiet tension. Conversations were hushed, spoken in murmurs. No one wanted to draw too much attention to themselves. Everyone was on edge.


    Then, the familiar chime of the announcement system rang out.


    A voice echoed through the room.


    "Congratulations, contestants. You have successfully survived the first segment of the S-Rank Exam. Take this time to rest. Recuperate. The next segment will begin shortly."


    A collective silence fell over the room.


    Rest.


    That word alone made it clear¡ªwhatever was coming next would require every ounce of energy they had left.


    Damian smirked, glancing at Selena. "Guess we better enjoy this while it lasts."


    She crossed her arms. "You mean while we still have a chance to breathe?"


    "Exactly."


    Selena shook her head but picked up another piece of fruit from the table. "Fine. But no more weird grinning at people."


    Damian''s smirk widened. "No promises."


    She groaned.

 Chapter 290 290: Floating Battlefield [Part 1]

    Warlock Ch 290. Floating Battlefield [Part 1]


    Damian leaned back in his chair, arms crossed, watching the room with lazy amusement. The atmosphere had settled into something tense but stagnant, like the calm before a storm. Thirty minutes. That was how long they were given to rest.


    And yet, it was the most awkward thirty minutes he had ever sat through.


    No one spoke much. Well, no one aside from a few whispering in their small groups. Everyone was too busy either scarfing down food or side-eyeing their competition. Some had taken the chance to patch themselves up, tending to wounds with healing spells and potions. Others simply sat with their backs against the walls, trying to preserve as much energy as possible.


    Damian tapped his fingers against the table, eyes flicking toward the drinks.


    The spiked drinks.


    He hadn''t said anything about it. He could have, but really, why should he? This was a test. And if people were too stupid or careless to recognize an obvious trap, that was on them.


    He wasn''t the only one who noticed either. A few of the more cautious ones¡ªSelena included¡ªstuck to solid food and fruit, getting their hydration from natural sources instead of the conveniently placed beverages.


    Some, though? Yeah, not so lucky.


    They drank until they were satisfied. Some of them probably noticed something was off but either dismissed it or thought it wouldn''t matter. Idiots.


    Damian''s eyes flicked toward the vampires in the room.


    The blood vials weren''t spiked. Interesting.


    It made sense, though. Maybe the assassins hadn''t bothered because they knew Selena couldn''t drink it. Or maybe, and this seemed more likely, the officials had kept the blood pure on purpose. After all, for vampires, this was their only source of sustenance. If they poisoned it, it would be too obvious.


    So yeah. This was just another test. A hidden one.


    ''Clever bastards,'' Damian mused, hiding his smirk.


    He shifted his gaze toward Selena. She sat across from him, arms folded, still looking as irritated as ever.


    His eyes flicked to her shoulder.


    "How''s your wound?" he asked casually.


    Selena glanced at him and then at her arm, rolling her shoulder slightly. "It''s fine. Doesn''t really ache anymore."


    "You sure?"


    She sighed. "Yes, Damian."


    "You don''t want me to check it?"


    She deadpanned. "Absolutely not."


    He grinned, resting his chin on his palm. "Suit yourself, Princess."


    Selena huffed, popping another grape into her mouth.


    The minutes stretched on. More contestants filtered in. The tension thickened.


    And then¡ª A chime came.


    Everyone straightened, instincts flaring.


    "Contestants, the second segment of the S-Rank Exam is about to begin. Prepare yourselves. You will be teleported shortly."


    A collective silence fell over the room.


    Damian cracked his neck, standing up with a lazy stretch. "Well, here we go again."


    Selena exhaled, standing beside him. "Any idea what''s next?"


    He smirked. "Nope. But I''m looking forward to it."


    The air shimmered around them.


    And then, in a blink, the waiting room disappeared.


    Damian felt weightlessness take over as the ground beneath him vanished, his stomach lurching before his feet touched solid ground again. But this... wasn''t solid ground. It was different¡ªless stable, like it was humming with energy beneath him.


    The floating battlefield stretched out before him, a vast sky littered with shattered landmasses, each one suspended in the air by an unseen force. Jagged cliffs jutted from floating islands, fragments of land drifting lazily around in the void.


    Streams of unstable mana coursed through the air like rivers of light, crackling with power. Some places glowed with radiant blue energy, while others pulsed with ominous red. And in the distance, floating fortresses of stone and metal loomed over the battlefield like silent watchmen.


    Above them, the sky churned with shifting colors, as if torn between dusk and dawn, streaks of violet and deep orange swirling together. Bolts of raw magic occasionally struck down from the sky, crackling against the floating terrain before vanishing as quickly as they appeared.


    Then came the announcement.


    "The Arcane Rift. Chaos Battlefield & Strategic Combat."


    The voice echoed across the battlefield, causing everyone to tense.


    "Each contestant must claim a floating island by imprinting their mana upon it. The longer you hold your island, the stronger your mana buff will grow. However, be warned¡ªremaining stagnant makes you a target. Opponents may steal your island, and wild monsters will seek out those who stay still for too long. In addition, unstable mana storms will periodically erase islands, forcing relocation. The last eight remaining contestants will advance to the final trial."


    A moment of silence followed.


    "Begin!"


    Then the battlefield exploded into movement.


    Contestants scattered in different directions, some sprinting toward nearby islands, others immediately taking flight or using teleportation spells. Damian remained still for a moment, eyes scanning his surroundings.


    Selena exhaled beside him. "So... find an island, hold it, fight off anything that comes our way. Sounds simple enough."


    Damian smirked. "Simple? Princess, did you not hear the part about mana storms and monsters? This place is going to be a deathtrap."


    She rolled her eyes. "It''s always a deathtrap."


    "Fair point."


    She glanced at him. "So? Do we take different islands or stick together?"


    He turned his gaze to her, then back at the battlefield. "Sticking together is smart¡ªuntil it isn''t. If we hold one island together, we''ll just be bigger targets. And when the storm zones force people to move, we''ll be separated anyway."


    Selena nodded. "So we pick close islands?"


    "Exactly."


    With that, they moved.


    Damian leapt forward, using his Spectral Surge to propel himself toward one of the nearest floating islands. Selena followed, using her agility to nimbly land on another just a short distance away.


    The moment Damian touched down, he pressed his palm against the ground and let his mana sink in. The island pulsed as it recognized his imprint, glowing faintly beneath his feet.


    "Mana Imprint Confirmed ¨C Territory Claimed!"


    A soft hum resonated through his body, and instantly, he felt a surge of power. It was subtle at first¡ªhis mana pool slightly expanded, his energy feeling more refined.


    "Alright," he muttered. "Let''s see how long I can hold this thing."

 Chapter 291 291: Floating Battlefield [Part 2]

    Warlock Ch 291. Floating Battlefield [Part 2]


    Selena had done the same, her own island shimmering with violet energy. She glanced toward him, nodding. "So far, so good."


    But Damian wasn''t convinced.


    Because now, the real test began.


    Off in the distance, another contestant¡ªsome fire mage-looking guy¡ªlanded on an island and immediately began fortifying it, raising barriers of flame around him. Another, a heavily armored warlock, was already preparing defensive spells.


    But others?


    They weren''t sitting still.


    Damian saw it happen within moments¡ªone warlock lunged for another''s island, a brutal fight breaking out as spells erupted between them. The battle didn''t last long. The weaker contestant was blasted off their island, sent tumbling into the abyss below, disqualified instantly.


    Damian whistled lowly. "Well, damn. That was fast."


    Selena tensed. "We can''t get comfortable. We need to stay mobile."


    He was about to respond when the battlefield shifted.


    A surge of energy crackled in the sky.


    "WARNING: MANA STORM INCOMING!"


    Damian''s eyes flickered upward just in time to see a massive storm of raw, chaotic mana forming above one of the islands. The air crackled with unstable magic, tendrils of energy twisting violently before surging downward.


    -BOOM!


    The island was obliterated.


    The contestant standing on it barely had time to react before they were swallowed by the blast, their scream lost in the chaos as they were erased from the battlefield.


    Selena exhaled sharply. "That''s brutal."


    Damian grinned. "Oh yeah. This is gonna be fun."


    Selena shot him a look. "You''re insane."


    "You knew that already."


    As they spoke, movement caught Damian''s eye.


    Three contestants had locked onto Selena''s island.


    Selena saw them too. "Great."


    Damian smirked. "Looks like you''ve got company."


    She sighed. "Fantastic."


    The three warlocks moved quickly, sending blasts of energy toward her island, trying to force her off. Selena dodged, flipping through the air as she avoided incoming attacks, landing back on her territory with precision.


    Damian watched for a moment before sighing. "Guess I should help."


    He raised a hand, dark energy crackling between his fingers.


    With a flick of his wrist, [Dark Bolt] shot forward, slamming into one of the approaching warlocks, sending them stumbling back.


    "HEY!" The warlock snarled.


    Damian grinned. "Sorry, she''s taken."


    Selena shot him a glare. "Don''t say it like that."


    The warlocks weren''t amused.


    One of them, a tall guy with white runes glowing along his arms, raised his hands. "You''re gonna regret that."


    Damian arched a brow. "Doubt it."


    And with that, the real battle began.


    Damian barely had time to smirk before the first spell came flying at him. A bolt of crimson energy streaked across the battlefield, aimed directly at his chest. Without missing a beat, he raised his hand and activated [Shadow Barrier], the air around him shimmering as the attack harmlessly dissipated against his shield.


    Selena, on the other hand, had already launched into action. With a burst of agility, she flipped backward, avoiding an arc of lightning that nearly singed the air where she stood. She twisted mid-air, landing gracefully on the edge of her island before narrowing her eyes at her attackers.


    Damian cracked his knuckles. "Alright, guess it''s time to start thinning the competition."


    Selena shot him a wary glance. "Just don''t go too crazy."


    He grinned. "No promises."


    One of the attacking contestants, a warlock in dark blue robes, summoned spectral chains that whipped toward Damian with startling speed. The moment they got close, Damian extended his hand.


    [Dark Chains]


    The air trembled as his own chains materialized, clashing against the enemy''s, wrapping around them like serpents before yanking the warlock off balance. Damian flicked his wrist, sending the poor bastard flying straight off the island.


    "Contestant Eliminated!"


    Damian barely heard the notification over the wind howling around them.


    Selena, meanwhile, had taken on two opponents at once. One¡ªa dagger-wielding combat magi¡ªwas fast. Too fast. He flickered in and out of sight, dancing around her in quick bursts of movement, looking for an opening. The other, a bulky warlock with glowing runes tattooed across his arms, was already gathering mana for a heavy attack.


    Selena''s instincts flared.


    She ducked just in time as the magi''s dagger sliced through the air where her throat had been moments ago. Without hesitation, she slammed her elbow backward, catching him in the ribs and sending him stumbling.


    But the second opponent had finished charging his spell.


    "Too slow."


    A massive surge of mana erupted toward her. A compressed explosion of raw force.


    Damian moved.


    [Void Rift]


    Reality itself seemed to bend as a void opened before Selena, swallowing the attack before it could reach her. The warlock''s own energy twisted in the rift before Damian redirected it¡ªstraight back at him.


    -BOOM!


    The contestant was blown off the island.


    Selena exhaled sharply, throwing Damian a glance. "I had that."


    "Sure you did, Princess."


    She scoffed but didn''t argue.


    They barely had time to breathe before the battlefield shifted.


    "WARNING: MANA STORM INCOMING!"


    Both Damian and Selena snapped their heads toward the sky.


    Above them, energy churned, violent and unpredictable. The storm was coming fast, and¡ª Damian''s eyes widened.


    Selena''s island was glowing.


    "Selena, move!"


    She turned just in time to see the crackling mana zone directly above her. The unstable energy twisted violently, glowing brighter.


    Then it struck.


    -BOOM!


    Selena leapt, barely making it as her island was ripped apart by pure destruction. The explosion swallowed it whole, the debris flung into the abyss.


    Damian didn''t think.


    He moved.


    [Spectral Surge]


    The speed boost hit his muscles like fire as he lunged, catching Selena midair. She gasped as he pulled her close, twisting midair to land smoothly on his own island.


    For a second, neither of them spoke.


    Then Damian smirked. "Told you to pick a better island."


    Selena glared at him. "Shut up."


    They didn''t get a moment to recover.


    A guttural roar echoed through the battlefield.


    From the mana storm, monsters began descending.


    Damian tensed. "Of course they throw monsters at us."


    Selena exhaled. "At least it''s not more assassins."

 Chapter 292: Floating Battlefield [Part 3]

    Warlock Ch 292. Floating Battlefield [Part 3]


    A sickly green glow emerged from the dark clouds as grotesque figures came into view. Their forms twisted and unstable, as if the storm had spawned them from raw energy itself. Hulking, malformed beasts with jagged limbs and glowing eyes landed on nearby islands, letting out inhuman shrieks.


    Abyssborn Behemoth <Level. 95>


    Abyssal Harbinger <Level. 92>


    Warped Stalker <Level. 91>


    Chaotic Wraith <Level. 93>


    Shattered Colossus <Level. 94>


    Selena gritted her teeth. "They''re high-level."


    Damian cracked his neck. "Perfect."


    Without warning, the first monster lunged.


    The Abyssborn Behemoth slammed onto their island, its grotesque form pulsating with dark energy. Its massive, clawed hand came crashing down.


    Damian raised his hand.


    [Shadow Barrier]


    The barrier absorbed the impact, the sheer force shaking the entire island.


    Selena wasted no time.


    She launched forward, using her speed to weave through the Behemoth''s massive frame, delivering precise strikes aimed at its weak points. The beast roared in frustration, its movements sluggish compared to her nimbleness.


    Damian, meanwhile, set his sights on the Warped Stalker that had landed behind them. It was fast¡ªtoo fast. It flickered in and out of reality, darting around him, looking for an opening.


    He let it get close.


    [Hellfire Spear]


    With a flick of his wrist, the spear erupted in his hand, flames twisting hungrily around its form.


    The Warped Stalker screeched as it lunged.


    Damian smirked.


    [Shadow Inferno Strike]


    He moved.


    One second, he was standing still.


    The next¡ªhe was a blur.


    Darkness and fire intertwined as he struck, driving the burning spear straight into the creature''s core. The beast let out a distorted shriek before collapsing into nothingness.


    One down.


    Selena was still dealing with the Behemoth, but Damian could see her movements getting slower.


    "Tired already?" he teased.


    She threw him a glare. "Kill the damn thing already."


    He sighed. "Fine, fine."


    With a snap of his fingers, he used his skills.


    [Dark Chains ]


    The Behemoth roared as ethereal chains erupted from the ground, wrapping around its limbs and locking it in place.


    Selena didn''t waste the opportunity.


    With a burst of speed, she moved, striking its core with everything she had.


    The Behemoth let out one last screech before shattering into particles.


    Selena exhaled heavily, turning to Damian. "That was two."


    He grinned. "And three more to go."


    But the battlefield wasn''t done with them yet.


    The Shattered Colossus had been watching.


    And now?


    It was charging straight at them.


    Damian let out a low whistle. "Now that''s a big one."


    Selena groaned. "You enjoy this too much."


    He smirked. "Damn right, I do."


    The colossus swung its massive arm, the air itself howling from the sheer force.


    Damian jumped back, narrowly avoiding the attack as the impact shattered the ground where he stood. He whistled. "Okay, that would''ve sucked."


    Selena wasn''t as passive. She darted forward, mana surging around her.


    [Fairy Tempest]


    A burst of wind magic crackled around her hands, forming sharp currents that slashed against the colossus''s arm, leaving glowing trails. The attack barely made a dent, but it was enough to make the beast recoil slightly.


    Damian saw his opening.


    [Infernal Javelins]


    Ten burning spears formed in midair before launching toward the colossus. They struck true, embedding themselves into the cracks of its stone-like body, flames licking through the fissures.


    The colossus roared, shaking violently. Its eyes flared with unnatural light.


    "Uh-oh," Damian muttered.


    The air around them pulsed as the colossus activated its Arcane Pulse.


    A shockwave exploded outward.


    Selena barely had time to react before it slammed into her, sending her skidding across the island''s surface. Damian braced himself, raising [Shadow Barrier] just in time to absorb most of the blast.


    Selena groaned. "I hate that move."


    The colossus didn''t give them time to recover. Its massive form leaned forward, preparing for another devastating attack.


    Damian exhaled. "Alright, enough playing around."


    His body darkened as his mana surged.


    [Dark Dominion]


    The battlefield was instantly drenched in a suffocating aura of darkness. A deep crimson glow pulsed from Damian''s core as the ability spread around him.


    The colossus staggered, its movements sluggish as Terror took effect.


    Damian grinned. "Yeah, I thought so."


    He sprinted forward, his speed enhanced by [Spectral Surge].


    [Shadow Inferno Strike]


    His form blurred as he slashed through the colossus''s leg, flames and darkness tearing through its defenses.


    Selena capitalized on the moment, unleashing [Fairy Tempest] once more, sending a flurry of wind-infused strikes against the weakened spots.


    The cracks widened.


    The colossus let out a final bellow before its massive form began to collapse.


    Damian stepped back, admiring their handiwork. "Well, that wasn''t so bad¡ª"


    "WARNING: MANA STORM INCOMING!"


    His smirk dropped.


    Above them, the sky split open as unstable energy crackled and raged.


    Selena''s face paled. "Damian¡ª"


    He didn''t need her to finish.


    The island beneath them glowed.


    "Sh*t," Damian muttered.


    The air itself twisted as raw mana spiraled down toward them. Their island, like Selena''s before, was about to be obliterated.


    "Run or die?" Damian asked casually.


    Selena glared at him. "RUN."


    They bolted.


    With the ground shaking beneath them, they leapt just as the storm detonated.


    Selena pushed forward using wind magic to enhance her jumps, while Damian activated [Spectral Surge] to boost his movement speed.


    They soared through the air¡ªtoward another island.


    Unfortunately, it was occupied.


    "Great," Damian muttered. "Guess we''re stealing an island."


    Selena huffed. "You say that like it''s a casual errand."


    "Compared to what we just fought? It is."


    The two contestants currently holding the island had already spotted them. A warlock wielding a massive scythe and a mage covered in protective runes stood their ground, clearly not willing to share.


    Damian landed first, smoothly rolling to his feet. Selena followed, landing gracefully beside him.


    The warlock growled. "Get lost."


    Damian grinned, cracking his knuckles. "See, that''s the problem. We can''t get lost because our island just got blown up."


    The mage stepped forward. "Then you should''ve been more careful."


    Damian smirked. "Maybe. But now that we''re here..." He gestured around. "I think I like this spot better."

 Chapter 293: Floating Battlefield [Part 4]

    Warlock Ch 293. Floating Battlefield [Part 4]


    The warlock snarled, swinging his scythe. "Then you can die for it."


    Damian sighed. "I was hoping you''d say that."


    He lunged as fast he could using his [Spectral Surge].


    One second he was there, the next he was behind them.


    [Dark Chains]


    Chains erupted from the ground, wrapping around the warlock''s legs before yanking him off his feet. He let out a sharp grunt, his scythe clattering against the ground as he hit the stone floor hard.


    The mage reacted fast, throwing up a barrier, but Selena didn''t give him a chance to reinforce it. With a flick of her wrist, [Fairy Tempest] shattered the protective layer in a burst of slicing wind.


    Damian grinned. "Fast reactions. Shame they won''t save you."


    The warlock snarled, slamming his palm against the ground. Dark energy pulsed outward.


    "Summon!"


    The air behind him ripped open, and from the swirling void, two monstrous creatures emerged.


    Abyssal Howler <Level. 92>


    Obsidian Wraith <Level. 93>


    The Howler, a nightmarish wolf-like creature with pitch-black fur and glowing white eyes, let out a bone-chilling howl that sent a wave of pressure across the battlefield.


    The Wraith hovered in midair, its smoky form shifting between existence and nothingness. Its glowing red eyes locked onto Damian and Selena, its presence making the air cold.


    Selena took a slow breath. "Well, that''s a problem."


    Damian cracked his neck. "Then let''s make it their problem."


    He snapped his fingers.


    "Summon!"


    The three-headed wolf leapt onto the battlefield, landing with a heavy thud. Its three pairs of burning red eyes locked onto the Howler, teeth bared in an almost grinning expression.


    Above them, a dark shape circled before diving downward¡ªBloodwing Raven, its massive crimson wings cutting through the air like a blade.


    The battlefield was crowded now. Too many beings exerting their power at once, making the floating island unstable.


    Damian could feel it. A storm pulse was coming.


    They had to end this fast.


    The warlock reached for his scythe, but Damian kicked it away before he could grab it.


    "Uh-uh," Damian teased. "We''re not doing that."


    The Howler lunged for Fenrith, its jaws parting to release a [Void Scream]¡ªa shrill, mind-ripping sound meant to disorient and weaken its prey.


    Fenrith howled back, the force of its [Hellhound Roar] canceling out the attack midair.


    Then the two beasts collided, snapping at each other with fangs that could crush steel.


    Above, the Bloodwing Raven dived at the Wraith, its talons glowing with cursed blood energy.


    The Wraith flickered out of existence just before impact¡ªonly to reappear behind the raven, attempting to drain its essence.


    Damian and Selena moved at the same time.


    Selena tossed a handful of [Fairy Dust] into the air. The shimmering particles spread outward in a spiraling pattern before detonating in a wave of pure magic disruption.


    The Wraith screeched as its form flickered, weakened by the attack.


    Damian seized the moment.


    [Void Rift]


    A swirling mass of darkness erupted beneath the Wraith, pulling at its essence, slowing its movements.


    Selena wasted no time. She darted forward, [Fairy Tempest] gathered in her palms, and in one swift motion, she struck the Wraith''s core.


    The creature let out a final screech before dissolving into mist.


    Damian turned his attention back to the warlock.


    "Looks like you''re out of tricks," Damian said, tilting his head.


    The warlock''s breathing was ragged, his eyes flickering between Damian and the chaotic battle behind them.


    His scythe was too far away. His servant was losing.


    And Selena?


    She had already turned to face the mage, her magic swirling around her.


    The mage panicked. He threw up three barriers in quick succession, but Selena smashed through them like glass.


    One moment he was standing.


    The next? He was on the ground, groaning in pain.


    Damian let out a low whistle. "Brutal."


    Selena brushed dust off her hands. "Efficient."


    The warlock made a desperate attempt to cast something, but Damian didn''t give him the chance.


    [Dark Chains] snapped around his arms, dragging him down.


    "Ah-ah," Damian murmured, stepping over him. "We need this island."


    The warlock''s eyes flickered with fury.


    "You think you''ve won?" he snarled.


    Damian leaned in, his grin stretching wide. "Buddy, I won the second we landed here."


    Selena crossed her arms. "So what do we do with them?"


    Damian tilted his head.


    The storm was building up again.


    "WARNING: MANA STORM INCOMING!"


    They didn''t have time to keep fighting.


    But if they let these two go...


    The warlock spat blood, glaring up at him.


    Damian sighed. "Fine. We''ll let the storm decide."


    The island was already crumbling.


    Selena exhaled. "Let''s go."


    With one last glance at their fallen opponents, they ran¡ªleaping toward the next battlefield.


    And just like that...


    Another island shattered behind them.


    The deafening crack of the storm tearing it apart sent shockwaves through the air, but Damian and Selena were already moving. They landed hard on the next floating island, feet barely touching the unstable surface before they sprang into motion.


    Damian''s gaze flicked around, analyzing the terrain. The island was smaller than the last, jagged rocks jutting out along its edges, creating natural barriers. Patches of floating debris drifted through the void¡ªbroken chunks of other islands consumed by the storm.


    More importantly, this island wasn''t empty.


    Two contestants. Another warlock and a battle-mage. Both already aware of their arrival.


    Damian grinned. "Perfect."


    The warlock''s eyes narrowed. He immediately began casting, summoning a dark wave of energy to repel intruders.


    Selena''s wings twitched slightly¡ªinstinct¡ªbut she clenched her jaw and held her ground. No flying. The rules were clear.


    Damian didn''t wait for the spell to finish. He snapped his fingers.


    "Fenrith. Bloodwing. Have fun."


    The moment his command left his lips, his two summoned beasts erupted into action.


    Fenrith¡ªthe massive three-headed hellhound¡ªlunged forward, each maw brimming with flames. The warlock barely had time to react before the beast crashed into him, sending him skidding backward.


    Above, the Bloodwing Raven took to the skies, a blur of crimson as it dove toward the battle-mage.


    The mage reacted quickly, slamming his staff into the ground. A barrier shimmered into place, barely holding against the raven''s claws.

 Chapter 294 294: Floating Battlefield [Part 5]

    Warlock Ch 294. Floating Battlefield [Part 5]


    Damian didn''t hesitate. He could already see the warlock channeling energy, his hands glowing with a sickly green light as he traced a summoning circle into the ground. Mana sigils flared to life beneath him.


    ''Shit! He''s summoning his beasts!''


    Damian''s instincts screamed. He didn''t need [Observation] to know what that meant. If the warlock succeeded, his summoned creatures would increase the mana density in the area. The storm would detect the spike and target this island immediately.


    They''d be sitting ducks.


    "Nope." Damian surged forward, boots digging into the loose gravel as he shot toward the warlock.


    His mana surged, crackling through his veins. [Dark Bolt Lv. 8]!


    The violet blast screamed through the air and slammed into the summoning circle. The impact shattered the fragile lines of mana, disrupting the spell before it could complete.


    The warlock cursed and scrambled backward, his eyes wide with shock.


    Damian was already there. [Spectral Surge]. His body blurred as he crossed the distance in less than a heartbeat. His fist crashed into the warlock''s chest, sending him sprawling.


    The ground beneath them rumbled in response. The labyrinth had shifted, but now they were on this floating death trap of an island where unstable mana pockets swirled beneath the rocky surface.


    Damian didn''t let up. He grabbed the warlock by the collar and slammed him into the ground.


    "Trying to summon more targets for the storm?" Damian growled. "Real smart."


    The warlock''s hand twitched. Damian saw the glow of an incantation.


    "Not happening," Damian snarled, closing the distance in an instant.


    [Dark Chains]


    Black, shadowy chains burst from the ground and wrapped around the warlock''s limbs. He screamed as the magical restraints dug into his skin, leeching away his strength.


    The warlock gritted his teeth, struggling. "You think¡ª"


    -CRACK!


    Damian''s fist slammed into his ribs. Hard.


    "Yeah, I do." Another punch, this time aimed at the warlock''s stomach. He doubled over, choking on his breath.


    Damian smirked. "What''s wrong? Having trouble casting? Maybe you should''ve trained your body instead of relying on minions."


    The warlock spat blood, his eyes burning with fury. "Bastard¡ª"


    Damian didn''t let him finish. His knee slammed into his face, sending him reeling. He had to keep the pressure on.


    Meanwhile, Selena was struggling.


    The battle-mage was fast. Every strike she threw was countered with a spell-infused blade, his movements precise and relentless.


    Selena ducked, narrowly avoiding a slash laced with lightning. Her arms burned from the residual energy, but she had no time to dwell on it.


    She threw a handful of [Fairy Dust], aiming to disorient him.


    He reacted instantly, slashing through the air with a glowing arc that dispersed the dust before it reached him.


    Her eyes widened. "Oh, come on¡ª"


    He was already on her again, moving like a shadow. She barely had time to block as his enchanted dagger came for her throat.


    "Not bad," the battle-mage muttered. "But not good enough."


    Selena gritted her teeth. This wasn''t working.


    Damian, on the other hand, had already slammed the warlock to the ground, his foot pressing into his opponent''s chest.


    "Gotta say," Damian mused. "I expected more."


    The warlock growled, his fingers twitching.


    Damian saw the faint glow of magic forming in his palm. A last-ditch effort.


    Damian grinned. "Nope."


    [Hellfire Spear] flared to life in his hand. Before the warlock could react, Damian drove the burning weapon down, pinning his arm to the ground.


    The warlock screamed.


    Damian crouched, his smirk widening. "Yeah, that''s gonna hurt."


    Meanwhile, Selena sidestepped a strike, her breath ragged. She needed an opening.


    She whispered a quick spell. A delayed reaction hex.


    Then, she intentionally let his next strike land.


    The moment his blade cut into her, the hex activated.


    The battle-mage stumbled, his limbs locking up for just a second¡ª


    Enough time for Selena to slam her palm into his chest and release a pulse of magic.


    The blast sent him flying back.


    She exhaled, wiping the blood from her arm. "Annoying."


    Damian, still pinning the warlock, looked over at her fight.


    "You good?" he called.


    She flexed her fingers, watching the stunned battle-mage struggle to get up.


    She smirked. "Better than him."


    Damian laughed. "Nice."


    The storm rumbled overhead, signaling impending disaster.


    Damian pressed harder on the warlock''s chest. "So here''s the deal. We take this island, or you get thrown into the abyss. Your choice."


    The warlock glared at him. "You wouldn''t¡ª"


    Damian grabbed his collar and lifted him off the ground, dragging him to the edge of the floating island.


    "Try me."


    The warlock''s face drained of color.


    Selena, meanwhile, was already dealing with the battle-mage, pinning him with her foot.


    She gave Damian a pointed look. "We don''t have time for games."


    Damian sighed dramatically. "Fine."


    He turned back to the warlock. "Surrender?"


    The warlock nodded. Fast.


    Selena released her opponent. "You too?"


    The mage groaned but nodded.


    Damian grinned. "Good choice."


    He slammed his hand onto the ground, marking the island as his.


    The warlock and battle-mage vanished, jumped away.


    Selena sighed, hands on her hips. "Finally."


    Damian stretched his arms. "And now... we wait for the next fight."


    Lightning flashed overhead.


    The storm wasn''t done with them yet.


    The sky above cracked with electric veins of wild mana, streaks of unstable energy arcing through the darkened clouds. Damian and Selena stood on the rocky surface of their floating island, their breaths synchronized with the low rumble beneath their feet. The storm circled like a predator, choosing its next victim. The wind howled, carrying the faint, panicked screams from another island that was already splintering apart in the distance.


    Damian unsummoned his servants with a flick of his fingers. Fenrith and Bloodwing Raven vanished into shadowy wisps, leaving the island empty aside from the two of them. The presence of magical creatures would only attract more of the storm''s attention. The island swayed beneath them like a boat in rough waters, unsteady and unpredictable.


    Selena crouched, one hand on her wounded shoulder. Blood soaked through the torn fabric of her sleeve, staining her pale skin.

 Chapter 295 295: Floating Battlefield [Part 6]

    Warlock Ch 295. Floating Battlefield [Part 6]


    Damian glanced at her. "Let me check that."


    Selena shook her head, biting her lip as she pried the cork off the bottle. "It''s fine."


    "That''s a deep cut. You''re losing more blood than you realize."


    "I said it''s fine." She took a deep breath and tipped a potion from her stash over the wound. The liquid hissed as it touched her skin, and she winced but didn''t cry out. The wound began knitting itself closed, though the exhaustion remained in her eyes.


    Damian crossed his arms. "You''re stubborn."


    "I''m a fae princess. Stubbornness comes with the territory." She sat back with a huff, her gaze flicking toward the swirling storm overhead. "How many do you think are left?"


    Damian closed his eyes briefly, activating [Observation] to scan the surrounding mana signatures.


    "...Twelve," he muttered after a moment. "No. Eleven now. One of them just got fried by his opponent''s flame."


    Selena grimaced. "Brutal."


    "Yeah, well... it''s an S-rank exam." Damian ran a hand through his sweat-damp hair. "You don''t get the fancy title without a little death hanging in the air."


    Selena exhaled shakily and looked toward the island floating closest to them. There were three mages locked in combat over it¡ªa woman in crimson robes wielding twin flame whips, a tall figure in obsidian armor casting gravity magic, and a cloaked warlock surrounded by swirling shards of ice. Their spells collided with deafening cracks, shaking the already unstable island.


    "They''re going to destroy that thing," Damian said, watching the battle. "Whoever loses is going to try jumping here."


    Selena shifted into a defensive stance. "Then we make sure they don''t."


    "WARNING: MANA STORM INCOMING!"


    The ground vibrated again. A second later, the island across from them fractured, a jagged crack running through its center. The mages paused in their fight, realizing the storm had chosen them.


    "No choice now," Damian muttered. "They''re coming."


    Sure enough, the gravity mage fell first, blasted backward by a whip of flame. He hit the ground hard and scrambled toward the edge. The warlock was right behind him, bleeding but determined, already sprinting toward Damian and Selena''s island. The flame-wielder, now the dominant force on the collapsing island, unleashed a fiery blast at both of them as she ran.


    "Brace!" Damian barked.


    [Shadow Barrier] flared into place just as the fireball hit. The impact shook the island, splinters of rock flying into the air. The barrier held.


    Selena raised her hands, greenish-blue magic crackling between her fingers. Fairy dust swirled in the air. "I''ve got the gravity guy. You handle the warlock."


    "On it."


    The three desperate mages launched themselves toward their island at the same time. Damian saw the panic in their eyes¡ªexhausted contestants trying to survive just a little longer. He almost felt bad.


    Almost.


    The gravity mage reached the edge first, casting a levitation spell to slow his descent. Selena fired a blast of shimmering dust toward him. The second it touched his skin, his body froze mid-air, his limbs tangled like a puppet with cut strings.


    He fell.


    The scream was short-lived as the abyss swallowed him.


    "Nice shot," Damian called.


    The warlock was next. He conjured a [Shadow Lance] mid-leap and hurled it at Damian.


    [Infernal Javelins] flared into existence around Damian in response. He launched three simultaneously. The fiery spears met the lance in midair, shattering it with a hiss of steam. The warlock twisted in the air, attempting to redirect his trajectory toward the island.


    Damian raised a hand. [Dark Chains] shot up from the ground, lashing around the warlock''s ankle.


    "Nope," Damian muttered, and yanked.


    The warlock crashed into the island''s edge, his body half-hanging over the abyss. Damian walked over and crouched beside him.


    "Sorry, buddy," he said with mock sympathy. "Only room for two here."


    He snapped his fingers.


    The chains retracted, dragging the warlock into the void.


    Selena didn''t react to the sound of his scream. She was focused on the final contestant¡ªthe flame-wielder¡ªwho was now mid-air, summoning a protective sphere around herself.


    "Burning Shield," Selena muttered. "She''s trying to ram us."


    Damian''s eyes glinted. "Let her try."


    The flaming sphere surged forward, crackling with unstable energy. Damian planted his feet and thrust his hands out. [Void Rift] erupted in front of the island. The sphere collided with it¡ªand instantly slowed.


    The flame-wielder screamed in frustration, fighting against the magical drag. Selena wasted no time. She released a burst of condensed fairy dust. The glowing particles drilled through the weakened shield, shattering it in a blinding explosion.


    The woman''s momentum stopped. She flailed, weightless.


    Selena made a simple gesture.


    The magic around the woman shattered completely. Gravity took over. She fell with an echoing shriek into the storm-ridden abyss below.


    Selena exhaled shakily. "That was..."


    "Fun?" Damian asked, panting.


    "Terrifying."


    "Same thing."


    The storm shifted overhead, tendrils of mana curling inward. The remaining islands groaned as the winds intensified.


    Selena''s gaze darted to Damian. "I think this means¡ª"


    The voice of the announcer cut through the air.


    "The final eight have been decided. Prepare for transfer."


    The ground beneath their feet glowed with intricate runes, casting pale blue light onto their skin. Selena took an instinctive step toward Damian as the energy crackled louder.


    "Hold on," Damian said, grabbing her wrist.


    The island shuddered beneath them. The sky split open.


    And in the next instant, they vanished.


    The world twisted around Damian and Selena as the teleportation magic yanked them through space. The sensation was disorienting¡ªlike being pulled through a swirling tunnel of icy wind and electric static. When their feet finally touched solid ground again, Damian stumbled slightly, catching himself with a well-timed step.


    The waiting room materialized around them, familiar yet different. This one was larger, with high, arched ceilings that shimmered faintly with protective runes. The walls were a polished obsidian that seemed to drink in the surrounding light, and tables of food and drink were arranged in a neat semicircle. The aroma of roasted meat and spiced fruit wafted through the air, mixing with the sharp tang of mana residue.

 Chapter 296 296: Paranoid Lunatic

    Warlock Ch 296. Paranoid Lunatic


    Damian''s eyes immediately went to the food and drinks. The last waiting room had been a trap¡ªspiked drinks designed to weaken or kill the less cautious. If the officials were being consistent, this room might hold a similar danger.


    He raised his right hand slightly, focusing his mana.


    [Observation Activated]


    The world shifted, his vision overlayed with faint streams of data. The food and drinks glowed softly, each item surrounded by faint blue outlines as information scrolled across his vision.


    [Foods ¡ª No toxins detected.]


    [Drinks¡ª No toxins detected.]


    Damian exhaled softly and let the skill fade. The faint glow around the food disappeared, leaving the platters and pitchers looking perfectly ordinary again.


    "Safe?" Selena asked, her eyes still sweeping the room.


    "Yeah. They didn''t spike it this time." He stepped forward, grabbed one of the goblets, and sniffed it. The faint scent of frost and mint met his nose. "Or maybe they realized we caught on to their trick last time."


    "Hmm." Selena didn''t seem convinced, but she reached for the grapes regardless.


    Damian took a cautious sip of the water, letting the cold liquid soothe his dry throat. His mana reserves felt slightly better immediately, though he knew it wouldn''t last.


    Selena bit into a grape and glanced at him. "You always check everything?"


    "Always." Damian set the goblet down and grabbed a piece of the grilled ribs. "Paranoia''s what keeps you alive."


    She chewed thoughtfully. "Well... thanks."


    He arched a brow. "For what?"


    "For checking the food." Her lips twitched. "And for being a paranoid lunatic."


    Damian smirked. "You say that like it''s a bad thing."


    "It usually is."


    "Well, in this exam? It''s a survival strategy."


    Selena couldn''t argue with that. They ate in silence for a few more minutes while the other contestants eyed them from across the room. There were already a handful of contestants scattered throughout the room. Some sat slumped against the walls, nursing wounds and exhaustion. Others hovered near the food tables, warily eyeing their competition. But all of them¡ªevery single one¡ªturned to stare Damian and Selena.


    Damian exhaled softly. "We''ve got an audience."


    Selena gave a tired shrug, her gaze scanning the room. "Yeah, well... you do look suspiciously healthy."


    And it was true. Damian had a few scratches and a small cut on his cheek, but compared to the others, he looked like he''d just come back from a brisk morning jog. The other contestants bore deep slashes, bruises, burns, and signs of severe magical exhaustion. One guy even had his left arm wrapped in a crude sling, his face pale from blood loss.


    Damian shifted uncomfortably. He knew what they were thinking. No one gets through two segments of the S-rank warlock exam looking like they just walked through a training field. It wasn''t normal. It wasn''t supposed to be possible.


    He needed to play this off.


    He let out a sharp hiss through his teeth and staggered, clutching his thigh as though a sudden pain had hit. His left leg buckled slightly, and he swayed, putting more weight on Selena''s side.


    Selena immediately caught on. "Hey¡ªDamian, what''s wrong?" Her voice rose just enough to draw attention without sounding too forced.


    He gave a strained chuckle. "Leg... got hit during that last fight. Must''ve landed wrong when we jumped."


    "You''re such an idiot," she said, louder this time. "Why didn''t you say anything earlier?"


    "Didn''t... didn''t want to look weak," Damian muttered with a sheepish grin. He bit the inside of his cheek to avoid laughing at how dramatic he sounded.


    Selena rolled her eyes and helped him toward the nearest bench. "Sit down before you fall down."


    As they moved, Damian glanced sideways and whispered, "Act natural, okay?"


    "I am acting natural," Selena hissed back.


    They sat down, and Damian winced, leaning forward to rub his leg. The burn of curious eyes weighed on him from across the room.


    One contestant, a wiry man with jagged scars across his face, approached cautiously. His robes were torn, and his left arm was scorched black from what looked like fire magic.


    "You''re Cassius''s apprentice, right?" the man asked.


    Damian glanced up, keeping his expression carefully neutral. "Yeah."


    The man''s eyes narrowed slightly. "You don''t look like you fought much out there."


    Damian forced a chuckle and rubbed his leg harder. "Looks are deceiving, pal. I had to run more than fight. My leg''s messed up from dodging one of those damn colossi."


    The man snorted. "Hmph. Lucky, then." He turned and walked away, though his suspicious glances didn''t stop.


    Selena sat beside Damian and dropped her voice. "That was close."


    "Yeah," Damian said through a forced sigh. "But they bought it¡ªfor now."


    Another group of contestants muttered near the food table. Damian caught bits and pieces of their conversation.


    "...he barely looks hurt."


    "...probably cheated somehow..."


    "...Cassius''s apprentice, remember?"


    Damian kept his face relaxed, even as his jaw tightened. He reached for a goblet of water from the nearby table and brought it to his lips. The cool liquid helped mask the irritation brewing beneath his skin.


    Selena''s eyes flicked to him. "You okay?"


    He shrugged. "Yeah. Just reminded why I hate tests like this. People always think I''m cheating."


    "Well... to be fair, you did. You pretended to be a blood-crazed lunatic for half of Segment One, remember?"


    "That was strategy."


    She snorted. "Sure, psycho."


    Thirty minutes passed, and the announcement voice returned.


    "The final eight participants have successfully completed Segment Two. Prepare for the next phase."


    The lights overhead pulsed with a deep, resonant hum. The contestants exchanged wary glances. Everyone knew what was next.


    The final round.


    Damian exhaled slowly. "Guess this is it."


    Selena shifted beside him. "Yeah. I still don''t understand how you''re so calm."


    He smirked. "What can I say? I like a challenge."


    She gave him a long, assessing look. "You''re really not like other warlocks."


    "That''s what makes me fun."


    The mana beneath their feet began to glow again, forming an intricate circle.

 Chapter 297 297: Don’t Hold Back

    Warlock Ch 297. Don''t Hold Back


    Selena whispered, "Hey... if we end up facing off..."


    "Yeah?"


    She hesitated. "Don''t hold back."


    Damian arched a brow. "You sure?"


    "Yeah." Her lips quirked into a faint smile. "If I''m going to lose, I''d rather it be to the real you."


    He chuckled softly. "Selena, you have no idea what you''re asking for."


    The magic circle surged to life. The floor vanished beneath them.


    And the waiting room dissolved into oblivion.


    The sensation was the same as before¡ªlike being yanked through a whirlpool of ice and static. Damian gritted his teeth as his vision blurred and his body felt weightless. Then, with a jarring lurch, the teleportation magic spat him out onto solid ground.


    His boots scraped against cracked cobblestone.


    The air was thick¡ªhot, metallic, and tinged with the faint crackle of unstable mana.


    Selena landed beside him with more grace, her feet touching down softly. Her eyes immediately darted around, her body tense and alert.


    They stood in the middle of what once might have been a grand city. Towering buildings, their windows shattered and walls scorched, loomed over them like skeletal remains. The cobblestone beneath their feet was cracked and uneven, littered with debris. Strange, pulsating veins of mana ran through the ground, glowing faintly blue and occasionally sparking like exposed electrical wires.


    In the distance, an ominous rumble echoed across the city, followed by the faint screech of twisting metal.


    A voice crackled from above.


    "Welcome to Segment 3: The Hunt."


    The participants froze. Damian turned his gaze skyward. Hovering high above the ruined city was a massive, circular sigil glowing with crimson light. The voice seemed to emanate from it.


    "Objective: Defeat the Dread Titan."


    The ground trembled beneath them. Somewhere far off, an earth-shaking roar answered the announcement.


    "The Dread Titan, an S-Class monster, has adapted abilities and shifting elemental resistances. Magic cast against it will be analyzed and countered after repeated use. The battlefield contains mana wells for power boosts¡ªbut be warned, others can drain them before you do."


    Selena''s fingers twitched. "Mana wells. That means..."


    "Yeah," Damian muttered. "People are gonna fight over them."


    "Only two contestants will advance: the two who deal the highest damage to the Dread Titan."


    The atmosphere thickened as the weight of the announcement settled in.


    "Environmental collapse is imminent. Good luck."


    The sigil vanished with a faint crackle of power.


    For a moment, silence hung over the broken city.


    Then the ground beneath them trembled.


    A low, guttural roar reverberated through the streets, shaking loose fragments of brick from the surrounding buildings.


    Selena tightened her grip on the magic she was gathering. "So...what''s the plan, oh master warlock?"


    "Simple." Damian cracked his neck. "We stay alive, we hit hard, and we make sure we''re the ones left standing when the Titan falls."


    "Sounds...predictably reckless."


    "You love it."


    She snorted but didn''t disagree.


    Damian''s eyes glowed faintly as he activated his skill.


    [Observation Activated]


    The world shifted into a mosaic of glowing threads and faint mana signatures. He turned his head slowly, tracking the trails of energy.


    [Mana Wells Detected:]


    [Northwest (400 meters): Stable, high-density mana.]


    [Southwest (500 meters): Unstable. Risk of collapse.]


    [East (300 meters): Low-density. Already partially drained.]


    "Northwest," he said. "Big one. Should give us a solid power boost."


    Selena tilted her head. "And everyone else?"


    "Probably going there too."


    "Naturally."


    "Let''s move."


    They sprinted through the ruins, their footsteps muffled by ash and debris. The buildings leaned ominously above them, some swaying with unnatural groans as the battlefield continued to shift.


    A sudden roar shattered the relative silence.


    They skidded to a halt.


    Ahead, in the distance, a colossal figure emerged through the haze. It stood easily five stories tall, hunched over, its shoulders broad and jagged with molten rock-like protrusions. Its skin was a mix of metallic gray and obsidian, with glowing veins of molten energy pulsating through its torso and limbs. The creature''s head was featureless except for a horizontal slit of crimson light where its eyes should have been.


    The Dread Titan.


    [Observation Activated]


    Dread Titan <Level 203>


    HP: ???


    Mana: ???


    Current Resistance: Fire (High)


    Weakness: Ice (Temporary)


    Adaptive Protocol Active: Repeated elemental damage will trigger resistance shift.


    Status: Searching for targets.


    "Fire-resistant," Damian muttered. "Weak to ice¡ªfor now."


    "Got it," Selena said, eyes narrowing. She raised her hand, but the Titan''s head jerked toward them.


    "Shit," Damian hissed. "Move!"


    The Titan roared. The sound hit like a physical wave, sending shards of debris flying in every direction. Damian ducked behind a half-collapsed wall as a massive boulder of molten rock hurtled past.


    Selena crouched beside him. "It noticed us too fast. Adaptive protocol must''ve sensed your mana."


    "Or yours," he shot back.


    She gave a thin smile. "I''ll take that as a compliment."


    Another tremor rocked the ground.


    The Titan raised its arm. The veins of molten energy pulsed brighter, and a sphere of fire the size of a carriage formed above its palm.


    "It''s casting."


    "On it."


    [Dark Chains]


    Black chains shot from the ground, wrapping around the Titan''s wrist. The sphere flickered and wobbled.


    The Titan roared and yanked its arm free, snapping the chains like brittle wire.


    Selena cursed. "It''s smart."


    "It''s cheating," Damian corrected.


    The fireball launched.


    "Scatter!"


    The fireball hit the street with a deafening crack, sending flames and molten shrapnel in every direction. Damian rolled behind a crumbling statue while Selena dove into a side alley.


    The flames barely missed her.


    "Okay," Damian said, panting. "We need that mana well."


    "Agreed."


    They sprinted westward, weaving through crumbling alleys and dodging the Titan''s relentless gaze.


    The ground began to vibrate in irregular pulses. Damian risked a glance back.


    The Titan''s arms were raised. The molten veins across its body shifted from orange to icy blue.


    Selena paled. "It''s switching elements."


    "Yeah. And I think it''s targeting ice next."


    "That''s...bad."


    "Extremely."


    They skidded around a corner and finally reached the mana well.


    The "well" was a crater in the ground, filled with swirling, liquid mana that glowed with an ethereal silver hue.


    Damian didn''t hesitate.


    [Mana Tap Activated]

 Chapter 298: Third Segment

    Warlock Ch 298. Third Segment


    The mana surged through his body like lightning through a wire. His veins glowed faintly as his mana reserves shot upward.


    [Mana Boost: +35% for 5 minutes.]


    [Spellcasting Efficiency: +20%.]


    "Your turn," he said.


    Selena followed suit, gasping as the energy flooded her body.


    The moment was broken by a deep, grinding snarl.


    They both turned.


    Two contestants stood at the entrance of the alley, one with crackling lightning orbs hovering around him, the other with a glowing greatsword of conjured mana.


    "Figures," Damian muttered.


    "Mana wells don''t come cheap," the sword-wielding warlock said. "Hand it over."


    Damian''s lips curled into a grin.


    "You''re welcome to try."


    Damian''s voice dripped with mocking confidence, his eyes gleaming beneath the faint glow of ambient mana. He flexed his fingers, already feeling the surge of power from the mana well thrumming through his veins. Selena stood at his side, wary but ready, her magic crackling faintly around her fingertips.


    The warlock across from them sneered. "Big words for someone who barely made it this far."


    Damian laughed¡ªa sharp, unhinged sound that echoed through the broken streets.


    "You''re right. I barely made it," he said, cracking his neck. "Which means I''m either lucky... or I''m exactly where I want to be."


    The warlock shifted uneasily, glancing at his companion. The battle mage, clad in enchanted armor etched with glowing crimson runes, gripped his staff-sword tightly. Mana crackled along the blade, distorting the air like heat waves.


    Selena arched a brow. "They''re stalling."


    "Yeah," Damian muttered, eyes narrowing.


    The ground trembled beneath their feet.


    -BOOM!


    A deafening roar tore through the air. The very street buckled as something massive crashed through a nearby building. Dust and stone exploded outward as the Dread Titan burst into view, its molten veins now crackling with icy-blue frost.


    It had adapted.


    Its eyes locked onto the group.


    "Yep, it found us," he muttered.


    [Observation Activated]


    Dread Titan <Level 203>


    HP: ???


    Mana: ???


    Current Resistance: Ice (High)


    Weakness: Lightning (Temporary)


    Adaptive Protocol Active: Resistance cycle reset.


    Status: Aggressive.


    "Lightning," Damian muttered. "Got any of that, Princess?"


    Selena shook her head. "I can try wind manipulation, but straight lightning''s not my thing."


    "Great." He rolled his shoulders. "Guess we improvise."


    The Titan roared again. Its massive fist smashed into the nearest building, collapsing it in a cloud of debris. Chunks of stone flew like artillery shells.


    [Shadow Barrier]


    A dome of shadow materialized around Damian and Selena. The impact of the debris sent tremors through the ground but failed to breach the barrier.


    "That thing''s pissed," Selena said.


    "Good. Makes it predictable." Damian grinned. "Let''s go."


    They sprinted from cover just as the Titan reared back and unleashed a frost-laden beam that turned the cobblestones into brittle ice. The street groaned and shattered beneath the Titan''s weight.


    The other two contestants hesitated.


    The warlock hesitated a second too long.


    But the rest? They attacked without thinking twice.


    [Dark Chains]


    Black chains erupted from the ground and lashed around the warlock''s ankles. He toppled with a curse.


    Damian didn''t even spare him a second glance.


    "Don''t kill him yet," Selena said, voice tight.


    "Why not?"


    She pointed. "Because he''s already screwed."


    The Titan''s gaze locked onto the struggling warlock. Its chest plates shifted apart, revealing a swirling core of elemental energy.


    -BOOM!


    A shard of frost-imbued stone shot from the core with terrifying speed.


    The warlock screamed as the projectile impaled him through the chest. His body convulsed before going limp.


    The Titan roared again, searching for its next target.


    The battle mage raised his staff and unleashed a crackling arc of lightning toward the Titan''s exposed core.


    The blast connected.


    The Titan staggered back, frost layers cracking and splintering along its body.


    "Shit. He''s taking our damage," Damian realized.


    Selena''s eyes widened. "He''s going for the last hit points!"


    The mage turned toward them, smirking as he readjusted his stance.


    Damian growled. "Nope. Not happening."


    [Infernal Javelins]


    Ten blazing javelins materialized in the air around him. With a flick of his wrist, they launched toward the mage.


    The mage swung his staff like a conductor directing a symphony. Three glowing mana shields formed midair.


    The first five javelins shattered the shields.


    The sixth pierced the mage''s shoulder. He hissed but didn''t falter.


    Damian lunged forward, activating his [Spectral Surge] to close the distance. His vision blurred as his speed tripled. He skidded to a stop right in front of the mage, already swinging his fist.


    The mage met the blow with his staff.


    -CRACK!


    The staff splintered.


    Damian capitalized.


    [Dark Bolt]


    A jet of shadow energy exploded from his palm, slamming into the mage''s chest. The impact sent the man flying across the street, his body smashing through a wall.


    Selena darted past Damian and hurled a sphere of compressed wind magic toward the Titan''s exposed core.


    The spell hit.


    The Titan staggered.


    Its resistance shifted again.


    [Observation Activated]


    Dread Titan <Level 203>


    Resistance: Wind (High)


    Weakness: Earth (Temporary)


    "Earth now," Damian said. "Golem."


    [Summon: Stoneback Golem]


    The ground rumbled as a massive golem of stone and iron rose from the earth. The golem slammed its fists together, then charged the Titan.


    The two giants collided with bone-rattling force.


    Selena unleashed more wind spells, forcing the Titan to move its arms in predictable patterns.


    The Titan''s veins shifted from blue to green as its elemental resistance evolved again.


    Damian scowled. "Adaptable bastard."


    "Watch your flank!"


    Selena''s warning came a second too late.


    The battle mage reappeared, blood dripping from his mouth. His broken staff was gone¡ªreplaced by twin mana blades.


    He lunged for Damian''s exposed side.


    [Dark Chains]


    The chains missed.


    The blades almost sliced into Damian''s ribs.


    Pain shot through his side. He grunted, twisting away. But it was just a scratch.


    The mage smiled through bloody teeth. "Sloppy."


    Damian''s grin returned.


    "Desperate."


    The ground trembled behind them. Stoneback''s massive form locked the Titan''s arm in a crushing grip, exposing its glowing core.


    The mage turned instinctively.

 Chapter 299: Final Damage

    Warlock Ch 299. Final Damage


    Damian seized the moment.


    [Hellfire Spear]


    A blazing spear of crimson flames materialized in his grasp. He drove it through the mage''s torso.


    The flames burned hotter than hell.


    The mage gasped, eyes wide.


    "No hard feelings, okay?" Damian said softly.


    He twisted the spear.


    The mage crumpled.


    Selena was already moving.


    She conjured a pillar of wind beneath herself and launched toward the Titan''s core. The Titan swatted at her, but Stoneback held firm.


    "Now, Damian!" she screamed.


    Damian raised his hand.


    [Shadow Inferno Strike]


    Darkness surged through him. His body became a blur of black and crimson as he shot through the battlefield like a missile.


    The Titan''s core loomed ahead.


    He slammed his palm into the glowing center.


    The explosion rocked the entire city.


    The Titan screeched, its body fracturing. Shards of molten stone rained from above.


    Selena landed beside Damian, breathing hard.


    The Titan toppled with an earth-shaking crash.


    Silence followed.


    Then the voice returned.


    "Final Damage Calculated. Top Two: Damian Blackthorn. Selena Delyanis."


    Damian blinked. "...Wait. We won?"


    ''Oops!''


    The realization hit him like a brick to the face. He wasn''t supposed to go all out. He was supposed to take it easy¡ªblend in, act like a warlock just scraping by, not someone who dismantled a damn Titan like he was out for an afternoon jog.


    ''Shit!''


    He cursed internally, trying not to let his expression shift from bewildered disbelief to the creeping dread of self-sabotage. He could already imagine the council reviewing the footage. "Who the hell is this kid?" they''d say. "How does Cassius train his apprentices? And why the hell did he look like he was having fun?"


    Damian schooled his face into an awkward half-smile and scratched the back of his head, glancing around as if the announcement had surprised him as much as anyone else.


    ''Yeah. Just play dumb. Dumb and lucky!''


    Selena collapsed onto the cracked street, chest heaving. Her hair stuck to her forehead, and her breathing came in ragged gasps.


    "Yeah," she said between breaths. "And I didn''t even betray you. Lucky you."


    Damian turned toward her, forcing his grin to stay casual despite the crimson slicking his side. "Yeah," he said softly. "Lucky me."


    He shifted his gaze to her pale face. Her usual faint glow was dimmed; her skin was almost translucent now. The exhaustion etched into her features wasn''t just from the battle.


    ''She''s tapped out.''


    He knelt beside her. "You look like hell," he said, voice low.


    Selena cracked a weak smile. "Look who''s talking. You''re bleeding."


    "Eh. Flesh wound. Not that bad." He waved it off, even as the sticky warmth spread beneath his fingers. He just realized the scratches were worse than he thought but it was fine. A simple potion would fix that. But Selena, she looked weird. "You, though... You''re paler than usual. And that''s saying something for a fae."


    "I''m fine." She tried to push herself up, but her arms trembled beneath her.


    "Sure," Damian drawled, arching an eyebrow. "Fine. Just casually auditioning for the next undead warlock role."


    She shot him a glare. "I said I''m fine."


    "Uh-huh." Damian exhaled slowly. He wanted to let it go, but the faint tremble in her limbs made his stomach twist. "Selena, you used a lot of magic back there. That fairy dust of yours, the wind manipulation, the barrier spells... You''re running on fumes."


    She didn''t deny it.


    Damian tapped his fingers against the cracked ground. She won''t last much longer like this. If there''s another fight...


    His jaw tightened. "We need to get you somewhere safe."


    Selena gave a breathless laugh. "Safe? In the middle of a death game? Good luck with that, genius."


    He smirked. "I mean, we could build a pillow fort. Maybe conjure up a ''Do Not Disturb'' sign for the Titan''s cousins."


    "With you as the architect?" She scoffed lightly. "We''d be dead in minutes."


    "Fair point," Damian said. "I''m more of a destruction guy than a construction guy."


    A flicker of tension left her face. But only for a moment. Her eyes darted toward the shadows of a half-collapsed building.


    "Someone''s watching us," she whispered.


    Damian didn''t move, but his senses sharpened. The familiar weight of danger pressed against his skin.


    The world shifted slightly as mana signatures glimmered in his vision.


    "Of course," Damian thought with a mental sigh. "Mages. Always sneaky bastards." This was strange. The third segment had ended¡ªthey should have been teleported back to the waiting room or maybe to the fourth segment by now.


    "Right side, behind the rubble," he murmured, his fingers curling toward the hilt of his Fire Spear. "Preparing a spell."


    Selena inhaled slowly, gathering what magic she had left.


    "On three?" she asked.


    Damian''s lips twitched. "Sure. But let''s go on two."


    Her lips quirked upward. "Fine. On two."


    Damian raised his hand slightly, eyes locked on the shadows.


    "One..."


    Mana crackled in the air.


    "Two."


    Selena whipped her hands forward, releasing a concussive burst of air.


    [Dark Bolt]


    A streak of shadow energy followed the wind blast, smashing into the hiding spot.


    The rubble exploded outward.


    The mage shot out like a cornered animal, his staff glowing with crackling mana. A jagged arc of lightning lashed toward them. "Cheater!"


    "Survivor," Damian corrected.


    [Shadow Barrier]


    The barrier shimmered to life around Damian and Selena, absorbing the lightning with a crackling hiss.


    Selena staggered.


    "Stay back," Damian ordered.


    She didn''t argue.


    He surged forward, his eyes locking onto the mage''s panicked expression.


    "Thought you''d get a free kill?" Damian sneered. "Amateur."


    The mage gritted his teeth and swung his staff.


    [Infernal Javelins]


    Flaming spears shot from Damian''s outstretched hand. The first two shattered against a hastily conjured mana shield. The third pierced the mage''s thigh. The fourth impaled his shoulder.


    The mage crumpled with a strangled cry.


    Damian loomed over him, shadows swirling around his fists.


    "Don''t kill him," Selena called weakly.


    "Why not?"


    "Because he''s already lost."


    Damian hesitated. The mage''s eyes pleaded for mercy. Blood pooled beneath him.


    ''Damn it!''

 Chapter 300: Four Against Two

    Warlock Ch 300. Four Against Two


    "Fine," Damian muttered, lowering his hand. The shadows dissipated.


    Selena slumped against a broken column. Her eyelids drooped.


    Damian hovered beside her, heart pounding harder than it should after a battle like that. Her skin had gone from pale to nearly translucent, and her breaths came too shallow. The half-empty mana potion bottle in her trembling hand didn''t seem to help much.


    "C''mon," Damian muttered, running a hand through his sweat-soaked hair. "There''s really something wrong with you."


    Selena blinked, trying to focus. "Probably... my mana," she said, voice cracking.


    Damian clenched his jaw. Her mana reserves were draining too fast, and in a battlefield like this, that was a death sentence.


    She raised the bottle to her lips and gulped down the rest of the potion. Her throat worked in sharp, jerky motions, and she winced when the glass clinked against her teeth.


    Selena coughed weakly, wiping her mouth with the back of her hand. "See? Fine."


    "Yeah," Damian deadpanned. "You look fantastic."


    She groaned. "Stop fussing. We need to¡ª"


    She didn''t finish. Her eyes locked on a spot behind him.


    Damian didn''t ask. He turned on instinct.


    Four figures emerged from the crumbled remains of a building across the street, stepping through the thick mist that clung to the ground like oil. Their steps were slow, confident, their eyes fixed on Damian and Selena with predatory intent.


    "Aw, hell," Damian muttered.


    His gaze flicked to the edges of the street. The ground quivered¡ªcracks slithering through the cobblestones like veins filled with unstable mana.


    "Guess we didn''t make any friends," he said lightly.


    Selena forced herself upright, her legs trembling. "Friends don''t glare like that."


    "True." Damian''s eyes narrowed. "And friends don''t circle you like wolves."


    The four of them spread out in a loose arc.


    The man directly across from Damian was broad and heavyset, his robes sleeveless to showcase runic tattoos spiraling down his arms. Mana crackled across his skin like electric veins. A battle mage.


    To the left, a thin woman twirled a crystalline dagger, her magic faint but slippery like oil on glass. Rogue warlock.


    The other two stayed back, one holding a staff wreathed in shadowfire, the other whispering to summon a familiar¡ªa crimson-eyed wraith that hovered just above the ground.


    [Observation Activated]


    Barik Thorne <Level 118> (Battle Mage)


    Lysa Veil < Level 110> (Warlock)


    Marcus Sylver <Level 105> (Shadowcaster)


    Pyra <Level 109> (Beast Conjuror)


    Damian cursed under his breath.


    "Four against two," he said casually, his voice just loud enough to carry. "You guys scared of a girl and a bleeding guy? No shame."


    The battle mage¡ªBarik¡ªsmiled coldly. "You''re the anomaly here, Blackthorn. We''ve seen what you can do."


    Damian tilted his head. "Yeah? Was it the laugh? People really like the laugh."


    "You''re dangerous," Barik said, planting his feet with a heavy thud. His tattoos glowed brighter. "And she''s a princess. We can''t let you two get any further."


    Selena''s eyes widened. "They know who I am," she whispered.


    Damian''s mind raced. Insider information. Someone involved in organizing the exam had leaked her identity. And the way they were spreading out, keeping their distance, made it clear: this wasn''t about the Titan anymore.


    They were here to kill her or him or both of them!


    "That''s why they haven''t teleported us away yet," Damian muttered.


    Selena''s lips pressed into a tight line. "The rule said only the top two damage dealers win. Maybe we need to defeat them too."


    Damian''s stomach twisted. "Maybe. But I''m sure this isn''t just about the test."


    "Obviously," she bit out.


    The ground rumbled beneath them. Small fissures splintered outward like spiderwebs.


    Damian exhaled. "All right. Time to stop playing nice."


    Selena adjusted her stance, wincing as she summoned a thin strand of glowing fairy dust into her palm.


    "Don''t pass out," Damian warned.


    "No promises," she shot back.


    The attackers moved.


    Barik charged first, his boots cracking the stone beneath him. His mana coiled into his fists like twin serpents.


    [Dark Chains]


    Chains erupted from the ground, snaring his legs mid-stride. The battle mage roared and slammed his fists into the chains, mana detonating in an ear-splitting shockwave.


    Damian ducked the concussive blast and retaliated.


    [Hellfire Spear]


    A spear of molten shadow formed in his hand. Damian hurled it the moment Barik shattered the last chain.


    The spear pierced his side, sizzling into flesh.


    Barik howled, staggering back.


    Movement. Left flank.


    Damian twisted. The warlock¡ªLysa¡ªlunged with her dagger aimed for Selena''s ribs.


    "Selena!"


    Selena raised her hand.


    [Fairy Dust: Gale Bloom]


    The golden powder flared and exploded into a concussive burst. Lysa stumbled, coughing, but recovered too fast.


    ''She''s too tired to hold her off!''


    Damian clenched his fist.


    [Infernal Javelins]


    Blazing spears manifested and shot toward Lysa. She dodged two, deflected one, but the fourth impaled her calf.


    She screamed and collapsed.


    "One down," Damian muttered.


    The conjurer and shadowcaster attacked next.


    The conjurer unleashed a massive, fanged wyrm made of obsidian mana. It surged toward Damian with jaws wide.


    [Void Rift]


    A swirling black rift opened in front of him. The wyrm lunged, but the void pulled it in, disintegrating it with a distorted hiss.


    The conjurer cursed and tried to summon another beast.


    "Selena, the summoner!"


    Selena staggered forward, her palm glowing faintly.


    [Fairy Dust: Binding Roots]


    Thin tendrils of shimmering magic erupted from the ground, ensnaring the conjurer''s limbs.


    Damian followed with a quick blast.


    [Arcane Bolt]


    The energy crackled and arced toward the conjurer, striking his chest with enough force to send him sprawling. He didn''t get back up.


    The ground beneath them shuddered violently.


    Cracks raced outward from the Titan''s massive corpse in the distance.


    Damian''s pulse spiked. The battlefield''s destabilizing.


    "Selena, we need to move!"


    She swayed on her feet. "Can''t..."


    Damian cursed and grabbed her arm. "Hold on," he said.


    He hoisted her into his arms and sprinted toward more stable ground.


    The moment they reached solid ground, the building they''d stood beside collapsed into the abyss.

 Chapter 301: Third Segment Complete!

    Warlock Ch 301. Third Segment Complete!


    Damian set Selena down gently. She slumped against the wall, breathing heavily.


    "They''re still coming," she rasped.


    "Let ''em," Damian said, cracking his neck.


    Across the street, Barik was limping toward them again, eyes wild, power surging in his fists.


    Damian exhaled.


    [Shadow Inferno Strike]


    Dark flames ignited around him. He surged forward in a blur, shadow and fire trailing in his wake. Barik raised his fists to block, but Damian slammed into him with a force that shattered the pavement.


    Barik''s body hit the wall with a sickening crack.


    Damian didn''t stop. He summoned a spear and drove it through the man''s chest.


    The light left his eyes instantly.


    The silence after was deafening.


    Selena groaned softly.


    Damian dropped to one knee beside her.


    "Still breathing?" he asked.


    "Barely," she whispered.


    He looked around the ruined battlefield, heart still racing. There were only two of them now.


    The distant rumble of collapsing structures faded into eerie silence, broken only by Selena''s ragged breathing. The faint scent of burnt stone and scorched mana lingered in the air.


    "Third Segment Complete!"


    "Congratulations, Participants. Two remain!"


    The words echoed through the shattered streets, disembodied and cold. Damian wiped a smear of blood from his cheek and glanced at Selena. She sat slumped against a cracked wall, eyes half-lidded with exhaustion.


    "Well, would you look at that," Damian muttered. "We made it."


    "Yeah," Selena panted. "Barely."


    The ground beneath their feet trembled again¡ªnot from collapsing stone, but from the teleportation spell activating.


    "Here we go," Damian said, flexing his fingers. "Hold on, Princess. Next stop: mystery round four."


    The world dissolved into darkness.


    The disorienting, stomach-turning pull of teleportation spat them out into yet another waiting room.


    Damian stumbled a step, caught himself, and exhaled. "Hate that feeling."


    Selena landed more gracefully but immediately swayed. Damian instinctively reached out to steady her, but she stepped back, arms crossing over her chest.


    The room was different from the previous ones. The walls were obsidian-black like before but hummed faintly with mana, casting a deep crimson glow across the polished floors. A single table stood in the center, laden with food and drinks. Fruits glistened with tempting juice; pitchers of water and wine sat beside roasted meats that steamed invitingly.


    "Well, they really rolled out the red carpet," Damian said, whistling low.


    "Final Segment is approaching. Thirty minutes of rest granted before the final challenge begins. Killing or harming each other in this space is strictly prohibited.!"


    The voice vanished, leaving only the faint hum of mana in the air.


    Damian let out a long breath and immediately activated his skill.


    [Observation Activated]


    [Food ---- Altered (Mana Disruptor)]


    [Drink ---- Altered (Mana Disruptor)]


    Damian shook his head. "Yep. Called it. Poisoned again."


    Selena, who had collapsed into a chair across the room, shot him a tired glare. "Why am I not surprised?"


    "Because we''ve been through three rounds of shady crap, assassination attempts, and rigged obstacles," Damian said, dropping into a chair with a grunt. "Trust issues are healthy at this point."


    Selena rubbed her temples. "Can''t even trust the water?"


    "Nope." Damian pointed toward the pitcher. "Mana disruptor. Nasty stuff. If you''re lucky, you''d just get dizzy. If you''re not, well... let''s just say spellcasting becomes a hot mess."


    Selena groaned and leaned her head back. "Great. No food. No water. And we''re supposed to rest here?"


    "Yeah, well, I brought my own." Damian dug into his pouch and pulled out a small, dark vial with Evelyn''s elegant handwriting scrawled across the label.


    "Potion?" Selena asked, eyeing the vial with suspicion.


    "Yup. Homemade, organic, free of poison." He popped the cork, sniffed it, and downed the contents in two gulps. The bitter, metallic tang coated his tongue before spreading warmth through his veins.


    Selena exhaled heavily, shifting in her chair. "You really think they''re going to make us fight each other?"


    Damian twirled the empty vial between his fingers. "Dunno. Could be a duel. Could be some twisted teamwork exercise. Either way, it''s probably not going to be pleasant."


    Selena closed her eyes. "I should''ve taken the royal exam."


    "Nah, then you wouldn''t have had the pleasure of my charming company."


    "Charming isn''t the word I''d use."


    Damian grinned and stretched his legs out in front of him, faking a wince as if his muscles hurt more than they did.


    Selena opened one eye and noticed the motion. "What''s with the leg?"


    "Ah, you know," Damian said with an exaggerated sigh. "Acting. Figured it might throw you off."


    "You''re pretending to be injured to mess with me?"


    "Yup."


    She huffed, though the corner of her mouth twitched upward.


    They sat in silence for a few minutes, the tension between them growing thicker. Damian could feel it¡ªSelena''s wariness mixed with curiosity.


    "So," he said, breaking the silence. "Why so far away? I don''t bite, you know."


    Selena shifted uncomfortably. "We''re opponents now. Or maybe we are. I don''t know. Feels weird sitting next to you when we might have to fight soon."


    Damian raised an eyebrow. "I mean, the next segment hasn''t started yet, Princess. What''s with the social distancing?"


    She crossed her arms and looked away. "Just... being cautious."


    "Cautious?" Damian let out a dry chuckle. "I saved your life, like, what? Five times today? Maybe six. I lost count."


    Selena opened her mouth, then closed it again.


    "And, really," Damian added, propping his chin on his hand. "If I wanted you dead, I''d have let those idiots do it. Or pushed you into that mana sinkhole. Or fed you the poisoned fruit. Lots of opportunities. I''m just saying."


    Selena''s cheeks darkened with a faint blush. "Okay, okay, I get it. You''re trustworthy. Stop bragging."


    "Bragging? I''m stating facts." Damian smirked and gestured toward the food. "Anyway, if you''re still worried, go ahead. Eat something."


    Selena glared at him. "Nice try."


    "Figured it was worth a shot." Another pause followed before Damian spoke again. "You should take another potion to heal yourself. Or... do you need one?" Damian asked, his voice light but his eyes sharp as he studied Selena''s pale face.

 Chapter 302: Final Segment

    Warlock Ch 302. Final Segment


    "I have it," she said after a moment, pulling a small crystal vial from her pouch. The deep blue liquid shimmered inside, swirling like a tiny galaxy. "High-grade elixir. Restores health, mana, and stamina."


    "Well, what are you waiting for? Down it. You look like you''ve been through a meat grinder."


    Selena shot him a tired glare. "Thanks for the compliment."


    "Hey, I''m just saying what I see." Damian leaned forward, elbows on his knees. "Drink it before you keel over and make me carry you to the next round. I''m not that generous."


    Selena uncorked the vial with her teeth and tilted her head back, swallowing the potion in one go. The usual effects should''ve been immediate¡ªcolor returning to her cheeks, posture straightening, breathing steadying. But instead, she remained slumped, her chest still rising and falling in shallow breaths.


    Damian''s brow furrowed. "Weird."


    Selena wiped her mouth with the back of her hand. "Why are you staring?"


    "You''re supposed to look better by now," Damian said, eyes narrowing. "That potion wasn''t some discount garbage. High-grade elixirs kick in instantly. But you? You still look like you haven''t slept in a week."


    Selena blinked again, slower this time. "I... feel okay. Tired, but okay."


    Damian''s stomach twisted. Something was wrong. He knew it the second he saw the faint tremor in Selena''s fingers, the way she held herself too still. Like she was hiding something. Like she was forcing herself to stay upright.


    "That''s not okay," he muttered. "You know that''s not normal, right? You can''t possibly¡ª"


    He stopped himself when he saw the sharp frown on her face. Her violet eyes narrowed, her shoulders tensed.


    Selena''s voice was quiet but firm. "A question, Damian."


    He didn''t like her tone. It wasn''t accusatory, not exactly. But it was cautious, as if she was trying to piece something together.


    "Did my father send you?"


    Damian blinked. "What?"


    "Why are you this worried about me?" she asked, tilting her head slightly. "You act like Alric. We''ve only known each other for a short time. It was me who chose to cooperate with you, remember? Yet here you are, worrying over me like I''m your personal responsibility." She folded her arms. "Why?"


    Yeah. That was enough to shut him up.


    Because she was right.


    They weren''t friends. They weren''t even long-time allies. Selena had picked him. He had agreed. That was all. This was a damn exam. He was supposed to be focusing on one thing: winning. Passing the S-rank trial. That was his goal. Nothing else.


    So why the hell was he acting like this?


    Damian pressed his lips into a thin line. "No... I don''t know your dad or anyone." He exhaled, forcing his voice to stay even. "I guess I just got carried away."


    Selena watched him, unreadable, but didn''t argue.


    "I just think you should take care of yourself, alright?" Damian continued. "We''ve been through a lot together. I hope you survive till the end."


    She smirked slightly, though it didn''t quite reach her eyes. "If they really make us fight each other in the final, maybe you''ll say something else."


    Damian grinned, leaning back against the chair. "Well, you know, the falling plan still applies. One of us just needs to fall so the other gets an easy win. No need to kill each other."


    Selena rolled her eyes. "So that''s why you''re nice to me? So that I fall for you and let you win?"


    He chuckled. "Not really. But for sure, you''re gonna have a hard time making me fall for you."


    Selena snorted. "Cocky."


    "Confident."


    "Annoying."


    "Charming."


    Selena huffed, shaking her head, but her lips twitched. At least she looked a little better.


    Damian exhaled, rubbing the back of his neck. His mind kept circling back to the bigger problem: the exam itself. Something is off. The poisoned foods and drinks. The constant assassination attempts. And now, the final round looming ahead.


    This whole damn thing was rigged in some way.


    "You thinking about something?" Selena asked.


    Damian snapped out of his thoughts. "Just wondering what kind of death trap they''re throwing us into next."


    Selena hummed. "Think they are planning to kill both of us?"


    "Probably." Damian shrugged.


    "You''re oddly calm about this."


    "I''ve been through worse."


    Selena studied him, then nodded. "Yeah. You have that look."


    Damian raised a brow. "What look?"


    "The look of someone who''s already died a few times but just refuses to stay down."


    He let out a dry laugh. "Accurate."


    The waiting room fell into silence for a moment. Outside, the mana-infused walls pulsed, the energy shift signaling that time was almost up.


    Selena shifted slightly, rolling her shoulders.


    "You still feel weird?" Damian asked.


    "No," she said. Then, after a pause. "...Maybe."


    Damian shot her a look.


    Selena sighed. "It''s not the wound or the mana drain or the potion or whatever. It''s just... something feels off."


    Damian leaned forward, resting his arms on his knees. "Off how?"


    She hesitated, then shook her head. "I don''t know. I don''t understand either. But all my wounds are healed."


    Damian frowned. He didn''t like that. Not one bit.


    "Final Segment Commencing! Prepare for Battle!"


    Damian and Selena locked eyes.


    And in the next instant, the waiting room dissolved into white.


    The shift was jarring. One moment, Damian was standing in the quiet, dimly lit waiting room. The next, he was thrown into the glaring brightness of an open arena, the atmosphere buzzing with raw mana and tense anticipation.


    He landed smoothly, boots scuffing against solid stone. The arena was vast¡ªfar larger than he expected¡ªwith a shimmering mana dome encasing it. The barrier stretched high above them, an iridescent shell that pulsed faintly with contained power. And beyond it?


    The audiences.


    Rows upon rows of spectators filled the stands outside the dome, their voices merging into a sea of murmurs, gasps, and low, eager chatter.


    Damian''s gaze flicked upward, eyes narrowing slightly. He recognized some of them immediately¡ªhigh-ranking officials, council members, notable figures in the arcane world. Of course they were watching. S-rank trials were rare, and seeing one play out in real-time? It was practically a once-in-a-decade event.

 Chapter 303: Falling For Me Already?

    Warlock Ch 303. Falling For Me Already?


    His eyes landed on familiar faces.


    Cassius. Standing near the front, arms crossed, expression unreadable but sharp. Victoria was beside him, looking intrigued, and Evelyn was watching with her usual cool indifference¡ªthough he knew better than to think she wasn''t invested.


    And then there was Alric.


    The knight was rigid, his gaze locked onto Selena with clear concern.


    Damian exhaled. ''Okay... so this is definitely a duel setup.''


    His attention shifted forward. Looming in the center of the arena was a massive crystal, its surface swirling with condensed magic. He recognized it instantly¡ªit was the same type used in tournaments, the kind that locked combatants inside until a clear winner was determined. It would prevent escape, ensure that the duel ran its course, and keep outside interference at bay.


    The voice of the announcer echoed throughout the arena, carrying over the murmuring crowd with an authoritative weight.


    "Final Segment: Duel of Ascendance."


    "Participants: Damian Blackthorne and Selena Delyanis."


    "The objective is to determine the rightful S-Rank through combat. The match will have a time limit of ten minutes. Victory will be decided when the time expires. The participant deemed to have performed better will be declared the winner. However, if one combatant dies before the timer ends, the other will be granted an automatic victory."


    A hush fell over the audience as the announcement concluded. The tension in the air thickened, all eyes locked onto the two remaining contestants.


    Damian''s eyes widened slightly. "Oh, so we don''t actually have to kill each other," he muttered to himself. "We just fight as best we can and let the time limit decide the winner."


    That was... better. At least they weren''t being forced into a death match.


    He turned to Selena, smirking. "What do you think, Princess? Sounds fair enough, right?"


    She didn''t answer.


    His amusement flickered.


    Something was wrong.


    Selena stood there, breathing heavily, her posture stiff. Her eyes were unfocused, her skin unnaturally pale. A faint tremor ran through her arms.


    Damian''s brows furrowed. "Princess?"


    "BEGIN!"


    The crowd erupted, anticipation crackling in the air.


    Damian instinctively dropped into a ready stance, his body tensing¡ªonly to freeze when Selena suddenly staggered.


    Then she collapsed.


    A stunned silence fell over the arena.


    Even the audience seemed unsure of what to make of it.


    Damian blinked. Really? Is she pulling that ''falling plan'' he joked about earlier? Giving him an easy win?


    A smirk tugged at his lips. "Falling for me already?" he teased.


    But then¡ªSelena flinched.


    She tried to get up.


    Yet her legs refused to move, her hands trembled against the stone, and her breath came in shallow, ragged pants.


    That''s when Damian knew.


    She wasn''t acting.


    She was in pain.


    ''Not good.''


    Damian moved before he could think, stepping toward her. His earlier combat stance was forgotten, replaced by immediate concern.


    "Princess," he called, kneeling beside her. "What''s wrong?"


    She didn''t respond. Her breathing was uneven, her hands clutching at the fabric over her stomach as if she was trying to steady herself. Sweat beaded along her forehead.


    The murmurs in the audience grew louder.


    Cassius narrowed his eyes. Alric''s hands were clenched into fists, barely restraining himself from jumping into the arena. Even Evelyn''s usual indifferent expression shifted slightly.


    Damian turned his focus back to Selena.


    "What''s happening to you?" he demanded.


    Selena gritted her teeth. "I... don''t know," she admitted, frustration and pain lacing her voice. "Something''s... wrong."


    Damian''s jaw tightened. His instincts screamed at him. This wasn''t normal. She''d been pushing herself hard, but she should have been fine. She''d taken potions, she''d healed, and yet¡ª


    His gaze flickered to the audience.


    To the council members.


    To the examiners.


    His stomach turned. ''No. No way.''


    "Selena," he said in a quieter, more serious tone. "Did you eat or drink anything before the match?"


    She shook her head. "You checked it. I didn''t touch anything."


    Damian exhaled, but the weight in his chest didn''t lessen.


    That only left one possibility.


    The exam itself.


    ''Was this planned? Was this rigged?''


    His hands curled into fists. He had suspected something was off from the very beginning¡ªthe assassination attempts, the strange inconsistencies in the rules, the forced nature of this duel¡ªbut this?


    This felt like someone was pulling strings directly.


    Selena shifted slightly, trying to push herself up. Damian instinctively reached out to steady her, but she shook her head.


    "I¡ª" She barely managed to lift herself onto one knee before another sharp tremor wracked through her body.


    Her breathing hitched.


    A flicker of something dark crossed her expression¡ªsomething that looked terrifyingly close to fear.


    Damian clenched his jaw.


    He had a choice to make.


    He could play along, let the duel continue, let her struggle through it. He could take the easy victory, solidify his S-rank, and act like this wasn''t his problem.


    But no.


    Damian let out a slow breath through his nose, suppressing the irritation curling in his gut. His eyes flickered over Selena as she swayed slightly, her breaths shallow and uneven. It wasn''t exhaustion. It wasn''t simple fatigue. This was something else entirely.


    Something worse.


    His gaze sharpened. She had just taken a high-grade elixir, one that should''ve fully restored her mana, stamina, and health. And yet, she looked worse than before. His instincts screamed at him that something was wrong.


    Damian stepped forward.


    Selena''s eyes darted to him, wary, her muscles tensing as he reached out. "What are you¡ª?"


    He ignored her, catching her wrist before she could shove him away. His grip was firm but not painful as he held her still. "You just drank an elixir. Your wounds should be healed by now. And you didn''t eat or drink anything from the waiting room," he said, voice edged with suspicion. "So why the hell are you still like this?"


    Selena scowled, attempting to yank her arm free. "Tch¡ªmaybe I just pushed myself too hard."


    "Yeah?" Damian arched a brow. "Or maybe it''s something else," he muttered.

 Chapter 304: Umbral Decay Venom

    Warlock Ch 304. Umbral Decay Venom


    Her lips parted in protest, but before she could argue, he moved. Swift, precise. His fingers skimmed over her arms, then her sides, checking for anything out of place.


    Selena stiffened. "Damian¡ª!"


    He ignored her, pushing forward. His hands found her shoulder, pressing into the muscle¡ªand she flinched.


    A sharp inhale. A reaction too quick, too raw.


    His gaze snapped to hers. Caught.


    "There it is," he muttered.


    Selena clenched her jaw, trying to turn away, but Damian didn''t give her the chance. His grip shifted, fingers curling into the fabric of her shirt, and with a quick tug, he pulled it aside to expose her shoulder.


    Selena let out a strangled sound, her face flushing as she twisted violently. "The hell do you think you''re¡ª?!"


    "Shut up," Damian said flatly, eyes locking onto the wound.


    And there it was.


    The scratch from the assassin''s blade, the one that had been sealed by the potion, was blackened. It wasn''t a normal wound anymore. Even though the potion had healed the skin, a deep corruption spread beneath it, veins darkening unnaturally.


    Damian felt a slow wave of fury ripple through him.


    Poison.


    A slow-acting, high-grade venom. One that had slipped through the cracks of their healing items. And if she was showing symptoms now, that meant it had been working in the background for a while.


    This duel wasn''t just a test.


    It was an execution.


    Selena sucked in a sharp breath, realization flickering in her violet eyes as she stared at her shoulder. "No..." she whispered.


    Damian pressed his lips into a thin line.


    She must have been poisoned back in the first segment. The wound had closed, but the poison had already seeped into her system. And whoever orchestrated this had counted on her pushing herself to the limit, weakening her until it kicked in at the worst possible moment.


    Here. Now.


    In front of a watching audience.


    Damian could already imagine the optics. If she collapsed mid-fight, they''d say she simply wasn''t strong enough. If she died, they''d say it was because she couldn''t handle the exam. No one would question it. No one would investigate.


    It was perfect. And they could frame Damian as the killer to the Fae Tribe.


    And it pissed him off.


    "Damn it," Damian muttered under his breath. His eyes darted over Selena''s paling face as he activated [Observation], scanning her vitals. The results appeared in his mind like a flood of unwanted information, and his stomach twisted.


    [Status: Critical Condition]


    [Poison Detected: Umbral Decay Venom]


    [Progression: Advanced ¨C Approximate Time Until System Failure: 8 minutes, 42 seconds]


    [Effects: Gradual mana depletion, organ deterioration, paralysis upon final stage]


    His pulse pounded in his ears. Eight minutes. Not even ten. If she had just been infected, he could''ve done something. But this poison had already been in her system for hours¡ªslow, insidious, gnawing at her from the inside out while she fought, ran, and pushed herself past her limits.


    And now, time was up.


    Selena''s breath came out shallow, her pupils slightly unfocused as she tried to blink away the haze clouding her vision. "You''re staring," she murmured, voice weaker than before. "What''s wrong? Am I that ugly now?"


    Damian clenched his jaw. "Not now, Princess," he muttered. His hands hovered over her shoulder, his mind racing for a solution. But deep down, he knew¡ªthere was none. If she didn''t get immediate intervention from a proper healer, she was dead before the timer ran out.


    Selena must have noticed the shift in his demeanor because she frowned. "What''s wrong?"


    Instead of answering, Damian turned sharply toward the officials, toward the high council members watching the duel with an air of detached amusement. His voice cut through the tense silence like a blade.


    "She''s poisoned," he announced. "She has less than ten minutes to live. Call off the duel and get a healer in here," he stated again.


    A murmur rippled through the audience, heads turning, whispers growing in volume. But the officials remained stone-faced.


    "The match will continue," one of the examiners stated flatly. "We do not interfere once the crystal has been activated," he continued.


    Damian''s hands curled into fists. "You don''t interfere? You''re telling me you''re just going to sit there and let her die when you know this isn''t a fair fight?" His voice rose with each word, frustration mounting.


    "The rules are absolute," the examiner repeated. "The crystal has been engaged. The only way out is to win or lose."


    "Are you serious?!" Damian barked. His entire body burned with rage, his vision tunneling on the apathetic bastards sitting in their pristine seats, watching this like it was some damn show.


    "Her death will be recorded as a forfeit," another official added, as if that was supposed to bring him any comfort.


    He scoffed, shaking his head in disbelief.


    ''Of course.'' This wasn''t about the duel anymore. It wasn''t even about the exam. This was a setup. A perfect opportunity to eliminate a high-profile fae princess without directly interfering. And if she happened to die at the hands of another participant? Even better. The fae would have their scapegoat.


    Him.


    Selena frowned as she tried to sit up, her limbs sluggish. "Why do you care so much?" she muttered.


    Damian exhaled sharply, running a hand down his face before turning back to her. "Because I don''t like being used, Princess."


    "You can''t," she breathed. "Not this time."


    He gritted his teeth. ''Like hell I can''t.''


    His eyes swept over the audience, searching for one particular person. Alric.


    And there he was, standing near the examiners, his usually composed face twisted in panic. Damian saw him hastily summon a magic messenger, the glowing sigil forming in the air before it shot off into the distance. Probably to Selena''s father. Or someone with enough authority to override this nightmare. At the same time, Alric was arguing¡ªno, shouting¡ªat the examiners, his voice rising over the murmurs of the crowd.

 Chapter 305: Not A Tragic Hero

    Warlock Ch 305. Not A Tragic Hero


    Cassius and Evelyn had also disappeared from their seats, moving swiftly toward the council members seated in their regal observation box.


    ''Good. Maybe they can knock some sense into these bastards!'' Meanwhile, Victoria conjured a crimson bat¡ªa magic messenger for emergencies¡ªand sent it off into the shadows. Urgent. Whoever that was going to, they mean business.


    But Damian wasn''t focused on them anymore.


    He was focused on her.


    Selena was barely conscious now, her body trembling, her breaths uneven. Seven minutes, maybe less. And he still hadn''t found a way to stop the poison.


    His mind raced as he turned back to her, kneeling by her side. Think. What can I do?


    He activated [Dispel].


    Nothing.


    The aura of the spell flared around her for a second before flickering out, completely ineffective against the creeping black veins spreading under her skin.


    "Damn it," he hissed, rubbing his temple. ''It''s not a curse, it''s not a simple poison, and her own regeneration isn''t fixing it.''


    "What should I do?" he muttered under his breath.


    A trap. This was a trap.


    Not just for her, but for him.


    The poison was set in motion the moment she was wounded, slow enough to let her progress through the exam, fast enough to ensure she wouldn''t survive the final segment. A guaranteed death. A setup. A perfectly executed assassination hidden behind a trial.


    Except for one thing.


    They didn''t expect Damian to care.


    And now?


    They were taking full advantage of that fact.


    "Damian Blackthorne!"


    The examiner''s voice echoed through the arena.


    Damian looked up, his gaze locking onto the smirking official. There was something cruel in his expression. Something that made Damian''s stomach twist.


    "If you really want to be a hero," the examiner said, his voice cold and calculated, "and if you really care about the princess, then kill yourself."


    The words crashed down like a hammer, leaving a stunned silence in their wake.


    Damian froze.


    The examiner smirked. "Make the princess the winner, and we can help her. The decision is yours."


    The weight of it slammed into his chest. They were putting this on him. They were throwing the responsibility at him. Not the council. Not the examiners. Him.


    Die, or let her die.


    His first instinct was to laugh.


    A dry, humorless laugh that almost spilled out of his throat.


    ''Oh, that''s clever. That''s really clever...''


    They knew he wouldn''t let her die. They knew. They''d been watching him this whole time, studying his reactions, his actions, his damn weakness.


    And now, they were forcing his hand.


    If he killed himself, Selena would win by default, the match would end, and they''d be able to heal her. So they claimed.


    And if he didn''t?


    She''d die, and they''d pin it on him.


    His fists clenched so tight, his nails dug into his palms. ''No. No, I''m not playing this game...''


    He looked back at Selena, her violet eyes barely open, watching him.


    "...Damian," she murmured, her voice faint but firm.


    She knew...


    She knew exactly what they were trying to do.


    And she didn''t want him to take the bait.


    Damian''s heart pounded. ''Think! Think!''


    He couldn''t die here. He had too much unfinished business, too many enemies still lurking in the shadows.


    But he also couldn''t let her die.


    So that meant...


    A third option.


    Something they weren''t expecting.


    Damian exhaled sharply and stood up.


    He turned toward the examiner, expression blank.


    "You''re asking me to throw my life away for something you orchestrated?" His voice was low, dangerous. "Do I look that stupid to you?"


    The examiner''s smirk didn''t falter. "If you refuse, she dies. And the fae will call for your head regardless. That''s not our responsibility anymore."


    Damian''s jaw tightened. That was the point, wasn''t it? To make him desperate. To force him into a decision they controlled.


    Well, screw that!


    His gaze snapped toward the crystal looming high above the arena, its smooth, translucent surface pulsing with contained mana. The entire duel, the whole damn barrier¡ªit was all anchored to that crystal.


    Destroy it. Break the system!


    A slow grin crept onto Damian''s face.


    They thought they had him cornered.


    They thought they had control.


    Time to prove them wrong.


    Without hesitation, he summoned Bloodwing Raven. The massive crimson bird materialized in a burst of dark energy, its glowing red eyes locking onto him for instructions.


    "Take me up," Damian commanded, leaping onto its back.


    The raven let out a sharp screech before launching itself skyward, wings slicing through the air as it carried him toward the crystal. The moment he took off, a wave of alarm spread through the arena.


    Damian didn''t even glance down. They couldn''t stop him. Not inside the barrier.


    Not before he shattered their precious control.


    As they ascended, the crystal reacted.


    A pulse of blue mana surged outward, and suddenly, the air warped. The space around the crystal rippled and distorted, revealing floating, rotating arcane runes.


    Defensive mechanisms.


    Figures.


    This wasn''t just any tournament crystal. It was different. Stronger.


    Damian gritted his teeth. "Fine. You want to make this difficult?"


    He raised a hand, and [Dark Bolt] formed at his fingertips, crackling with energy before he launched it toward the crystal.


    The bolt never hit.


    A shimmering barrier flared to life, absorbing the impact like it was nothing. The crystal pulsed angrily, and suddenly, it retaliated.


    A surge of arcane energy blasted toward him.


    "Dodge!"


    Bloodwing Raven veered sharply to the side, the blast narrowly missing them. The moment it passed, Damian countered with [Infernal Javelins].


    Ten blazing spears materialized around him, searing the air as they rocketed toward the crystal.


    The barrier absorbed them all.


    And this time? The crystal''s retaliation was faster.


    Blades of pure mana appeared midair and shot toward him at lightning speed.


    "Shit¡ª!"


    Bloodwing dove, narrowly avoiding the first volley.


    But the second clipped Damian''s shoulder.


    A searing pain shot through him, but he gritted his teeth and held on.

 Chapter 306: Exam Rules

    Warlock Ch 306. Exam Rules


    ''Okay. So the damn thing fights back? Fine! Let''s see how much it could take!''


    Damian activated [Spectral Surge], boosting his speed and reflexes.


    Then, he raised his arm again.


    The air shuddered as he summoned [Void Rift].


    A swirling tear in reality appeared near the crystal, pulling at its protective field, distorting the mana layers around it.


    For a moment¡ªjust one moment¡ªDamian saw the core.


    That was his target.


    His eyes narrowed.


    He lunged.


    Bloodwing dove straight for the core, dodging incoming blasts as Damian readied [Shadow Inferno Strike].


    Darkness and fire coiled around him, raw power crackling in his veins.


    "Let''s see how well you handle this."


    He struck.


    The impact shook the entire arena.


    The crystal''s barrier buckled.


    A massive spiderweb crack spread across its surface.


    The audience gasped.


    The examiners'' faces turned ashen.


    Damian''s grin widened.


    "Oh yeah," Damian muttered, watching the crystal''s cracks widen. "That''s gonna break."


    But he was wrong.


    The fractures spread, jagged and deep, but instead of shattering, the crystal surged with renewed resistance. A pulse of arcane energy erupted from its core, sending shockwaves through the air. The very fabric of the arena seemed to ripple, and the barrier thickened, glowing with an ominous intensity.


    Damian gritted his teeth.


    Damn it. It was like the crystal was reinforcing itself in response to his attacks. It wasn''t just a mana containment unit. It was adapting.


    Then he saw it¡ªone of its retaliatory blasts heading straight for Selena.


    His instincts kicked in before his brain could even process it.


    [Shadow Barrier]!


    A translucent wall of dark energy materialized in front of her just in time. The arcane projectile collided with the barrier, exploding in a burst of crackling mana. The force of the impact pushed Selena back, but the shield held.


    Damian exhaled sharply. That was too close.


    She was barely standing as it was. If another attack like that hit her...


    "Shit," he muttered, snapping his fingers.


    [Summon: Stoneback Golem]


    The ground shuddered, and with a deep rumble, a massive golem rose beside Selena, its rocky exterior forming a protective wall between her and any stray attacks.


    "You okay?" Damian called out.


    Selena nodded weakly, but even from a distance, he could tell she was struggling to stay upright.


    "Just... hurry up and break that thing," she muttered, breathless.


    Damian turned his focus back to the crystal, his frustration boiling over. He couldn''t afford to waste time. He had five minutes, maybe less.


    Fine.


    If brute force wouldn''t work, he''d shove pure hellfire down its throat.


    [Hellfire Spear].


    A blazing spear manifested in his grip, its scorching flames twisting and writhing like a living beast. Damian tightened his hold, feeling the searing heat crawl up his arm. This was going to take everything he had.


    The crystal flared in response, its defenses strengthening, as if it sensed the sheer power behind Damian''s next attack.


    "Not this time," Damian growled, launching forward.


    He swung the spear, driving it straight into the widening cracks.


    - BOOM!


    A shockwave erupted, tearing through the arena. The dome trembled, the sheer force of the impact sending spiderweb fractures across its surface. The energy within the crystal began to flicker erratically, arcs of unstable mana crackling around it.


    It was working.


    Damian dug his heels in, pouring every ounce of his strength into his assault. The power of the crystal pushed back, its defenses screaming in protest.


    Then, through the swirling chaos¡ª He saw her.


    Aria.


    She just arrived and stood among the council members, her piercing gaze locked onto him.


    And she did not look pleased.


    Damian''s breath hitched. She turned away from him, her expression unreadable, and addressed the council members with a flick of her wrist.


    He didn''t know what she was saying. Didn''t know what she was doing.


    But he knew one thing.


    Something was about to happen.


    His grip tightened on the Hellfire Spear. If this didn''t work, he had one last option.


    Summon Varak.


    Use his ultimate skill.


    Blow the whole damn arena apart and become a criminal. Again!


    The thought burned in the back of his mind, but he shoved it aside for now. He had to push this attack to the absolute limit.


    Cracks spiderwebbed through the crystal''s surface, jagged fractures widening as the energy within it flickered violently. Sparks of unstable mana crackled around its edges, the dome trembling, struggling to hold itself together.


    It was almost there.


    Damian gritted his teeth, pouring everything into his final strike.


    The Hellfire Spear flared, its searing flames surging outward like a wildfire, twisting and writhing in his grip. He reared back, every muscle in his body burning with exertion, and hurled the spear straight into the core of the crystal.


    -BOOM!


    The explosion rocked the entire arena.


    The crystal shook violently, pulsing with a final burst of resistance¡ª Then, it began to collapse in on itself.


    ''This is it!''


    Damian''s heart pounded. One more second. One more hit, and it would be gone.


    He braced himself to follow up.


    And then, suddenly¡ª The crystal vanished.


    One blink, and it was gone.


    The barrier collapsed.


    The suffocating mana field that had locked them disintegrated in an instant.


    The entire arena fell into absolute silence.


    Damian staggered, his breath sharp, his mind racing to process what had just happened.


    "What...?"


    His head snapped toward the council''s platform, toward the one person who could have intervened.


    Aria.


    She stood tall, unreadable as ever, her cold gaze sweeping over the battlefield before she finally spoke.


    "Exam Rules, Number 42," she announced, voice crisp and unwavering. "If an unexpected event occurs, the exam is allowed to pause and will be continued later after the situation is stable."


    Damian''s blood ran cold.


    Pause?


    That was an option?


    He exhaled sharply, his pulse still thundering in his ears.


    His eyes flickered to Selena¡ªstill collapsed, still struggling for breath.


    Damian didn''t have time to think.


    Save her first. Everything else could wait.


    Across the arena, Alric was already sprinting toward them, his eyes wide with panic, his mana flaring around him. But to Damian, it wasn''t fast enough.


    They had two, maybe three minutes.

 Chapter 307: Beyond Saving

    Warlock Ch 307. Beyond Saving


    ''No. Not enough...''


    Damian''s jaw clenched. He whipped his gaze to his Golem.


    "Golem!"


    The massive construct obeyed instantly, moving with surprising speed. It reached down, scooped Selena up in its massive stone hand, and¡ª THREW HER.


    Gasps rippled through the audience as Selena''s unconscious body soared through the air.


    Damian''s muscles tensed.


    One shot.


    He caught her and held her tight against his chest.


    His Golem crumbled into dust, its task complete.


    No time to react.


    Damian didn''t hesitate.


    The massive, dark-feathered bird screeched, beating its wings furiously as it shot through the air. The wind howled against Damian''s ears, Selena limp in his arms, her breath shallow.


    ''Hold on, Princess.''


    His eyes zeroed in on Cassius and Evelyn.


    They were already causing chaos.


    The audience was a mess¡ªsome standing, some shifting nervously in their seats, voices rising in anxious murmurs. No one knew what the hell was happening, but they could tell things were spiraling out of control.


    Two of the examiners'' personal guards weren''t standing anymore.


    Nope.


    They were croaking.


    Because they were now tiny, pathetic, dog-sized frogs.


    One of them was hopping around frantically, his armor clanking against the stone floor with every desperate movement. The other just sat there, eyes wide and bulging, like he couldn''t believe what the hell had just happened to him.


    Evelyn''s Hex.


    Yeah. That checked out.


    Meanwhile, Cassius had an entirely different kind of chaos brewing.


    One side of the council''s platform was warping, distorting in on itself, dark tendrils writhing like living shadows, curling around the marble floors, the seats¡ªdragging everything into a growing abyss.


    The council members on that side were scrambling, some jumping back, others clutching the arms of their chairs like that would somehow save them.


    It wouldn''t.


    Cassius was getting ready to drop the entire damn section into the void.


    A smart move.


    A terrifying move.


    Because if he actually let go? That part of the arena would just stop existing.


    And that would be a problem.


    For them.


    Not for Cassius.


    Damian didn''t have time to admire the carnage.


    His Raven dove, cutting through the air like a black blur.


    He didn''t slow down.


    Didn''t hesitate.


    He hit the ground hard, boots scraping against the polished stone as Raven dissolved into thick, curling smoke.


    The impact should''ve hurt.


    Should''ve knocked the wind out of him.


    But adrenaline was doing its job.


    Damian barely even felt it.


    "We need healers! NOW!" His voice boomed across the arena.


    The second the words left his mouth, Aria''s cold gaze snapped toward him.


    Then to Selena.


    Her expression didn''t change. Not even a flicker of concern.


    She frowned. Not in worry. Not in hesitation. Just... indifference. "She''s beyond saving."


    Her voice was flat. Absolute. Like she was making a simple observation.


    Like Selena''s life didn''t matter.


    Damian''s blood boiled.


    ''No... No, she''s not. Not yet.''


    His teeth clenched so hard his jaw ached.


    He whipped his head toward her, his voice sharp, unwavering.


    "We can still save her."


    His grip on Selena tightened. His own heartbeat thundered in his ears, but hers¡ª hers was weak. Too weak.


    They had minutes. Minutes!


    He turned back to the council, eyes burning, chest heaving.


    "Where are the healers?!"


    Silence.


    They didn''t answer. They just... exchanged glances. Like this was some fucking casual discussion instead of a dying woman in his arms.


    Then, finally, one of them¡ªa smug bastard in deep blue robes¡ªsighed like Damian was asking for something as trivial as a drink of water.


    With a lazy wave of his hand, he said, "Just leave it to the examiners. They know what to do."


    Damian froze. That tone. That casual dismissal.


    Lies!


    They wanted this.


    They wanted Selena dead.


    They had orchestrated everything.


    The assassins. The poison. The entire fucking duel.


    It was never about the exam. It was about getting rid of her.


    Damian''s stomach twisted. Giving her to them would be the same as putting a blade to her throat himself. But he couldn''t say that. Not without proof.


    His breath came sharp, uneven. Not out of exhaustion. Not out of fear. But out of pure, burning rage. He needed to do something.


    "No." His voice was steady. Dangerous.


    "Just tell me where the healers are!"


    Another council member sighed, annoyed.


    "They''re on the way."


    Damian''s heart stopped.


    ''On the way?'' he thought. ''ON. THE. WAY?!'' he screamed internally.


    His breath came short. He gripped Selena tighter, his chest rising and falling with barely restrained fury. They didn''t have time.


    She needed help NOW. Every second was another stolen from her life.


    His vision blurred with rage. "You don''t have medics for this damn exam?!"


    Another council member, older, with a hard-lined face, scoffed.


    "Rank S is only for those who won''t fall even when alone." His voice was calm. Cold. Unbothered. "No medics. No assistance. Death means death. We make everything the same as the real battlefield."


    The words hit Damian like ice.


    ''Oh... Oh!'' This was normal to them.


    The fae princess dying was normal to them.


    His fists tightened. Useless. All of them! Arguing with them was like screaming at a wall. And every second wasted was another second stolen from Selena''s life.


    He had one choice left. Find another way. Now!


    Damian''s heart pounded like a war drum, his mind racing. The bastards weren''t going to lift a damn finger. They were just going to stand there, watching, waiting, like this was all some sort of game.


    He tightened his grip around Selena''s limp body, his jaw clenching so hard it hurt. Her breathing was shallow, her pulse faint. Time was slipping through his fingers, and he wasn''t about to just stand here and let them steal what little she had left.


    He turned to Cassius and Evelyn sharply. Cassius had murder in his eyes. He was ready to unleash hell. Evelyn''s fingers twitched, her lips curling¡ªalready weaving another Hex.


    Yeah. They were one second away from doing something extreme.

 Chapter 308: Rigged Exam

    Warlock Ch 308. Rigged Exam


    But before either of them could act, a smooth, lilting voice cut through the air.


    "My, my," Victoria drawled, stepping forward. "I never thought an S-rank exam would be this bad." She strolled in like she owned the damn place.


    A ripple of tension spread through the council members. In an instant, their smug posturing shifted to barely concealed anxiety.


    "Your Majesty," one of them greeted hurriedly, bowing slightly. The others followed suit, all stiff politeness and feigned respect.


    Victoria barely spared them a glance. Instead, her gaze flicked to Aria, who had been standing rigidly to the side, before finally settling on Selena''s pale form in Damian''s arms.


    Aria''s shoulders tensed. "I''m sorry," she murmured, her voice laced with guilt. "This isn''t how it''s supposed to be."


    Damian barely held back a snarl.


    "Oh really?" he snapped. "Because it sure looks like this was planned."


    Aria flinched, but she nodded. "There were supposed to be healers. There always are." Her hands clenched into fists. "But... there were discussions. Some people pushed for the exam to be more ''realistic.''"


    "Realistic?" Damian spat.


    "More like rigged," Cassius muttered darkly.


    Aria exhaled sharply. "S-class magi are increasing. That title used to mean something, but now... some people think it''s become cheap. Too easy to obtain. That''s why they changed the exam."


    "So they made it a fucking death trap instead?" Evelyn snarled, her eyes flashing dangerously. "Do they even care who dies?"


    Aria shook her head. "No. As long as it ''weeds out the weak,'' that''s all that matters."


    Victoria hummed, tilting her head. "We''ll talk about that later." Her tone was casual, but Damian knew better. There was steel underneath those words. Then, she turned back to Selena. "Right now, I need a room for her. I want to know what I can do."


    Her gaze flicked to Aria again, sharp as a blade.


    "Because if this happened to my family," she said, her voice dangerously smooth, "it would mean war."


    A murmur of unease rippled through the gathered council. Some of them shifted uncomfortably. Others avoided looking at her altogether.


    A staff member finally stepped forward, bowing quickly. "This way, Your Majesty."


    Damian didn''t wait for any further invitation. He moved immediately, cradling Selena against him, his legs burning with the effort to keep his pace steady.


    Alric was at his side in an instant, his face pale but determined. His hands were clenched tight at his sides, but he stayed silent.


    They followed the staff member down a long corridor.


    Evelyn walked beside Damian, eyes flickering between Selena''s too-still face and the hallway ahead.


    "She''s strong," Evelyn murmured. "But we need to move fast."


    "I know," Damian ground out.


    Cassius exhaled sharply from the other side. "I don''t like this. I don''t like any of this."


    "No shit," Damian bit back. His patience was hanging on by a thread. "But we don''t have time to argue about it."


    Victoria''s gaze remained unreadable as she walked behind them. She hadn''t said anything more since her declaration of war, but her presence alone made it clear¡ªthis wasn''t over.


    Finally, they reached a heavy wooden door, and the staff member pushed it open.


    "Here."


    Damian stepped inside without hesitation, carefully lowering Selena onto the bed. Her skin was too cold. Too pale. He clenched his fists.


    Alric was beside her in a heartbeat, dropping to his knees. His hands hovered uselessly over her, his expression pained.


    "This is my fault," he muttered. "I should have seen it coming. I should have¡ª"


    "Shut up," Damian snapped. "Now''s not the time for that."


    Alric stiffened but nodded.


    Victoria finally moved closer, her gaze assessing. Then she sighed, shaking her head.


    "She''s already past the easy stage," she murmured. "If she was any weaker, she''d already be gone."


    "So what do we do?" Alric said in a panic.


    Damian didn''t answer right away. His brain was working overtime, but nothing good was coming out of it. Selena''s breathing was barely there, her skin cold and clammy. He needed something now.


    He turned to Alric. "Do you have a potion? A tonic? Anything strong enough to repel this?"


    Alric shook his head. "I¡ªI only have an elixir. Princess has one too, but¡ª"


    "Not enough," Damian cut him off. He could hear how desperate Alric was, but desperation wasn''t going to save her. They needed something more.


    Victoria, who had been watching Selena closely, finally spoke. "The poison''s already in her system," she murmured, tracing a gloved finger near Selena''s wrist. "It''s in her blood. If I could do something with that..." Her lips curled slightly. "You know, blood is my specialty."


    Cassius frowned. "But isn''t vampire healing only effective for vampires?"


    "It is," Victoria admitted. "Vampire blood and fae blood don''t mix."


    "So what''s your plan then?" Damian demanded.


    Victoria flicked her gaze to Evelyn, eyes gleaming. "We have a witch here, don''t we?"


    Evelyn''s expression sharpened. "You want me to use runes to neutralize it?"


    "Exactly." Victoria nodded. "If we combine it, I can work with her blood without it rejecting my influence."


    Evelyn crossed her arms. "I can do it. But I''ll need a clear space to carve the runes properly. And you''ll have to be precise."


    "I''m always precise," Victoria said smoothly.


    Victoria glanced at Selena again. "Also... I need someone who can help me manipulate her blood. She''s critical enough that I won''t be able to do it alone."


    A heavy silence settled over the room.


    Then, one by one, every single person except Alric turned to Damian.


    Damian exhaled. Right. Of course. No one else here could pull that off.


    He nodded once. No hesitation. "Fine."


    Cassius clapped a hand on his shoulder. "Then we need to move fast." His eyes flickered toward Alric, who was still kneeling by Selena''s side, his hands clenched into fists.


    Cassius'' face hardened. "You need to go, Sir Alric."


    Alric''s head snapped up. "What?"


    "You can''t be here," Cassius said, his voice firm. "This isn''t something you can help with."

 Chapter 309: You’ll Still be You

    Warlock Ch 309. You''ll Still be You


    Alric looked stricken. "I won''t leave her."


    "We don''t have time for this," Cassius hissed. "Go. Now. We have less than a minute!"


    Alric hesitated. His eyes darted to Selena''s face, his entire body trembling.


    But Cassius was done waiting.


    [Telekinesis]


    With a sharp flick of his wrist, Alric was suddenly yanked backward¡ªan unseen force throwing him straight through the doorway. Before he could even react, the heavy wooden door slammed shut. A second later, a glowing shimmer spread across the surface.


    Barrier magic.


    Cassius turned back to them, his expression unrelenting. "No one comes in."


    Alric''s muffled shouting was already starting from the other side, but Cassius didn''t even acknowledge it. His focus was on Damian now. "Let''s go."


    Victoria grinned. "Now, our turn."


    Damian clenched his jaw, his body coiled tight, eyes locked onto Selena''s barely breathing form. This wasn''t just about stopping the poison anymore¡ªthis was a fight to keep her alive.


    Evelyn had already moved, her fingers carving symbols into the air, golden runes flaring to life beneath Selena''s body. The entire room pulsed with raw magic, thick and charged, setting Damian''s instincts on high alert.


    Victoria let out a low chuckle. "Alright, witch. Time to work your magic."


    Evelyn didn''t even look up. "I swear, if you rush me¡ª"


    Victoria smirked but didn''t argue. Instead, she raised her hand, her nails elongating into claws with a sharp shink. Then, with a casual flick, she dragged her talon to the runes.


    [Blood of Life]


    Thick, glowing crimson welled up instantly, pulsing with unnatural power. It wasn''t just any vampire power. It was hers¡ªa queen''s essence, filled with the kind of energy that could shatter lesser beings if they weren''t prepared for it.


    The moment Victoria''s power hit Evelyn''s runes, the symbols reacted violently. A shockwave of magic burst from the floor, the runes glowing brighter, shifting as if they were alive, devouring the raw vampire energy and purging it before funneling it toward Selena''s body.


    Damian felt the shift immediately. His instincts screamed that this was his moment. The poison inside Selena wasn''t just lingering anymore¡ªit was fighting back. Like some twisted parasite, it clung to her veins, resisting the influx of purified magic.


    [Blood Manipulation]


    His power surged forward, locking onto the toxic sludge buried inside her bloodstream. The poison pulsed¡ªalive, angry, vicious. It wasn''t just running through her body anymore; it was trying to take root, sinking its claws deeper, latching onto her organs, her heart, her lungs.


    Not a fucking chance.


    Damian clenched his jaw, his pulse hammering in his ears. He forced his will through her blood, commanding it to move, to expel the filth inside her. The magic fought against him, twisting, resisting. He pushed harder.


    Selena twitched.


    Then she coughed.


    A horrible, wet, hacking sound tore from her throat, followed by a thick stream of black blood spewing from her mouth. It hit the floor with a sickening splatter.


    "Shit¡ª[Telekinesis]!"


    Cassius reacted instantly, flicking his fingers. Selena''s body jerked sideways, preventing her from choking on her own fluids. More blood spilled, dark, writhing, unnatural, pooling across the floor in thick, twisted clots.


    Damian felt it shifting beneath his control, the poison resisting with all its might. It was trying to stay inside her, to keep infecting her, to keep killing her.


    Like hell.


    His eyes burned as he pushed harder, forcing the corruption out, dragging every last ounce of poison from her bloodstream, his own magic tearing it free from where it had latched on.


    Selena convulsed violently, another choked cough ripping through her as more blackened blood poured from her lips.


    Not enough.


    It was still in her.


    Still fighting.


    Victoria cursed under her breath. "Her body can''t produce blood this fast!"


    Damian didn''t hesitate.


    "Cas, I need a dagger."


    Cassius clicked his tongue, already reaching for his belt. He pulled out a sleek dagger and tossed it toward him. "Don''t push yourself, dumbass."


    Damian caught it without a second thought. "Can''t promise that."


    Then, he slashed his wrist open.


    Blood dripped onto Evelyn''s glowing runes, and the magic reacted instantly. The moment his blood touched the symbols, the golden lines twisted, shifting as they drank his essence, weaving it into the spell.


    Selena shuddered, her body caught between death and survival.


    Damian focused, pushing past the sting of his self-inflicted wound without breaking his spells.


    Selena jerked, her body convulsing as the poison inside her fought against him. It was thick, resisting his control, clinging to her veins like it had a mind of its own.


    "Damian¡ª" Victoria''s voice cut through the haze. "Keep going."


    "I know what I''m doing," he growled.


    His hands trembled, sweat dripping down his face, but he didn''t stop. Couldn''t stop.


    Selena coughed again, another wave of blackened blood pouring from her lips, but it wasn''t enough.


    Damian gritted his teeth. "More."


    Evelyn''s runes pulsed, stabilizing the process, keeping the balance between Victoria''s healing and his purification.


    Selena''s body shuddered violently.


    Damian barely held on, his vision tunneling as he forced every ounce of control he had into purging the last traces of the poison. His fingers dug into his palm, keeping the wound open just long enough for Evelyn''s runes to drink his blood, weaving it into the spell''s foundation. It was barely enough.


    Cassius huffed, his gaze flickering toward him. "I guess even if you rebirth yourself several times, you''ll still be the same."


    Damian barely reacted, the words registering only faintly as he concentrated on not collapsing.


    Cassius clicked his tongue. "You''ll still be you. Crazy. Reckless."


    Damian let out a weak laugh, shaky and strained. "Thank you for the compliment."


    A loud crash from outside the door.


    Cassius tensed, snapping his head toward the entrance, where a surge of immense pressure crackled against his barrier. Whoever was on the other side wasn''t just some random fool knocking¡ªthey were trying to break in.


    Cassius grimaced, raising his hand, creating another [Barrier]


    A shimmering wall reinforced itself against the onslaught. The pressure from outside increased, the barrier pulsing as Cassius pushed his magic into it.

 Chapter 310 310: Where is My Thank You

    Warlock Ch 310. Where is My Thank You


    "Whoever''s out there," Cassius muttered, "they''re strong. Annoyingly so."


    Victoria snorted, wiping sweat from her brow. "Well, obviously. Wouldn''t be fun if they weren''t."


    Damian barely had the energy to acknowledge them. His mind felt slow, his limbs heavy. He forced himself to stay focused. They weren''t done.


    The fight lasted ten agonizing minutes.


    Selena twitched first, then coughed, her breath ragged but improving. The veins along her arms¡ªonce blackened with poison¡ªbegan to fade, returning to their natural color. Her pulse, once erratic, stabilized.


    Then, finally, she stirred and stopped coughing those black blood.


    Evelyn let out a long exhale, practically collapsing onto the floor as her runes flickered, cracked, then shattered completely. The spellwork she had carefully laid out was spent, broken beyond repair.


    Victoria huffed. "Well, that was a pain in the ass."


    Damian didn''t respond. He couldn''t.


    His legs finally gave out, and he dropped against the side of the bed, panting hard. His wounded wrist burned, fresh blood still dripping onto the floor.


    He knew he was in bad shape.


    Not only had he bled himself dry, but he''d also fought for hours in the exam before this. His body was past its limits.


    Cassius gave him a side-eye, arms crossed. "You look like absolute shit."


    Damian let out a hoarse chuckle, tilting his head against the mattress. "I feel like it too."


    Victoria leaned against the wall, arms folded. "I don''t know whether to be impressed or concerned."


    Evelyn groaned. "Try being both."


    Damian barely registered her words. His entire body felt heavy, his mind struggling to keep up. The moment Evelyn poured the potion onto his wrist, a cool sensation washed over his wound, the liquid sealing the cut.


    But yeah, that barely helped. His entire body was shutting down.


    He felt himself tilting, unable to keep himself upright.


    Evelyn caught him before he hit the ground. "Tch. Idiot."


    Damian smirked weakly, his head lolling against her shoulder. "You love me."


    Evelyn scoffed but didn''t push him away. Instead, she sighed, tightening her grip to keep him steady. "That doesn''t mean I have to put up with your crazy decisions."


    Before anyone could respond, a sudden pressure filled the room.


    The air cracked, and Cassius'' [Barrier] shattered as something exploded against it from the other side.


    Then, with a loud, ear-splitting snap, the door was smashed into pieces.


    Vines. Massive, twisting vines burst through the opening, their tendrils lashing out at insane speeds, aiming straight for them.


    No, this wasn''t Alric''s magic.


    This was something else.


    Cassius reacted instantly.


    [Hellfire Spear]


    A molten spear materialized in his hand, heat radiating from it in violent, crackling waves.


    [Telekinesis]


    He launched the spear forward, guiding it mid-air with his will, cutting through the vines in precise slashes. The moment the blade touched the tendrils, fire erupted, spreading across them like a burning inferno.


    The vines screeched, shriveling as they were reduced to ash.


    Then, he stepped through the wreckage.


    A fae.


    Tall, elegant, with a presence that screamed royalty.


    Silver hair. Violet eyes.


    A prince.


    Selena''s brother.


    Alric was behind him, looking seriously uncomfortable.


    The prince''s gaze scanned the room, taking in the aftermath¡ªthe burned vines, the shattered runes, the bloodstained floor¡ªbefore locking onto Selena''s unconscious form.


    Then, his expression twisted in rage.


    "What have you done to my sister?!"


    Cassius sighed loudly, clearly unimpressed. "Wow. A thank-you would''ve been nice."


    The prince''s eyes darkened, his aura flaring dangerously. "Do not test me, human."


    Victoria stepped forward.


    Instantly, the atmosphere shifted.


    The weight of royalty filled the space. Not the fae prince''s.


    Victoria''s.


    "A prince should learn to control his temper," she mused, her tone smooth, commanding, effortlessly condescending. "It would be unfortunate if he threw a tantrum in front of the wrong people."


    The prince stiffened, his jaw tight.


    Victoria smiled, baring the faintest hint of her fangs. "No one harmed your sister. She was poisoned. We saved her."


    The prince''s gaze snapped to Damian, still half-conscious against Evelyn''s shoulder. "And yet, I find a warlock bleeding beside her."


    Damian exhaled tiredly. "Wow. Amazing observation skills."


    The prince''s anger sharpened. "You¡ª"


    Evelyn cut him off, stepping forward aggressively. "You want to know who did the most to save her?"


    The prince''s glare didn''t falter. "Go ahead. Enlighten me."


    Evelyn jabbed a finger at Damian. "Him. You want to know why he looks like this? Because he bled himself dry to keep her alive."


    The prince''s eyes flickered toward Damian''s bloody wrist, then to Evelyn''s destroyed runes.


    His anger wavered.


    Victoria tilted her head. "Would you like more proof, or are you done making a fool of yourself?"


    The prince remained silent.


    Slowly, he inhaled, steadying his emotions. Then, finally, he nodded.


    "Explain," he muttered.


    Victoria''s smirk returned. "Oh, gladly."


    She was about to explain¡ªher words already dripping with the same calm dominance that made the fae prince grit his teeth¡ªbut then...


    A sharp, authoritative voice cut through the room.


    "I guess the exam needs to be canceled then."


    Everyone''s attention snapped toward the entrance.


    A group of examiners had arrived, their robes pristine, their expressions unreadable. Their eyes swept across the wrecked room¡ªthe shattered runes, the burned vines, the bloodstained floor¡ªbefore landing on Damian.


    The lead examiner sighed, shaking his head. "This is a mess. Besides..." His gaze hardened as he locked onto Damian. "That warlock. We need to interrogate him."


    Tension cracked through the air. Damian could already tell where this was going.


    He let out a tired huff, rolling his head back against Evelyn''s shoulder. "Shit... They''re going to make me their scapegoat, huh?"


    Cassius clicked his tongue. "Of course they are."


    Evelyn''s entire aura darkened, her fingers tightening on his arm. "They wouldn''t fucking dare."


    "Oh, they would," Victoria said lazily, but there was sharpness in her tone.


    Damian didn''t even have the strength to glare at the examiners properly. But before any of them could actually grab him, a voice¡ªweak but firm¡ªcut through the rising chaos.


    "No."

 Chapter 311 311: I Have Found My Masked Warlock

    Warlock Ch 311. I Have Found My Masked Warlock


    Heads turned.


    Selena. She was sitting up slowly, her face pale, her body trembling with the effort, but her eyes... Her eyes were sharp.


    Damian blinked. "Huh. You''re awake."


    Selena''s gaze snapped to the examiners. "Damian isn''t the culprit."


    The lead examiner hesitated. "Princess, we understand your¡ª"


    "No, you don''t." Selena''s voice gained strength, even as she struggled to sit upright. "Someone from the inside did this. The assassins, the poison¡ªit was planned."


    Damian let out a weak laugh. "Hah. Guess I should be honored you actually woke up to defend me."


    Selena turned to him, her expression softening. "I wouldn''t be alive if not for you."


    Damian smirked, but his exhaustion betrayed him. "Well, I do try."


    The examiners looked visibly uncomfortable now.


    One of them frowned. "But that warlock is¡ª"


    "Is what?" Evelyn snapped, her eyes burning with irritation. "Because from where I''m standing, that warlock just did more than any of you useless bastards."


    The examiner cleared his throat, clearly not expecting that level of hostility. His gaze flickered between Selena, who still sat weak but defiant, and Damian, who looked like he was two seconds from passing out but still smirking like an asshole.


    After a tense pause, the examiner let out a sigh. "Fine. We''ll investigate then."


    Some of the other examiners shifted uncomfortably, but no one objected.


    "For the time being," he continued, his tone begrudging, "the exam is canceled. No one will receive an S-rank this time."


    Victoria arched a brow, arms crossed. "That''s a rather convenient way to sweep this under the rug."


    Cassius huffed. "So, let me get this straight¡ªyou can''t figure out who the real problem is, so you just cancel the entire damn thing? Wow. Fantastic leadership."


    Evelyn''s eyes flared, but before she could explode on them, another presence entered the room.


    Aria.


    She walked in with purpose, her steps light but sharp, each movement exuding control.


    Her gaze swept over the wreckage, lingering briefly on Selena, who was still pale but glaring, then flickered to Damian, who had now tilted his head back against Evelyn''s shoulder, looking thoroughly entertained despite the fact that he was on the verge of unconsciousness.


    Finally, she turned to the examiners.


    And spoke with finality.


    "There''s no need to cancel the exam."


    The lead examiner blinked in surprise, his posture straightening immediately. "Lady Aria¡ª"


    "That warlock," Aria continued, her voice unwavering, "has more than proven his right to an S-class rank."


    Silence.


    A long, heavy silence.


    The examiners exchanged glances, hesitation flickering across their faces. Aria''s words held weight, and they knew it.


    Damian let out another breathless laugh, smirking through his exhaustion. "Well. That''s one way to make things interesting."


    What he knew¡ªwhat everyone knew¡ªwas that Aria hated him. She had never spoken favorably of him before.


    Yet, here she was, defending him.


    And Damian couldn''t help but wonder...


    ''Why?'' He wanted to say that badly. But the word died in his throat.


    Aria''s gaze didn''t waver. There was no smugness, no amusement, just calm certainty. It was almost unnerving.


    Cassius was the first to break the silence. He sighed, running a hand through his hair before saying, "Thank you for your kindness, Lady Aria." Then, with a smirk, he added, "Though, to be fair, he really did deserve it."


    Damian snorted, half-conscious, but still smirking. "Glad someone appreciates my suffering."


    Selena''s brother¡ªwho still looked two seconds away from shoving Cassius into a wall¡ªlet out a slow, measured breath. "And we deserve an explanation."


    His eyes locked onto Selena, who, despite her obvious exhaustion, held his gaze without faltering. "Let''s go home."


    She was still pale, still weak, but when she spoke, her voice carried strength.


    "I need to talk to Damian first."


    Her brother stiffened.


    His jaw clenched, his hands tightening into fists. He looked like he wanted to argue, to shut her down immediately, but instead, he exhaled sharply.


    A moment passed.


    Then, finally, he took a step back. "Fine."


    But the disapproval in his eyes was clear.


    Selena didn''t seem to care.


    She turned, her weary gaze falling on Damian, and without hesitation, she reached for his hand.


    Her fingers were cold, trembling slightly, but her grip was firm.


    "Thank you," she said, voice softer now. "For everything you did for me today."


    Damian blinked, his exhaustion making it hard to process. "Uh. Yeah. No problem."


    Selena''s lips curved slightly, but there was something else in her expression now. Something... knowing.


    She leaned in, closer than necessary, her breath warm against his ear as she whispered¡ª "And I have found my masked warlock."


    Damian''s entire body froze.


    Selena pulled back, her eyes gleaming, the exhaustion not enough to hide the amusement flickering behind them.


    "It''s you, right?" she murmured.


    Damian''s smirk returned, slow and sharp, despite the fact that he felt like he was about to collapse again.


    "We''ll meet again," she added, her voice carrying an unspoken promise.


    Damian huffed, voice barely above a whisper. "If we meet again, please don''t bring me more trouble. I''ve got enough of them already."


    Selena giggled¡ªweakly, but still with that same knowing amusement. "No promises."


    Damian exhaled heavily, too tired to argue, but his smirk remained. He knew. Of course she wouldn''t promise that.


    Selena slowly turned her face away from him, her pale fingers trembling slightly as she extended a hand to her brother.


    The fae prince was at her side immediately, his movements sharp, controlled, as he took her hand and helped her up. He said nothing to her, but the protectiveness in his gaze was obvious.


    Then, he turned his attention to the examiners, and for the first time, he really glared at them. No, it was a death stare to be precise.


    More than he ever glared at Cassius and Damian.


    The examiners shifted uncomfortably, some looking away. The authority in the fae prince''s posture was suffocating, his golden eyes burning with undisguised fury.


    Then, without another word, he turned, guiding Selena out of the ruined room.


    And just like that¡ª They were gone.

 Chapter 312: The S-Rank Gamble

    Warlock Ch 312. The S-Rank Gamble


    Damian let out a long breath, tilting his head back against Evelyn''s shoulder once again.


    "Damian''s about to pass out," she announced.


    "Yeah, no shit," Cassius muttered, crossing his arms as he stared down at Damian''s half-conscious, blood-drained form.


    Damian didn''t answer. Not because he was ignoring them¡ªno, he would have loved to throw out another snarky remark¡ªbut because he actually couldn''t. His body felt like lead, and if anyone decided to attack them right now, he''d be useless.


    That thought alone pissed him off.


    He hated being a burden.


    Hated the fact that if someone tried to capture them, the only thing he''d be good for right now was getting carried like a damn sack of potatoes.


    His fingers twitched weakly, but yeah, that was all he could do. Great. Fantastic.


    Aria, who had been standing silently all this time, finally spoke.


    "We need to give him the S-rank now."


    Cassius snapped his head up, blinking in disbelief. "Now?"


    Aria''s eyes didn''t leave Damian''s limp body. "Now."


    Cassius scoffed, gesturing at Damian''s barely-functioning state. "I don''t know if you''ve noticed, but he''s not exactly in a good state to accept anything right now."


    Victoria''s expression sharpened, her usual amused demeanor replaced by something colder. "Maybe I should remind you, Lady Aria, that he is under my protection."


    Aria met Victoria''s gaze, her expression unreadable. Then, without hesitation, she turned toward the examiners and council members still lingering in the room.


    "Leave."


    There was a beat of hesitation before they exchanged wary glances and slowly filed out, some more reluctant than others.


    But Damian knew.


    At least one of them was reporting this.


    To those people.


    The ones who wanted Kaelan dead in the past.


    The second the doors shut, Aria spoke again.


    "I know," she said, her voice low, serious. "But the choice is to take this now or never."


    Evelyn frowned. "What is that supposed to mean?"


    Aria''s gaze flickered back to Damian. "This decision belongs to me alone. The councils here? They''re not on the same level as me. But I can guarantee that one of them is reporting this already. If..."


    She paused, inhaling deeply before continuing.


    "If they show up and say no before we manage to give him the title... he might never get that title in his life. He will stuck forever."


    Victoria''s expression remained unreadable, but her fingers tightened slightly at her side.


    Cassius scoffed, shaking his head. "You can''t be serious."


    Aria''s gaze snapped toward him. "I''m serious."


    Damian, who had been quietly listening, let out a weak, hoarse laugh. "This is the worst time to be making life-changing decisions." But one question in his mind was, why did she decide to help him?


    Aria ignored them, stepping closer. "He deserves this. You know he does."


    Victoria narrowed her eyes. "And you expect me to just let this happen without question?"


    "Yes," Aria said simply.


    Cassius groaned, rubbing his temples. "This is insane."


    Evelyn glanced at Damian, who still looked like he could pass out at any second, then back at Aria. "Fine. Give him the damn rank."


    Victoria remained silent for a long moment before finally speaking.


    "If this backfires¡ª"


    "It won''t." Aria''s voice was firm, unwavering.


    Victoria''s eyes bore into hers for a second longer before she finally let out a soft huff, brushing some dust off her coat. "Alright," she said. "Let''s do this before he actually collapses and we have to force-feed him potions just to keep him conscious."


    Cassius sighed. "I hate everything about this."


    Damian, still half-lucid, smirked weakly. He didn''t know whether he should be grateful or annoyed about all this. On one hand, yeah, getting an S-rank was a big deal, but on the other... he was the main witness to what happened to Selena. Which meant some people¡ªdangerous people¡ªweren''t going to like that. Some of them might even try to kill him.


    Evelyn rolled her eyes. "Well, we can''t have Damian dying on us, can we?"


    She reached into her pouch, pulling out a small glass vial filled with a rich, glowing blue liquid. "Drink," she ordered, shoving it into Damian''s hands.


    Damian blinked slowly at the potion, his brain struggling to process the simplest of tasks. "...I feel like if I pass out before drinking this, you''re just gonna force it down my throat."


    Evelyn smirked. "You''d be correct."


    Damian snorted, lifting the vial to his lips. But the doors to the chamber slammed open. The entire room tensed.


    Because yeah, of course the fae prince just walked in unannounced. No knocking. No asking for permission. Just barreling in like he owned the damn place.


    Cedric''s eyes swept across the room, lingering for a second on Aria, before locking onto Damian.


    Aria sighed, smoothing out her robes. "Is there anything we can do for you, Prince Cedric?"


    Cedric didn''t look at her. Instead, he stared at Damian with an unreadable expression. Then, finally, he said, "Nothing. I''m here because my stupid sister asked me to help that warlock."


    Damian huffed, tilting his head lazily against Evelyn''s shoulder. "You don''t sound happy about it..." he said weakly.


    "I''m not," Cedric deadpanned.


    Cassius smirked. "Then why are you still standing here?"


    Cedric''s jaw tightened, but instead of snapping back, he simply exhaled and crossed his arms. "We''re going to need his help finding the mastermind behind all this. The assassinations. The ambush. It wasn''t random."


    Aria''s eyes narrowed slightly. "So you believe someone within the Sanctum is responsible?"


    Cedric glanced at her. "Of course, I believe the attack was planned. Whether it was an inside job or an outside force using this exam as an opportunity remains to be seen." Cedric''s gaze snapped back to Damian, sharp and calculating. "I have to make sure he stays alive before we can extract information from his head."


    "Wow... You make it sound like I''m some fragile artifact..." he tried to joke around despite his condition.


    Cassius snorted. "I mean, right now? Kind of are."


    Cedric reached into the folds of his coat. "Also... she asked me to give you this."


    He pulled out a small ornate bottle, the glass shimmering with a deep emerald glow, and handed it to Evelyn.

 Chapter 313: The Final Verdict

    Warlock Ch 313. The Final Verdict


    Evelyn blinked, turning it over in her hands. "This is¡ª"


    "A high-quality elixir from our tribe," Cedric confirmed. "You healed Selena. It''s the least I can do."


    Victoria raised an eyebrow, clearly impressed. "That''s not something you hand out lightly."


    Cedric''s gaze hardened slightly. "My sister wouldn''t be alive without you. Consider it a small token of repayment."


    Evelyn studied the bottle for a moment before nodding. "Fair enough."


    She uncorked it without hesitation, the faint emerald glow of the liquid inside shimmering as she handed it over to Damian.


    "Drink."


    Damian wrinkled his nose. "Smells so bad..."


    Evelyn shot him a sharp look. "Do you want to be functional or not?"


    Damian sighed, taking the vial. He tilted his head back and downed the contents in one go.


    The effect was instant.


    A warm sensation rushed through him, spreading from his core to his limbs, replacing the dull, aching fatigue with something light and powerful. The glow from the elixir wrapped around him, seeping into his skin, and for the first time in what felt like hours, he didn''t feel like a damn sack of potatoes.


    He stretched his fingers, rolling his shoulders experimentally. The stiffness melted away. His head cleared, his body no longer weighed down by exhaustion.


    "Holy shit..." He muttered, flexing his hand. "This is amazing..."


    Evelyn, who had been watching carefully, looked at the few remaining drops in the vial. Her eyes narrowed thoughtfully. "I need to know the ingredients," she murmured.


    Evelyn ignored him, tucking the empty vial into her pouch like it was some precious artifact.


    Meanwhile, Aria, who had been standing quietly, finally exhaled and spoke.


    "Alright. We''ll finish the exam and close this all out."


    Damian glanced at her, his curiosity stirring. He had a lot of questions, but... now probably wasn''t the time. He leaned forward, resting his arms on his knees. "So, what now?"


    Aria folded her arms. "We need to go back to the arena and announce the results."


    Cassius raised an eyebrow. "The exam was already a disaster. What''s left to announce? The princess assassination attempts?"


    Aria looked at Damian, her expression unreadable. "His S-rank."


    Victoria grinned, her fangs glinting slightly. "I do love a good dramatic ending."


    Damian sighed, rubbing his face. "You mean I actually have to get up and walk back out there?" Somehow he felt like he would get an open assassination.


    Cassius chuckled, pushing off the wall. "Come on, let''s get this over with."


    Damian stood, rolling his shoulders one more time. He could still feel the faint remnants of exhaustion, but at least he didn''t feel like he was about to collapse anymore.


    Aria turned toward the door. "Let''s move. The longer we wait, the more complicated this gets."


    And with that, they headed back to the arena.


    The walk wasn''t long, but it felt like the longest one of Damian''s life.


    They passed the examiners and council members, who all looked confused as hell but didn''t immediately stop them. Some tried asking questions¡ªsome even reached out as if to physically block their way¡ªbut Aria''s unwavering pace and the sheer presence she carried shut most of them up before they could say anything meaningful.


    Still, Damian caught snippets of hushed whispers as they walked past.


    "What''s going on?"


    "Are they seriously still proceeding with the exam?"


    Damian sighed under his breath. ''They''ll find out soon enough.''


    When they arrived at the arena, the scene was a mess.


    The once-packed stands had thinned out, people scattered across different areas. Some were probably still trying to figure out what had happened, hunting for their friends or chasing rumors. Others had returned to the seats, waiting for an official statement, trying to act like things were still normal.


    At the center of the field, it was just Damian and Aria, standing before the few remaining council members who had finally started piecing together what Aria was doing.


    And they did not look happy.


    Aria stepped forward, her expression unreadable, her voice carrying over the arena with ease.


    "After reviewing the situation, I am here to make the final announcement regarding this year''s exam."


    A low murmur spread through the crowd.


    Damian could feel the tension building.


    Aria continued, her words deliberate and cutting. "Selena Delyanis has been declared lost from the last match. Due to the injuries she sustained in the previous segment, she was unable to continue and therefore forfeits her final duel." Aria''s voice did not waver. "And that makes Damian Blackthorn this year''s winner."


    Silence.


    Then¡ªexplosion.


    Not literal.


    But the arena erupted in murmurs, protests, outright complaints.


    Not everyone was happy with the decision, and the council? Of course they weren''t just going to take that lying down.


    One of them, an older magus with a permanent look of disapproval, stepped forward. "Lady Aria," he started, voice measured, "surely we should discuss this before making such a hasty declaration¡ª"


    Aria''s gaze snapped to him so fast that the man immediately shut his mouth. "This year''s exam is a mess." Her voice rang sharp through the air.


    She wasn''t asking or debating. She was stating a fact.


    She turned to the rest of the council, her tone cold and unforgiving. "Someone is trying to sabotage us. And this year..." She let her words settle over the crowd, her expression dark. "This year has taken more participants'' lives than any other."


    The murmurs died instantly.


    Aria took another step forward. "Are you trying to get rid of an entire generation of strong magi? By making them kill each other?"


    The council members shifted uncomfortably.


    Another magus, younger, but just as rigid, frowned. "With all due respect, Lady Aria, we are aware of the unfortunate incidents, but¡ª"


    "Unfortunate incidents?" Aria''s voice was like a blade.


    Damian could see it now.


    The way the council members were scrambling.


    They knew they couldn''t argue against the deaths. But they still wanted control.


    Victoria, who had been watching silently, finally spoke up, her voice smooth and edged with mock amusement.


    "You mean to tell me that after all this, your concern is still about controlling the outcome of this exam?"


    The younger council member frowned but didn''t respond.

 Chapter 314 314: A Title in Blood

    Warlock Ch 314. A Title in Blood


    Tension crackled in the air. The moment pressed down on the arena, on everyone watching, on everyone waiting. The council, caught between their desperation to maintain control and the situation, hesitated.


    And then one of them stepped forward.


    An older man, his robes heavy with insignia, cleared his throat. "Arguing like this, in front of the audience who is waiting for news of their friends or family''s safety, is a very bad idea." His tone was measured, carefully neutral, but his gaze was anything but. "What if we wait for the other senators to arrive and let them make the decision?" he suggested.


    A low murmur rippled through the crowd. Some of the examiners nodded, as if that was the logical thing to do.


    Aria, however, had other ideas.


    She turned sharply, her gaze locking onto the councilman with something that wasn''t quite anger, but was close enough to make the air feel colder.


    "So you''re saying I¡ª" she said, voice low, dangerous "¡ªthe strongest sorcerer who rid the world of The Evil One, needs their approval to make a decision as simple as this?"


    The councilman flinched.


    The others curled inward, avoiding her gaze.


    Damian, standing there witnessing the whole disaster unfold, pressed his lips together.


    ''How about trying not to bring my past into this?'' he thought. ''Have mercy on that dead guy, will you?'' he cringed.


    Of course, that only made things worse.


    Because the thing inside him¡ªthe demon king that had never quite left¡ªchose that exact moment to start laughing.


    ''Damn this is hilarious!''


    Damian internally groaned, his head throbbing. ''Shut up!''


    The laughter echoed in his mind, mocking, amused.


    Aria turned her attention back to the crowd.


    She didn''t wait for the council to argue further. Didn''t give them a chance.


    Her hands began to glow, and impossibly strong magic rippled through the air as she spoke.


    "This year''s exam has taken many lives," she said, her voice carrying through the arena like a bell tolling in a silent temple. "If I didn''t announce the winner, it would be disrespectful to the ones who gave everything and died in the middle of this exam."


    Aria turned to Damian, her expression unreadable. "Now," she said, pointing toward the stage, "go to the stage."


    Damian stared at her for a moment before exhaling heavily.


    "Right," he muttered. "Of course."


    He moved.


    His steps felt heavier than before, but at least his body wasn''t falling apart anymore thanks to the elixir.


    The stage was a circular platform, slightly raised, standing above the arena floor.


    A magic formation was carved into the stone beneath it. Ancient runes etched into the surface hummed softly, waiting.


    Aria stepped forward, raising her hand toward the formation.


    It was supposed to be activated by four council members, each placing their magic into the runes to officially recognize the S-rank title.


    But no one moved.


    Damian, half-expecting it at this point, wasn''t even surprised.


    The council members stayed frozen, standing there like statues, their expressions ranging from displeased to downright uncomfortable.


    Aria, watching them closely, let out a low, exasperated breath.


    She muttered, just loud enough for Damian to hear. "Rotten as always..."


    Then, without hesitation, she raised both hands, and the magic formation beneath Damian lit up like the sun.


    It was supposed to take four powerful mages to activate it.


    Aria did it alone and effortlessly.


    The magic circle exploded with light. A deep, resonating hum filled the arena as ancient symbols burned to life beneath Damian''s feet. The sheer force of the activation sent a wave of energy rippling outward, making the very air vibrate with power.


    Damian barely had time to process the surge of magic wrapping around him, sinking into his bones. It wasn''t just activating¡ªit was recognizing him.


    A familiar flicker in his vision.


    [Congratulations! You have obtained the Rank S title!]


    [You now have access to every skill you are capable of creating.]


    Damian''s breath hitched. ''Every skill?'' It was like in the past then.


    Before he could even fully grasp the implications, the crowd reacted.


    Some gasped, some cheered, others whispered furiously among themselves. The weight of an S-rank title wasn''t something given lightly. It was a statement.


    It was power and influence.


    And not everyone was happy about it.


    The councilmen, in particular, looked like they had just swallowed poison.


    Their faces twisted into barely contained displeasure, but Damian saw it.


    The one on the far left¡ªthe one who had been the loudest opponent against Aria''s decision¡ªhis fingers twitched.


    Subtle.


    A movement so small that most wouldn''t have caught it.


    But Cassius did.


    From the stands, Cassius'' eyes narrowed as he felt the subtle shift in energy. A quiet, concealed spell forming.


    An attempt at sabotage.


    Before the councilman could even finish, Cassius flicked his wrist.


    [Telekinesis]


    The councilman froze mid-motion, his entire body locking up unnaturally. His mouth opened in a silent snarl, but he couldn''t move, couldn''t disrupt the spell, couldn''t do anything.


    From the stands, Cassius didn''t move a muscle.


    His gaze was trained on the bastard like a predator watching prey.


    The councilman''s eyes flickered wildly, his mind catching up to what was happening. He wasn''t an idiot. He knew exactly who was interfering.


    With a sharp glare, he forced his own magic outward.


    [Dispel]


    Cassius'' hold shattered, his telekinetic force breaking apart.


    But Cassius didn''t flinch.


    Instead, he raised his fingers again, and before the councilman could even breathe, he was locked in place once more.


    The councilman''s fury was evident, his face contorting in rage, but this time, when he turned toward Cassius.


    Cassius was already looking at him. And the look he gave wasn''t amusement. It wasn''t smugness, but a promise. A silent, deadly message.


    ''Try it again, and you''ll regret it.''


    The councilman didn''t move this time.


    Didn''t even try.


    The air around him shivered, his displeasure practically tangible, but Cassius'' grip held firm.


    And the ceremony continued without a hitch.

 Chapter 315 315: The Sabotage

    Warlock Ch 315. The Sabotage


    The ceremony finished.


    No applause.


    No fanfare.


    Just murmurs. Displeased looks. Whispers exchanged between council members and examiners, their faces unreadable but their thoughts loud as hell.


    Damian stepped down from the platform, the glow of the magic circle still burning behind him. His body felt... weird. Not in a bad way, but not in a good way either. It was like standing in the eye of a storm, knowing that the real chaos was still waiting to hit.


    He walked up to Aria, exhaling heavily. "Thanks."


    Aria turned to him, arms crossed, her face still as unreadable as ever. "I just did what I was supposed to."


    Damian huffed a tired laugh. "Yeah, well, that makes one of us."


    Aria tilted her head slightly, her gaze flickering with something unreadable. Then, as if deciding to humor him, she added, "Besides, you''ve helped us. If the fae princess died, it would have been... dangerous."


    Damian raised an eyebrow. "Understatement."


    Aria didn''t argue.


    One of the council members, an older man with sharp eyes and an even sharper tongue, stepped forward, his voice cutting through the tense air.


    "But the fae princess signed the agreement that she would follow the rules," he said. "We can''t guarantee her safety. That was never a condition."


    Aria''s head turned slowly, her gaze locking onto him with dangerous precision. "Oh..." she murmured, her voice laced with something cold, biting. "Is that so?"


    The temperature in the arena seemed to drop. Then, she smiled. And somehow, that was worse. "That explains why this year''s exam really felt like a death match," she said.


    The murmur among the audience grew louder.


    The council members, clearly annoyed by the attention, stepped forward, one of them adjusting his cloak.


    "But a Rank S should have that ability," one of them said firmly. "This isn''t a Rank A exam. We would be ashamed if we granted an S-rank to an incompetent magus."


    Damian, who had zero energy left for this conversation, let out a breath through his nose. ''Oh, for fuck''s sake...'' he thought. ''I was away for like fifty years and they are still like this?'' he grumbled internally.


    Aria, however, didn''t take the bait. Instead, she tilted her head slightly, as if considering their words. Then she spoke. "You''re right," she said calmly.


    The council members blinked, almost surprised at her agreement. "But that doesn''t mean you get to play with their lives like toys."


    Tension spiked.


    Damian crossed his arms, watching.


    Aria''s voice didn''t waver. "A Rank A versus a Rank A," she continued, "will result in two outcomes. One¡ªboth of them die in the process. Or two¡ªone of them survives, but crippled. And then what?" Her eyes narrowed slightly. "You have an useless S-rank."


    One of the councilmen shifted uncomfortably, but another stepped forward. "That''s the risk of the title."


    Aria didn''t blink. "Previously, all exams were about survival and adaptation. Yes, of course, there were cunning ones who betrayed their comrades, but the exam itself encouraged cooperation between magi. The goal¡ªso that we, as magic users, become united, to help each other face greater challenges." She took another step forward. "But this year..." She looked around, her gaze sweeping across the arena, the participants, the audience. "Why does everything seem to push them into competition?"


    The murmurs from the audience grew louder, but she didn''t waver. Instead, she took another step forward, her gaze locked onto the council members standing before her.


    Her lips curled into something that wasn''t quite a smile. "That doesn''t make sense," she said, her voice calm, measured, yet laced with something dangerous beneath. "We claim to want the best magi. We claim to want strength, intelligence, adaptability. And yet, instead of fostering that, instead of pushing them to be better, to work together, we''re forcing them to kill each other."


    Aria didn''t stop. She lifted a hand, gesturing toward the remnants of the exam. "The fae princess almost died," she continued, her voice colder now. "Because of that." She tilted her head slightly, her eyes narrowing. "Do you think the fae royals are stupid?"


    One of the council members shifted, their lips pressing into a thin line.


    "They''ll do their own investigation," Aria said, her voice like a whisper of a storm. "And when they do... what do you think they''ll find?"


    A few of the council members exchanged glances.


    Damian, standing beside her, crossed his arms. He wasn''t sure where Aria was going with this, but he had a feeling it wasn''t going to end well for the council.


    Aria turned her gaze to the crowd, then back to the council. "The fae princess was poisoned, wasn''t she?"


    The tension in the arena snapped tighter.


    "I believe no magi are allowed to carry poison," she added, her voice almost mocking. "Right?"


    The moment the words left her mouth, one of the older council members stepped forward as he turned sharply toward Damian. "He brought it."


    Damian''s brows shot up.


    "The poison," the councilman continued, his voice rising above the murmur of the crowd. "It came from him."


    A cold, sinking feeling settled in Damian''s chest. "No," he said, voice steady but sharp. "It wasn''t me."


    The councilman sneered. "Oh? Then where did it come from?"


    Damian''s fingers twitched. His patience was already wearing thin, but he forced himself to stay still. "We were attacked," he said, his voice unwavering. "Segment one of the exam. Mercenary assassins. All of them are dead now, but before that, the poison got to her."


    But, of course, the council wasn''t interested in logic.


    "Liar."


    Another council member, one who had been silent until now, took a step forward, his expression twisted in distaste. "This," he said, gesturing toward Damian, "is why we did not agree to give him an S rank."


    A few nods of agreement.


    "Look at him," the man continued, his voice gaining strength. "You''ve given an S rank to a villain."


    Something in Damian snapped. His fingers twitched again, this time with more force. He could feel the heat rising in his veins, the raw energy coiling inside him like a beast ready to be unleashed. He could end this. Right now. He could wipe that smug look off their faces, could tear down their precious ranks and titles with nothing but pure, unfiltered destruction.


    But if he did¡ªif he let that part of him take control¡ªthen he would prove them right.


    His jaw clenched.


    And then a laughter came.


    Loud. Unapologetic. Amused.

 Chapter 316: A Broken System

    Warlock Ch 316. A Broken System


    The entire arena turned at the sound.


    Cassius.


    He stood from his seat in the audience, his eyes gleaming with something sharp and dangerous. And then, in a blink, he teleported¡ªappearing in the center of the arena, right in front of the council.


    "Well, that''s a new one," Cassius drawled, his arms folding across his chest as he tilted his head. "So, let me get this straight¡ªyou''re telling me that I trained an apprentice who would poison the fae princess?" He let the words settle for a beat, then arched a brow. "Please. Do tell."


    The council''s expressions wavered.


    Victoria, who had been seated with her usual air of indifference, finally spoke, her voice smooth but filled with quiet amusement. "Maybe they forgot," she mused, her fingers tapping lightly against her armrest, "the reason why I gave him the special reward in the first place."


    Beside her, Evelyn frowned, her gaze narrowing at the council. "If he wanted the fae princess dead," she said, her tone colder than before, "why would he have saved her?"


    More murmurs. More whispers.


    "You saw it yourself," Evelyn continued. "How desperately he tried to break the dome. How he shattered the crystal just to get her out. How he went out of his way to find healers¡ª"


    Victoria scoffed, cutting her off with a smirk. "Oh, but that''s the best part, isn''t it?" She leaned forward slightly, her lips curling. "They didn''t even provide healers here."


    The audience was no longer just murmuring.


    They were angry.


    Damian could hear it¡ªthe shift in the air, the way the crowd started buzzing, their whispers turning into something dangerous, something restless. The tension was no longer contained. The anger, the doubt, the realization was starting to set in. The council had played a dangerous game, but they had been sloppy, and now, with the right push, the entire arena was about to turn against them.


    One voice rose above the rest¡ªangry, accusing. "They nearly got the fae princess killed!"


    Another. "No healers? Are you kidding me? That''s a death sentence!"


    A third. "So we''re just throwing people into bloodbaths now? That''s how we rank magi?"


    Besides Evelyn, an authoritative voice cut through the noise. "Do you have any record of the duel?" asked Cedric.


    Evelyn spoke up. "Selena''s knight saw everything for herself. He was right there when it happened." She tilted her head, eyes gleaming with something sharp and knowing. "But if you want more proof..." She reached into her coat, pulling out a small rune stone. It pulsed faintly in her palm, glowing with stored magic. "I have a recording rune. You can watch it later and see for yourself just how incapable these people were."


    Then Cedric smiled. It wasn''t warm.


    "I see." He muttered. "That will make excellent evidence for our investigation."


    The council was screwed and they knew it. He could see it in their faces¡ªthe way they shifted uncomfortably, their gazes darting toward the exits like they were already considering how to run from this.


    But before anyone could take it further, a slow, measured clap echoed through the room. And then, a smooth and calculated voice came.


    "Well, well... what a mess this has turned into."


    Damian''s muscles tensed before he even turned to look.


    Ralvek.


    Senator Ralvek.


    The moment he stepped forward, the shift in energy was instant. Where Cedric had made people tense with righteous fury, Ralvek''s presence did something worse. Because if there was one thing everyone knew about this man, it was that he was dangerous in a way no battle mage, no assassin, no warlock could ever be.


    Ralvek didn''t need brute force. He dealt in politics. He moved like a snake through the system, twisting laws and bending reality in ways that left people trapped before they even realized they had stepped into his web.


    And now?


    Now, he was looking directly at Aria. "Aria," he said smoothly. "You are reckless one."


    Aria''s shoulders squared instantly, her usual unreadable expression snapping into something dangerously neutral.


    "Ralvek. It''s nice to see you again," she said, voice carefully measured.


    Ralvek''s gaze flicked toward Damian, and it was visceral how much he disliked what he saw. Not even subtle. Just pure, open distaste.


    Damian, in return, gave him the smuggest smirk he could muster. Ralvek, of course, ignored it like before.


    Instead, he turned back to Aria. "I would have thought you''d grown out of these little... emotional outbursts." He gestured lazily toward the mess unfolding around them. "But here we are."


    Aria didn''t flinch. "If demanding accountability is an emotional outburst, then I suppose I should be worried about my reputation."


    Ralvek chuckled. "Oh, I''m not worried about your reputation." He took a step closer, lowering his voice just slightly. "I''m worried about what you think you''re doing, undermining the council in public like this."


    A dangerous pause.


    "I don''t need to undermine them," Aria said evenly. "They''ve done that all by themselves."


    The crowd loved that.


    The tension spiked. The murmurs started again, more aggressive, more pressing. The council members were looking around, searching for an escape, and Ralvek? He was watching everything unfold like a man who already had a backup plan.


    Damian''s eyes narrowed. There was something off about this. The way he spoke like he already knew how this was going to go. The way he looked at Aria¡ªnot like he was surprised she was involved, but like he expected her to be.


    This wasn''t just some senator stepping in to put out a fire. This was something else.


    Ralvek turned to Cedric next, offering him a knowing smile. "Prince Cedric, I''m sure you understand how delicate these situations can be. Rushing to conclusions is¡ª"


    Cedric cut him off without hesitation. "The only conclusion I need to rush to is the fact that my sister almost died under your watch."


    Ralvek barely blinked. "And yet, she survived."


    The crowd erupted.


    Angry. Disgusted.


    "That''s what you have to say?"


    "She barely survived!"


    "So it''s fine as long as she isn''t dead?"

 Chapter 317: Thread of Patience

    Warlock Ch 317. Thread of Patience


    Damian was holding onto his patience by a thread.


    His fingers twitched at his side, magic thrumming under his skin like a wild, caged beast begging to be let out. His jaw clenched as he exhaled, long and slow, trying¡ªreally trying¡ªnot to let his rage take over. Not yet.


    Because he knew this guy.


    Ralvek.


    Oh, he knew him.


    The bastard had been playing the same game for years. Acting righteous, upholding the "balance," preaching about the laws and justice¡ªwhile behind the scenes, he did whatever the hell he wanted. Whatever suited him. He twisted truths, manipulated rules, and made it so that by the time people realized they were his pawns, it was already too late.


    Damian hated people like that.


    His past self, Kaelan, had encountered plenty of men like Ralvek¡ªmen who wore their righteousness like a cloak while dragging others into the mud. And Kaelan had learned the hard way that people like Ralvek didn''t break easily. They slithered. They adapted. They survived.


    That''s why Damian exhaled again, trying to keep his expression neutral. ''I really want to kill him,'' he thought, his cold gaze locked onto the senator.


    And of course, Cassius noticed.


    Cassius, who had known him for far too long, who had seen him reach his breaking point before. Who had seen what happened the last time Damian lost control¡ªwhen Kaelan had finally snapped.


    Cassius shifted slightly, just enough to put himself subtly between Damian and Ralvek, like he was preparing to grab him if things went south. His sharp eyes flickered to Damian before turning to the senator.


    "Senator Ralvek," Cassius spoke, voice calm but laced with steel, "I believe you should be the one who understands best how important it is to keep the balance."


    Ralvek''s expression didn''t shift, but there was something in his posture that stiffened slightly.


    Cassius tilted his head, his voice carrying across the arena. "Yet, here you are... treating this like it''s nothing. Like it''s trivial." He narrowed his eyes slightly. "I wonder¡ªis this one of your plans?"


    The murmurs turned into silence. It was a dangerous accusation. A direct one.


    Ralvek smiled. But it wasn''t a pleasant smile.


    "Oh, Cassius," he said smoothly, like he was mildly amused. "You always did have a flair for the dramatic."


    Cassius didn''t smile back. "And you always did have a way of avoiding the question."


    Ralvek chuckled, shaking his head slightly before his gaze slid to Aria. "Aria," he said, voice almost... familiar. "Surely you can see reason in all this?"


    The shift was subtle, but Damian caught it.


    He was trying to pull her into this.


    Trying to shift the focus.


    And Aria knew it too.


    Her arms were crossed, her expression unreadable, but her eyes? Cold as hell. "Oh, I see a lot of things, Ralvek," she said, voice sharp and unforgiving. "Like how you showed up at just the right time to try and clean up this mess."


    Ralvek''s smile didn''t falter, but there was a flicker of something behind his eyes. "Is that what you think I''m doing?" he asked smoothly.


    "I think you''re stalling," Aria said flatly.


    The air grew heavier.


    Because Aria wasn''t just anyone. She was a senator too. She held power, influence, knowledge. And unlike Ralvek, she wasn''t the type to play games when the stakes were this high.


    Cedric teleported forward, to the arena. His expression was sharp, unwavering. "Tell me something, Senator," he said, his voice colder than before. "Why do you look more concerned about covering this up than about the fact that my sister was almost killed?"


    Ralvek''s eyes flickered to Cedric, but his expression remained calm. "You misunderstand me, Prince Cedric. I am concerned."


    "Then act like it," Cedric said bluntly.


    More murmurs from the crowd.


    Ralvek sighed, shaking his head like he was dealing with children. "We must be careful not to make baseless accusations¡ª"


    Evelyn let out a sharp, amused laugh. "Oh, don''t worry. It won''t be baseless for long."


    Ralvek''s gaze snapped to her, and Evelyn smiled, slow and sharp. She lifted the rune in her palm, tilting it slightly. "We have witnesses who saw everything¡ªeveryone here is a witness. But since you love evidence so much, I have a recording rune." Her eyes gleamed. "You can watch it later. See exactly how incompetent your little setup was."


    Ralvek''s smile finally faded.


    Just for a second.


    Then it was back, carefully composed. "I see," he murmured.


    "You will see," Cedric said, eyes narrowing. "And that''s going to make excellent evidence for our investigation."


    Ralvek''s fingers twitched at his side.


    Damian saw it.


    The first crack in his mask.


    For the first time since stepping into this conversation, the senator looked cornered. Ralvek''s posture shifted. Just slightly.


    And Damian knew.


    Something was coming.


    Something planned.


    Ralvek wasn''t a man who let himself get backed into a corner unless he wanted to be.


    The shift was subtle¡ªshoulders loosening just a fraction, fingers unclenching like he had just come to a decision. His face was composed, unreadable, but his eyes? They flickered with something cold, calculating.


    He was about to turn the tables.


    "Oh, a recording rune," Ralvek said smoothly, almost lazily, like Evelyn had just handed him something trivial. "That''s certainly... interesting."


    Evelyn raised a brow. "Interesting?"


    Ralvek nodded, his voice measured, calm. "Yes, interesting. Because magic can be altered, can it not?" His gaze swept across the room, locking onto certain people¡ªcouncil members, a few examiners, even some of the more cautious audience members. "Runes can be tampered with. Rewritten." He sighed, shaking his head. "And in cases like this, where emotions run so high, where people are already so eager to blame, one must ask¡ªhow reliable is such evidence?"


    Damian almost laughed.


    This guy. This fucking guy.


    Evelyn''s smirk didn''t waver. "Oh, don''t worry. It was sealed the moment I activated it. No tampering. Just pure, unfiltered truth."


    Ralvek exhaled a dramatic breath. "Yes, well... I believe the senators should be the ones to investigate this matter first. Thoroughly." His gaze flickered to Aria as he said it, like he was daring her to oppose him. "We''ll review all available evidence, including this rune, and come to a fair and objective conclusion."

 Chapter 318: Planting Doubt

    Warlock Ch 318. Planting Doubt


    A murmur of uncertainty spread through some of the crowd. Not the angry ones¡ªno, they were already too far gone. But the hesitant ones, the ones who still wanted to believe in authority, in the system.


    And that was Ralvek''s strategy.


    Planting doubt. Seeding hesitation.


    Classic.


    Damian wanted to punch him.


    "Of course," Ralvek continued, folding his hands behind his back, "for everything else... we will discuss it later."


    Like that was supposed to shut the conversation down and end this.


    Prince Cedric laughed.


    It wasn''t a pleasant laugh.


    "Later?" Cedric echoed, his tone sharp, mocking. "Ah, yes. Put it off. Bury it under investigation." His green eyes glowed faintly with restrained magic. "Unfortunately for you, the fae tribe will also be conducting their own investigation."


    Ralvek''s jaw tensed, but his smile remained. "Of course."


    "That includes our people reviewing the rune," Cedric added. "Separately. Without... interference."


    The implication was clear.


    Ralvek did not like that.


    But he had no room to argue¡ªnot in front of all these people, not when the entire arena was watching him like hungry wolves waiting for a sign of weakness.


    So, he smiled.


    And nodded.


    And said, "Naturally."


    But Damian saw it¡ªthe flicker of irritation behind his eyes, the way his fingers twitched before he reined himself back in. Ralvek wasn''t happy, not one bit. The man had played his cards well, but not well enough to maintain control. The moment the fae tribe announced their own investigation, he knew he couldn''t strong-arm his way out of this. Not publicly.


    And so, the snake chose to retreat.


    "That''s all," Ralvek said, his voice smooth as ever, as if he wasn''t just cornered in front of thousands of people. He gave a small nod to the council members, barely acknowledging anyone else. "We will handle this appropriately. Now, if you''ll excuse me..."


    Before anyone could respond, before the murmurs in the crowd could rise again, he lifted his hand¡ªand vanished.


    A clean teleport. No wasted movement. No theatrics.


    Just gone.


    Aria clicked her tongue, watching the space where he had stood. "Well, that concludes everything," she said, her tone flat. She didn''t even bother looking at anyone else before she, too, teleported¡ªher form dissolving into shimmering silver light before disappearing entirely.


    Damian barely had time to react before Cedric vanished next, his teleportation magic flickering like green lightning, leaving only the faint crackle of power in his wake.


    And then Cassius¡ªwho shot Damian one last glance before casually flicking his fingers and disappearing just as smoothly as the rest of them.


    Leaving Damian standing there like an idiot.


    He exhaled sharply through his nose. ''Yup. I''m definitely the only one who has teleportation magic but can''t use it since I just got my S-rank.''


    Damian rolled his shoulders, letting out a long, exhausted sigh. "Well, I''ll excuse myself then."


    And unlike the rest of them, he had to do it the old-fashioned way.


    By walking.


    The discontent in the air was palpable. The audience wasn''t just murmuring anymore¡ªthey were openly angry. And why wouldn''t they be?


    With everything that had just unfolded, with the sheer incompetence of the council and examiners laid bare, it was only now settling in what that truly meant.


    Their friends. Their family. Their loved ones.


    They knew this exam was dangerous. They knew that stepping into the Rank S test meant risking everything. That was never the issue.


    The issue was that the test wasn''t what it used to be.


    Before, there was always a chance¡ªa real one. Survival rates had hovered between 60 to 70%, enough to at least believe in a fair fight, in a challenge that truly determined one''s worth.


    But now?


    Now, with how things had gone, with how the test had been twisted¡ªwith no healers, no actual way for participants to survive unless they were either lucky or strong enough to break the system¡ªwhat was the survival rate now?


    10%?


    5%?


    Lower?


    The reality was grim.


    And the audience was pissed.


    "This is insane!" someone shouted from the stands. "How many of them are left?!"


    "My brother was in that exam! He should''ve had a chance!"


    "They knew! They knew and they still sent them to die!"


    "This wasn''t an exam, this was a damn slaughterhouse!"


    Panic and fury rippled through the crowd, growing louder, angrier. It was like a wave crashing against a breaking dam, and Damian could see it all about to erupt.


    The council and examiners definitely saw it too.


    One of the Sanctum council members, a middle-aged woman draped in the high robes of her position, quickly stepped forward, raising her hands in a desperate attempt to pacify the growing unrest. "Everyone, please remain calm! We understand your concerns, but the situation is still being handled¡ª"


    "Handled?!" a man in the crowd spat. "Like how you handled the fae princess nearly dying?! How you handled the fact that the test was rigged?!"


    Murmurs turned into shouts.


    Another examiner quickly stepped in, his voice ringing through the arena with practiced authority. "The healers are on their way as we speak! They will begin evacuating the remaining participants¡ªwhether they are alive or deceased¡ªimmediately."


    That didn''t calm anything.


    Because that? That confirmed their worst fears.


    People had died.


    More than usual. More than what should have been acceptable for an exam like this.


    Someone in the stands clenched their fists, their voice cracking with anger. "You mean to tell me that you only sent the healers now?"


    "You should have already had them there!"


    More outrage. More disbelief.


    Another examiner tried to intervene, his voice forced into something calm but brittle. "This exam is meant to test a participant''s ability to adapt to extreme conditions¡ª"


    "Oh, fuck off with that excuse!" someone cut him off.


    A woman¡ªher eyes red, her hands clenched at her sides¡ªstood from her seat, her voice shaking with barely restrained fury. "We knew this exam was dangerous. But this? This wasn''t a test! This was murder!"


    More voices joined her.

 Chapter 319: Admiration is Dangerous

    Warlock Ch 319. Admiration is Dangerous


    "Their lives weren''t yours to gamble with!"


    "You changed the exam, didn''t you?! This wasn''t how it was before!"


    "You don''t even have the decency to take responsibility?!"


    Damian exhaled slowly, watching it all unfold.


    The council and examiners were losing control of the situation.


    And honestly?


    Good.


    They deserved this.


    Damian made his way up the stands, moving through the crowd that was still buzzing with outrage. His mind was still running hot, but his instincts were sharper than his anger. The Sanctum wasn''t going to let this spiral out of control. Not for long.


    They''d regroup. They''d come up with a plan. And the first step in that plan?


    ''Clean up the evidence. Clean up the witnesses.''


    He reached Prince Cedric''s side and dropped into the seat next to him with a tired thud. "They''re probably trying to clean up the evidence and witnesses first before they evacuate the remaining participants."


    Cedric didn''t look at him immediately, his gaze fixed on the chaos below. His jaw was tight, his fingers drumming against the armrest of his seat¡ªa habit, Damian guessed, to keep himself from gripping the hilt of his sword instead. After a moment, he exhaled.


    "I know," he said, voice low but firm. "That''s why I ordered Alric to ask Selena. He''ll confirm what happened and take command of my soldiers to sweep the fields."


    Damian turned slightly, raising an eyebrow. "They let you do that?"


    Cedric finally looked at him, and there was a sharp amusement in his green eyes. "I don''t need permission."


    Damian snorted. "Yeah. Fair enough."


    The fae prince''s expression didn''t change. "They won''t be subtle about it. They''ll try to cover their tracks while appearing to cooperate." His fingers stopped tapping, his hand curling into a fist against his leg. "We need to be faster."


    Damian hummed in agreement, leaning back slightly. "So... your guys are just gonna break in?"


    Cedric''s lips twitched in something close to a smirk. "Yes."


    That actually made Damian chuckle.


    "I''d join them if I could," Cedric added, sighing. "But unfortunately, the ones who need to settle nasty business and politics like this... that falls on me."


    Damian stretched his legs out in front of him, rolling his shoulders. "Yeah. You get the fun job."


    Cedric let out a dry laugh, shaking his head. "Believe me. I''d rather be on the actual battlefield than dealing with these spineless bastards."


    Damian smirked, but his eyes flickered toward the council members and examiners still scrambling to contain the furious crowd.


    "Yeah, I don''t like dealing with these kinds of people either," Damian muttered, stretching his arms over his head before letting them fall back to his sides. "You learn way too many nasty lies." He gave Cedric a side glance and smirked. "Guess we''re the same, huh?"


    He lifted his fist for a fist bump.


    Cedric looked at it.


    And instead of returning the gesture like a normal person, he casually flicked Damian''s fist.


    "Don''t be casual with me," Cedric said flatly. "I still have something to settle with you."


    Damian looked at him with a deadpan expression. "So rude."


    Cedric ignored that completely. "You were the one with Selena from the beginning of the exam until the end," he continued, his sharp green eyes locking onto Damian like a hawk zeroing in on its prey. "That means I also need to investigate you."


    Damian groaned. "Oh, come on. I saved her."


    "I did." Cedric leaned back slightly, arms crossed. "But I haven''t heard anything from Selena herself yet. Except..." He paused, his gaze narrowing slightly. "She said you''re not guilty."


    Damian threw his hands up. "Because I''m not guilty."


    Cedric arched a brow. "Maybe."


    Damian squinted. "Maybe?"


    Cedric tilted his head slightly, his voice remaining perfectly calm. "She could be biased."


    Damian let out a short laugh. "Biased? Dude, she saw everything! She was right there!"


    Cedric''s eyes didn''t waver. "She also has a... particular obsession with warlocks."


    Damian immediately felt a headache forming. "Oh, for f*ck''s sake¡ª"


    "Were you wearing a mask during the exam?" Cedric asked suddenly.


    Damian blinked at the unexpected question. "Huh?"


    "In the exam," Cedric repeated. "Did you wear a mask?"


    "No."


    Cedric exhaled sharply through his nose. "Great." He sighed, rubbing the bridge of his nose. "Selena''s got a thing for warlocks. Especially masked ones. And she might have gotten attached."


    Damian pressed his lips together, fighting the urge to groan. Of course, she did. Of course, this had something to do with his past. Even though he didn''t remember some parts of his past life, somehow it still found ways to screw with him.


    He leaned back in his seat, running a hand down his face. "Yeah... she actually mentioned something about a masked warlock before." He exhaled slowly. "I told her ''good luck with that.''" His tone was nonchalant.


    Cedric gave him a flat look. "And?"


    "And what?" Damian shot back.


    Cedric''s fingers tapped against the armrest. "And what exactly did she say about it?"


    Damian narrowed his eyes, thinking back to when Selena had first brought it up. He had dismissed it at the time¡ªbecause, really, what the hell was he supposed to do with that information? But now... now since she said the masked warlock was him, it already became more personal.


    "She said something about a masked warlock being the coolest she''d ever seen," Damian bluffed. "Said she wanted to find him." He rolled his eyes. "I figured it was just some dumb fascination, so I wished her luck and moved on."


    Cedric rubbed his temples. "Yeah. That''s not just a ''fascination.''"


    Damian tilted his head, pretending. "What, is she in love with a dude she''s never met?"


    Cedric''s expression darkened slightly. "It''s worse than that. She admires him."


    Damian blinked. "And that''s a bad thing?"


    Cedric sighed. "Admiration is dangerous. It turns into obsession fast. And when it comes to warlocks, especially one specific warlock..." His eyes sharpened. "She doesn''t just want to meet him. She wants to be with him."

 Chapter 320 320: No Survivors

    Warlock Ch 320. No Survivors


    Damian''s mind went completely blank for a solid three seconds before it rushed with a thousand chaotic thoughts at once.


    ''Shit. Did she tell him that she loves Kaelan?''


    Damian forced a laugh, but it came out more like an awkward, wheezing cough. "Haha...ha..." He cleared his throat, feeling the full weight of Cedric''s sharp gaze boring into him. "Uh... well. I guess your sister is a bit weird."


    Cedric didn''t blink. "I guess," he muttered, but the way he said it made it very clear he was thinking about something a lot more serious.


    Damian, on the other hand, was desperately trying to not think about the implications of what Cedric had just dropped on him.


    Selena was obsessed with Kaelan. And since Kaelan was¡ªtechnically¡ªhim, that meant...


    ''Oh hell no!''


    "So," Cedric continued, tone shifting back into something sharp, calculated. "Either way, I have to take care of this."


    Damian blinked out of his own mental crisis. "Uh, yeah. Of course."


    "Anyone who wants her dead definitely has grudges against the fae royal family," Cedric added, his voice dropping into something more serious, something colder.


    Absolutely." Damian immediately agreed, nodding along. He was already tired of today''s shit, and honestly? He was gonna be a yes man for the rest of this conversation. Whatever Cedric needed to hear, whatever let Damian get through this without losing his last few brain cells¡ªhe was all for it.


    Cedric, thankfully, didn''t seem too bothered by the lack of enthusiasm. His focus was already shifting, his sharp gaze scanning the arena like he was calculating his next move.


    "Either way," Cedric continued, voice steady, "I have to take care of this. Anyone who wants my sister dead isn''t just after her. They have a grudge against the fae royal family. And that''s something I can''t ignore."


    "Absolutely," Damian repeated, nodding like a goddamn parrot.


    Cedric barely even looked at him at that point, lost in thought. Damian would''ve continued his autopilot responses, but before he could open his mouth again, a voice cut through the tension.


    "You should stop the conversation right there."


    Cassius.


    His voice was calm, but there was a weight behind it that immediately made both of them glance his way. Cassius wasn''t smiling. That, in itself, was rare.


    Damian frowned. "What?"


    Cassius exhaled sharply. "You just finished the exam, Damian. And you know your condition isn''t exactly stable." His golden eyes flicked toward Cedric. "Yes, he already drank your elixir, but that doesn''t mean he''s back to normal. You understand that, right?"


    Cedric''s gaze lingered on Damian for a long moment, like he was trying to gauge just how bad off he was.


    Damian did not appreciate the scrutiny.


    "I''m fine," he grumbled, shifting in his seat. "I''m just¡ª" He waved a hand vaguely. "¡ªmentally exhausted from all this bullshit."


    Cassius shot him a knowing look.


    "That is the problem," he said smoothly. Then, back to Cedric, "Give the guy some mercy."


    Cedric didn''t argue right away. His green eyes locked onto Damian''s face again, calculating, analyzing. After a long pause, he exhaled and leaned back in his seat. "You have a point."


    Damian let out a dramatic sigh. "Finally."


    Cassius smirked, but before anything else could be said, a voice boomed through the arena, loud, commanding.


    One of the Sanctum council members.


    "All remaining participants..." the voice rang out, reverberating through the stone walls, "have been confirmed dead. There were no survivors."


    Shouting.


    Angry, disbelieving voices exploded from the stands.


    "What?!"


    "That''s impossible!"


    "You expect us to believe that?!"


    Damian felt something in his chest tighten, an unease curling in his stomach like a slow, creeping rot. He muttered under his breath, barely loud enough for Cedric and Cassius to hear. "That''s impossible."


    Cassius gave him a sharp look. "What do you mean?"


    Damian''s hands clenched into fists. "At least in segment one, there were survivors. I know there were." His voice was low, but firm. "Some people were left behind. They weren''t dead. They just didn''t move forward to the next stage."


    Cedric''s expression darkened immediately.


    "And segment two?" Cassius asked, his voice unreadable.


    Damian''s brows furrowed as he thought back. "We fought for the floating islands. Some did fall, sure, but those who fell from the islands¡ª" He inhaled sharply. "They shouldn''t have died." His jaw clenched. "Because there should''ve been some kind of safety measure, right?" His eyes flicked toward the council members, who were clearly struggling to keep control of the situation. "A teleportation rune. A barrier. Something to send them back to their starting point or something."


    Cedric''s gaze sharpened. "And you''re saying that didn''t happen?"


    Damian''s stomach churned. He didn''t know for sure. He hadn''t seen what happened after the fights moved forward.


    But something about this felt off.


    Way off.


    "This isn''t right," Cedric muttered, his voice laced with suspicion. "They''re either lying to us or they''ve lost complete control over their own damn exam."


    "Or both," Cassius added dryly.


    Damian leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees as he stared down at the arena floor. His mind was racing, piecing together fragments. His lips parted, and before he could stop himself, he muttered under his breath.


    "...Did they decide to kill all the remaining participants?"


    Cassius and Cedric both went still.


    Damian swallowed, his voice barely above a whisper. "Whoever witnessed what happened to Selena... or not... it wouldn''t matter. Just wipe them all out. Clean up the mess." His fingers curled into his palms, his nails digging into his skin. "This is just a guess, of course. But... they could''ve done it. They could''ve gone that far."


    Silence stretched between them, heavy and suffocating.


    Cedric exhaled slowly, like he had already run through the same conclusion in his mind. His eyes flickered with something dark. "It could have happened," he admitted. "I''ve thought about that." He straightened, his posture rigid with quiet anger. "That''s why I asked Alric to evacuate anyone they come across. And any evidence they find."

 Chapter 321 321: A Massacre

    Warlock Ch 321. A Massacre


    Damian''s jaw clenched. "You think they''ll find something?"


    "If they don''t," Cedric said, voice sharp, "then that means the council got there first."


    Cassius let out a low whistle. "And that would confirm a hell of a lot more than they want us to know."


    Damian let his head fall back for a moment, staring at the high ceilings of the arena. He was so damn tired. His body was still running on fumes from the exam, his mind felt like it had been through a blender, and now he had to consider the very real possibility that they were covering up a massacre.


    Because that''s what this was.


    A massacre.


    He let out a slow breath. "So what now?"


    Cedric didn''t answer right away. His fingers drummed against the armrest, his mind clearly working through every possible angle. Finally, he spoke. "We wait for Alric''s report. Until then, we act like we don''t know a thing."


    Cassius smirked. "So you want us to play dumb?"


    "Exactly."


    Damian chuckled dryly. "Great. I love pretending I don''t know shit."


    Cedric''s lips twitched, but the amusement didn''t last long. His gaze flicked toward the council members still trying to pacify the furious audience. "They won''t keep control for much longer. People aren''t buying their bullshit."


    Cassius tilted his head. "You think they''ll panic?"


    "They already are," Cedric muttered. "That''s why they announced all participants were dead. They didn''t even bother faking a few survivors." His eyes darkened. "That means they need people to believe this version of the story. No doubts. No questions."


    Damian exhaled sharply. "Which also means they won''t hesitate to get rid of us if we push too hard."


    Cedric nodded. "I''m sure they won''t get rid of us that easily."


    Damian exhaled through his nose, tapping his fingers against his knee. "True. They can''t exactly make us disappear without people asking questions or killing us since we are stronger than them." He tilted his head, frowning. "But those participants inside... even though they''re A-rank warlocks, most of them are injured or out of mana. They''ll have a hard time fighting back, and if they are alive, they''re in no condition to defend themselves."


    Cedric''s expression darkened. "Which means they''re easy targets."


    Damian nodded. "Yeah. And let''s be real¡ªthose people they sent?" He scoffed. "They weren''t healers." He sighed. "There were a lot of high-level monsters. Even in segment one." His lips curled slightly, humorless. "There''s no way healers could''ve made it through that without protection."


    Evelyn''s voice cut in smoothly, sharp and knowing. "Not to mention, they might trick them."


    Everyone turned to her.


    Evelyn lifted her hand and made a slashing motion across her neck. "Maybe they pretend to help, gain their trust... and then¡ª"


    The gesture was enough to send the message.


    Then Victoria let out a slow breath. "Betrayal," she murmured, leaning back in her chair. "It''s an art, really."


    Cassius shot her a look. "That''s a fucked up way to put it."


    Victoria smirked, completely unbothered. "Tell me I''m wrong."


    Cassius didn''t argue. Instead, his expression turned serious, his usual playfulness slipping away. "No. You''re right."


    Damian and Cedric turned to him.


    Cassius'' eyes sharpened, his fingers curling against the armrest. "They''re not just cleaning up." He exhaled sharply. "They''re eliminating."


    Within seconds, they arrived.


    Alric.


    And behind him, fae soldiers¡ªhis fae soldiers, sharp-eyed, dressed in reinforced battle gear.


    But that wasn''t what caught Damian''s attention.


    It was the man they brought with them.


    A battle mage.


    Bloodied, barely standing, one arm limp at his side, his robes torn, his entire body looking like he had barely crawled out of hell.


    He should have been dead.


    But somehow, he survived.


    Alric strode forward, and with one swift motion, he shoved the wounded mage toward Cedric.


    "We found a survivor," Alric announced.


    The battle mage, swaying on his feet, barely lifted his head.


    Damian immediately scanned him¡ªsome major wounds but not fatal, not to mention the exhaustion on his face. The haunted look in his eyes? That was real. That wasn''t just battle fatigue.


    Cedric didn''t waste time. "What happened?"


    Alric took a step back, crossing his arms. "You''ll want to hear it from him."


    All eyes turned to the survivor.


    The battle mage''s breath was ragged, uneven. He swallowed hard, then started speaking. His voice was rough, weak, but steady.


    "I failed segment one," he muttered. "I was pissed. Thought it was bullshit. But usually, when you fail..." He sucked in a sharp breath. "You get teleported back. Right?"


    Cassius leaned in slightly. "You didn''t?"


    The battle mage let out a dry, humorless laugh. "Never happened."


    Cedric''s jaw tightened. "Explain."


    The battle mage licked his cracked lips, shifting his weight unsteadily. "At first, I thought I was the only one. Maybe my teleport just¡ªmalfunctioned or something. But then I realized..." His fingers twitched. "The monsters were still roaming around." The battle mage''s breathing hitched. "It was like... the exam was still going." He looked up, his eyes wide, hollow. "Except there was no goal. No exit."


    Evelyn''s expression darkened.


    Cassius muttered a curse under his breath.


    "The others," the battle mage continued, his voice hoarse, "we fought. We fought until our mana ran dry." His hands clenched into trembling fists. "Hours passed. We kept waiting for something to happen. For help."


    Then, his breath shook.


    "And help did arrive."


    The battle mage''s body tensed, like he was reliving the moment in his head.


    "There were three of them," he whispered.


    Cedric''s eyes flashed. "Who?"


    The battle mage let out a slow, shaky exhale. "They looked like reinforcements. They didn''t wear the same robes as the examiners, but they felt official." His fingers trembled at his sides. "Two of my friends¡ªthey were still strong enough to walk. They thought¡ª" He swallowed. "They thought they were getting evacuated."


    Damian didn''t like where this was going. He already knew where this was going.


    The battle mage closed his eyes. "They were wrong. They walked forward." His voice cracked. "And I watched them get slaughtered."

 Chapter 322 322: The Only Survivor

    Warlock Ch 322. The Only Survivor


    No one spoke.


    The battle mage forced out a hollow, broken chuckle. "I was too weak to move. I was already half-dead, just lying there, watching them get cut down like nothing." His hands clenched, knuckles white. "They didn''t hesitate. They didn''t ask questions. They just killed them."


    Damian exhaled slowly. "Then how did you survive?"


    The battle mage swallowed hard. "Another participant died near me. She had a... hiding crystal on her." His fingers twitched. "I crawled to it. Used it. They didn''t see me."


    Cedric''s hands tightened around the armrest of his seat. "And you stayed hidden."


    The battle mage nodded. "Until the fae found me."


    Cedric''s gaze sharpened. "And how do you know they were actually helping you?"


    The battle mage swallowed, his throat visibly dry and raw from exhaustion. "Because they didn''t do what the others did."


    Cedric frowned. "What do you mean?"


    The battle mage exhaled shakily, his fingers still trembling from whatever nightmare he had survived. "The ones who came before... the ones who killed my friends... they stabbed the corpses."


    Cassius stiffened. "What?"


    The battle mage''s hands clenched, his eyes dark and distant. "They stabbed them. Again and again. Just to make sure they were dead." He inhaled sharply. "They walked through the battlefield like they were checking their work. Making sure no one survived."


    Damian felt something cold settle in his chest. They hadn''t just been killing. They had been thorough.


    The battle lowered his head in horror. "The fae... They didn''t do it... They were actually looking for survivors." His voice cracked slightly. "That''s how I knew they were different."


    Cassius let out a low, bitter laugh. "This is so fucked up."


    Damian barely registered the words. His mind was racing, but all it did was make his blood boil. He reached into his coat, pulling out a small vial¡ªthe potion Evelyn had given him this morning. Without a word, he shoved it toward the battle mage. "Drink this."


    The battle mage blinked, surprised. "What?"


    Damian huffed. "You''re barely standing, but you''re still giving us information. You''re useful. I don''t need you keeling over mid-sentence."


    The battle mage hesitated for only a second before taking the vial. "Thanks..." He pulled out the cork, lifting it to his lips¡ª


    Then he froze.


    His gaze locked onto Damian, eyes going wide. His entire body flinched. "Wait. You''re that crazy lunatic¡ª!"


    Damian''s brow furrowed before it clicked.


    Oh. Oh.


    He squinted at the battle mage, finally actually looking at him. "Oh, shit! It''s you!"


    The battle mage gawked. "You remember me?!"


    Damian smirked. "Of course I do! You survived!"


    Cedric, who had been taking this entire conversation very seriously, now turned his sharp gaze toward Damian. "...Care to explain?"


    Cassius crossed his arms. "This should be good."


    Damian suddenly felt very aware of Cedric''s very unimpressed expression. He scratched the back of his head, laughing awkwardly. "Uh... well... So, you see..." He sighed dramatically. "I was lazy."


    Cedric blinked. "Excuse me?"


    Damian shrugged. "I didn''t want to waste time fighting every single person in segment one. It was too much effort." He smirked. "So instead, I pretended to be a bloodthirsty lunatic."


    Cassius immediately burst into laughter.


    Victoria raised an eyebrow, clearly entertained. "Go on."


    Damian smirked, leaning back. "I just... stormed at everyone like a madman. Screaming, laughing, acting completely unhinged." He grinned. "It worked. They were so freaked out, they ran."


    Cedric stared at him.


    The battle mage gaped.


    Evelyn muttered, "Classic Damian."


    Cedric pinched the bridge of his nose. "So you''re telling me¡ª" He took a breath. "¡ªthat you got through segment one not by fighting¡ªbut by terrifying the other participants into running away?"


    "Pretty much, yeah." Damian smirked, leaning back with absolutely zero shame.


    Cassius was practically wheezing at this point, clutching his sides like Damian had just told the funniest joke in the history of existence. "Oh, this is so good. You mean to tell me that while everyone was out there fighting for their lives, you were just... running around scaring the shit out of people for fun?"


    Damian huffed. "Not for fun. For efficiency."


    Cassius let out another loud laugh. "Same thing."


    Cedric, meanwhile, looked like he was one step away from a migraine. He rubbed his temples, inhaled deeply, then muttered, "You have got to be kidding me."


    Damian shrugged. "What can I say? It worked."


    The battle mage let out a long, exasperated sigh. "I knew you weren''t actually insane, but damn, I thought I was gonna die when I saw you charging at me."


    Damian snorted. "Oh please, I didn''t even touch you."


    The battle mage scowled. "Yeah, because I ran for my goddamn life."


    Cassius, still recovering, wiped at his eyes. "I gotta say, that is one of the dumbest yet most effective strategies I''ve ever heard."


    Damian grinned. "Hey, I still fought, ya know. The monsters, the stubborn participants... but yeah, if I could scare them into running instead? Why wouldn''t I?"


    Cassius lost it again, laughing so hard he almost fell out of his seat. "Oh man. Imagine being one of the participants, getting ready for a full-on battle, and then some lunatic just charges at you, screaming like a damn psycho."


    The battle mage muttered, "Yeah, imagine that."


    Cedric exhaled slowly, clearly fighting the urge to slam his head against the nearest solid surface. "You are unbelievable."


    Damian smirked. "I prefer the term efficient."


    Cedric shot him a flat look. "Okay... enough of this." He exhaled sharply, pushing down whatever patience he had left. "We need to bring him to testify first, and after that, you''re coming with us." His eyes flicked to the battle mage, voice sharp and unwavering. "If you stay here, they will hunt you down. They''ll kill you before you even have the chance to tell your side of the story."


    The battle mage tensed, fingers twitching. He wasn''t stupid. He probably knew that was the case, but hearing it out loud¡ªhaving it confirmed¡ªit made things feel that much more real.


    He swallowed hard. "Yeah... yeah, I figured as much."


    All of them agreed.

 Chapter 323 323: Testimony

    Warlock Ch 323. Testimony


    Damian, who had been watching the battle mage sway slightly on his feet, let out a long sigh. "Alright, before we go playing hero, how about you start by drinking the goddamn potion first?" He motioned to the vial still clutched in the battle mage''s trembling hands. "You are one step away from collapsing, and I really don''t feel like carrying your ass."


    The battle mage blinked down at the vial, like he had completely forgotten he was holding it. "Right... yeah."


    He pulled the cork out, tilted his head back, and downed the whole thing in a single go. The magic kicked in almost immediately, a faint glow spreading through his veins as the potion started repairing his wounds. His shoulders sagged with relief, the tension in his body easing just slightly.


    Evelyn crossed her arms. "Better?"


    The battle mage exhaled. "Still feel like I got chewed up and spit out by a chimera, but... yeah. Better."


    Cedric studied him carefully, arms crossed over his chest. "Do you have the strength to explain everything now? Just a short testimony before we leave."


    The battle mage straightened slightly, rolling his shoulders. He still looked like hell, but the potion was doing its job. He nodded. "Yeah. I can do it."


    Cedric nodded back. "Alright. Let''s move."


    Damian gave a lazy wave. "Be careful of assassinations."


    The battle mage paused mid-step, blinking at him. "That''s... oddly specific."


    Damian smirked. "Just saying, people who know too much tend to die mysteriously. And in this case... they might try to kill you openly."


    Cedric shot Damian an unimpressed look. "Thank you for the motivational speech."


    Cassius snorted. "Nah, he''s got a point."


    Victoria chuckled. "They did just try to wipe out an entire exam''s worth of participants."


    Evelyn hummed. "Wouldn''t be surprised if they had more contingency plans."


    The battle mage exhaled and turned back to Cedric. "Noted. Let''s just get this over with."


    With that, Cedric, Alric, the battle mage, and the fae soldiers made their way toward the center of the arena. The audience, already restless, immediately took notice.


    Murmurs started. Whispers spread like wildfire.


    Cedric walked with purpose, his presence commanding, his soldiers flanking him in perfect formation. They weren''t sneaking. They weren''t hiding.


    They were making a statement.


    When they reached the center, Cedric''s voice rang out loud and clear. "We have found a survivor from segment one."


    The arena erupted. Gasps. Yells. Shock spread across the crowd like a shockwave.


    The council members and examiners froze. Pale.


    Their faces drained of color like they''d just been hit with a death sentence.


    Damian, still watching from the stands, smirked. ''Oh yeah. They weren''t expecting this.''


    Cassius let out a low whistle. "They look like they just shit themselves."


    Victoria smirked. "Serves them right."


    Evelyn''s eyes flickered with amusement. "I love a good public humiliation."


    Meanwhile, down in the arena, Cedric let his words settle before continuing. "This battle mage was left behind. He was not teleported out of the exam. He was not given a chance to surrender. Instead, he was left to fight for his life in what should have already ended."


    More murmurs. More outrage.


    One of the council members stood abruptly. "Prince Cedric, I don''t know what you''re trying to¡ª"


    Cedric raised a hand. "Silence."


    The councilman actually shut up.


    The battle mage stepped forward, inhaling sharply before speaking. His voice wasn''t loud, but the weight behind it made the arena go dead silent.


    "I failed segment one," he started. "Usually, when you fail, you get teleported out. That never happened." He glanced up, his exhausted eyes scanning the crowd. "Instead, the monsters kept coming. The exam didn''t end. We fought until we ran out of mana, out of strength. And when we thought help had arrived..." He clenched his fists. "They killed us."


    The air felt thick. No one breathed.


    He continued, voice shaking slightly. "Three people arrived. We thought they were reinforcements. My friends went to them. They didn''t even hesitate. They cut them down right in front of me."


    A few gasps broke out from the audience.


    The council members looked like they were about to collapse.


    The battle mage exhaled. "I only survived because I found a hiding crystal and stayed out of sight. I watched as they walked through the field, making sure no one was left alive." His eyes locked onto the council. "You said there were no survivors." He took a step forward. "You lied."


    The audience, already teetering on the edge, exploded.


    "WHAT?!"


    "They killed them?!"


    "This is a goddamn cover-up!"


    "This was never an exam! This was a massacre!"


    The crowd roared with outrage, voices clashing together into a chaotic storm of anger and disbelief. People stood from their seats, some pointing accusing fingers at the council, others shouting accusations, their rage uncontrollable.


    The council members looked like corpses¡ªpale, frozen in place, their faces unreadable yet terrified.


    One of the examiners moved forward, raising his hands as if to calm the crowd. "Everyone, please¡ª"


    "SHUT UP!" someone from the audience yelled.


    Another voice joined in. "We want answers!"


    The examiner visibly flinched.


    Damian leaned back in his seat, watching it all unfold with a smirk. "Welp. There it is."


    Cassius crossed his arms, grinning. "That''s a full-scale riot in the making."


    Victoria exhaled, tapping her fingers against her armrest. "The council''s done for if they don''t handle this properly."


    Evelyn smirked. "I''d love to see them try."


    Meanwhile, in the center of the arena, Cedric took a step forward, his presence commanding as his cold, piercing green eyes locked onto the council. "You have one chance to explain yourselves."


    The head council member, an older man with silver-rimmed glasses and an air of forced authority, quickly stepped forward. "Prince Cedric, I assure you, we had no knowledge of¡ª"


    "Don''t," Cedric cut in, his voice sharp as a blade.


    The councilman shut his mouth immediately.


    Cedric''s gaze burned. "You knew. You all knew."


    The council members shifted uncomfortably. Some of them looked like they were about to bolt.


    The battle mage, still standing tall despite his exhaustion, clenched his fists. "You told everyone there were no survivors. If I hadn''t been found, you would''ve buried the truth."


    One of the council members finally snapped. "That is an outrageous accusation! You have no proof¡ª"


    Evelyn let out a low chuckle from the stands. "Oh, that''s cute."


    Cassius smirked. "They really just said that, huh?"


    Victoria sighed. "I almost feel bad for them."

 Chapter 324: Riot

    Warlock Ch 324. Riot


    Damian leaned forward, voice carrying through the noise. "Hey, dumbass!"


    The arena stilled.


    The council members flinched.


    Damian grinned. "So, you''re saying this guy¡ª" He gestured at the battle mage. "¡ªis making all this up? Fabricating the whole thing?" he stated.


    The councilman scowled. "There is no concrete proof¡ª"


    Damian let out a sharp, exasperated laugh. "How long are you gonna keep saying that over and over again?" His voice cut through the noise like a blade, sharp and dripping with frustration. His patience was long gone, and honestly, after the bullshit of this whole day, he was one breath away from incinerating someone. "You got a bunch of witnesses! Are we not proof? The princess is alive! She''s proof! Me? Proof!" He jabbed a finger toward the battle mage, his voice rising. "He''s also a proof! The princess''s knight? Proof! And the entire damn audience¡ªall of them¡ªare a solid proof of your nasty plan!"


    The tension in the air was thick, like a storm just waiting to break loose.


    "How long," Damian continued, his voice cold now, controlled, dangerous, "are you going to deny this?"


    Dead silence.


    The council looked sick.


    The audience?


    Oh, they were ready for blood.


    Whispers turned into murmurs. Murmurs into shouts. The entire arena trembled with the weight of outrage, magic crackling in the air as more and more people realized just how deep this corruption ran.


    Cedric smirked coldly. "So. No proof, huh?"


    The head councilman took a slow step back, sweat dripping down his temple, his hands shaking. He looked left, then right, as if searching for an escape.


    Damian leaned slightly toward Cassius, voice low, amused. "How long do you think before they run?"


    Cassius tilted his head, watching them with lazy interest. "Five seconds, tops."


    The head councilman bolted.


    Four others followed immediately after.


    And just like that¡ª The crowd lost their minds.


    "GET THEM!"


    "They''re RUNNING! THEY''RE GUILTY!"


    "FUCKING LIARS!"


    The roar of the arena was thunderous, magic surging as people shouted, cursed, demanded blood. The energy was electric, almost tangible, a whirlwind of fury crashing down on the very people who had thought they could manipulate and discard lives without consequence.


    Cedric didn''t hesitate. He turned to his soldiers, voice ringing with authority. "Detain them."


    His men vanished instantly, fae magic crackling in the air like lightning. The scent of ozone filled the space, a brief whisper of their presence before they reappeared in a flash, intercepting the fleeing council members with merciless precision.


    Damian whistled low. "Oh, this just keeps getting better."


    Cassius grinned, eyes gleaming with delight. "I love watching corrupt assholes panic," he said.


    Victoria smirked, resting her chin on her palm. "They should''ve known they couldn''t hide this forever."


    Evelyn looked immensely satisfied, her fingers twirling a small rune between them. "The moment they ran, they confessed everything."


    But just as the chaos reached its peak¡ªjust as the captured council members screamed in desperation, clawing for any last chance to slip away¡ªA sudden shift in the air. A pulse of magic.


    The taste of raw power filled the arena, thick like iron, a weight pressing down on the very bones of everyone present. A shimmering dome descended over the entire space, glowing with an eerie, divine luminescence. The council members froze.


    Then, in pure horror, they turned back toward the center. Because there, standing at the highest point of the arena, illuminated by the golden glow of the dome, stood Aria. She looked mad. Then, she spoke.


    "Those who are wrong must be punished."


    Her voice wasn''t loud, but it resonated. It echoed through every stone, every breath, every heartbeat in the arena.


    The dome shimmered, its magic intensifying.


    One of the council members tried to move, but the moment his foot lifted, a force slammed him to the ground. His scream tore through the air, body convulsing as golden chains coiled around his limbs, dragging him back toward the center like an insect caught in a web.


    The others? They did not dare move.


    Aria''s eyes burned like molten silver. "Your crimes cannot be ignored."


    Damian smirked, arms crossed. "Damn. Talk about poetic justice."


    Evelyn tilted her head. "She''s making sure they can''t run, lie, or interfere. That''s Aria for you."


    Damian hummed in agreement, but his voice was low. His gaze remained locked on Aria, her cold silver eyes staring down at the captured council members with disdain. The magic in the air felt heavier now, suffocating, pressing against his skin like the weight of an unspoken judgment.


    Cedric''s men moved swiftly, their boots echoing against the stone floor as they stormed forward, restraining each council member one by one. The glow of the magical dome reflected in their armor, giving them an almost divine presence. The council members didn''t resist. Not anymore. They were trapped, their fate sealed the moment Aria had spoken.


    Damian exhaled slowly, arms crossed as he watched. With this, Senator Ralvek wouldn''t be able to do anything to help them. No amount of political maneuvering or backdoor deals would save them now.


    Unfortunately, Damian was pretty sure Ralvek himself wouldn''t be eliminated that easily.


    The bastard was too deeply entrenched, too important in the grand scheme of things. He and Aria both held powerful positions in the magic world''s senate, their influence reaching far beyond the walls of this Sanctum. The council members, on the other hand, were just Sanctum officials¡ªpowerful, yes, but ultimately replaceable.


    Damian clenched his jaw, fingers tapping against his arm absentmindedly.


    Something else was bothering him.


    Something about Aria.


    She had helped him several times today.


    Not directly, of course. Not in a way that screamed intent. But still...


    He felt it.


    The dome, the way she''d cut off the council''s escape, the way she had so effortlessly asserted control over the situation¡ªit wasn''t just about justice. She had backed him up in her own way, even if she hadn''t said it outright.


    And that made no goddamn sense.

 Chapter 325: Accusations

    Warlock Ch 325. Accusations


    She had acted hostile to him before. Back at Cassius'' place, she had openly challenged him, pushed him, even provoked Cassius into opening the Abyss, nearly getting herself pulled in. She had treated him like an unknown variable, a threat she needed to keep in check.


    Yet now, here she was, making moves that¡ªwhether intentional or not¡ªprotected him.


    ''Why?''


    It gnawed at him, clawing at the back of his mind.


    And there was another thing. She should have known. She should have realized just how far his abilities stretched. She should have called him out on it.


    When he first met her, he had pretended to be a clueless newbie, an unremarkable warlock barely scraping by. And yet... when she found out he had passed the S-rank exam in such a short time, she hadn''t questioned it. Not once. No interrogation. No accusations.


    Instead, she had insisted on making him a Rank S warlock immediately, even after this entire scandal had unfolded.


    Damian''s fingers twitched.


    That wasn''t normal.


    Not for someone like Aria.


    She should have wanted to investigate him further. She should have demanded explanations.


    Yet instead, she had placed the title upon him without hesitation, as if she had already decided it was necessary.


    His stomach twisted.


    Something wasn''t right.


    "Thinking too hard over there?" Cassius'' voice broke through his thoughts, amusement laced in his tone.


    Damian blinked, glancing at him. Cassius was grinning, leaning slightly toward him, eyes watching with far too much curiosity.


    "You''ve got that look," Cassius continued. "The one where you''re either trying to solve a puzzle or plotting a murder. Or both."


    Damian exhaled, rolling his shoulders. "Just... trying to figure something out."


    Cassius smirked. "You mean her?" He tilted his chin toward Aria.


    Damian didn''t respond immediately.


    Cassius chuckled. "Yeah. Thought so."


    Cedric''s voice interrupted them. "They''ll be taken into custody, but this isn''t over yet. I will investigate this." His expression was unreadable, his sharp eyes sweeping over the restrained council members, their bodies trembling beneath Aria''s magic.


    Aria stepped forward, the soft clink of her boots against the stone floor barely audible over the low murmurs of the crowd. "I''ll help with the investigation," she stated, her tone unwavering, cold and final. "Ralvek isn''t here. He left just after making the announcement, and this place isn''t within elven territory." Her eyes flickered with something dangerous, something calculated. "That means I have the authority to oversee this."


    Cedric hesitated.


    It was subtle¡ªthe briefest shift in his stance, the slight furrow in his brow¡ªbut Damian caught it.


    Because Cedric knew.


    Everything Aria said was true. The security, the committees, even the healers¡ªthey were all possibly involved in this slaughter plan. If they had known, if they had actively participated, then this wasn''t just negligence. It was premeditated.


    And the worst part?


    Ralvek was nowhere to be found.


    The bastard had played his cards too well.


    Cedric exhaled, finally giving a short nod. "Fine. But we do this my way. We take them into custody properly. If we make a single mistake, he''ll use it against us."


    Aria smirked slightly. "Of course."


    Damian watched as they turned, their soldiers moving in sync, escorting the captured council members away under heavy guard. The energy in the arena had changed¡ªno longer burning with raw rage, but simmering, boiling just beneath the surface. This wasn''t over. Not even close.


    And Damian?


    He wasn''t feeling great about what came next.


    Cedric barely made it five steps before stopping and turning right toward him, eyes locked with clear intent. "You."


    Damian blinked. "Uh, me?"


    Cedric pointed at him. "Follow me."


    Damian sighed, already regretting existing. "Right. More interrogation."


    Cedric barely reacted, already glancing at Evelyn. "Give me the rune."


    Evelyn arched a delicate brow, clearly enjoying the show. "So demanding." But she didn''t argue, flipping the recording rune between her fingers before tossing it over to Cedric. He caught it effortlessly, his grip firm.


    Damian groaned and stood up, rolling his shoulders. His limbs felt heavy, his mana reserves running on fumes. His body ached in ways he didn''t want to acknowledge, and the slow, persistent throb in his head wasn''t helping.


    He wasn''t okay.


    And they were definitely about to drag him into something he wasn''t ready for.


    His body hadn''t fully recovered. The fact that he had lost so much blood after healing Selena was real. It wasn''t just exhaustion¡ªit was depletion. He had pushed himself too far. His skin felt cold, his vision slightly off, his balance just a little bit shaky.


    And now?


    Now he had to deal with this.


    Cassius leaned in slightly, grinning. "Try not to get thrown into prison, yeah?"


    Damian shot him a flat look. "Oh, thank you for the support."


    Cassius smirked. "Anytime, buddy."


    Victoria chuckled. "If you do end up in a dungeon, make sure it''s one with good lighting."


    Damian let out a mocking dry laugh. "Hahaha. Very funny."


    "Glad you like my dry humor," said Victoria, but then her eyes grew colder, likewise with her smile. "But joke aside, I will wreck the dungeon, if they dare doing that to you."


    "Thanks," Damian grinned. Yeah, somehow after staying together for a while, Damian began to understand that Victoria was honest and indeed fell in love with him. Obsessed to be exact. So yeah, he believed she would go that far.


    Evelyn gave him a knowing look. "You''ll be fine."


    Damian sighed again, rubbing the back of his neck before glancing at Cedric. "Alright, let''s get this over with." His body hated him. Every step felt like walking through molasses, his muscles screaming in protest, his mana reserves practically nonexistent. He had pushed himself too far. Way too far. And now he was paying for it.


    Before he could take another step, something small and cool pressed into his palm. He blinked down at it. A vial¡ªdark glass, faintly pulsing with magical energy.


    Evelyn smirked. "For you," she said, flipping another vial between her fingers before tossing it at his chest. He caught it on instinct, barely managing to close his fingers around it. "You will need them."

 Chapter 326: Can’t Wait to Keep Suffering

    Warlock Ch 326. Can''t Wait to Keep Suffering


    Damian let out a short laugh, shaking his head. "Wow. Thanks."


    Evelyn just grinned. "I do my best."


    Damian popped the cork on the first vial and downed it in one go. The effect wasn''t immediate, but within seconds, the dull ache in his limbs lessened once again, the sharp edge of exhaustion softening just enough to keep him moving.


    With that, he followed Cedric out of the arena, somehow his steps feeling heavier than before.


    It was weird, walking beside Aria.


    Damian wasn''t sure if she had chosen to match his pace or if it was just a coincidence, but either way, there she was¡ªsilent, composed, her expression unreadable. The power radiating off her was subtle, restrained, but still present. Like standing next to a storm right before it breaks.


    Well, whatever. He had bigger problems.


    Like the fact that his entire body still felt like it had been through a goddamn grinder.


    Not to mention, the battle mage looked just as bad.


    Damian sighed, waving a tired hand in the air. "Please tell me this is gonna be a fast one." He gestured toward the battered mage beside him with his thumb. "Because I need my rest. And this guy?"


    The battle mage barely managed a weak glare. "I have a name, you know."


    Damian smirked. "Yeah, yeah. You got a name. You also look like you''re gonna keel over any second now."


    The battle mage groaned, rubbing his face. "Yeah, you are right."


    Cedric, who had been walking ahead, didn''t even glance back. "You''ll survive."


    The battle mage let out a long suffering sigh. "Fantastic. Can''t wait to keep suffering."


    Damian patted his shoulder mockingly. "That''s the spirit."


    Aria finally spoke, her voice smooth and sharp as ever. "The testimony won''t take long." She didn''t look at them, her gaze locked forward, her posture perfect. "We need official records. The moment it''s documented, it becomes harder for the culprits to twist the narrative."


    Cedric nodded. "The faster we move, the less time they have to prepare."


    Damian huffed. "Great. Love being part of a race against corruption."


    The battle mage chuckled bitterly. "Oh, come on. After all your crazy acts, I thought you loved drama."


    Damian gave him a deadpan look. "Not when I''m the one who''s about to get questioned."


    The battle mage huffed. "Fair."


    The walk to the chamber wasn''t long, but every step felt like it. The dimly lit corridors stretched before them, the walls lined with flickering torches that cast long, dancing shadows. The scent of old parchment and magic lingered in the air, thick and slightly metallic, like the remnants of ancient spells woven into the very stone.


    When they finally reached the doors, Cedric pushed them open without hesitation. The room beyond was simple¡ªstone walls, a long wooden table in the center, and chairs placed neatly on either side.


    Classic interrogation setup.


    Damian groaned internally. ''Of course.''


    Cedric gestured toward the seats. "Sit."


    Damian exchanged a look with the battle mage before both of them dropped into their respective chairs with exhausted grunts.


    Cedric took his place at the head of the table, Aria standing beside him, arms crossed. Two scribes were stationed at the far end, enchanted quills floating above parchment, ready to document every word.


    Cedric leaned forward slightly. "Alright. Let''s get to it."


    Damian exhaled, resting his arms on the table. "So. What do you wanna know?"


    Cedric''s green eyes were sharp, unwavering. "Start from segment one."


    The battle mage straightened slightly. "You want me to go first?"


    Cedric nodded. "You were there when everything fell apart. Your testimony matters."


    The battle mage inhaled deeply, rubbing his hands together before speaking. His voice was steadier now, more composed, but there was a tension beneath it¡ªa weight that came from barely surviving something he never should have had to survive. While Damian watched as the scribes'' quills scratched against parchment, recording every word.


    Cedric leaned back slightly. "Alright." His eyes locked onto Damian. "Now you."


    Damian exhaled. He was so damn tired. "What exactly do you wanna know?"


    Cedric tilted his head. "How you passed the S-rank exam."


    Damian immediately felt the shift in energy.


    Aria''s gaze flickered toward him, unreadable.


    The scribes'' quills hovered, waiting.


    Cedric''s voice was calm, controlled. "Because I don''t buy the whole running around scaring people act."


    Damian let out a short laugh, rubbing his temple. "You think I cheated?"


    Cedric''s eyes didn''t waver. "I think there''s more to you than you''re letting on."


    Damian groaned, leaning back. "Man, I hate being interesting." He shot him a look before turning back to Cedric. "Alright, fine. I''ll tell you some of it."


    Cedric didn''t react, but the expectation in his gaze was clear.


    Damian sighed, rubbing his face. He was too damn tired to play mind games. If they wanted an explanation, they were going to get one¡ªbecause honestly, there wasn''t much to hide. He had passed all the segments normally, no cheating, no divine intervention, just sheer instinct, luck, and a stupid amount of adaptability.


    So, he told them.


    Everything.


    How he had approached segment one with a mix of brute-force intimidation and actual combat. How he had fought his way through the monsters and stubborn participants, scaring off the weak and outlasting the strong. He even explained how the terrain worked to his advantage, how the floating platforms in segment two were a battlefield of their own, with people getting knocked off left and right.


    The scribes'' quills scratched furiously against the parchment, recording his every word, and still, Cedric and Aria said nothing, letting him talk.


    But then he got to the weird parts.


    "The waiting rooms," Damian said, leaning forward slightly, his hands resting on the table. "The food and water there? Sometimes it was poisoned. Sometimes it wasn''t."


    That got a reaction.


    Aria''s eyes narrowed, her body going unnaturally still. "Explain."


    Damian shrugged. "I first noticed it in segment one''s waiting room. Some of the rations were fine. Others were laced with something subtle. Not an immediate effect, more like a slow-acting toxin. Not enough to kill, but enough to weaken you before the next fight."

 Chapter 327: Desperate Bloodlust

    Warlock Ch 327. Desperate Bloodlust


    Cedric''s expression darkened. "You''re sure?"


    Damian scoffed. "100%."


    Aria''s lips parted slightly, a flicker of something sharp in her gaze. "The waiting rooms are supposed to be secured. The food and drink should never be tampered with."


    Damian let out a dry laugh. "Well, someone had other plans." He tilted his head, watching their reactions carefully. "I figured it was part of the test, y''know? Like an extra layer of survival. But if that wasn''t supposed to happen, then that means someone was deliberately messing with the contestants outside the combat zones."


    Aria exchanged a look with Cedric, something unspoken passing between them.


    Damian tapped his fingers against the table. "I guess that means someone wanted Selena dead and made sure of it."


    A heavy, unspoken weight settled in the room. Cedric inhaled slowly. "That... is not something we can ignore."


    Aria''s voice was quieter now, but no less intense. "How often did this happen?"


    Damian tilted his head slightly, thinking. "Not every time. I''d say it was random, maybe every other waiting room, maybe more. But it was consistent enough that it wasn''t an accident." His fingers curled slightly. "At first, I thought it was targeting all the contestants, just making things harder. But now?" He exhaled. "It makes sense if someone had a specific target."


    Aria''s voice was even colder. "That is a direct attack on fae royalty."


    Damian leaned back, stretching his arms. "Yep. Which means whoever planned this wasn''t just after an S-rank bloodbath. They had other pieces in play."


    Aria nodded slightly, but her expression remained unreadable. "And the third segment?"


    Damian let out a short breath. "That part was really messed up."


    The scribes didn''t pause, the sound of quills scratching against parchment filling the heavy silence.


    Damian continued. "When I finished my fight in segment three, I should''ve been teleported to the last waiting room immediately." He paused. "But there was a delay."


    Cedric frowned. "A delay?"


    "Yeah." Damian''s voice was sharp now, serious. "I don''t know how long it was, but for a moment, nothing happened. The fight ended, and Selena and I were just standing there, waiting for the teleportation to activate." His fingers drummed against the table. "Then, we got another ambush."


    Aria''s expression sharpened. "By who?"


    Damian shrugged. "Some desperate bastards. The remaining contestants. Don''t know their name, didn''t stick around long enough to ask. But here''s the thing¡ªif we had been teleported on time? They wouldn''t have even gotten close. That delay gave them the opening to almost kill us both before we were transferred out."


    The memory was still fresh. The remaining contestants¡ªthose who had survived the brutal earlier segments¡ªhad turned on them immediately.


    It hadn''t been a strategy.


    It had been pure, desperate bloodlust.


    A fight that should never have happened.


    Cedric was watching him closely now. "And you''re telling me you survived that without using anything abnormal?"


    Damian grinned tiredly. "Define abnormal."


    Cedric didn''t react, but Aria''s gaze didn''t leave him, as if she were peeling apart his words, searching for something unsaid.


    Damian sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "Look. I didn''t cheat. I didn''t break any rules. I fought my way through, same as everyone else." He gestured vaguely. "But let''s not pretend the exam was normal in the first place."


    Aria''s voice was sharp. "It wasn''t."


    Cedric pinched the bridge of his nose. "This means two things. First, there was outside interference in the exam itself. And second¡ª" His eyes burned as they turned to Aria. "I bet Senator Ralvek knew."


    Damian pressed his lips together, glancing at Aria. ''Here we go...''


    He knew that was probably true. Hell, he''d put money on it. But saying it out loud? That was a whole different issue.


    Because they had no proof.


    None.


    Just logic, suspicion, and the fact that Ralvek had conveniently vanished before this entire shitstorm hit its peak. But suspicion wasn''t enough to take down someone like him.


    And Aria...


    Damian wasn''t sure she''d accept an accusation like that so easily. Not when it involved the senators'' good name.


    And yeah. He was right.


    Aria didn''t hesitate. "It''s too early to assume Senator Ralvek was involved." Her voice was cold, firm. "You have no evidence."


    Cedric exhaled sharply. "He left before this even started¡ª"


    "That does not make him guilty." Aria''s eyes met Cedric''s without a single flicker of doubt. "If you accuse him now, without proof, all you''ll do is give him more leverage."


    Damian hated that she had a point.


    He couldn''t say anything.


    And neither could the battle mage.


    Even a damn SSS-rank like Cassius couldn''t just throw around accusations at a senator without consequences. That was how they disappeared. That was how accidents happened. The only ones who could speak this freely¡ªwithout it immediately becoming a crime¡ªwere fellow senators and the royalty.


    And even then, it wasn''t that simple.


    Because getting rid of Senator Ralvek?


    Yeah. That wasn''t going to be easy.


    Cedric''s jaw clenched. He knew this. But that didn''t mean he had to like it. "So what, we just wait? Let him walk around untouched while we clean up his mess?"


    Aria''s voice was steady. "You have to gather more proof."


    Cedric''s eyes darkened. "And what if he''s already destroying it?"


    Damian finally spoke. "Then we need to move fast."


    Cedric''s gaze flickered to him, unreadable. "You''re suggesting a direct approach?"


    Damian shrugged. "I mean, yeah. I''m not a politician. I don''t give a damn about ''procedure'' or ''diplomacy'' or whatever bullshit you guys have to deal with. But I do know that if we don''t start pulling at the right threads now, we''ll be too late."


    Cedric looked between them, then exhaled sharply, shaking his head. "I hate when you are actually right."


    Damian smirked. "Thanks. It''s terrifying, isn''t it?"


    Cedric rolled his eyes, exhaling as if he was regretting every choice that led him to this moment. Before he could snap back, Aria''s voice cut through the air, sharp and unforgiving.

 Chapter 328 328: You Know the Consequences

    Warlock Ch 328. You Know the Consequences


    "I will pretend not to hear this," she said, her eyes locked onto Cedric, her expression cold and unreadable. "But I will tell you once again¡ªyou cannot take down a senator without concrete evidence. You know the consequences."


    Cedric, however, only smirked.


    "Oh, I know." His voice was casual, but there was a dangerous edge to it. "But the thing is, you also have to know¡ªthe fae royal family won''t let this assassination attempt go unpunished... despite my sister signing that stupid agreement."


    The tension between them was palpable.


    Aria and Cedric stared at each other, neither willing to back down.


    Damian, standing between them, definitely felt like he was in the middle of a power struggle that had been brewing long before today. He knew Aria couldn''t take Cedric''s side so easily¡ªnot when she still had to represent the interests of the senators. But Cedric? He didn''t give a damn about the political mess. He was making a statement¡ªthis won''t be buried.


    And Aria?


    She was deciding whether or not to stop him.


    For a few agonizing seconds, neither of them spoke.


    Then, without breaking eye contact, Cedric gestured toward Alric. "Check the food and drink."


    Alric gave a sharp nod before turning on his heel and striding out of the chamber.


    Aria finally looked away.


    Cedric exhaled, running a hand through his hair before turning back to Damian. "Alright. You and the battle mage can leave."


    Damian blinked. "Wait, what?"


    Cedric leaned against the table, his tone firm. "You''re done here. Two of my soldiers will escort you out. I''m staying to continue interrogating the councils."


    Damian frowned. "Can I stay? I mean, now I''m kinda invested in this whole mess¡ª"


    Cedric gave him a look. A very cynical look.


    "Didn''t you say you wanted to rest?" he drawled, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "Or was that just bullshit?"


    Damian huffed. "Listen, I say a lot of things."


    Cedric crossed his arms. "You''re leaving."


    Damian groaned. "Ugh, fine."


    Cedric didn''t wait for another protest. He nodded to the two fae soldiers standing by the entrance. "Escort them to the safe zone. Make sure they''re actually resting."


    The soldiers nodded.


    Damian exchanged a glance with the battle mage, who looked just as reluctant to leave but was clearly too exhausted to argue.


    With nothing else left to do, they turned and stepped out into the corridor.


    The cool air hit Damian first. The stone hallway stretched before them, torches flickering along the walls.


    Despite the ache in his limbs and the exhaustion weighing him down, his mind was still running.


    He was curious about what Cedric was going to dig out of those council members.


    But hey¡ªat least everything he needed to do was done.


    Damian exhaled as they walked through the dimly lit corridors, the sound of their footsteps bouncing softly off the cold stone walls. His body ached in ways that weren''t just exhaustion¡ªhis muscles felt wrong, his mana was still running dangerously low, and the dull throb at the back of his skull wasn''t letting up. He needed rest. Not just a nap. A real rest. But knowing his luck? Yeah, not happening anytime soon.


    The battle mage beside him suddenly spoke, his voice low, uncertain. "Hey... we''ll be safe, right?"


    Damian slowed slightly, side-eyeing him. "What do you mean?"


    The battle mage ran a hand through his messy, sweat-dried hair, his lips pressing into a tight line. "They told us to go home and rest. But what if..." His voice dropped even lower. "What if they send assassins to kill us in our sleep?"


    Damian didn''t answer immediately. Because yeah¡ªthat was a real possibility.


    The people behind this weren''t stupid. They wouldn''t just let a loose end like this battle mage walk away unscathed. The only reason Damian himself wasn''t too worried was because, well... he was Damian. He had his own countermeasures.


    But this guy?


    Not so much.


    "Maybe you could request witness protection?" Damian offered.


    The battle mage snorted. "Yeah, and put my life in their hands? No thanks."


    Damian hummed in agreement. "Yeah, fair. Trust issues. Gotta love ''em."


    The battle mage exhaled sharply. "I''d rather not wake up with a knife in my ribs, thanks."


    Damian tilted his head. "Then how about returning to your mentor''s place?"


    The mage rolled his eyes. "I''m not a warlock. I''m a rank A mage, not some newbie who still clings to their mentor for protection."


    Damian cringed slightly. "Damn. Okay. No need to flex."


    The battle mage sighed. "That''s not what I meant."


    "Uh-huh."


    The battle mage glared. "You know what I mean."


    Damian smirked. "Yeah, yeah. Alright, fine. Then stay with your strongest friends or family members. Set up some extra layers of barriers, traps, all that paranoid safety stuff."


    The battle mage considered that for a moment. "Yeah... that could work."


    "See?" Damian grinned. "Problem solved."


    The battle mage shot him a skeptical glance. "And what about you?"


    Damian shrugged. "I''m gonna stay at my mentor''s house, of course."


    The battle mage stared. "You''re a rank S warlock."


    Damian blinked. "And?"


    "The hell are you doing staying at your mentor''s house? That''s¡ªwhat¡ªshouldn''t he be your former mentor?"


    Damian just shrugged. "A mentor''s a mentor."


    The battle mage still looked deeply confused.


    Damian stretched lazily, wincing slightly at the pull in his sore muscles. "Besides, his place is nice, so... why not?" He grinned. "Also, I get free dinner."


    The battle mage groaned, rubbing his temples. "I hate that you''re making sense, but also not making sense at the same time."


    Damian smirked. "It''s a skill."


    Yeah, he was trying to keep things light, making everything sound like a joke. But the truth? It wasn''t.


    His condition wasn''t just bad. It was terrible. He didn''t just need rest¡ªhis body was practically screaming for it. His mana reserves were still running low, his blood loss hadn''t been properly accounted for despite the potions, and the energy drain from everything that had happened was weighing on him like a damn boulder.

 Chapter 329 329: Angry Mob

    Warlock Ch 329. Angry Mob


    And it wasn''t just him.


    Victoria had used a lot of her mana healing Selena. Evelyn, too. They were running on fumes, barely keeping themselves stable.


    Which meant the only one they could really rely on right now was...


    Cassius.


    Damian sighed, dragging a hand down his face. ''Damn... Cassius really has to handle all my mess, huh?''


    Yeah. That was not a comforting thought.


    Damian ran a hand through his hair, shaking off the exhaustion that clung to him like a second skin. His steps were heavy, his body screaming at him to just lie down and shut up, but there was no way in hell he''d collapse in the middle of the Sanctum like some dramatic protagonist. He still had a shred of dignity left.


    He made his way back to where Cassius, Evelyn, and Victoria were waiting. The once-packed arena was now nearly empty, the echoes of the earlier chaos still lingering in the air.


    The audience was gone, but it wasn''t a peaceful retreat.


    No.


    Because from another part of the Sanctum, the sound of shouting erupted¡ªloud, angry voices clashing against stone walls, boots stomping, magic crackling in the distance.


    It wasn''t over.


    Not even close.


    Damian stopped, looking toward the source of the noise. "Where did they go?"


    Victoria, lounging lazily on a stone bench, didn''t even look up as she answered. "Hunting."


    Damian frowned. "Hunting who?"


    Evelyn, standing beside Cassius with her arms crossed, smirked slightly. "The remaining committee members. Anyone who might have been involved with the exam."


    Damian blinked. "Wait¡ªso they''re just going after people?"


    Evelyn shrugged. "Wouldn''t you?"


    Damian let out a breath, rubbing his temple. "And no one''s interfering? No, like¡ªofficials stepping in? Someone trying to calm them down?"


    Cassius chuckled, finally stepping forward, his eyes gleaming with amusement. "Were you able to calm the angry mob?"


    Damian exhaled sharply. "...No."


    Cassius smirked. "Exactly."


    Damian ran a hand down his face. "This is going to turn into a damn witch hunt."


    Evelyn gave Damian a disapproval look.


    "Sorry. Nullis'' term," he said in apology.


    Victoria chuckled, tapping her nails against her knee. "Well. Some deserve it."


    Evelyn hummed. "It''s not like anyone innocent is getting dragged into it. Yet."


    Damian wasn''t sure how he felt about that. He knew the rage fueling the crowd was justified, but anger was a dangerous thing when left unchecked. All it took was one person pointing fingers in the wrong direction, and suddenly, more bodies would be dropping¡ªnot just the guilty ones.


    Cassius patted his shoulder. "You should be worrying about yourself more than them."


    Damian rolled his eyes. "Oh, thank you for your deep concern."


    Cassius grinned. "Let''s go. You still need rest."


    Damian sighed, finally giving in. "Yeah. Thanks."


    His body was barely holding on, and fine, maybe Cassius had a point. Maybe passing out in the middle of a political meltdown wasn''t the best idea.


    The walk back to Cassius'' place was a blur. Damian barely registered the streets, the cold bite of night air, or the distant echoes of the chaos still raging in the deeper parts of the Sanctum. His legs felt like lead, his thoughts sluggish, his mana still scraped raw. He wasn''t sure if he was walking on his own or if Cassius was keeping him upright with magic.


    He didn''t care.


    All he knew was the moment they stepped inside Cassius'' estate, his body gave up.


    He barely managed to stagger inside before collapsing face-first onto the nearest sofa.


    And just like that, he was out.


    The exhaustion won.


    Elixirs and potions could only bring him so far, patching up the worst of his wounds, forcing his body to keep going, but they weren''t miracles. What he needed wasn''t more magic. It was an actual rest.


    And he wasn''t the only one.


    Evelyn sighed as she leaned against the wall, rubbing her temple, her usually sharp eyes dim with exhaustion. "I hate everything," she muttered, dragging a hand down her face.


    Victoria flopped onto the armrest of another chair, tilting her head back with an exaggerated groan. "Remind me never to heal someone again unless I''m getting something."


    Cassius huffed, crossing his arms. "Oh, great. I guess it''s up to me then."


    Neither of them responded.


    Mostly because they were too tired to argue.


    Cassius sighed, shaking his head as he ran a hand through his hair. Then, without another word, he lifted his hand and snapped his fingers.


    A ripple of magic surged through the air, dark and controlled, stretching outward like unseen tendrils. The house reacted instantly, responding to its master''s will.


    Barriers snapped into place¡ªlayer upon layer of protective wards forming an invisible dome around the estate. Faint sigils flickered in the dim candlelight, their presence humming against the walls before vanishing, sinking into the foundation like an unseen web of defense.


    A moment later, shadows twisted and curled, shifting unnaturally as Cassius'' servants emerged. Figures of living darkness, their forms flickering like wisps of smoke, humanoid but featureless, their glowing silver eyes the only thing that stood out in the dimly lit room.


    Cassius didn''t even look at them as he spoke. "Take Damian to the largest guest room. Make sure he doesn''t die in his sleep."


    The shadows moved. Silent. Quick.


    Two of them slipped forward, lifting Damian effortlessly despite his dead weight. He didn''t stir, didn''t make a sound. Just gone to the world, his exhaustion consuming him whole.


    Cassius turned to Evelyn and Victoria, his tone firm but measured. "You both need rest. There are rooms prepared for you."


    Victoria stretched, lazily tilting her head with an amused smirk. "Mm, ordering me around now?"


    Cassius huffed. "Just a suggestion."


    Victoria gave a small hum, clearly pleased with the courtesy, before pushing herself up with a dramatic sigh. "Ugh, fine. I am exhausted."


    Evelyn, however, shot him an unimpressed look. "You love telling people what to do, don''t you?"


    Cassius smirked, eyes gleaming with mischief. "It''s a talent."


    Evelyn rolled her eyes but followed Victoria as Cassius'' shadow servants guided them toward their rooms. With the house secured and the others finally resting, Cassius exhaled, already anticipating the mess he would have to deal with next.


    Cassius exhaled, rubbing his temple.


    Finally, silence.


    He looked around, surveying the aftermath of the night. Damian was out. Evelyn and Victoria were down for the count. The estate was locked down.


    And now?


    Now it was his turn to deal with the mess.


    Because while the others could afford to rest¡ª Cassius couldn''t.

 Chapter 330: Exhaustion

    Warlock Ch 330. Exhaustion


    Damian woke up feeling like death warmed over.


    His entire body hurt¡ªnot the sharp kind of pain from fresh wounds, but the deep, aching exhaustion that settled into his very bones. It was the kind of fatigue that came after pushing his limits too far, after forcing his mana reserves past zero, after making his body keep going when it had no right to.


    It reminded him of how he felt after fighting Malthus.


    Except this time?


    There were no visible wounds.


    No battle scars to explain why his limbs felt so goddamn heavy, why his mana was sluggish, why he felt like just existing was taking too much effort.


    And this time, it wasn''t just about recovery.


    No.


    This time, he had something worse to deal with. Because he wasn''t just injured. He was on Ralvek''s list. Or, more accurately, on the list of whoever had been pulling the strings behind Selena''s assassination attempt.


    Damian sat up slowly, wincing at the stiffness in his muscles. The room around him was dimly lit, the soft glow of enchanted lanterns casting shadows against the dark stone walls. The air smelled faintly of magic¡ªold spell residue lingering in the space, woven into the very foundation of Cassius'' estate. The place, despite its normal appearance, was a fortress, reinforced by layers of defensive wards, powerful enough that even he could feel them pressing against the edges of his awareness.


    It had been two days since they got back.


    Two days of being stuck inside Cassius'' stronghold.


    Two days of nothing.


    No news. No messages. No updates.


    Nothing from Aria.


    Nothing from Prince Cedric, Selena, Alric.


    No word from the Sanctum or the magi government.


    It was as if the entire outside world had gone quiet.


    But somehow?


    Somehow, they knew something was going on.


    Because every time they looked outside, everything looked peaceful. The streets were calm. The city functioned as if nothing had happened. But then¡ª A flicker of movement in the sky. Guards patrolling, gliding through the air on their staffs. More of them than usual.


    And they weren''t just flying aimlessly.


    They were watching.


    Waiting.


    For what, though? That was the real question.


    Damian exhaled, rubbing his temple as he forced himself out of bed. Since he needed to talk, he couldn''t stay in bed all day.


    He went out and found Evelyn and Victoria in one of the lounges, seated near the massive window overlooking the outer courtyard. Victoria was sipping on something dark and rich, her posture elegant but completely relaxed. Evelyn, on the other hand, was flipping a rune between her fingers, her legs crossed over the armrest of the couch she had claimed.


    They looked fine.


    Completely recovered.


    Which made sense. Unlike him, they only needed a day to get back to normal.


    Damian plopped down onto a chair, groaning as he stretched. "Okay, so are we still hiding like criminals, or do we actually have a plan?"


    Evelyn didn''t even look up. "Hiding? No. Strategically waiting for things to settle? Yes."


    Victoria smirked. "You say that, but we have been under siege."


    Damian raised an eyebrow. "Oh?"


    Evelyn finally looked at him, resting her chin on her hand. "Since the day we got here, there have been attempts."


    Damian blinked. "Assassins?"


    Victoria nodded, her expression amused. "Poor fools. Cassius'' defenses might as well be a death trap. They never even got close."


    Damian exhaled, running a hand through his hair. "Right. So, we''re just sitting here, waiting for the next attempt?"


    Evelyn twirled the dagger between her fingers. "I mean, unless you''d like to go out there and let yourself get killed."


    Damian groaned. "Ugh. Pass."


    Cassius entered the room then, looking just as composed as ever. "Good. You''re awake."


    Damian gave him a dry look. "Finally noticed?"


    Cassius smirked. "Oh, I noticed. I just didn''t care."


    Damian sighed dramatically. "Your concern is touching."


    Cassius walked to the window, glancing outside at the patrolling guards. "I''m guessing you''ve noticed by now. No word from Cedric, no word from Aria, nothing from the Sanctum."


    Damian leaned back. "Yeah, I noticed. What the hell is going on out there?"


    Cassius tilted his head slightly. "Hard to say. But I have a few theories."


    Victoria raised an eyebrow. "Such as?"


    Cassius exhaled, crossing his arms. "The government is either scrambling to cover this up, or they''re fighting about what to do next."


    Evelyn scoffed. "What, debating whether or not to kill us off?"


    Cassius smirked. "I wouldn''t be surprised."


    Damian groaned, rubbing his face. "Great. Just what I wanted. More people trying to kill me."


    Victoria chuckled. "You do have a habit of making enemies."


    Damian sighed. "I have a very punchable face."


    Evelyn smirked. "You really do."


    Damian groaned, rubbing his face. "Great. Love that for me."


    Victoria chuckled, taking a slow sip of her drink. "Well, you do have a way of making things dramatic."


    Damian sighed. "I swear, it''s not on purpose."


    Cassius snorted. "Sure, sure. Keep telling yourself that."


    They all laughed, the kind of mocking, tired laughter that came from people who knew they were in deep shit but were too exhausted to care anymore. It wasn''t forced¡ªit was resigned, the kind of humor that kept them from focusing on the fact that they were currently stuck in a magic fortress while people outside were probably deciding whether or not to eliminate them.


    Cassius leaned against the windowsill, arms crossed, eyes gleaming. "I have another theory, though."


    Damian tilted his head. "Oh? Let me guess." He raised a hand dramatically. "That last exam was so chaotic that they''re still trying to calm down the angry audiences and the grieving families of the dead participants?"


    Cassius grinned. "You read my mind."


    Evelyn let out a low whistle. "That would explain the silence."


    Victoria hummed. "People don''t just forget when their loved ones die for no reason. And considering how many didn''t make it out of that nightmare... yeah. The Sanctums are screwed."


    Damian tapped his fingers against the table. "Makes sense. They can''t just sweep this under the rug. Too many eyes on it. Too many people demanding answers."


    Cassius nodded. "Exactly. And that''s without factoring in the fae royals. Cedric and his people aren''t letting this go."


    Victoria chuckled darkly. "Nope. Not when someone tried to assassinate his sister."

 Chapter 331: Mass Hysteria

    Warlock Ch 331. Mass Hysteria


    Damian exhaled, dragging a hand down his face. "Great. So, what? They''re dealing with mass hysteria while also trying to cover up just how bad the corruption in the system is?"


    Cassius smirked. "That''d be my guess."


    Evelyn sighed. "I almost feel bad for them."


    Damian raised an eyebrow. "Almost?"


    Evelyn smirked. "Almost."


    Victoria leaned back, resting an elbow on the armrest of the couch. "The real question is, how long can they hold out before something explodes?"


    Cassius tapped his chin. "I''d say they have a few days, at most."


    Damian sighed. "And then?"


    Cassius grinned. "Then things get fun."


    Damian groaned. "You say that like I want to be involved."


    Evelyn chuckled. "Oh, you are involved, whether you like it or not."


    Damian muttered something under his breath, too tired to argue.


    Because, yeah. They were right.


    He was involved.


    Whether he liked it or not.


    Damian exhaled, leaning back into his chair, letting everything sink in. The room was quiet for a brief moment, the tension thick but not suffocating. More like a calm before the inevitable storm.


    Cassius, who had been unusually quiet, suddenly spoke. "I must say, it was faster than you might think."


    Damian''s head snapped up. His instincts sharpened instantly, the exhaustion momentarily pushed aside. He knew that tone.


    Something was happening.


    He frowned. "A guest, I''m guessing?"


    Cassius smirked. "You guess right."


    Damian knew better than to assume Cassius had just sensed it. No, he knew for a fact that Cassius had spread his shadow servants everywhere, keeping an eye on the entire area. If anything happened, Cassius would know before anyone else. And if he was mentioning it now, it meant someone important had arrived.


    Cassius leaned back against the window. "And not just any guest." He tilted his head slightly. "It''s Aria."


    Damian let out a slow breath. He didn''t know if this was bad or not. But yeah, they needed an update.


    Evelyn sighed. "I was kinda hoping for Prince Cedric."


    Damian raised an eyebrow. "Oh?"


    Evelyn shrugged. "He looked very worried about Selena. And he did want to solve this case as soon as possible. But I''m surprised he hasn''t shown up. He didn''t seem like the type to just sit back."


    Damian considered that. "Maybe he''s busy?"


    Evelyn smirked. "Or maybe he''s making sure those people don''t escape."


    Victoria chuckled from her seat. "Well, I thought the fae princess would be the first one to visit."


    Damian groaned. "Oh, here we go."


    Victoria grinned. "Oh, come on. We all saw it. That girl clearly has a crush on you."


    Evelyn snorted. "Bet she has something from your past."


    Damian sighed. "Yup. But I only remember bits and pieces."


    Victoria smirked. "How convenient."


    Cassius cleared his throat, drawing their attention back. "So, what do we do?" He raised an eyebrow at Damian.


    Damian exhaled. "Let her in."


    Cassius arched a brow. "Just like that?"


    "As long as she''s alone," Damian clarified. "And she doesn''t bring weird weapons or runes or anything that looks remotely suspicious."


    Cassius hummed. "Not afraid she''ll trap you?"


    Victoria tapped her chin. "Or maybe she was assigned to kill you?"


    Damian was silent. Because... yeah. That was a possibility. His fingers curled slightly against his knee. "I am afraid," he admitted. His voice was quiet, but firm. "But..."


    The memory flickered in his mind¡ªAria''s expression during their last meeting, the way she had helped him multiple times, even when she didn''t have to. Even when it made no sense.


    She had to know something.


    And he needed to hear it.


    "But she helped me several times," Damian continued, his gaze distant. "And somehow... I felt like she wanted to tell me something. About all of this." His fingers tapped against the armrest. "Besides, it wasn''t my fault. She knows that. We have proof."


    Evelyn''s gaze flickered with something unreadable.


    Damian exhaled. "This situation... it''s different from last time." His voice dropped slightly. "Different from when I was Kaelan."


    A heavy silence settled over the room.


    Cassius watched him carefully.


    Victoria crossed her arms, her expression less playful now, more thoughtful.


    Evelyn just stared.


    Cassius smirked. "Alright, then." He gestured lazily toward the door. "Let''s welcome our guest."


    Damian took a slow breath. Time to see what Aria wanted. "Summon..." he muttered.


    While Cassius barely moved from his spot by the window, his eyes watching as the barrier flickered¡ªa subtle ripple through the layered protections he had set around the estate. It wasn''t breaking. It was responding.


    Aria knew what it meant.


    ''Permission granted.''


    The barrier shimmered once before settling back a part into invisibility, allowing her entry.


    A soft click of heels echoed against the floor as she stepped inside. Two shadow servants materialized instantly at her sides, their dark forms flickering like candlelight against the dim interior.


    One belonged to Cassius.


    The other?


    Damian''s.


    They were silent, efficient¡ªchecking her for anything suspicious before giving a silent nod of approval. No concealed runes. No weapons. Just Aria, exactly as she was.


    With that, they turned, guiding her through the corridors, deeper into the estate.


    By the time she reached the living room, she was already scanning the space, taking in everything with sharp, calculating eyes.


    Damian sat casually in an armchair, one leg over the other, arms stretched out like he owned the place. His mana had stabilized, but he was still recovering¡ªhis skin had the faintest pallor, and the dark circles under his eyes hadn''t fully faded.


    Evelyn was perched on the couch beside him, a rune etched into her palm, glowing faintly. She didn''t bother to hide it. The witch was watching Aria, but in that casual, amused way that meant she was ready for whatever came next.


    Victoria, however¡ª He was sprawled lazily across an armchair, her presence exuding power even in complete stillness. A glass of deep crimson liquid¡ªdefinitely not wine¡ªrested in her hand, the rich scent of something coppery barely noticeable in the air.


    Aria''s gaze immediately landed on her. Her expression darkened. "I''m shocked that Her Majesty Victoria is still here," Aria said, her voice sharp, cool. "And hasn''t returned to her palace."


    Victoria smirked, swirling the liquid in her glass. "Oh? Disappointed?"


    Aria''s gaze didn''t waver. "Surprised."

 Chapter 332 332: Overstayed

    Warlock Ch 332. Overstayed


    Damian leaned back in his chair, raising an eyebrow. "You say that like she''s overstayed her welcome."


    Aria finally shifted her attention to him. "It''s rare for a vampire queen to linger outside her domain for this long. It draws attention."


    Victoria chuckled, taking a slow sip from her glass before placing it down with deliberate ease. "Ah, but I do enjoy making people nervous."


    Evelyn smirked. "You do have a talent for that."


    Cassius, still standing near the window, crossed his arms. "Enough with the small talk." His gaze flickered to Aria, sharp and unreadable. "You''re here for a reason. Speak."


    Aria barely acknowledged him.


    Instead, she looked only at Damian.


    "I''ll speak with him."


    Cassius didn''t react immediately. He let the silence stretch for a moment, his expression unreadable. Then, finally, he tilted his head slightly, a slow smirk forming.


    "I see."


    Damian exhaled. "So much for being my mentor, huh?"


    Cassius chuckled, clearly unbothered. "Oh, I''m not insulted. I prefer to sit back and watch." His eyes gleamed. "This should be entertaining."


    Damian sighed dramatically. "Great. Love that for me."


    Aria crossed her arms. "If you''re done stalling, we need to talk."


    Damian ran a hand through his hair before gesturing to the chair across from him. "Alright, alright. Let''s hear it. Please sit, Lady Aria."


    Aria hesitated for half a second before finally moving forward, sitting with the kind of precision that said she was in control.


    Or at least, she wanted to be.


    Evelyn tilted her head slightly, still watching, but said nothing.


    Victoria leaned back, amused.


    Cassius stayed exactly where he was, looking far too entertained.


    Damian exhaled. "Alright. What do you want to talk about?"


    Aria didn''t hesitate. Her gaze was sharp, her posture rigid, her expression unreadable.


    "The first thing you need to know," she said, voice steady but edged with something heavier. "Edward is dead."


    "Wait." Damian frowned, sitting up slightly. "Who''s Edward?"


    Aria''s eyes flickered with something like impatience. "The battle mage who survived the last exam."


    Damian''s stomach sank.


    ''Shit.''


    "The one who gave his testimony?" His voice was tight.


    Aria nodded. "Him. Along with his friends."


    Damian''s jaw clenched. "But... didn''t I already¡ª"


    "Warn him?" Aria cut him off, her voice cool. "Yes. You did. But it didn''t matter."


    A cold, sinking feeling spread through Damian''s chest.


    Aria continued, her voice flat, clinical. "He was living with his colleagues from the Magic Academy. Three Rank A''s. Two Rank B''s. One of them was a healer."


    Damian''s fingers curled against his knee. Those were strong mages. They weren''t newbies. They weren''t helpless. They should have been able to fight back.


    Aria''s gaze didn''t waver. "Alric found them dead after the fae finally received permission to take them to a refuge for protection."


    Damian exhaled, muttering under his breath. "Shit... They''re fast."


    Cassius leaned against the windowsill, arms crossed. "Of course they are." His eyes gleamed, but his smirk was nowhere to be found. "Loose ends don''t stay loose for long."


    Aria turned to him. "And what about you?"


    Cassius tilted his head slightly, unimpressed. "What about me?"


    "Any attacks?"


    Cassius chuckled. "A lot." He gestured vaguely. "Not to mention the spies. They''re everywhere."


    Evelyn, who had been silent, finally spoke. "They tried to attack my house, too."


    Aria''s gaze flickered to her. "And?"


    Evelyn scoffed. "They failed." She flexed her fingers, the rune on her palm faintly glowing. "I have strong barriers. They didn''t even make it past the front gate."


    Damian turned to her, watching the way her fingers tightened slightly. She wasn''t just irritated. There was something deeper there.


    Then she spoke again, softer this time.


    "The house is precious to me."


    Damian''s breath hitched slightly. He knew why.


    That house wasn''t built to be a fortress. It wasn''t meant to be a stronghold like Cassius'' estate. It was meant to be home. It was meant to be a warm place. It was a house Kaelan had built. A house meant for him and Evelyn. A house that was never supposed to be tainted by war, by assassins, by corruption.


    Damian didn''t say anything.


    Because what could he say?


    Aria was watching closely, but if she had noticed the shift in atmosphere, she didn''t comment on it. Instead, she refocused. "So..." she exhaled. "They also attacked this place."


    Cassius smirked, but there was no amusement in his eyes. "Oh, many times," he murmured. "But I do love a good pest control exercise."


    Damian leaned back, fingers drumming against the armrest. "They''re not backing down."


    Aria''s expression didn''t change. "No."


    Evelyn huffed, tilting her head. "Then what''s next?"


    Silence.


    Aria''s lips pressed together, her shoulders stiffening slightly. It was subtle. Almost unnoticeable. But Damian saw it.


    That split second hesitation before she spoke. The way her fingers twitched slightly before she clenched them into a fist.


    Something was wrong.


    And she was deciding how much to tell them.


    "We''re trying to fix this," she finally said, voice steady but clipped. "The situation is... complicated."


    Damian exhaled, leaning back into his chair, arms crossed. "Right... I assume you want me to keep hiding here for a while?"


    Aria met his gaze without flinching. "It''s the best choice for now."


    Damian scoffed, shaking his head. "Of course it is."


    "You have a lot of SSS-rank magic users with you," she continued, gesturing slightly toward Cassius, Victoria, and Evelyn. "They should be able to protect you."


    Damian ran a hand through his hair. "I can''t keep hiding forever."


    Aria''s expression didn''t change. "Not forever. But you will need it for now."


    There was something final in her tone. Something unchallenged. But Damian wasn''t buying it. Not without answers.


    "Alright," he sighed, rubbing his temples. "Since you''re here, I need some honesty from you." He lifted his gaze, pinning her with a look. "Are the senators involved?"


    The air in the room shifted. Cassius, Evelyn, and Victoria all went silent.


    Aria inhaled slowly, carefully. "That''s not something I can¡ª"


    "No bullshit," Damian cut her off. "Are they involved?"


    Aria''s eyes locked onto his, unblinking. "They know something," she admitted. "But involvement?" A pause. "That depends on your definition."

 Chapter 333 333: No Word Games

    Warlock Ch 333. No Word Games


    Damian narrowed his eyes. "Do not play word games with me right now."


    Her fingers twitched again.


    Evelyn, still seated beside Damian, traced the rune in her palm absentmindedly, her eyes sharp. "What about Ralvek?" she asked.


    Aria''s lips thinned. "I can''t say."


    Cassius chuckled from his spot by the window. "Oh, you can." His eyes gleamed. "You just won''t."


    Aria didn''t deny it.


    Damian exhaled sharply, tapping his fingers against the chair''s armrest. "Fine. Then tell me this¡ªwhy did they want Selena dead in the first place?" His brows furrowed. "I mean... Selena will never be queen. They know that."


    Aria''s expression didn''t change, but Damian saw it again¡ªthat hesitation, that split-second calculation happening behind her eyes. And when she finally spoke¡ª Her voice was calm. "You''re right," she said slowly. "Selena will never be queen."


    Damian waited.


    Victoria leaned forward slightly, eyes gleaming with amusement. "And yet," she drawled, "someone wants her gone."


    Aria exhaled. "Because someone doesn''t care about the throne."


    Damian frowned. "Then what do they care about?"


    Aria''s eyes flickered. "Power."


    Evelyn was the first to speak. "Power... over what, exactly?"


    Aria''s gaze was unreadable. "Over magic itself."


    Damian''s fingers stilled against the chair.


    Magic.


    Itself.


    Something about those words twisted in his gut. There were a lot of things he could brush off¡ªbeing hunted, assassination attempts, political backstabbing¡ªbut this? This was different. And that meant things were about to get even more fucked than they already were.


    Damian exhaled, rubbing his temple. "I need an explanation."


    Aria hesitated. Which was not a good sign. Her gaze flickered, uncertainty creeping into her usually controlled expression. But after a moment, she let out a slow breath, as if coming to a decision. "Promise me you won''t leak this out," she said quietly.


    Damian huffed. "Yeah, yeah, fine."


    Aria turned to the others.


    Evelyn tilted her head slightly, the rune on her palm glowing faintly as she studied Aria. "I keep my word."


    Victoria smirked, swirling her glass of definitely not wine lazily. "I have no interest in fae politics." She took a slow sip. "As long as it''s entertaining, I won''t say a word."


    Cassius chuckled. "Oh, I love a good secret."


    Aria took a moment, before finally speaking.


    "Selena... even though she doesn''t have an important position in the fae court, she still has fae royal blood," she said, her tone steady but laced with something careful. "There''s a rumor... that the fae royal bloodline carries a power different from others."


    Damian''s brow furrowed. "Different how?"


    Aria''s gaze sharpened. "Her mana core."


    Damian exhaled. "Of course."


    Aria nodded. "It''s not like other fae. It''s¡ªstronger. More... pure."


    Victoria raised an eyebrow. "Pure?"


    Evelyn''s fingers twitched slightly. "That''s a very specific word choice."


    Damian rubbed his temple. "Okay, let me guess." He huffed, lifting his hand. "Does this have anything to do with the evil faction?" He paused, then corrected himself. "Sorry¡ªthe evil faction disguised as the good faction?"


    Aria''s jaw tightened. "Yes."


    Cassius smirked. "Oh, of course."


    Aria exhaled. "They''re after her."


    Damian leaned back, rubbing his face. "Her mana core."


    "Yes," Aria confirmed. "That exam was the perfect opportunity. They planned to kill her, secure her body, and¡ª"


    "Use that time to absorb her mana core," Damian finished, voice dripping with exhaustion. "Right. Because why would anything be simple?"


    Evelyn muttered something under her breath. The rune on her palm flared briefly before dimming again. "That''s... insane."


    Victoria tilted her head. "Not really."


    Evelyn shot her a look. "Excuse me?"


    Victoria smirked. "Fae blood is powerful. Royals even more so. If their mana cores really are different, it makes perfect sense that someone would want to harvest them."


    Evelyn''s eyes darkened. "You say that so casually."


    Victoria chuckled. "I''m old. I''ve seen worse."


    Damian exhaled again, dragging a hand through his hair. "Alright. Fine. So they were trying to harvest her. Great. Love that. And let me guess¡ªthe senators knew."


    Aria''s lips pressed into a thin line. Which meant yes.


    Damian let out a humorless laugh. "Oh, f*ck me."


    Victoria grinned. "I would, but now''s not the time."


    Damian shot her a glare. "Not helping."


    Evelyn smirked. "I think it is."


    Aria sighed. "I don''t know how deep the senators are involved, but they knew something. Whether they were actively part of the plan or just letting it happen¡ª"


    "It doesn''t matter," Damian muttered. "They let it happen anyway."


    Aria didn''t argue.


    Evelyn leaned forward, eyes sharp. "So what now?"


    Aria inhaled. "Now?" She met Damian''s gaze, something serious in her expression. "You stay here."


    Damian narrowed his eyes. "For how long?"


    Aria didn''t blink. "As long as it takes."


    Damian groaned, throwing his head back against the chair. "Fucking great." His fingers drummed against the armrest, his body still sluggish from exhaustion, but his mind? Racing. "So, I''m some kind of prisoner now," he muttered. "Right. I really have the worst luck."


    Aria exhaled, her eyes steady but unreadable. "You know too much."


    Damian let out a dry chuckle, rubbing his temple. "Oh, wonderful. So, I get thrown into a goddamn death tournament, nearly die, somehow survive, and now my reward is house arrest?" He threw up his hands. "Sounds fair."


    Victoria smirked, swirling her glass of definitely not wine. "It is a bit poetic."


    Evelyn, however, wasn''t amused. She tapped her fingers against her knee. "But isn''t silence the same as waiting? We''re just sitting here, waiting until they decide to strike." Her sharp gaze flickered to Aria. "They''ll kill him sooner or later."


    Aria''s jaw tightened slightly. "We''re trying to find out who is involved. Investigating takes time."


    Evelyn scoffed. "Time? They aren''t wasting any."


    Cassius hummed from where he leaned against the windowsill. "She has a point."


    Aria turned to him, unimpressed. "You think we should just act without proof?"


    Cassius tilted his head. "I think waiting for them to make the first move is a bad strategy."


    Damian sighed, stretching his legs out. "Okay. So let''s break this down."


    Aria crossed her arms but didn''t interrupt.


    Damian tapped his fingers on the chair''s armrest. "The senators¡ªor at least some of them¡ªare involved." He gestured vaguely. "Whether they were actively helping or just looking the other way, doesn''t matter. They knew."

 Chapter 334: What is Their Endgame?

    Warlock Ch 334. What is Their Endgame?


    Aria nodded. "Yes."


    Evelyn leaned forward. "And the fae royal bloodline has something in it that makes Selena''s mana core special. So special that people are willing to kill her just to harvest it."


    "Correct."


    Victoria raised an eyebrow. "And the so-called good faction is actually the evil faction."


    Cassius smirked. "Obviously."


    Damian rubbed his face. "Right. So basically, we''ve got a powerful, politically connected group, backed by an unknown number of senators, hunting down people with unique mana cores. And we still don''t know how many of them are involved, who exactly is pulling the strings, or what their endgame is."


    Aria''s lips pressed together. "We''re working on it."


    Damian snorted. "Oh, great. Love that."


    Victoria tilted her head, her fangs glinting slightly as she smiled. "So, what''s the plan? Wait around and hope they hand themselves in?"


    Aria''s gaze sharpened. "We need proof."


    Evelyn huffed. "And how long will that take?"


    Aria didn''t answer immediately.


    Damian exhaled. "See? That''s the problem. We don''t have time."


    Cassius grinned, resting a hand on his hip. "Then, maybe we should force the issue."


    Aria frowned. "Meaning?"


    Cassius'' smirk widened. "Meaning... instead of waiting for them to make a move..." He leaned forward slightly, golden eyes gleaming. "We make one first."


    Evelyn smirked. "Now that''s an idea I like."


    Aria narrowed her eyes. "You''re suggesting we provoke them?"


    Cassius chuckled. "Why not? If they''re going to come after us anyway, might as well make them show their hand."


    Damian rubbed his chin. "You do realize that means putting a target on me, right?"


    Cassius grinned. "Oh, I do."


    "Great." Damian sighed dramatically. "But yeah, honestly? I''m bored of sitting around."


    Cassius exhaled. "So, Aria." His gaze locked onto hers. "Before we take care of this in our own way, you said you''re trying to fix this." He leaned forward. "How?"


    Aria hesitated for a fraction of a second. Which meant she wasn''t sure yet.


    Damian smirked. "Exactly."


    Cassius chuckled. "So, let''s stop waiting. And start acting."


    Aria exhaled. "You have to be patient."


    Damian grinned. "Nah."


    Aria''s eyes narrowed, frustration flickering beneath her usual composed exterior. "You don''t know what''s going on, Damian."


    Damian huffed, leaning back into his chair. "Oh, please enlighten me."


    Aria didn''t take the bait. She exhaled slowly, her voice measured but firm. "You don''t understand how they operate. They''re not just investigating you." She paused, letting the words sink in. "They''ve already investigated you."


    Damian''s smirk faltered slightly.


    Aria continued. "They''ve targeted you not just because you''re a witness¡ª" Her eyes locked onto his. "But because of your power."


    Victoria raised a brow, swirling her drink idly. "Oh? Because of that little incident with Varak''s base?"


    Aria shook her head. "No." Her fingers twitched slightly. "It''s worse than that."


    Evelyn, who had been tracing the rune on her palm absentmindedly, finally glanced up. "How worse?"


    Aria hesitated. "Some have figured out that Damian is from Nullis."


    Damian''s smirk completely disappeared.


    Cassius, who had been watching with an amused expression, finally looked interested. "Oh?" His eyes flickered with something sharp. "That''s an interesting detail."


    Damian exhaled slowly. "Okay. Let''s pause for a second." He ran a hand through his hair. "Yeah, I came from Nullis. But so what? I''m a warlock, not a mage. I experimented with my own power before I even met Cassius. That''s not some crazy conspiracy."


    Aria''s lips pressed together. "I know that''s just an excuse."


    Damian''s jaw clenched. ''Damn. She is still sharp as always.''


    Aria exhaled. "It''s not just your growth that concerns them. It''s the rate of your growth. You entered the magic world recently, and yet... You are keeping up with people who''ve been here for years. More than keeping up. You are surpassing them."


    Damian rolled his shoulders. "What can I say? I''m talented."


    Aria shot him a look. "Or you have something different than the rest of us."


    The air shifted.


    Victoria''s smirk faded slightly.


    Evelyn stopped tapping her fingers.


    Cassius tilted his head.


    Damian''s fingers curled against his knee.


    Aria''s voice was calm, but the weight of her words was anything but. "That''s why you''re a target."


    Damian exhaled sharply. "So, what? They''re scared of me now?"


    Aria didn''t blink. "Wouldn''t you be?"


    Damian scoffed, dragging a hand down his face.


    "But I''m a Rank S now," he muttered. "At least they have to think twice before killing me."


    He wasn''t entirely sure about that. Not anymore.


    Back then¡ªwhen he was still Kaelan¡ªpeople hesitated. Killing a high-rank magic user came with consequences. Killing a warlock was even riskier. People were careful. Even his enemies.


    But now?


    Now, he wasn''t sure if that still applied. If these people had been in power for too long, if they had already decided that rules didn''t apply to them. This time, it might be different.


    Aria''s gaze didn''t waver. "And Selena is a princess."


    Damian frowned.


    Aria continued, her voice even, but edged with something cold. "Yet, they still decided to assassinate her. Openly."


    Victoria tilted her head, amusement flickering in her crimson eyes. "And they failed."


    Evelyn''s fingers twitched against the rune on her palm. "But they didn''t care if they failed."


    Cassius hummed. "Which means they''ll try again."


    Damian exhaled sharply. This wasn''t about caution. They didn''t hesitate or care that Selena was royalty. They didn''t care that this could trigger a war between races. They didn''t care about the consequences. And that meant... They weren''t planning to stop.


    Damian huffed, resisting the urge to throw a damn complain. He hated this.


    "Right," he muttered, rubbing his temples. "Right."


    His mind was racing, piecing together the implications.


    If they were bold enough to try and kill Selena, even with the risk of starting an all-out war between the factions. Then they weren''t afraid.


    Either they had enough power to suppress any retaliation¡ª Or they thought they did.


    He exhaled slowly, locking eyes with Aria. "This just gives us more reasons to make our move first."


    Cassius grinned, his smirk widening. "Now that''s what I like to hear."


    Victoria chuckled. "Finally growing a spine, are we?"


    Damian shot her a glare. "I had a spine. I was just¡ª"


    "Delaying the inevitable," Evelyn finished for him, unimpressed.


    Damian groaned. "Yeah."

 Chapter 335: You Remind Me of Him

    Warlock Ch 335. You Remind Me of Him


    Aria leaned forward slightly. "We can''t afford reckless moves."


    Cassius smirked. "Oh, I disagree."


    Evelyn sighed. "Of course you do."


    Cassius shrugged. "I mean, why not shake things up?"


    Aria''s eyes narrowed. "Because we don''t know how deep this goes."


    Damian exhaled, glancing at her. "Then we find out."


    Aria studied him for a moment before speaking. "And how do you propose we do that?"


    Then¡ª Damian grinned.


    "Oh, I have a few ideas." Damian leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. His mind was racing, ideas clicking into place. If they wanted to play dirty, then fine. He''d play right back.


    "They''re trying to contain us," he said, glancing at Aria. "They want us sitting here, doing nothing. Waiting. Wasting time." His gaze flickered to Evelyn, then Victoria. "But if they''re willing to assassinate a fae princess without hesitation, that means they''re confident. Too confident."


    Cassius''s eyes gleamed. "Go on."


    Damian exhaled. "We need to shake the board. Change the game." He gestured vaguely. "Sitting in this fortress, waiting for them to make the next move? That''s stupid. That''s what they want."


    Aria frowned. "And what exactly do you suggest?"


    Damian grinned. "I say we force them to show their hand."


    Evelyn raised an eyebrow. "And how do we do that?"


    Damian exhaled. "Simple. We leak information."


    Aria''s expression sharpened.


    Victoria''s smirk widened. "Oh, I like where this is going."


    Cassius chuckled. "Leaking what, exactly?"


    Damian leaned back. "Pieces of the truth. Just enough to make them panic. We don''t expose everything¡ªjust enough to make them act. Get them scared." He tapped his fingers against the armrest. "Make them think we know more than we actually do."


    Aria crossed her arms. "That''s a dangerous game."


    Damian smirked. "Isn''t it?"


    Cassius grinned. "Who do we leak it to?"


    Damian tilted his head. "We start small. Whispers. Rumors. Unconfirmed reports." He exhaled. "There''s already tension. The families of the dead participants? They''re already angry. The magic community is uneasy after what happened in the exam."


    Victoria hummed. "You want to feed that unease."


    Damian nodded. "Exactly."


    Evelyn exhaled, rubbing her temple. "So we stir up paranoia, make them react, and use that to track who''s really involved?"


    Damian grinned. "Bingo."


    Aria was quiet for a long moment. Then¡ª


    "That... might actually work."


    Cassius smirked. "Oh, it will."


    It was time to make them sweat.


    But before anything else, Aria excused herself.


    "I have to go," she said, her tone even as always. "There''s too much happening, and I can''t stay here any longer."


    Damian exhaled, pushing himself up from his chair. "I''ll escort you."


    Aria blinked at him, surprised. "That''s unnecessary."


    Damian shrugged. "Doesn''t matter. I''m doing it anyway."


    She studied him for a long moment, then sighed, shaking her head slightly. "Suit yourself."


    The others watched as they left. Evelyn smirked knowingly but said nothing. Cassius just chuckled, looking far too entertained by the whole thing.


    Victoria raised an eyebrow as she sipped her drink. "Careful, Damian. If you keep escorting ladies like this, people might misunderstand."


    Damian rolled his eyes but didn''t respond.


    The two of them walked in silence toward the entrance of Cassius'' estate, the stone corridors dimly lit by soft enchanted lanterns. The cool air hummed with layered barriers, magic woven into the very foundation of the place.


    It was only when they reached the outermost doors that Aria finally spoke.


    "Your growth is too fast."


    Damian stopped.


    The words weren''t an accusation.


    But they weren''t casual either.


    She turned slightly, watching him, her silver eyes sharp and searching.


    Damian stayed silent.


    She continued, her voice quieter. "I remember testing you just a few months ago." A small pause. "And yet... here you are. Suddenly a Rank S."


    Her gaze didn''t waver. "Weird, isn''t it?"


    Damian exhaled. "I already told you the reason why I''m like this."


    Aria tilted her head slightly. "Oh? Because of Varak''s crystals?"


    She chuckled.


    "Maybe the others will buy that," she said, amusement flickering in her tone. "Me?"


    She scoffed, shaking her head. "I don''t."


    Damian clenched his jaw. She knew. Maybe she didn''t have all the pieces, but she knew.


    Aria exhaled, crossing her arms. "I had... a childhood friend once."


    Damian''s breath hitched. He already knew who she was talking about.


    Kaelan.


    Him.


    But he said nothing.


    Aria''s expression didn''t change, but her voice softened slightly. "He was a genius." She looked off into the distance. "Too much of one."


    Damian swallowed. ''This conversation is dangerous.'' But he didn''t stop her.


    She continued, her tone quieter now. "His life ended miserably because of power." A slow exhale. "Let''s just say..." Her eyes flickered back to him. "You remind me of him."


    Damian''s fingers curled slightly. He hated how those words made his chest tighten. Because she wasn''t wrong. She was right. But she had no idea just how right she actually was.


    Aria exhaled, crossing her arms. "I don''t want you to end up like him."


    Damian let out a slow breath. "Is that the reason why you helped me last time?"


    She chuckled, tilting her head slightly. "So, you realized that."


    He nodded. "Yeah."


    She arched a brow. "Is that the reason you''re escorting me now?"


    Another pause.


    "Yes."


    Aria studied him for a moment, unreadable as always.


    Damian inhaled. "I wanted to thank you." His voice was even, steady. "If it wasn''t for you, I wouldn''t have gotten my title as a Rank S warlock."


    She didn''t respond immediately. She just... watched him.


    Damian frowned slightly. "But I do want to ask... why did you do it?"


    Her eyes flickered with something unreadable.


    "I mean," Damian continued, "I know you''re a senator. And yeah, we''ve met a couple of times. You tested me once, and we''ve had a few conversations." He exhaled. "But that''s all." His gaze locked onto hers. "Yet, you still decided to help me." His voice dropped slightly. "Why?"


    Aria''s lips parted slightly before she closed them again, as if reconsidering her answer. Then, after a moment, she spoke again. "I don''t know," she admitted.


    Damian raised an eyebrow.


    Aria exhaled. "Maybe it''s because you remind me of my childhood friend."


    Damian knew where this was going. He knew who she was talking about. Still, he didn''t interrupt.


    "Or," she said, "maybe it''s because I think you are him."


    His stomach twisted.

 Chapter 336 336: You Sounded Like You Wanted to Kill Me

    Warlock Ch 336. You Sounded Like You Wanted to Kill Me


    Damian forced a small smirk, trying to mask the tension building inside him. "You told me once," he said. "And you sounded like you wanted to kill me for it."


    Aria''s brow furrowed slightly.


    He continued, voice casual, even if his heartbeat wasn''t. "It is about... ''The Evil One,'' right?"


    The shift was instantaneous. Her expression darkened, her eyes flashing with something sharp. A tension so sudden, so visceral, that Damian almost regretted saying it. Her lips pressed into a thin line. "Just say his name properly," she snapped, her voice laced with irritation.


    Damian blinked.


    She was mad. Like, genuinely mad. Not her usual calm, composed senator mode. This was something else.


    He had expected some reaction.


    But this?


    This was not what he expected.


    Aria crossed her arms, her glare pinning him in place. "Why call him that?"


    Damian''s throat went dry. His entire reasoning for saying ''The Evil One'' instead of ''Kaelan'' was to distance himself from his past¡ªto avoid raising suspicion, to cover his identity. But she wasn''t buying it. No, she was pissed.


    Damian hesitated. "I just thought¡ª"


    "You thought what?" Aria cut him off. "That calling him by that stupid title would erase who he really was?"


    Damian''s fingers curled into his palm.


    "Aria¡ª"


    "Do you even know what they did to his name?" she snapped.


    Damian''s breath hitched.


    Aria''s hands balled into fists at her sides. "They rewrote everything. His achievements, his struggles, his sacrifices¡ªgone." Her voice was steady, but there was rage simmering beneath it. "They buried the truth under lies and propaganda. And now? Now, people only remember The Evil One¡ªsome twisted villain who deserved what happened to him."


    Damian swallowed. His mouth felt dry. ''She knew? She knew I''m innocent?''


    Aria exhaled sharply, shaking her head. "I refuse to call him that."


    Damian wasn''t sure what to say. Because he wasn''t expecting this. He wasn''t expecting her to care this much.


    And the worst part?


    He couldn''t say anything to comfort her.


    Because the very person she was furious about¡ªthe person she was defending¡ª Was standing right in front of her.


    Aria took another breath, composing herself, but her eyes still burned. "You don''t have to respect his name. You don''t have to care. But don''t¡ª" She exhaled sharply. "Don''t call him that in front of me again. Also... don''t tell anyone about this. I''m a senator. I''m supposed to hate him and I will keep pretending that way."


    Damian exhaled slowly. "Alright," he murmured.


    Aria blinked.


    "I won''t." His voice was quiet, but firm.


    He wasn''t sure why he said it. Maybe because he owed it to her. Maybe because hearing someone defend Kaelan¡ªhim¡ªwas something he never thought he''d experience again. Maybe because, deep down, part of him wanted to believe that someone still remembered him for who he was¡ªnot the villain they had painted him to be.


    Aria studied him for a moment. Then, finally, she exhaled, the tension in her shoulders easing slightly. "...Good," she said.


    A pause followed before Damian spoke again. "Thank you."


    She just nodded.


    And for the first time in a long time¡ª He wasn''t sure who he was pretending for anymore.


    The thought followed him as he walked Aria to the entrance, the silence between them stretching long and heavy. Neither of them spoke. Neither of them needed to.


    There was nothing left to say.


    When they reached the entrance, Aria didn''t turn back. She didn''t give any parting words or lingering glances. She just left.


    And Damian?


    He stood there for a moment, watching her figure disappear into the distance before finally turning back. He made his way back inside, his thoughts a tangled mess of past and present.


    By the time he reached the living room, his expression had darkened.


    He sat down heavily, letting out a slow exhale, rubbing a hand over his face.


    Silence.


    But it didn''t last long.


    Cassius, who had been lounging near the window, barely looked up before smirking. "Let me guess," he drawled, his eyes glinting with amusement. "She just said something to you?"


    Damian didn''t answer immediately.


    Victoria, sitting across from him, tilted her head, her crimson eyes watching him too closely.


    Evelyn, sitting beside Victoria, traced the rune on her palm absently. She wasn''t looking at him, but Damian could tell she was listening.


    Waiting...


    They all were.


    Damian exhaled, dragging a hand through his hair. "It''s not important."


    Cassius let out a short laugh. "That," he said, pointing at him, "is exactly what people say when something is very important."


    Damian clenched his jaw. "Cas¡ª"


    "Spare me the bullshit," Cassius cut in, his smirk fading. "What did she say?"


    Damian could feel their eyes on him. Judging. Waiting. He should brush it off. Make a joke. Move on. But for some reason... he didn''t. He exhaled, leaning forward, resting his elbows on his knees. "She said," he started, voice quieter now, "that she doesn''t want me to end up like Kaelan."


    The room stilled.


    Cassius''s smirk vanished.


    Victoria''s fingers stopped tapping against her glass.


    Evelyn finally looked up.


    A heavy pause stretched between them.


    Cassius leaned back against the window, crossing his arms. His eyes flickered with something serious for once. "Huh."


    Victoria exhaled slowly. "She really said that?"


    Damian nodded.


    Cassius whistled low. "Well. Shit."


    Evelyn narrowed her eyes. "And what exactly did she mean by that?"


    Damian ran a hand over his face. "She thinks I''m growing too fast. That I remind her of him."


    Evelyn''s fingers tightened. "Of course she does."


    Cassius let out a humorless chuckle. "Can''t blame her." He shrugged. "Kaelan was a once-in-a-generation kind of freak. Too strong, too fast, too different¡ªand people hated him for it. Sound familiar?"


    Damian leaned back, staring at the ceiling. "I know it''s bad." He had always known. Ever since he set foot back in this world, he knew he was walking a fine line between existing and being hunted down like before.


    And now?


    Now it was clear that people were noticing.

 Chapter 337 337: Escape The Fate

    Warlock Ch 337. Escape The Fate


    Damian let out a slow exhale.


    "There''s nothing I can do now." His voice was calm, but the reality pressed against him like an iron chain. "I knew this would happen sooner or later."


    He leaned back into his chair, running a hand through his hair.


    "But it''s okay." He forced a grin, one that didn''t quite reach his eyes. "At least they don''t see me as a criminal anymore. That''s a good thing, right?"


    A hollow laugh escaped him.


    Because deep down, he knew.


    He knew that things were still teetering on the edge. That no matter how much he had clawed his way out of his past, no matter how much he had fought to escape Kaelan''s fate¡ª He could still end up exactly the same. But he wouldn''t let that happen.


    Not this time.


    This time, he would clear his own name. He would decide his own fate. He would avenge everything that had been stolen from him.


    Across from him, Cassius, Evelyn, and Victoria exchanged glances. They didn''t say anything. They didn''t need to. They knew what he was thinking.


    Evelyn was the first to break the silence. She smiled, just a little, her fingers tracing the faint rune on her palm. "Yeah," she murmured. "You won''t be a criminal anymore." Her voice was light, but her eyes were sharp. "We''ll make sure of that."


    Victoria chuckled, fangs glinting as she rested her chin on her hand. "Instead of just waiting around, how about we start baiting them?"


    Damian blinked.


    She smirked. "Lure them into you. Let them think they have the upper hand."


    Evelyn''s smile widened. "And then?"


    Victoria''s crimson eyes gleamed. "Then we kill them."


    Cassius let out a low, amused hum. "Or better," he said, eyes gleaming with something mischievous, "we make them confess first. Publicly." He grinned, all teeth. "Before Damian beats the shit out of them."


    The three of them exchanged looks, grinning way too slyly for Damian''s liking.


    He stared at them, horrified. "...Uh." He swallowed. "Why do you guys have more villain aura than me?"


    Victoria tilted her head, eyes gleaming. "Do we?"


    Evelyn laughed softly. "Oh, come on, Damian. It''s cute that you think you''re the scariest one here."


    Cassius leaned forward, resting his chin on his hand, smirk never fading. "You do realize you''re in a room with a vampire queen, a witch who''s been tampering with forbidden magic since she was a teenager, and, well¡ªme."


    Damian sighed, dragging a hand down his face. "Right. I forgot I''m surrounded by psychopaths." And yeah, it was him who taught Evelyn that forbidden magic.


    Cassius exhaled, shaking his head. "Alright, jokes aside." His eyes glinted with something serious. "Should we make our move now?"


    Victoria flipped her hair. "Obviously."


    Damian huffed. "As long we make a move first, we get control of the narrative."


    Evelyn nodded. "It''s better than sitting here waiting for them to try assassinating us in our sleep."


    Damian rubbed his temple. "So what? We leak some information, stir the pot, and wait?"


    Victoria smirked. "Not just any information. Something that''ll rattle them."


    Cassius''s smirk widened. "Ohhh, I love playing mind games."


    Evelyn''s rune pulsed slightly. "We could make it seem like we have a list of names."


    Damian raised an eyebrow. "What kind of list?"


    Cassius grinned. "A fake one, obviously. A ''list'' of everyone suspected to be involved in the assassination attempt."


    Victoria chuckled. "Imagine their panic."


    Evelyn smirked. "Even if we don''t actually have names, they''ll start questioning each other."


    Cassius leaned back. "Paranoia is deadly in politics."


    Damian slowly nodded. "Alright. That could work." He exhaled. "But we need to be careful."


    Victoria smiled. "Always."


    Cassius''s smirk widened. "Now, let''s go make some people sweat."


    The rumors spread like wildfire.


    At first, it was subtle¡ªwhispers in the dark corners of taverns, murmurs passed between cloaked figures in back alleys. A flicker of doubt here, a suspicious glance there. But then, like a match thrown into dry grass, it ignited.


    And the flames spread.


    The first rumor was simple¡ªDamian knew who the culprits were.


    That alone was enough to send ripples through the Sanctum''s political circles. The moment the first whispers surfaced, tensions skyrocketed. Powerful figures who had once been confident in their secrecy were suddenly watching their backs. Meetings became hushed, coded messages were exchanged in frantic urgency, and every senator, examiner, and council member who had a hand in the rigged Rank S exam now had a single, shared fear:


    What if Damian really did know?


    Those who were innocent were curious.


    Those who were guilty were terrified.


    And paranoia? It was an insidious thing.


    The second rumor twisted the knife even deeper.


    It was leaked¡ªthe truth behind the exam.


    How it had been tempered from the start.


    How the rules had been changed at the last minute without warning.


    How someone had messed with the food and drink in the waiting rooms¡ªhow some were poisoned and others weren''t. How participants had been manipulated into fighting each other, how cooperation had been discouraged, how the entire test had been rigged from the beginning to be nothing more than a slaughter.


    This was where the real rage began.


    Participants who had barely survived the exam were already questioning what had happened, but now? Now they had confirmation.


    Families of the dead participants?


    They were furious.


    People who had lost friends, siblings, lovers¡ªthey demanded answers. They demanded to know why.


    Why had the Sanctum allowed this?


    Why had their loved ones been thrown into a death match with no way out?


    The officials of the Sanctum tried to quell the unrest, but the damage had been done. Their words rang hollow. Excuses wouldn''t bring the dead back.


    And then¡ª The third rumor surfaced.


    The one that turned anger into violence.


    Because it was leaked¡ªthe truth of what happened after the exam.


    The healers¡ªthe very ones who were supposed to evacuate the remaining participants, to save them¡ª Had killed them instead.


    The moment that information spread, the Sanctum erupted.

 Chapter 338: Sacrificial Lambs

    Warlock Ch 338. Sacrificial Lambs


    The revelation was too much.


    This wasn''t just manipulation. This wasn''t just rigging an exam.


    This was mass murder.


    And it wasn''t just the common people who were horrified.


    Other magic academies, noble houses, independent mercenary guilds¡ªeveryone began to take notice.


    The council members of the Sanctum were losing control.


    There were protests¡ªpeople gathering outside the Sanctum, demanding justice, demanding blood.


    The once-pristine reputation of the highest governing body for warlocks and mages was now fractured.


    And behind the scenes?


    The true culprits¡ªthe ones responsible for the assassination attempt on Selena, the ones who had orchestrated the rigged exam¡ª They were desperate.


    Because they didn''t know who had leaked the rumors.


    And that made them dangerous.


    The assassination attempts intensified.


    Before, the attacks were calculated, quiet. Subtle.


    Now?


    They were reckless.


    They had to kill Damian.


    They had to silence him before more truths surfaced.


    He was attacked five times in a single day.


    Poisoned daggers laced with mana inhibitors, shadow assassins sent into Cassius''s estate, cursed familiars meant to track him down and detonate on sight¡ª Each attempt more desperate than the last.


    And yet¡ª None of them worked.


    Because Damian wasn''t alone.


    Because Cassius had turned his home into an impenetrable fortress.


    Because Victoria''s vampiric magic ensured that no intruder left alive.


    Because Evelyn''s runes wove defenses so intricate that even high-rank warlocks struggled to break through them.


    But most of all¡ª Because Damian had already survived worse.


    And he wasn''t about to die now. He was going to watch them break first.


    One month passed.


    The world outside was still a storm of rumors, trials, and quiet executions, but here¡ªon the balcony of Cassius''s estate¡ªeverything was strangely peaceful.


    Damian sat in one of the ornate chairs, stretching his legs out, fingers lazily wrapped around a delicate porcelain teacup. Across from him, Cassius did the same, looking every bit like a noble indulging in a lazy afternoon.


    The truth?


    They were watching the chaos unfold.


    Cassius had sent his shadow servants to spy on the outside world, slipping into every corner of the Sanctum, every secret meeting, every hushed conversation. Information poured in like a steady stream, and they sat there, sipping tea like it was just another pleasant day.


    Cassius sighed, swirling his tea lazily. "You know, for a coup disguised as justice, this is actually going quite smoothly."


    Damian took a slow sip, exhaling. "Mm."


    Cassius smirked. "That''s it? Mm?"


    Damian huffed. "I''ve run out of energy to be surprised."


    Because really, what was left to say?


    The senators had been forced to take action¡ªnot because they wanted to, but because they had to. The public pressure had grown too loud, the fae royalty had pushed too hard, and there was simply no way to bury what had been exposed.


    So, of course¡ª They had turned on the Sanctum councils.


    The same people who had once run the trials. The ones who had orchestrated the exams. The ones who had signed off on the manipulated rules.


    Now, they were the sacrificial lambs.


    Put on trial.


    Disgraced.


    Some were executed. Others met unfortunate accidents. Slipped down the stairs, drowned in their own bathtubs, disappeared in the middle of the night.


    Damian took another sip of his tea. "You have to admire their efficiency," he murmured. "Cleaning up their mess so neatly."


    Cassius smirked, resting his chin on his palm. "Neatly? No, no. This is a sloppy cover-up. They just hope no one notices."


    Damian hummed. "And no one will."


    Not officially.


    Because the public got what they wanted.


    Someone to blame.


    A scandal big enough to satisfy their anger. A clean narrative.


    Everything was unfolding exactly as the senators needed it to.


    And yet¡ª It wasn''t over.


    Because one name never made it to trial.


    Ralvek.


    Damian set his teacup down, tapping his fingers against the table.


    "We still have a problem," he muttered.


    Cassius tilted his head. "Only one?"


    Damian sighed. "Fine. One big one."


    Ralvek.


    The bastard had slipped away.


    Untouched. Unnamed. Unbothered.


    Because no one had proof.


    Not yet.


    Cassius exhaled, stretching lazily. "Well, that just means we have more work to do."


    Damian huffed. "I was hoping for a break."


    Cassius grinned. "No rest for the wicked."


    A shift in the air. The soft rustle of shadows stretching, reforming, slipping from the corners of the balcony like ink seeping into reality.


    Damian barely moved as Cassius''s shadow servants materialized before them, their forms flickering between solid and incorporeal.


    Cassius didn''t even bother to straighten in his chair. He simply tilted his head slightly, acknowledging them with a lazy glance.


    The shadow servants bowed in unison, their voices smooth and cool as the night air.


    "We have returned from the trial."


    Damian set his teacup down. "And?"


    One of the servants straightened. "Princess Selena has given her testimony."


    Cassius hummed, swirling his tea. "And how graceful was our dear princess?"


    The servant didn''t hesitate. "She spoke calmly. Too calmly."


    Damian''s brow arched slightly. "Oh?"


    "She followed the script perfectly," another shadow continued. "Stated the facts, confirmed the rigging of the exam, the food tampering, the forced combat." A pause followed. "She was careful not to accuse anyone directly or even mention you."


    Cassius smirked. "Clever girl."


    Damian exhaled through his nose. "So, she played it safe."


    The servant nodded. "Yes. However, she did express her personal concerns¡ªparticularly about the timing of the assassination attempt."


    Cassius''s grin widened. "Oh, that must''ve made a few people sweat."


    Another shadow stepped forward. "Indeed. Some of the senators looked visibly tense when she suggested that the attempt may have been planned before the exam even began."


    Damian leaned back in his chair, rubbing his chin. "That means she''s planting doubt."


    Cassius let out a low chuckle. "Doubt is contagious."


    Damian''s gaze flickered toward the shadows. "And the crowd?"


    One of the servants shifted slightly. "The public believes her. She is royalty¡ªher words hold weight." A pause. "But the political figures?"


    Damian narrowed his eyes.


    "They expected her to speak, but they didn''t expect her to be so composed," the shadow continued. "They were hoping for fear, for uncertainty."


    Another pause. "Instead, she gave them control. And that makes her dangerous to them."

 Chapter 339: Weak Testimony

    Warlock Ch 339. Weak Testimony


    Cassius whistled. "So, they wanted her testimony to look weak?"


    The shadow bowed slightly. "It would have made things easier to discredit."


    Damian exhaled, running a hand through his hair. "And now?"


    Another shadow spoke up. "The political factions are split. Some senators are supporting her to save face¡ªbut others?" A pause. "They see her as a problem."


    Cassius''s grin sharpened. "Meaning?"


    The shadow''s voice was steady. "There will likely be another attempt."


    Damian''s jaw tightened.


    Cassius set his cup down, exhaling. "Well, well." He turned to Damian, eyes gleaming. "Looks like we''re not done playing defense."


    Damian clicked his tongue. "Fucking great."


    Cassius chuckled. "Come now, Kaelan¡ª"


    Damian shot him a sharp glare.


    Cassius grinned. "Oops. I mean, Damian."


    The bastard did that on purpose.


    Damian scowled but said nothing. Instead, he turned back to the shadows.


    "Any movement from Ralvek?"


    Another silence followed.


    Finally, one of the servants hesitated.


    "...We believe he is watching from the sidelines."


    Damian''s fingers curled against the table.


    Cassius hummed. "Smart."


    Damian exhaled, dragging a hand down his face. "Yeah. Too smart."


    Ralvek was just waiting, playing the long game while the rest of the political scene burned. The bastard was watching from the sidelines, letting the senators, the Sanctum, and the fae royalty tear each other apart. No doubt waiting for the perfect moment to step in like a hero.


    ''Smart.''


    And fucking annoying.


    Damian tapped his fingers idly against the table before finally speaking.


    "Any other things?" His voice was even, but his eyes were sharp as they flicked toward the shadow servants. "Prince Cedric, Alric... anything? Or maybe... did they bring up what happened to that battle mage?"


    Cassius lifted his cup and took a slow sip.


    Then, with a sigh, he murmured, "Edward."


    Damian blinked.


    Cassius swirled the remaining tea in his cup, eyes unreadable. "His name was Edward."


    A flicker of guilt tightened in Damian''s chest. "...Yeah." His fingers curled slightly. "Poor Edward." He exhaled sharply, rubbing his face. "Damn it... they couldn''t even save him."


    One of the servants straightened. "He was mentioned," they confirmed. "Prince Cedric personally ensured his name was brought up during the trial."


    Damian clenched his jaw. "And?"


    The servant hesitated. "The official report states that Edward and his colleagues were assassinated after leaving the Sanctum." A pause again. "It was ruled an unfortunate coincidence."


    Damian exhaled slowly.


    Cassius smirked. "Coincidence, huh?"


    Damian''s fingers curled against the armrest of his chair. "That''s bullshit and they know it."


    The servant nodded. "Yes. However, without direct evidence linking it to a political figure, the trial did not push further."


    Damian let out a slow, steady breath.


    So, that was it.


    Edward¡ªwho had survived the nightmare of the exam, who had barely made it out alive, only to be silenced before he could fully speak.


    Cassius hummed. "Prince Cedric was displeased, of course."


    Damian snorted. "I bet he was."


    The servant continued, "He attempted to press the issue, but was met with resistance from the more conservative senators. They insisted that while Edward''s death was tragic, the trial must focus on what happened within the Sanctum itself."


    Damian''s jaw tightened. "Convenient for them."


    Cassius tilted his head. "Very."


    Damian exhaled sharply, leaning back. "And Alric?"


    The servant''s voice remained steady. "He has been investigating separately."


    Cassius quirked a brow. "Oh?"


    The servant nodded. "Prince Cedric ordered him to dig deeper. Though officially, Alric has no authority to interrogate the senators, he has been gathering statements from other audiences and independent magic guilds. He is looking for something concrete."


    Damian exhaled through his nose.


    If Alric was doing this, it meant Cedric wasn''t done pushing yet.


    Good.


    Cassius smirked, watching Damian. "And? How does that make you feel?"


    Damian shot him a look. "What kind of question is that?"


    Cassius laughed. "A fair one." He leaned back in his chair. "You''re sitting here, drinking tea like a noble, but I know that mind of yours is running a mile a minute."


    Damian scoffed, dragging a hand through his hair. "Of course it is."


    Cassius sipped his tea again. "And what, pray tell, is it whispering to you?"


    Damian exhaled, fingers tapping against the table. "That we''re not done yet."


    Cassius grinned. "Oh, obviously."


    Damian frowned slightly. "We expected pushback. We knew they''d try to bury things, that some names would slip away while others got sacrificed to make the public happy."


    He inhaled.


    "But Edward... they really got rid of him like he was nothing."


    His voice was quieter now.


    Because it didn''t sit right with him.


    It didn''t sit right at all.


    Cassius hummed. "Because it wasn''t just about killing him."


    Damian''s gaze flickered toward him.


    Cassius smiled lazily. "They made an example out of him."


    Damian clenched his jaw.


    Because he wasn''t wrong.


    Edward''s death wasn''t just to silence him. It was a warning to anyone else who might think about speaking up.


    Cassius stretched. "Which means we should make them nervous."


    Damian narrowed his eyes. "How?"


    Cassius smirked. "We keep digging. We make sure they regret laying a hand on Edward."


    A slow breath left Damian''s lips. His lips curled into a sharp grin.


    "Oh," he murmured. "I like the sound of that."


    Damian leaned back in his chair, fingers tapping against the armrest, a slow smirk curling at the corner of his lips. The air between them felt charged, heavy with unspoken intent. They had spent the last month watching from the shadows, letting the game unfold on its own. But now?


    Now, it was time to play their hand.


    "How about we make our move now?" Damian asked, eyes flickering with a dangerous glint. "What everyone else knows is that we''re waiting¡ªsitting tight, hiding behind Cassius''s magic fortress, licking our wounds. So why don''t we flip the script?"


    Cassius let out a low chuckle, setting his teacup down with an amused clink. "That," he mused, "depends entirely on Victoria and Evelyn." He smirked. "If they manage to make our doubles, then yes¡ªwe make our move soon." He stretched lazily, eyes gleaming. "We can begin our hunt while maintaining an airtight alibi."

 Chapter 340 340: A Big If

    Warlock Ch 340. A Big If


    Damian exhaled, glancing toward the sky. "That''s a big if." Because even he knew that what Victoria and Evelyn were attempting wasn''t easy. It was one thing to craft a simple illusion¡ªto bend light, to create a temporary mirage that could fool the average eye.


    But what they needed?


    It was far more complicated. They weren''t just making illusions. They were making doubles. Doubles that had to breathe, move, exist in the eyes of everyone watching. Doubles that had to speak, react, and behave exactly like them. Doubles that could hold up under scrutiny¡ªnot just for a few fleeting moments, but for days, weeks if necessary.


    And the worst part?


    It wasn''t just one double. It was three. One for him. One for Cassius. And one for Evelyn. The entire plan depended on it. Because what the outside world knew was that Victoria had already left¡ªhad already returned to her vampire territory, busy with politics and affairs of her own.


    Damian exhaled. He hated waiting.


    And yet¡ª He knew better than to rush Evelyn and Victoria.


    Because magic like this?


    It wasn''t just complex.


    It was dangerous.


    Victoria''s vampire magic alone could create lifelike constructs¡ªbut they weren''t permanent. The longer she tried to maintain them, the more unstable they became.


    Evelyn''s runes, on the other hand, could anchor those constructs, stabilizing them¡ªbut that required powerful bindings, and too many bindings meant they could become detectable.


    It was a delicate balance.


    One that had to be perfect before they made their move.


    Damian ran a hand through his hair, exhaling. "How much longer do you think they''ll need?"


    Cassius tilted his head, considering. "Depends."


    "On?"


    "If Evelyn hasn''t passed out yet."


    Damian rolled his eyes. "She always overdoes it." Sadly, he already did what he could. Using his skills to Fix and Create. But the most he could do was create empty shells that resembled their appearance. However, giving them ''life'' was beyond his capabilities as a Rank S¡ªit was too complex. And since Cassius was a warlock, he couldn''t do it either.


    Cassius grinned. "And Victoria always complains about having to babysit her."


    Damian snorted. "Yeah, well. They''re both stubborn as hell."


    Cassius smirked. "And you love them for it."


    Damian sighed dramatically. "Can''t complain about that."


    Cassius chuckled, leaning back in his chair. "Then, I suppose all we can do is wait."


    Damian clicked his tongue. He hated waiting. Despised it, actually. But this? This was different.


    Just as he was about to make other words, the sound of soft footsteps echoed through the balcony. A familiar voice followed. "How are you both doing?"


    Damian and Cassius turned their heads in unison.


    Evelyn stood at the entrance, looking completely exhausted but wearing a victorious smirk. Strands of her hair clung to her temples, the faint glow of runes still fading from her fingertips.


    Cassius smirked. "Oh, look who finally decided to show up."


    Evelyn rolled her eyes. "I heard that."


    Damian exhaled sharply, his gaze softening as he took in Evelyn''s exhausted form. Without thinking, he closed the distance between them and wrapped his arms around her, pulling her against his chest.


    "You look exhausted," he murmured, brushing a stray lock of hair from her face. "Are you okay? Do you need anything?"


    Evelyn blinked in surprise, then huffed, though she didn''t pull away. "Well, creating lifelike doubles of you three bastards isn''t exactly easy."


    He leaned back slightly, studying her face. "You didn''t have to push yourself this hard."


    Evelyn scoffed but let her hands rest against his chest. "Please. I''m a witch, not a damsel. I had it under control."


    Damian''s fingers traced soothing circles against her back. "Just because you can handle it doesn''t mean I want to see you like this." His voice was low, his concern unmistakable.


    Her lips quirked into a tired smirk. "Oh? The great Warlock Damian Blackthorn worrying about little old me?"


    He tightened his hold on her briefly before pressing a soft kiss to her temple. "Of course I am. You''re my witch."


    Evelyn chuckled, a hint of color dusting her cheeks. "Well, don''t get all sentimental on me just yet." She shifted in his embrace but didn''t move away entirely. "They''re ready."


    Cassius let out a low chuckle. "That fast? Color me impressed."


    Evelyn crossed her arms, though Damian caught the way she swayed slightly before steadying herself. He frowned but said nothing¡ªfor now.


    "You should be," she continued. "Do you know how fucking annoying it is trying to replicate Victoria''s magic? It''s like trying to carve a statue out of mist¡ªevery time I stabilized it, she kept adjusting things." She scowled. "So picky."


    Damian''s concern lingered, but he let himself smirk. "Sounds about right."


    Evelyn jabbed a finger at him, her usual fire returning. "And you, mister ''I''m too cool to have predictable habits''¡ªdo you have any idea how fucking difficult it is to make your double act normal?"


    Damian blinked. "I am normal."


    Cassius laughed. "Oh, no, you''re not."


    Evelyn huffed. "Exactly! Your expressions change every five seconds. Your body language is erratic as hell. And don''t even get me started on how unpredictable your magic signature is."


    Damian opened his mouth to argue¡ªbut then sighed, shaking his head. "Fine, fine¡ªso where are they?"


    Evelyn smirked. "Come see for yourself."


    Cassius stood up, stretching lazily. "This should be interesting."


    Damian was about to follow, but¡ª His eyes flicked back to Evelyn.


    And suddenly, all the teasing and bickering faded away.


    She looked fine. She sounded fine. But he knew her better than that. He could feel the subtle drain in her presence, the way her magic was weaker than usual, the exhaustion she was hiding behind that smug little smirk of hers.


    And maybe it was stupid¡ªmaybe it was reckless, maybe it was inconvenient, but he didn''t care.


    Before she could take another step, he reached out¡ªAnd pulled her into his arms.


    Evelyn barely had time to react before she was pressed against his chest, his arms wrapped tightly around her once again.


    She froze. "...Damian?"


    His hold tightened.


    "Did you eat?" His voice was low, steady. "Did you rest at all?"

 Chapter 341 341: Dont Lie To Me

    Warlock Ch 341. Don''t Lie To Me


    Evelyn''s lips parted. She hadn''t expected that.


    "I¡ª"


    Damian pulled back just enough to look at her, his eyes sharp with something serious. "Don''t lie to me."


    Evelyn swallowed. A small, guilty chuckle slipped from her lips. "...Maybe I had a little food?"


    Damian''s frown deepened. "Eve."


    She sighed, melting against him just a bit. "I had to finish it. I couldn''t risk messing it up."


    Damian exhaled sharply, brushing a hand through her hair. He was still frowning. "And now you''re running on nothing."


    Evelyn smirked, though it was weaker than usual. "I''ll be fine."


    Damian didn''t look convinced.


    "...Do you need anything?" His voice was softer now, lower. His fingers gently brushed against the side of her face. "Food? A potion? Me carrying you back to your room?"


    Evelyn chuckled at that last one. "You''d love that, wouldn''t you?"


    Damian arched an eyebrow. "You''d love it too, don''t even try to lie."


    Evelyn didn''t deny it. Instead, she sighed dramatically. "Fine. Maybe a little food wouldn''t hurt."


    Damian smirked. "Thought so."


    Still, he didn''t let go of her.


    Not immediately.


    His fingers lingered against her waist, his other hand still cupped at her jaw.


    Cassius cleared his throat loudly. "Oh, don''t mind me," he drawled. "Please, take your time."


    Evelyn rolled her eyes and stepped back, though she didn''t completely leave Damian''s grasp.


    Damian shot Cassius a glare. "You''re insufferable."


    Cassius grinned. "And you two are disgustingly adorable."


    Evelyn smirked, looking back at Damian. "Guess we better go check the doubles before you actually carry me away."


    Damian sighed but nodded.


    He''d let her work¡ªbut the moment this was over, she was resting, whether she liked it or not.


    Damian followed Evelyn and Cassius inside, the heavy doors of the estate shutting behind them with a quiet thud.


    And then¡ª His gaze landed on them.


    Three doubles stood in the center of the dimly lit chamber, still and lifeless like mannequins waiting to be claimed.


    One was him.


    The second was Cassius.


    And the last¡ªEvelyn.


    Victoria sat nearby, swirling a cup of thick, dark blood tea, her sharp crimson eyes half-lidded in exhaustion. Even with her usual grace, there was no hiding the slight slump of her shoulders, the way she blinked a little slower than usual.


    Damian stepped forward, examining the doubles.


    He had to admit¡ª They were perfect.


    His own double looked exactly like him, from the messy strands of black hair to the faint smirk that naturally rested on his lips. The same muscle tone, the same posture, the same warlock attire that had been tailored for him.


    Even his magic signature... It felt eerily close to the real thing.


    Evelyn crossed her arms, watching his reaction. "Well?"


    Damian turned to her, nodding slowly. "This is amazing."


    Victoria sipped her tea, exhaling. "Of course it is. It was very difficult to make."


    Damian smirked. "You sound exhausted, your majesty."


    Victoria shot him a glare but didn''t argue.


    Cassius hummed, stepping up to inspect his own double. "Even I have to admit... this is some fine work."


    Evelyn smirked. "As if I''d make sloppy doubles."


    But before any of them could get too confident¡ª Victoria set down her tea, stretching her fingers over the rim of the cup. "But still," she murmured, "it doesn''t mean they''re perfect."


    Damian arched a brow.


    Victoria''s red eyes glowed faintly. "These doubles... were made with limited time. They won''t be flawless."


    Damian huffed. "We know that."


    Cassius shrugged. "So what''s the catch?"


    Victoria tapped a nail against the ceramic cup. "They will hold up under casual observation. The physical resemblance is spot-on. Their mana signatures are close enough to pass." A pause. "But if someone really pays attention¡ªsomeone powerful enough¡ª"


    Damian exhaled through his nose. "Then they''ll notice."


    Victoria nodded.


    Damian ran a hand through his hair, shaking his head. "I know... but still." His eyes flickered toward Evelyn. "This is incredible work."


    Evelyn grinned. "Glad you finally appreciate my genius."


    Cassius laughed. "We always appreciate your genius."


    Victoria smirked. "Only when it''s convenient for them."


    Damian ignored their teasing, glancing at the doubles once more. "Alright," he muttered, "how do we claim them?"


    Victoria''s expression shifted into something more serious. "Simple," she said, standing up. "Put your hand on the core and channel your mana into it."


    Damian eyed his double. His core?


    Stepping closer, he extended a hand¡ª And pressed it against the center of the double''s chest.


    It was cold.


    Smooth, like porcelain, but beneath the surface, he could feel something. A pulse. A hum of latent magic, waiting to be awakened.


    Damian inhaled¡ª And let his mana flow.


    [ You have connected to the Puppet Vessel. ]


    [ Syncing magical signature... ]


    [ Link established. You are now in control of your double. ]


    The moment the notification rang in his head, the puppet moved.


    Damian barely had time to process it before the double''s fingers twitched, its chest rising in a mockery of breathing.


    Then, like a marionette gaining sentience¡ª It lifted its head.


    And looked directly at him. The sight was... unsettling.


    Evelyn let out a breath. "Good. The connection is stable."


    Cassius tilted his head, amused. "And how does it feel?"


    Damian exhaled, shaking his shoulders slightly. "Weird."


    It wasn''t bad.


    But it wasn''t normal either.


    The double felt like an extension of himself, but with just a fraction of what made him real. It responded to his will, but it wasn''t alive.


    Just a shell.


    A convincing, well-crafted shell.


    Cassius stepped forward and did the same to his double.


    [ You have connected to the Puppet Vessel. ]


    His puppet jerked, moving just as smoothly as Damian''s.


    Cassius grinned. "Oh, this is fun."


    Victoria rolled her eyes. "Try not to enjoy it too much."


    Damian let his double take a few steps forward. It was precise, eerily fluid. If he didn''t know it was a puppet, he might''ve mistaken it for himself.


    Evelyn exhaled. "Alright. They''ll hold."


    Cassius turned to her, smirking. "Then I believe it''s finally time."


    Damian''s eyes gleamed.


    No more waiting.


    No more hiding.


    It was time to hunt.

 Chapter 342: Magic Supplements

    Warlock Ch 342. Magic Supplements


    It was time to hunt.


    But not just yet.


    Because as much as Damian wanted to set things in motion, there was one glaring problem¡ªEvelyn and Victoria were both running on fumes.


    The two of them had poured every ounce of energy they had into stabilizing the doubles, weaving complex layers of magic, ensuring that their alibis would hold when they finally made their move.


    Evelyn''s runes were still faintly glowing along her fingers.


    Victoria, while still composed, had been drinking more blood tea than usual, her posture just a little too relaxed in an attempt to conserve her remaining strength.


    Yeah.


    They needed rest.


    Damian stretched his arms above his head before exhaling. "Alright. We''ll wait."


    Cassius arched a brow. "Oh? Since when are you the patient one?"


    Damian smirked. "Since now." He turned to Evelyn and Victoria, crossing his arms. "The day after tomorrow. That should be enough time for you two to recover. You guys ready by then?"


    Evelyn rolled her shoulders, letting out a small breath. "Yeah, I guess I could do that."


    Damian nodded. "Good." Then, a small smirk played on his lips. "Relax. I''ll cook today. Just for you."


    Evelyn blinked.


    Then blinked again.


    "...Wait, what?"


    Victoria, who had been lazily sipping her tea, suddenly perked up. "You''re cooking?"


    Damian chuckled. "Yeah. You need actual food, and I figured you''d appreciate something better than the usual bland magic supplements." He winked at Evelyn. "Besides, you did do some impressive work."


    Evelyn scoffed, but there was a flicker of warmth in her eyes. "I did."


    Victoria leaned forward, resting her chin on her hand. "And what about me?" She tilted her head, crimson eyes gleaming. "You''ll reward me too, won''t you?"


    Damian exhaled, rubbing the back of his neck. "Yup. Absolutely."


    Victoria''s lips curled.


    "I''ll let you drink my blood tonight," Damian continued. "Just¡ª" his eyes narrowed playfully¡ª"don''t dry me up."


    Victoria''s smirk deepened. "No promises."


    Cassius groaned. "Ugh. Can you two not flirt in front of me?"


    Evelyn snorted. "Jealous?"


    Cassius rolled his eyes. "Please."


    Victoria chuckled, swirling her tea. "Oh, I like this arrangement already."


    Damian sighed but didn''t argue. If it meant Victoria would actually rest, then fine¡ªhe''d let her have her fill later.


    For now?


    He had some cooking to do.


    And he knew exactly what to make.


    Soon, the kitchen was filled with the rich, intoxicating aroma of simmering broth, roasted spices, and sizzling mana-infused ingredients. Damian moved with smooth efficiency, his hands working through muscle memory as he prepared each dish with practiced ease. This wasn''t just a meal¡ªit was preparation.


    He ladled the thick, golden broth into a bowl, watching as it shimmered under the dim candlelight, the faint blue glow of crushed Starpetal Leaves still swirling in the liquid.


    [ You have created: Starfire Stew (Rare) ¨C A hearty dish infused with celestial herbs and emberroot mushrooms. Restores 40% mana over five minutes and gradually regenerates stamina. Enhances magic control temporarily. ]


    He set it down in front of Evelyn, who was already eyeing it like a predator about to pounce.


    Evelyn exhaled deeply. "Wow." She leaned forward, inhaling the scent. "That smells amazing."


    Damian smirked, grabbing another bowl. "Eat while it''s hot."


    Evelyn didn''t hesitate. She took a spoonful, blew on it slightly, and took a bite¡ª


    And immediately, her entire expression melted.


    "Oh, my," she groaned.


    Cassius leaned forward in amusement. "That good?"


    Evelyn ignored him, already going in for another bite. As she ate, the fatigue from earlier visibly drained from her body, her mana stabilizing from the effects of the stew.


    [ Buff Applied: Celestial Nourishment ¨C Mana regeneration increased by 30% for the next 6 hours. ]


    "Gods, I love you," she muttered through another spoonful.


    Damian smirked. "I know."


    Cassius snorted. "Alright, now I''m jealous."


    Damian rolled his eyes, setting another dish in front of him. "Eat."


    Cassius took a slow, exaggerated bite, chewing dramatically. "Mmm. Not bad."


    Evelyn shot him a glare. "Not bad?"


    Cassius chuckled. "Relax. It''s great, alright?"


    Victoria, lounging nearby with her glass of Ebonblood Reserve, sighed dramatically. "And yet I get nothing."


    Damian turned to her, a slow, knowing smile tugging at his lips. "You get something else."


    Victoria''s eyes darkened slightly, lips parting just enough to reveal the faint gleam of her fangs.


    Evelyn groaned. "Okay, seriously, can you two wait until after dinner?"


    Victoria chuckled. "Oh, I suppose." She lifted her glass of thick crimson liquid, swirling it lazily.


    [ Ebonblood Reserve (Rare) ¨C A rare vintage blood infused with dark magic. Strengthens vampiric abilities, enhances blood magic efficiency, and suppresses hunger for 24 hours. ]


    Damian smirked, finally sitting down with his own bowl of stew.


    To the side, he had also prepared Shadowflame Roasted Venison¡ªthick, charred cuts of meat that sizzled in a faint, otherworldly blue fire. The scent alone was intoxicating.


    [ Shadowflame Roasted Venison (Rare) ¨C A dish infused with spectral fire. Temporarily increases physical strength by 20% and resistance to dark magic by 15%. ]


    Cassius grabbed a piece with his fork, biting into it with a satisfied hum. "Oh yeah. This is good."


    Damian grabbed his own cup, taking a slow sip of his drink. The cool, slightly bitter taste of Voidleaf Infusion filled his mouth, spreading warmth through his body.


    [ Voidleaf Infusion (Rare) ¨C A herbal drink brewed with mana-rich void leaves. Temporarily enhances mental clarity and negates minor status effects. ]


    Outside, there was a muffled thud, followed by the sharp, wet sound of a blade slicing through flesh.


    Damian didn''t even turn his head.


    Cassius, unfazed, swirled his wine glass. "That''s what? The fifth one today?"


    Evelyn didn''t even look up. "Sixth, actually."


    A shadow servant materialized in the doorway, kneeling respectfully. "The latest intruder has been dealt with."


    Damian stirred the stew. "At this point, they should just stop sending them."


    Cassius smirked. "They''re desperate. You can smell it in the way they move."


    Victoria took a slow sip of her blood. "They''ve stopped sending actual assassins and started sending desperate fools."


    Evelyn rubbed her temples. "Idiots. All of them."


    Damian exhaled through his nose. "They''re just testing the waters." He glanced at the servant. "Any patterns?"


    The servant bowed his head slightly. "Mostly solo attacks. They come under the cover of night, but the patterns are predictable. No real strategy¡ªonly persistence."


    Victoria clicked her tongue. "Amateurs."

 Chapter 343: Time to Hunt

    Warlock Ch 343. Time to Hunt


    Damian sighed again, shaking his head as he ladled the thick, glowing stew into bowls. "Whatever. Let them keep wasting their forces. We''ll deal with them properly when we move."


    The shadow servant disappeared as silently as he arrived.


    For a moment, there was nothing but the quiet clinking of utensils, the occasional sip of wine or tea, and the faint crackling of embers from the enchanted fireplace nearby.


    Damian exhaled through his nose, leaning back in his chair, his fingers drumming lightly against the wooden surface of the dining table. His eyes flicked toward Cassius, then Evelyn, then Victoria, before finally settling on the barely touched Shadowflame Roasted Venison in front of him.


    "We need to pick our first target," he said, his voice calm but carrying an unmistakable weight. "The ones they''ve sent so far? Nothing but bottom-feeders."


    Evelyn scoffed, stabbing another piece of venison with her fork. "Pathetic bottom-feeders." She chewed slowly, savoring the mana-infused meat before swallowing. "Seriously. If they think those guys were going to take us down, they''re delusional."


    Cassius smirked. "Not delusional. Just desperate." He swirled his wine lazily. "Which means one of two things¡ªeither they don''t know who to send after us, or they''re testing the waters before the real hunters come."


    Damian tapped his fingers on the table, considering. "I''d say it''s both."


    Victoria chuckled, setting down her empty glass of Ebonblood Reserve. "Or perhaps," she murmured, "they''re struggling to find anyone willing to go after us."


    Evelyn arched an eyebrow. "You think they already put a bounty on our heads?"


    Victoria leaned forward, resting her chin on the back of her hand, her crimson eyes gleaming with amusement. "Of course they have. The underworld magus community operates fast. You cause one big mess, and suddenly every rogue mercenary and bounty hunter is whispering your name."


    Damian smirked. "Guess we should check the prices on our heads, huh?"


    Cassius snorted. "I highly doubt you''ll be cheap, Damian."


    Evelyn huffed, finishing the last of her stew before leaning back with a satisfied sigh. "So, first target?"


    Damian exhaled, rolling his shoulders. "We go after someone who matters." His gaze sharpened. "If we start picking off low-level scum, it won''t mean anything. We need to hit someone who will send a message."


    Cassius grinned. "Ooh, I like where this is going."


    Victoria smirked. "A high-profile target, then?"


    Evelyn stretched her arms above her head, sighing. "I love when we do things properly."


    Damian let his fingers drum against the table once more before tilting his head. "Who do you think''s sweating the most right now?"


    Cassius hummed. "The ones who approved the exam changes?"


    Evelyn snapped her fingers. "Bingo."


    Damian''s smirk widened. "Then we start with them."


    Victoria leaned back in her seat, her crimson eyes glowing faintly. "This is going to be fun."


    Evelyn grinned, already feeling her mana replenishing from the meal. "Damn right it is."


    The hunt began.


    -----


    The city was quiet under the cover of night, but Prince Cedric knew better than to be fooled by the illusion of peace. Shadows shifted where they shouldn''t, and the air carried the faint scent of damp stone, mana residue, and something rotten beneath the polished fac?ade of the upper districts.


    He crouched behind the stone railing of a dimly lit alleyway, his sharp fae eyes locked on a figure moving carefully through the streets below.


    A man dressed in deep indigo robes, embroidered with silver filigree that marked his status as one of the Magus Councils.


    Councilor Marven Orsas.


    Not a member of the Sanctum, but one of the external policymakers who pushed for the sudden exam changes. Someone who had spoken so confidently about the necessity of weeding out the weak and rewarding only those who truly deserved power.


    The same bastard who had fought against the idea of sending healers.


    And now, here he was, slinking through the streets like a rat.


    Cedric''s grip tightened on the dagger strapped to his thigh.


    Beside him, Selena''s breathing was steady, but he could feel the quiet tension in her body. Even though she had fully healed, her magic had yet to return to its full strength. Her usual confidence had dulled into something colder, more calculating.


    Good.


    They couldn''t afford to make mistakes tonight.


    On his other side, Alric adjusted the blade at his waist, voice barely above a whisper. "What do you think he''s up to?"


    Cedric didn''t answer immediately. He studied the way Marven moved¡ªhurried, but not reckless. He wasn''t lost. He knew exactly where he was going.


    Which meant he was meeting someone.


    Cedric exhaled slowly.


    "You''re supposed to be resting," he muttered to Selena without looking at her.


    She huffed. "And you''re supposed to be focusing."


    Cedric shot her a glare. "I am focusing."


    Selena smirked slightly, but there was little humor in it. Her eyes gleamed under the faint moonlight. "Then let''s not waste time. Do you want to wait for him to slip up, or do we force his hand?"


    Alric narrowed his gaze at the councilor. "We don''t even know who he''s meeting yet."


    Cedric''s lips pressed into a thin line. True. But something about this felt off.


    Marven wasn''t just walking through the usual underbelly of political corruption¡ªhe was heading toward a district that was meant to be sealed off after the trial. The sanctum.


    Cedric''s fingers curled into a fist.


    "We wait," he decided. "For now."


    Selena frowned but nodded, adjusting her cloak as she crouched lower behind the stonework.


    Below them, Marven stopped at the mouth of a narrow alley, glancing over his shoulder once before stepping inside.


    And the moment he disappeared¡ª A second figure emerged from the shadows.


    Cedric inhaled sharply.


    Shit.


    They weren''t the only ones watching tonight.


    Cedric stiffened, his grip tightening around the hilt of his sword as the second figure emerged from the shadows below.


    It was subtle¡ªwhoever they were, they knew how to move unseen. The figure had stepped out only after Marven had vanished into the alley, lingering just beyond the reach of the dim lantern glow. The cloak they wore was dark, blending seamlessly into the night, but Cedric''s fae-enhanced vision picked up the faint ripple of magic layered around them.

 Chapter 344: Conspiracy

    Warlock Ch 344. Conspiracy


    They were cloaking their presence.


    Selena leaned in slightly, voice barely above a breath. "Did you see that?"


    Cedric gave the smallest nod. "Yeah."


    Alric frowned. "That''s not one of ours."


    No.


    It definitely wasn''t.


    Whoever it was, they had followed Marven here just as they had. But were they an ally¡ªor someone sent to make sure Marven didn''t leave this meeting alive?


    Cedric wasn''t sure which answer he preferred.


    The cloaked figure hesitated for only a second before slipping into the alley after Marven, their steps impossibly light.


    Cedric exhaled through his nose.


    "We move," he decided, shifting his weight. "Now."


    Selena and Alric nodded, and in a practiced motion, the three of them dropped down from their vantage point, silent as the night itself.


    Their landing was smooth, boots barely making a sound as they hit the damp cobblestone below. The alley ahead was dark, but Cedric barely needed the limited light to navigate.


    They pressed against the wall, moving in tandem as they followed the path Marven had taken. The sounds of the city dimmed behind them, replaced by the slow, deliberate footsteps of their target echoing further ahead.


    Then¡ª Voices.


    Cedric halted, signaling for Selena and Alric to stay back as he inched forward.


    The alley opened up into a secluded courtyard, surrounded by towering stone buildings. A single enchanted lantern flickered weakly on the far wall, casting jagged shadows across the cobblestones.


    And in the center of it all¡ª Marven stood stiffly, arms crossed over his chest as he faced a hooded figure.


    Not the one who had followed him.


    Someone else.


    Cedric barely had a moment to process before the cloaked figure from before materialized from the darkness, stepping up behind Marven like a second shadow.


    No one flinched.


    Because they were expecting him.


    Cedric''s heart pounded.


    This wasn''t just a meeting.


    It was a goddamn conspiracy.


    Marven exhaled sharply, voice laced with frustration. "Do you have any idea the shitstorm we''re dealing with?"


    The hooded figure across from him chuckled, voice low and amused. "Oh, I think I do."


    Marven scoffed, shaking his head. "Everything''s unraveling. The Sanctum was supposed to keep things contained, but now the fae are breathing down our necks, the trials are under investigation, and those damn warlocks¡ª"


    He cut himself off, exhaling sharply.


    The cloaked figure beside him¡ªthe one who had followed him¡ªtilted their head. "You''re nervous, Marven." Their voice was smooth, casual. Amused. "I thought you were so sure of your position?"


    Marven turned sharply, scowling. "I don''t need your commentary."


    The first hooded figure stepped forward slightly, amusement never leaving their tone. "Then let me guess¡ªyou came begging for insurance, didn''t you?"


    Marven''s jaw tightened. "I came for confirmation."


    Cedric narrowed his eyes, barely daring to breathe.


    This was big.


    Who the hell were these people?


    Selena leaned in slightly behind him, whispering against his ear. "They''re talking about the trials."


    Yeah.


    And it was starting to sound like Marven was more pissed than in control.


    The hooded figure in front of him chuckled again, the sound echoing slightly against the stone walls. "You''re not in a position to demand anything, Marven. You followed our orders. The trials were meant to serve a greater purpose."


    Marven''s scowl deepened. "You think I don''t know that? But now we have fucking royals digging into everything. The fae prince is already suspicious, and if anyone traces the poison back to us¡ª"


    The cloaked figure beside him sighed. "If you''re so concerned," they murmured, "we could always clean up loose ends."


    The air grew colder.


    Marven hesitated. "What¡ªwhat do you mean?"


    The figure smiled under their hood. "I mean you don''t have to worry about the fae prince... if he never makes it back to his palace."


    Selena tensed.


    Alric''s fingers twitched toward his sword.


    Cedric felt something dark settle in his chest.


    They were already planning his murder.


    Marven let out a slow breath, clearly considering it.


    The first hooded figure tilted their head. "Or... perhaps you''d rather let things escalate? Let the Sanctum fall apart completely?" They took a step forward, voice dropping. "You do realize that if this all collapses, you won''t survive the fallout, don''t you?"


    Marven''s face twisted. He knew it.


    He was stuck.


    And Cedric knew exactly what he would choose.


    His expression hardened.


    Cedric''s pulse thrummed in his ears. He forced himself to breathe evenly, to listen, even as the fury coiled in his gut like a living thing.


    Marven exhaled sharply, rubbing his temple. "You want to assassinate the fae prince now?" His voice wavered with barely restrained disbelief. "Killing the princess was already pushing it, but this¡ªthis is suicide."


    The first hooded figure chuckled, stepping forward slightly. "Oh, come now, Marven. Let''s not act like you have morals all of a sudden."


    Marven scowled. "This isn''t about morals¡ªit''s about consequences. If we kill the prince, it will trigger war with the fae race. None of us will survive that."


    The second figure scoffed, leaning against the alley wall. "You''re thinking too small."


    Marven shot them a glare. "Enlighten me, then."


    The first hooded figure tilted their head, amusement laced in their tone. "We have a scapegoat, don''t we?"


    Marven frowned.


    A pause.


    Then his face twisted in realization.


    "...You mean that warlock."


    Cedric felt his heart slow to a heavy, calculated beat.


    Damian.


    They were talking about Damian.


    The second hooded figure let out a soft laugh, low and sinister. "Of course. That new S rank warlock. He''s already made waves. The rumors about him are everywhere¡ªsuspicion clings to him like a curse. He''s powerful, unpredictable, and aligned with the wrong kind of people." A slow smirk. "He''s perfect."


    Marven exhaled sharply, shaking his head. "There''s a problem with that."


    The first hooded figure hummed, feigning curiosity. "Oh?"


    Marven huffed. "He has an alibi." His voice lowered. "He and his little entourage have been holed up inside Cassius''s estate for weeks. He hasn''t made a single move. If anything happens, people will know it wasn''t him."


    A beat of silence.


    Then¡ª The second hooded figure''s smirk widened.


    "Then why stop at just the prince?" they murmured.

 Chapter 345: Good Ghost Story

    Warlock Ch 345. Good Ghost Story


    Marven hesitated. "What?"


    "If you''re worried about credibility," the second figure continued, "we can always make things more believable."


    Their voices turned cold.


    "We''ll say The Evil One has returned."


    The alley fell into a tense, eerie stillness.


    Cedric''s breath caught.


    Selena''s grip on his arm tightened.


    Even Alric, normally the most level-headed among them, tensed at the words.


    The Evil One.


    Kaelan Voidweaver.


    Marven looked like he''d been slapped. "You¡ªyou want to revive that nonsense?"


    The first hooded figure chuckled. "Why not? People love a good ghost story."


    The second figure''s voice was laced with amusement. "He was a monster, wasn''t he? A tyrant. The world already fears the idea of his return. If we stoke the fire just a little more... well." A slow, wicked smile. "No one will suspect us."


    Marven ran a hand down his face, looking visibly uneasy now. "This is... reckless."


    "It''s effective."


    Marven gritted his teeth. "You don''t understand¡ªthis isn''t just some lie you can spin. If people really believe Kaelan has returned, it won''t just be the magic community coming after him. The entire world will turn against him."


    "That''s the point," the first hooded figure murmured.


    The second figure smirked. "You wanted a solution, Marven. Here it is."


    A heavy silence followed.


    Marven exhaled sharply, looking away. "...I need time to think."


    The first figure''s amusement didn''t waver. "Take all the time you need."


    "But not too long," the second figure added, their voice darkening. "If the fae prince keeps digging, we''ll have to act soon."


    Marven''s expression twisted, his fingers curling into a fist. "Damn it... This is already a mess." He exhaled sharply, rubbing his temples. "You already planned to take the princess''s mana core¡ªare you seriously considering doing the same with Cedric?"


    Selena stiffened beside Cedric, her fingers gripping his arm just slightly. He could feel the chill in her skin, the way her breath hitched ever so subtly.


    The second hooded figure smirked. "Of course. If one royal mana core is valuable, imagine what two could do."


    Cedric''s grip on his dagger tightened. His blood was hot, burning under his skin, but he kept himself still. Controlled. If he made a move now, they''d lose their only chance to gather the full extent of this madness.


    Alric remained silent, watching. Waiting.


    Marven, on the other hand, looked less convinced. "You do realize what you''re suggesting?" His voice dropped slightly, his discomfort slipping through the cracks. "Stealing the mana core of a fae princess is one thing. But a fae prince? That''s... insane."


    The first hooded figure let out a soft chuckle. "Oh, come now, Marven. Since when did you hesitate at ambition?"


    Marven''s jaw clenched. "Since you started talking about creating something we might not be able to control."


    Selena''s breath caught.


    Cedric''s mind raced.


    Creating something?


    What the hell were they planning?


    The second figure let out a slow exhale, stepping forward just slightly. "We need power," they murmured. "You know this, Marven. The system we have now is flawed. We''re stuck playing under the rules of people too weak to truly evolve magic into what it was meant to be."


    Marven exhaled harshly. "And you think absorbing royal mana cores is the answer?"


    A silence stretched between them.


    "Yes."


    The answer was cold. Certain.


    Cedric felt his stomach twist.


    The second figure continued, their voice dropping lower, darker. "The fae are one of the oldest magical races. Their mana cores contain centuries of condensed power. A limitless well of magic."


    The first figure nodded. "And if we want our main plan to succeed... we need that power."


    Marven ran a hand down his face, his unease palpable. "This isn''t just some forbidden magic experiment, you know that, right?" His voice dropped slightly. "This is something that could backfire. Horribly."


    Cedric narrowed his eyes.


    Marven was involved¡ªbut he wasn''t entirely on board.


    That was interesting.


    The second figure tilted their head. "You''re hesitating."


    Marven scowled. "Because I actually have a brain. Do you seriously think creating a creature that could absorb all royal mana cores is a good idea?" His voice dropped. "I mean, sure, it would be invincible, but... what if we can''t control it?"


    A silence followed.


    Cedric''s heart pounded.


    They weren''t just talking about stealing mana.


    They were talking about building something.


    Something designed to consume them.


    The first hooded figure exhaled slowly, their tone soothing. "That''s why we''re being careful."


    Marven scoffed. "Careful? This is reckless as hell. You''re literally playing with a force that could tear apart the balance between magic races."


    The second figure smirked. "And wouldn''t that be beautiful?"


    Marven''s face twisted. "You''re insane."


    The first figure let out a light laugh. "We''re visionaries, Marven."


    Marven scowled but didn''t argue.


    Cedric, Selena, and Alric exchanged glances.


    They had everything they needed.


    But now?


    They needed a plan.


    Because this wasn''t just about assassinations anymore.


    This was something far worse.


    Alric''s voice was tight, controlled, but edged with urgency. "We need to do something."


    Cedric exhaled slowly, fingers curling into a fist against the stone ledge. His mind raced. Every instinct screamed at him to act¡ªbut how?


    "I know," Cedric muttered, his voice low. "But we don''t even know who those two are. They could be from the Evil Faction, disguised among the good. And..." His jaw tightened. "They might be stronger than us."


    Selena stiffened beside him, her lips pressed into a thin line.


    Alric''s expression darkened. "You can feel it too, huh?"


    Cedric gave a small nod. He wasn''t the only one. The air hummed with restrained power down there.


    Marven alone was at least S-rank.


    And those two hooded figures?


    They were something else.


    They weren''t just S-rank.


    They were monsters.


    And the only S-rank among them was Cedric himself.


    Selena and Alric were both A-rank, formidable in their own right, but this wasn''t just some rogue faction meeting. If they got caught in a fight against three S-rank magus, the odds were¡ªBad.

 Chapter 346: Midnight Ambush [Part 1]

    Warlock Ch 346. Midnight Ambush [Part 1]


    Cedric inhaled sharply. "We''re pulling back," he said, his voice firm. "We take this to trial. Gather proof. We can''t afford to¡ª"


    Then it happened.


    The air shifted.


    A ripple of magic surged through the alley, cold and unnatural.


    And then¡ª The ambush began.


    A dark blur shot out from the shadows like a spear.


    Marven barely had time to react before his entire body locked up, his limbs snapping stiff as though invisible chains had wrapped around him.


    His eyes widened in shock¡ª And then, without warning, his entire form twisted and morphed¡ª Into a giant frog.


    A grotesque, bloated thing with slimy, warty skin, his robes stretching awkwardly over his bulging body. His mouth opened in a soundless croak, his eyes wild with panic. Not only that, he also couldn''t move.


    "WHAT¡ª"


    The second hooded figure barely had time to react before the ground split open beneath him.


    A yawning abyss ripped through the stone, ink-black tendrils lashing outward from the depths. The moment they touched his robes, they coiled around him like living ropes, dragging him down, deeper, until only his frantic screaming remained.


    The third figure managed to move¡ªjust barely.


    He twisted, flicking his wrist, sending a sharp arc of magic into the air¡ª Only for a massive surge of shadow energy to materialize around his body, coiling around his limbs like hungry vipers.


    And then¡ª It siphoned his blood.


    The moment the magic latched onto him, he choked. His body shuddered, magic pulsing violently in an attempt to resist¡ª But the shadows clung to him, pulsing like a second heartbeat, devouring the energy from his core.


    His knees buckled.


    His scream cut off.


    Cedric and the others could only watch as the scene unfolded before them¡ª The three powerful figures that had been plotting his and Selena''s deaths?


    They were nothing in the face of this attack.


    The magic wasn''t stopping.


    The frog¡ªMarven¡ªtried to croak, tried to move, but a secondary wave of runes exploded around his body, locking him in place.


    The hooded figure being dragged into the abyss?


    He let out a desperate shriek¡ª And the tendrils tightened, wrapping around his throat, pulling him deeper into the void.


    The last one¡ª His body spasmed violently, his veins blackened as the shadow siphon continued draining him dry.


    And then¡ª The second wave of spells hit.


    Darkness erupted in the air, forming chains that snapped across the alley, severing whatever resistance was left in the struggling men.


    Cedric''s breath caught.


    This wasn''t just some ambush.


    This was a massacre.


    Whoever was behind this?


    They were making sure there were no survivors.


    Selena pressed a hand to her mouth, her violet eyes wide.


    Alric muttered a quiet curse.


    Cedric?


    He barely moved.


    He just watched.


    Because deep, deep in his gut¡ª He already knew.


    This wasn''t some random rogue attack.


    This was calculated.


    And only a group had the resources, the magic, and the sheer audacity to pull this kind of thing off.


    Damian and his group.


    The one who had every reason to retaliate.


    Cedric exhaled, watching the last of the cloaked figures disappear into the abyss.


    Selena finally spoke, her voice barely above a whisper.


    "...Should we do something?"


    Cedric''s lips curled into a thin, wry smile.


    "There''s nothing left to do."


    Because this fight?


    Was already over.


    The hooded figures were gone¡ªone swallowed by an abyss of shadows, the other drained to a husk before his body collapsed into dust. The street smelled of burnt mana, of scorched cobblestone and raw magic residue. The remnants of a one-sided execution.


    But Marven was still alive.


    Alric exhaled, his grip tightening on his blade. "Should we¡ª"


    "Don''t make a move," Cedric cut in, his voice low and firm. His eyes flicked to Selena before narrowing. "Especially you."


    Selena flinched, lips pressing together, but she didn''t argue.


    Because Cedric knew.


    Knew this wasn''t over yet.


    Whoever did this¡ªwhoever orchestrated this attack¡ªThey weren''t just going to kill Marven.


    They needed information.


    And sure enough¡ªThe air shifted.


    A cold, suffocating weight pressed down on the alley, curling around them like unseen tendrils.


    And then¡ª Something stepped out of the darkness.


    Not Damian.


    Not any of his known allies.


    But a shadow wraith.


    A shadow servant.


    A being of pure abyssal energy, shaped into a vaguely humanoid form, its body shifting and writhing like liquid darkness. Its glowing violet eyes were hollow, expressionless, but Cedric could feel the sheer authority rolling off it.


    Marven, still trapped in his grotesque, hexed frog form, let out a choked noise of horror. His bulging eyes flicked around wildly, his body trembling as he tried to croak out a spell¡ª But nothing happened.


    The shadow wraith raised a single hand.


    A pulse of energy rippled through the air, latching onto Marven''s twisted form like an invisible chain.


    Then¡ª The voice came.


    Cold. Detached. Commanding.


    "Who sent you to assassinate the princess?"


    Cedric inhaled sharply.


    ''It''s interrogating him.''


    Marven''s webbed hands twitched. His body shuddered against the invisible force locking him in place. He tried to speak, his bloated throat moving as if to croak out a word, but the spell locked around him made it impossible.


    The shadow wraith didn''t react.


    It simply tightened the magic.


    Marven convulsed, his slimy skin rippling as the enchantment twisted around him. His bulging eyes widened, his body shaking violently against the force gripping him.


    The shadow wraith''s voice dropped.


    "Who ordered the execution?"


    The magic tightened further¡ª And Marven broke.


    "Ralvek!" he choked out, his voice warbled and grotesque in his cursed form. "It was Senator Ralvek!"


    Cedric''s blood turned ice cold.


    Selena gasped beside him.


    Alric inhaled sharply. "That bastard..."


    Cedric''s fingers twitched toward his dagger, his thoughts moving at lightning speed.


    Ralvek.


    Of course.


    ''It had to be him.''


    Cedric had suspected him from the start, but now?


    Now they had proof.


    The shadow wraith didn''t move.


    It simply tilted its head, the shadows around its body shifting slightly as if processing the information.


    Another question.


    "Who else is involved?"


    Marven struggled. His bloated form shivered, his body contorting against the hex still locking him in place.


    His throat moved.


    He didn''t answer.

 Chapter 347: Midnight Ambush [Part 2]

    Warlock Ch 347. Midnight Ambush [Part 2]


    The shadow wraith raised a hand¡ª Marven screamed.


    A pulse of abyssal energy slammed into him, tightening around his entire form, squeezing like an invisible vice.


    Cedric''s stomach twisted at the sound.


    It wasn''t pain¡ªnot exactly.


    It was something worse.


    Something that made the victim feel like they were being unraveled at the seams.


    Marven thrashed, his grotesque limbs twisting, his voice breaking into panicked, garbled croaks.


    "I¡ª" he rasped. "I don''t¡ª"


    The shadow wraith tightened the grip further.


    And Marven broke again.


    "The council¡ª" he gasped. "Some of the high council are involved!"


    Cedric''s stomach sank.


    Of course they were.


    The shadow wraith didn''t stop.


    "Names."


    Marven shook, his grotesque body shuddering violently. "I don''t¡ªI don''t know all of them!"


    The magic tightened.


    Another pulse of abyssal force.


    Marven let out a strangled sound, his voice cracking.


    Then¡ª He spat out names.


    One by one.


    Names that Cedric knew.


    Names of powerful people.


    People who sat on trials. People who ruled over magical territories.


    People who had the influence to manipulate the system.


    The ones who had orchestrated everything.


    Cedric felt his hands shake.


    Selena''s nails dug into her palm, her breath shallow.


    Alric looked grim, his eyes cold.


    And the shadow wraith?


    It simply absorbed the information.


    Then¡ª Without a single hesitation, it lifted its hand.


    Cedric felt the shift before it happened.


    The pulse of abyssal magic curling tighter, darker¡ªMarven''s body seized up. His grotesque form twisted. And then¡ª He was gone.


    Completely.


    No body.


    No blood.


    Not even ashes.


    Just emptiness.


    The magic erased him.


    Like he had never existed.


    Selena let out a sharp breath.


    Alric exhaled slowly.


    Cedric stared at the empty space where Marven had once been.


    The shadow wraith turned.


    For a brief, terrifying moment¡ª Its hollow, glowing eyes locked directly on Cedric.


    Like it knew they were there.


    Like it was deciding something.


    The shadows around it shifted, pulsing like a second heartbeat.


    And then¡ªIt vanished.


    Gone.


    Like smoke in the wind.


    Cedric barely moved.


    Selena was the first to speak. "...What the hell was that?"


    Cedric swallowed hard. "That," he muttered, "was our proof."


    But more than that¡ª It was a warning.


    Whoever was behind this?


    Whoever had sent that shadow wraith?


    They weren''t playing by the same rules anymore.


    And they knew who they were.


    Cedric inhaled slowly, glancing at the empty space where Marven had just been erased from existence. He wasn''t sure what was more unsettling¡ªthe fact that a shadow wraith had interrogated him, or the fact that it had decided to eliminate him so effortlessly.


    They had their proof.


    They had names.


    And more importantly, they had a lead.


    "We should talk to them." Cedric''s voice cut through the still air.


    Selena turned to him, brows furrowed. "Who?"


    Cedric''s eyes met hers.


    "Damian."


    Alric exhaled sharply, his grip tightening on the hilt of his sword. "Cedric, he''s just a new Rank S warlock. A warlock. Not a high magus. Not a senator. Not a political leader." He shook his head. "Even if he was involved, do you really think he has this much pull? To do this?" He gestured toward the eerie, empty space where Marven once stood.


    Selena hesitated. "He''s right. I saw him fight. He... he couldn''t have done this."


    Cedric gave her a long, measured look. "Are you sure?"


    Selena opened her mouth¡ªthen shut it.


    Because she wasn''t sure.


    Not completely.


    Cedric pressed. "You said it yourself. He struggled. He fought like he was holding back." His eyes narrowed slightly. "He''s the only contestant who walked out of that hellhole almost untouched."


    Selena stiffened.


    "The only injuries he took¡ª" Cedric continued, voice unwavering, "¡ªwere when he sacrificed himself to heal you."


    Selena''s hands curled into fists. "That doesn''t mean¡ª"


    "It means he''s not as weak as you think."


    Selena exhaled sharply, looking away. She wanted to argue. But she couldn''t.


    Because Cedric was right.


    Damian had barely been injured.


    Despite everything.


    Despite the chaos.


    Cedric crossed his arms. "They knew we were here. I bet they''ll want to talk to us."


    Alric frowned. "Then why the hell haven''t they? If they wanted a discussion, they could''ve reached out. Sent a message. Something."


    Cedric scoffed. "Because Edward is dead."


    That shut both of them up.


    Cedric''s expression darkened. "The senators are targeting them. They know that." His voice lowered. "And while the situation is unstable, those bastards could slander them at any moment. So what do they do?" He smirked slightly.


    "They act afraid."


    Selena blinked.


    Alric frowned. "Wait... you mean¡ª"


    "They''re not hiding because they''re weak." Cedric tilted his head. "They''re hiding because they''re playing the long game."


    The realization sank in.


    Selena bit her lip.


    Because the more she thought about it¡ª


    The more it made sense.


    Damian, Victoria, Evelyn, and Cassius weren''t cowards.


    They weren''t sitting in that fortress out of fear.


    They were waiting.


    Waiting for the perfect moment to strike.


    Selena exhaled slowly, something cold settling in her stomach.


    "Then we should go talk to them first," she muttered.


    Cedric smirked. "That''s what I''ve been saying."


    Alric pinched the bridge of his nose. "Great. So now we have to walk into the goddamn fortress of a warlock, a vampire queen, a high-ranking witch, and a shadow mage."


    Cedric''s smirk didn''t fade. "Unless you''d rather wait for them to come to us."


    Alric stared at him.


    Selena groaned. "Fine," she muttered. "Let''s go see Damian."


    Alric let out a slow breath, eyes flicking around the empty alleyway. The remnants of magic still clung to the air, thick and suffocating, like a silent warning not to overstay their welcome.


    "Yes," he muttered. "Tomorrow morning. But for now..." His voice dropped lower. "We need to get out of here before someone finds us."


    Cedric nodded once, already scanning their surroundings. The eerie stillness of the night wasn''t comforting. If anything, it felt wrong. Like something was still watching.


    He could feel it.


    Like unseen eyes lingering just out of reach.


    Selena shivered beside him, rubbing her arms as she glanced up toward the rooftops. "Let''s move."


    They didn''t linger.


    Moving quickly, silently, they slipped through the narrow backstreets of the city, avoiding the main roads where guards patrolled.

 Chapter 348: Keep Their Mouths Shut

    Warlock Ch 348. Keep Their Mouths Shut


    Damian pulled back the hood of his cloak, shaking off the lingering night air as they stepped into the estate. The grand hall of Cassius'' estate was quiet, the soft flicker of arcane lanterns casting long shadows against the marble floors. The faint scent of old parchment, incense, and magic residue clung to the space¡ªa mixture of Cassius'' habits and the countless protective wards layered over the building.


    Evelyn and Victoria were already inside, having returned moments before them. Victoria sat on the edge of the velvet couch, legs crossed, absentmindedly twirling a blood-red goblet in her hands. Evelyn leaned against the wall, arms folded, the faint shimmer of rune residue still flickering over her fingertips, a sign that she''d been reinforcing the barriers before their arrival.


    Damian exhaled, running a hand through his hair. "Cedric, Selena, and Alric were there." His voice was calm, but the weight behind it was clear.


    Cassius, who had just pulled off his own cloak, gave him a dry look. "And you let them go."


    Damian turned to him with an arched brow. "What, you wanted me to kill them?"


    Cassius clicked his tongue, pouring himself a glass of aged spirit from the nearby cabinet. "At the very least, you should''ve warned them. Told them to keep their mouths shut."


    Damian let out a slow breath, leaning against the table. "They''ll come to us soon." He tapped his fingers lightly against the wood. "Cedric knows I saw them."


    Evelyn pushed off the wall. "So, what''s the play?" Her eyes flicked between them, thoughtful.


    Damian shrugged. "We let them come. If we push too hard, they''ll feel threatened." His lips quirked. "And let''s be honest, we don''t need any more people throwing accusations at us right now."


    Victoria smirked. "You mean besides the fact that we did erase a high council member from existence?" She sipped her drink, her sharp fangs barely peeking past her lips. "Hardly suspicious at all."


    Cassius sighed, rubbing his temples. "I still think you should''ve said something."


    Damian tilted his head slightly. "And what would I have said, exactly?" His voice dropped slightly, amusement laced with something sharper. "Hey, Cedric, I know you''ve been spying on me. Maybe stop before I actually decide to erase you, too?" He huffed. "Real diplomatic."


    Cassius muttered something under his breath but didn''t argue further.


    Victoria''s smirk widened. "You could have just charmed him. You know, a little seduction, a little mind control..." She winked playfully.


    Damian rolled his eyes. "Yeah, no."


    Evelyn ignored their bickering and focused back on the issue at hand. "Cedric''s not stupid," she said, rubbing a thumb against her bottom lip in thought. "If anything, he''s probably more suspicious now."


    Cassius nodded. "Exactly why I''m saying you should''ve shut them up."


    "They''re already in too deep," Damian countered. "If we killed them now, we''d just prove every rumor true." He pushed off the table. "Besides, Cedric already sees the bigger picture. He knows we aren''t the ones pulling the strings on the main game."


    Evelyn''s eyes narrowed slightly. "You''re betting on his rationality?"


    Damian smirked. "I''m betting on his pride."


    Victoria laughed. "Oh, that is a bold gamble."


    Damian shrugged. "I''m an all-in kind of guy."


    Cassius scoffed. "You''re a reckless little shit, that''s what you are."


    Damian grinned. "And yet, here we are."


    Evelyn sighed. "So, when do you think they''ll come knocking?"


    Damian stretched, rolling his shoulders. "Tomorrow morning."


    Cassius arched a brow. "That soon?"


    Damian smirked. "Oh, definitely. Cedric is the kind of guy who likes having control of the board." He cracked his neck. "Right now? He has no idea what game we''re playing."


    Evelyn huffed a quiet laugh. "And you do?"


    Damian''s smirk sharpened.


    "I made this game."


    Cassius leaned back in his chair, arms crossed. "So confident."


    Damian smirked. "I am."


    He flicked his fingers, summoning his system menu into view. A faint shimmer pulsed through the air as glowing text materialized in front of him.


    [System Status]


    Name: Damian Blackthorn


    Age: 23


    Class: Warlock of Eternal Bonds


    Rank: S


    Level: 171


    Partners: Evelyn Windward (Witch), Victoria Bloodrose (Vampire)


    Servants: Fenrith (Three-Headed Wolf), Bloodwing Raven (Blood Raven), Stoneback Golem (Earth Golem), Spectral Serpent (Ghost Snake), Shadow Minion, Mischievous Shade, Agile Wraith, Stalker Phantom, Crimson Devourer


    Stats:


    Strength: SS+


    Mana Power: SS+


    Stamina: S+


    Endurance: S+


    Agility: SS+


    Magic Affinity: SS++


    XP: 0/200,000


    Bond Points: 30


    The corner of Damian''s lips curled up slightly.


    Yeah. He was much stronger now.


    The S-rank exam had pushed him to his limits, and his wounds had set him back for a bit, but after healing? He had trained like hell. Cassius'' personal training ground, hidden deep in the estate''s underground basement, had been his battlefield.


    A place where the real trials began.


    Hell-tier gravity zones, mana-draining arenas, spell endurance simulations.


    Cassius didn''t go easy on him.


    And Damian?


    He didn''t want it easy.


    He had pushed himself through insane conditions. Fighting with no mana, low stamina, even enduring full-fledged abyssal magic resistance trials. He had fought against his own shadow creatures, creatures stronger than most rank S magi could handle, just to sharpen his skills.


    And now?


    Now, he wasn''t just an S-rank warlock.


    He was a warlock who knew exactly how to tear apart anyone who came after him.


    Cassius must''ve sensed it¡ªthe difference in his stance, the confidence in the way Damian moved now¡ªbecause his smirk faded just slightly.


    "I know you''re stronger than before." Cassius'' voice was casual, but his sharp golden eyes assessed Damian carefully. "A lot stronger. But still you need to be careful."


    Damian rolled his shoulders. "I know. I need to catch up."


    Cassius huffed. "You''re on track to surpass most of the high-rankers at this rate." He shot him a dry look. "That''s also why you''re a walking fucking target now."


    Evelyn smirked, flicking a rune between her fingers. "Not that he wasn''t already."


    Victoria let out a quiet chuckle, swirling her drink as she leaned against the arm of the couch. "I agree," she mused, eyes gleaming with amusement.

 Chapter 349: A Long Way To Go

    Warlock Ch 349. A Long Way To Go


    Damian closed his system menu, letting out a slow breath. His fingers tapped idly against the armrest of his chair, his mind lingering on memories that weren''t quite whole¡ªscattered fragments of a past life, blurred at the edges but refusing to disappear completely.


    "Still..." he muttered. "I still have a long way to go."


    Cassius arched a brow. "What about that Demon King''s soul inside you?"


    Damian sighed, rolling his shoulders. "He''s been behaving lately." He smirked slightly. "We talk a lot. Well¡ªhe still bullies me sometimes, but I think he''s realized he can''t keep pushing me around now that I have my memories back."


    Evelyn crossed her arms, tilting her head slightly. "And what about Selena?" Her violet eyes flickered with curiosity. "Do you remember anything else about her?"


    Damian hesitated. "It''s... blurry. Not as vivid as usual. But yeah¡ªI met her once in the past." His voice dropped slightly. "Just one moment."


    Victoria leaned in, interest sparking in her crimson gaze. "Then tell us the story."


    Damian''s fingers curled slightly against his knee. "It was when I was on the run."


    The words settled into the air, heavy.


    Evelyn, Cassius, and Victoria didn''t speak. They didn''t need to. They all knew what that meant¡ªwhat that time in his life had been like.


    Damian exhaled slowly. "After I sealed the Demon King''s power inside my soul, I was... unstable." His voice was even, but there was an undercurrent of something unspoken beneath it. "I wore a mask wherever I went. I traveled alone, away from you guys. I had no place to stay. No destination. I just... walked. Wherever my feet took me."


    He let out a humorless chuckle.


    "That night, I decided to sleep in a tree."


    Victoria''s lips curled. "How romantic."


    Damian shot her a dry look. "It was near the fae territory. I was looking for something¡ªanything¡ªthat could help me contain the Demon King''s power." He rubbed the back of his neck. "But I couldn''t risk staying in an inn. Too dangerous. So I went deep into a forest and just... laid there."


    He remembered the way the sky had looked that night. The glow of the moon, the rustling of the leaves as the wind carried distant laughter from the fae''s grand halls.


    It had been a celebration night¡ªhe could hear the faint hum of music, the flickering of golden lanterns floating between the trees.


    Yet he had stayed in the shadows.


    Away from the light.


    Evelyn''s gaze softened, but she didn''t say anything. Neither did Cassius.


    Because they knew.


    They knew how lonely he had been back then.


    Damian exhaled, voice quieter now.


    "Selena..." he murmured. "She must have been from there. From the party. But somehow, she wandered into the forest." He hesitated. "Her wings were torn."


    Evelyn''s brows furrowed. "Torn?"


    Damian nodded. "She looked... out of place. Like she didn''t belong there." His fingers twitched. "I used [Telekinesis] to lift her, and [Healing] to patch her up. She stayed with me for a while. Said she was bored."


    Victoria hummed. "Sounds about right."


    Damian smiled slightly, but the expression faded as his thoughts drifted back.


    "She said something to me that night."


    He remembered it now.


    The way her eyes had searched his, the quiet certainty in her voice.


    "You''re hurt," he said, echoing her voice that night.


    Not from battle.


    Not from wounds.


    But because he was carrying something he wasn''t meant to carry alone.


    Because the world saw him as a public enemy.


    Because everywhere he went, people whispered his name like a curse.


    And at the time, he had thought. ''How could she see that?''


    Victoria swirled the remnants of her drink. "So. What did you do?"


    Damian exhaled, rubbing his temple. "Nothing."


    Evelyn''s brows lifted. "Nothing?"


    Damian shook his head. "I just... sat there." He chuckled, but there was no humor in it. "I didn''t know what to say. What was there to say? She wasn''t wrong."


    The room was silent for a beat.


    Then Cassius finally spoke. "She remembers you." His gaze sharpened.


    Damian huffed. "Yeah. She went to the exam to find me. To find Kaelan."


    Evelyn tapped a finger against her arm. "It might explain why she''s so fixated on warlocks."


    Victoria smirked. "And why she''s been staring at you like a lost puppy ever since the exam."


    Damian groaned. "Don''t start."


    Cassius ignored them, frowning slightly. "Either way, it means she''s been involved in all of this a lot longer than we thought."


    Damian leaned back in his chair, exhaling slowly. "Maybe." His voice was quiet. "But that doesn''t mean they know she has any connection to me."


    Cassius gave him a look. "You sure about that?"


    Damian hesitated for just a second before shaking his head. "Yeah." He folded his arms across his chest, his fingers gripping the fabric of his sleeve for a brief moment. "I left before she woke up. I never gave her my name. I wore a mask the entire time¡ªshe never saw my face."


    The words came out steady, factual, but there was something else beneath them. Something tight.


    "So..." His jaw tensed. "I guess they targeted her purely because of her bloodline and mana core. Not because she has a past with me."


    He let out a breath through his nose, looking away. "I mean..."


    And that was the part that made his chest feel too tight.


    He hated saying that.


    Hated thinking about it.


    Because the truth was¡ª He didn''t want to be a source of trouble for anyone.


    For anyone who had ever known him.


    For anyone who had ever been kind to him.


    Evelyn, Cassius, and Victoria caught that.


    His shoulders were a little too stiff. His voice¡ªusually so sharp, so filled with wry amusement¡ªwas quieter than usual.


    They didn''t press him.


    Cassius huffed, leaning back against the chair, rubbing his temple. "Well, whatever the case, there''s no point thinking about it now."


    He glanced toward the shadow servants standing at the edges of the room, silent and unmoving, waiting for orders.

 Chapter 350: Tired

    Warlock Ch 350. Tired


    "They''ll clean up any evidence left behind." His eyes flickered back toward Damian. "We should get some rest."


    Damian gave a small nod. "Yeah. Guess I''ll head back to my room."


    He forced a small smile.


    The kind that didn''t quite reach his eyes.


    His usual easy, teasing energy was absent. His voice lacked the usual bite of sarcasm, the familiar arrogance that made him sound unbothered by anything.


    He was tired.


    More than he let on.


    He pushed himself up from the chair without another word, turning toward the hallway that led to his room.


    He didn''t say goodnight.


    Didn''t throw in a last-minute joke to break the tension.


    Just left.


    The sound of his footsteps faded down the corridor.


    Victoria tapped a single nail against her goblet, her crimson gaze unreadable. "He''s thinking about it too much."


    Cassius sighed, leaning forward, resting his elbows on his knees. "Of course he is."


    Evelyn folded her arms. "And we can''t do anything to stop him."


    The room fell into silence.


    Because they all knew.


    Damian carried things alone.


    Even now.


    Even when he had people who would burn the world down for him.


    Cassius let out a breath, dragging a hand through his hair. "Let him be for now." His voice was softer than usual. "We''ve all had long days."


    Evelyn didn''t argue. Victoria just swirled her drink again, lips curling slightly.


    Both of them had something on their minds, that much was obvious.


    Cassius, who had been observing them from the moment Damian left, exhaled and ran a hand through his hair. "Alright," he muttered, standing up. "I''m heading to bed."


    Evelyn stretched, rolling her shoulders. "Same. I need some actual rest."


    Victoria hummed, finishing the last sip of her Crimson Essence before setting the goblet down with a quiet clink. "Agreed."


    Cassius gave them both a look. A knowing look.


    "...Just don''t be too loud, okay?"


    Evelyn blinked, tilting her head. "What do you mean?"


    Cassius arched a brow. "That''s not the direction to your rooms."


    Evelyn and Victoria had already begun walking toward the hallway. But, yes¡ªCassius had a point.


    They weren''t heading to their own rooms.


    They were heading toward Damian''s.


    Victoria grinned. "We''ll keep as quietly as possible." She shrugged. "But no promises."


    Evelyn huffed, acting indifferent, but there was a faint tint of pink on her ears. "We''re just checking on him."


    Cassius rolled his eyes. "Sure."


    He didn''t bother arguing. Instead, he waved them off and turned toward his own room, muttering something under his breath about damn warlocks and their absurd luck.


    As soon as he was gone, Victoria smirked and leaned toward Evelyn. "You''re blushing."


    "I am not."


    Victoria chuckled. "Oh, you definitely are."


    Evelyn ignored her, pushing forward. "Let''s go."


    They reached Damian''s door, the hallway dimly lit by the soft glow of mana lanterns. Evelyn raised a hand, hesitating for a second before knocking lightly.


    No response.


    Victoria''s sharp hearing picked up the steady rhythm of his breathing. "He''s asleep."


    Evelyn sighed. "Of course he is."


    They exchanged a look before quietly pushing the door open.


    Inside Damian''s Room. The air was warmer inside, carrying the faint scent of charcoal and spice, something uniquely Damian. His room was minimal¡ªdark walls, a large bed, a window half open to let the night breeze in.


    And Damian?


    He was sprawled across the mattress, half-covered by a sheet, his hair slightly tousled from sleep.


    His expression was unguarded¡ªno smirk, no sharp wit, just... calm.


    Peaceful, even.


    It was rare.


    Evelyn stepped closer, her fingers twitching slightly.


    She wanted to touch him.


    To make sure he was real.


    Victoria, as usual, had no hesitation. She moved smoothly, sitting on the edge of the bed, brushing a hand through his hair.


    Damian stirred, his brow furrowing slightly. "Mmh..." His voice was hoarse, but instinct had him tensing, ready to fight¡ªuntil he recognized them.


    "...Eve?" His voice was lower, softer. "Victoria?"


    Victoria smirked. "Who else would sneak into your bed at night?"


    Evelyn sighed, sitting down beside him. "You''re exhausted."


    Damian let out a quiet chuckle, running a hand through his hair. "Not really." He pushed himself up into a sitting position, resting his arms on his knees. "To be honest, I can''t sleep."


    Victoria arched a brow, shifting to sit beside him. "So you were thinking."


    Damian huffed, rubbing at his temple. "Yeah."


    Evelyn studied him, the dim mana lanterns casting a soft glow across his features. His face wasn''t as sharp as usual¡ªno smirk, no teasing glint in his eyes. Just a tired, distant look.


    "About the past?" Victoria asked.


    Damian nodded. "Most of my memory is back already." He exhaled slowly, staring at the faint patterns on the ceiling. "Which... makes everything hurt."


    Victoria and Evelyn didn''t speak, waiting for him to continue.


    Damian ran a hand over his face, his voice quieter now. "I mean... I remember all of it." His jaw clenched slightly. "The pain. The betrayals. The constant running. The weight of it all."


    A breath.


    "And... the loneliness."


    His fingers curled slightly against his knee, his throat tightening.


    "I hate that."


    He didn''t even realize how his body had tensed until Evelyn reached out, pressing a warm hand against his back.


    It was gentle, grounding.


    "Damian." Her voice was soft. "You''re not alone anymore."


    Victoria moved closer, resting her chin lightly against his shoulder. "She''s right, you know," she murmured, her cool fingers brushing against his wrist. "No more running. No more hiding."


    Damian let out a quiet breath, his body slowly relaxing beneath their touch.


    "...I know."


    But knowing didn''t make it easier.


    Evelyn rubbed slow, soothing circles against his back. "Do you remember what you told me when you proposed to me in the past?"


    Damian blinked, tilting his head slightly toward her. "...What?"


    Evelyn smiled faintly. "You said, ''It doesn''t matter how many people you have in your life, loneliness is a beast that creeps in when no one''s looking.''"


    Damian exhaled, shaking his head. "I said that?"


    Evelyn chuckled. "You did. Surprisingly poetic for someone who throws sarcasm around like a shield."

 Chapter 351: Teasing a Man in Need

    Warlock Ch 351. Teasing a Man in Need


    Victoria gave his shoulder a small squeeze. "But now we''re looking, Damian." She met his gaze, her eyes serious. "We see you."


    His breath hitched for just a second.


    They saw him.


    Not just his strength. Not just the Warlock of Eternal Bonds.


    Him.


    Damian swallowed, lowering his head slightly.


    "...Thanks."


    He wasn''t sure if it was enough. If he could put into words the strange, overwhelming feeling twisting in his chest.


    But Victoria just smirked, pressing a fleeting kiss against the side of his neck. "You owe us for this emotional moment, you know."


    Evelyn huffed, though there was warmth in her eyes. "Idiot."


    Damian chuckled. "Yeah, yeah."


    He wasn''t fixed.


    The past still weighed on him.


    But at least he wasn''t carrying it alone anymore.


    Damian barely had time to process the warmth in his chest before Evelyn and Victoria moved. It wasn''t rushed, wasn''t desperate¡ªit was deliberate.


    Victoria was the first to act, her fingers threading through his dark hair as she tilted his head slightly, capturing his lips in a slow, unhurried kiss. It was teasing at first¡ªjust the faintest brush of lips, but Damian felt the intent behind it, the way she let herself linger, drawing him deeper into it.


    Evelyn pressed in from the other side, her hand sliding up his arm, tracing over his pulse, a quiet, grounding presence. "You''ve carried so much for so long," she whispered, her breath warm against his ear. "But you don''t have to anymore."


    Damian shuddered at the sheer tenderness in her voice. He had been touched before. Felt hands that sought him out for power, for conquest.


    But this?


    This was something else entirely. He let himself sink into it, his body relaxing as Victoria deepened the kiss, her fingers slowly undoing the clasps of his coat, peeling away the layers. Evelyn followed, her touch gentle, as though she was memorizing him, tracing over scars that shouldn''t have healed, over muscles that had been carved.


    Damian swallowed, his throat tight as he whispered, "I don''t¡ª"


    Victoria hushed him, her lips ghosting over his jaw, then lower. "Don''t think."


    Evelyn''s hands slid lower, her fingers tracing warmth along his spine. "Just feel."


    He did. He let them pull him into their warmth, let their hands trace over his body¡ªnot claiming, not taking, but accepting. He felt Evelyn''s lips press against his shoulder, soft and knowing, felt the way Victoria''s hands moved over his chest, trailing over old wounds and past burdens.


    They undressed him slowly, not out of hesitation, but as if they had all the time in the world.


    As if they wanted him to understand that he wasn''t just someone to be worshiped or someone to be feared. He was theirs. And they were his.


    Damian trembled as they guided him back onto the bed, felt the way their bodies pressed against him, warm and unrelenting.


    This wasn''t just lust. This was everything he had ever been denied¡ªintimacy, connection, belonging.


    His hands found Evelyn''s waist, fingers tightening slightly as she leaned down, her lips capturing his in something slow, something that tasted like devotion.


    Victoria''s hand tangled in his hair as she kissed his throat, whispering, "You''re not alone."


    He broke a little at that.


    Because he believed them, he let himself have this.


    Let himself be held.


    Let himself be loved.


    Evelyn''s lips ghosted over his collarbone, her fingers following the ridges of his toned abdomen, as though committing every inch of him to memory. Her touch was hot, filled with silent promises and understanding.


    Victoria wasn''t patient¡ªshe never was. Her fingernails dragged lightly down his chest, her fangs brushing against his skin, sending a delicious shiver through his spine. "You hold back too much," she whispered, her voice silky and knowing, pressing a soft kiss against his throat. "Let us take care of you, Damian."


    His breathing deepened, muscles flexing under their touch as their hands roamed lower.


    Evelyn smirked against his skin as her fingers brushed against the growing hardness between his legs, her touch both teasing and knowing. "Already?" she murmured, rubbing slow circles over the fabric, feeling him twitch beneath her touch.


    Damian let out a low groan, his grip tightening on her waist as Victoria''s fingers joined hers, both of them tracing over his clothed length, feeling him grow harder under their teasing touches.


    "Teasing a man in need," Damian gritted out, his voice rough, hands gripping the sheets. "Cruel."


    Victoria chuckled darkly, slipping onto his lap, straddling him. "Cruel?" she purred, grinding against his hardness, relishing the way he twitched beneath her, the way his breath stuttered against her neck. "You''re the one who''s been making us wait, Damian."


    Evelyn huffed, her own body aching with need, pressing herself against his side, her lips grazing the shell of his ear. "She''s right," she whispered, nipping at his jawline, her hand moving to slide beneath his waistband, her fingers wrapping around his growing heat. "And we''re tired of waiting."


    Damian groaned, his hips jerking slightly into her touch, his restraint unraveling piece by piece.


    Victoria kissed him deeply, swallowing his sounds, rocking against him in slow, agonizing movements that had him gritting his teeth. Evelyn''s hand moved in steady strokes, coaxing him to full hardness, her touch both gentle and firm, drawing out the raw pleasure that coiled in his stomach.


    Heat built between them, their bodies moving in sync, their breaths mingling in the dimly lit room. Clothes melted away, piece by piece, exposing bare skin against bare skin, heat meeting heat.


    Damian''s hands roamed over their bodies, gripping, exploring, feeling the soft curves of Evelyn''s waist, the firm press of Victoria''s thighs, claiming them as much as they claimed him.


    Victoria sank down onto him, taking him inch by inch, a soft gasp escaping her lips as she adjusted, feeling him fill her completely.


    Evelyn watched, eyes dark with desire, pressing her body against his side, her hand tracing the firm muscles of his chest, feeling his heartbeat thrum beneath her palm.


    Victoria let out a pleasured sigh, rolling her hips slowly, her movements deliberate, savoring every inch of him.


    Damian groaned, his hands gripping her hips, guiding her pace, feeling the way she tightened around him, the way her body moved so perfectly with his.


    Evelyn pressed her lips to his throat, muffling his groans, her own body burning with need. "You''re ours, Damian," she whispered against his skin.


    Victoria leaned down, kissing him deeply, their breaths mixing as her movements grew faster, needier, pushing him further and further to the edge.


    Damian growled, flipping them suddenly, pinning Victoria beneath him, his thrusts deep and powerful, making her cry out in pleasure. Evelyn watched, heat pooling low in her stomach, her fingers tightening around the sheets, aching for her turn.


    The night stretched on, filled with whispers, gasps, moans, and unspoken promises.


    But in the end, what mattered most wasn''t just the pleasure, or the desperate hunger.

 Chapter 352: Pleasant Morning

    Warlock Ch 352. Pleasant Morning


    The morning light filtered through the heavy drapes of Damian''s bedroom, casting soft golden streaks across the floor. The air smelled of lingering warmth¡ªof sweat, and something uniquely theirs. The room was quiet except for the slow, steady breathing of the two women curled up beside him.


    Damian lay there, blinking at the ceiling, his body still pleasantly heavy from the night before. Not just from the intimacy, though that had been incredible¡ªno, it was something deeper, something he wasn''t sure how to put into words.


    His gaze drifted downward, settling on Evelyn and Victoria. They were tangled up against him, their bare skin warm against his own. Victoria had an arm draped lazily over his chest, her face buried in the crook of his neck, her soft breaths tickling his skin. Evelyn was curled against his other side, her long hair spilling across his arm, her fingers still loosely gripping his wrist, as if afraid he might disappear.


    Damian''s throat tightened.


    ''They''re here. With me.''


    A slow exhale left his lips. Carefully, so as not to wake them, he raised a hand and brushed a few stray strands of hair from Victoria''s face. She shifted slightly, murmuring something incoherent before settling back into sleep.


    Evelyn''s grip on his wrist tightened ever so slightly.


    His chest ached in a way he wasn''t used to.


    Damian swallowed. "Thank you," he whispered.


    Neither of them stirred. They didn''t need to. The words weren''t meant for them to hear.


    With practiced movements, he slipped out of bed, pulling the blanket over their bare bodies. The air outside the covers was cool against his skin. He ran a hand through his tousled hair, stretching his sore muscles before padding towards the bathroom.


    The floor was cold beneath his feet, the stone sleek and smooth. The massive tub in the corner was already filled, steam curling in lazy tendrils above the water''s surface¡ªCassius''s servant, no doubt, had arranged it. Damian slipped in, the heat enveloping him immediately.


    For a few moments, he just sat there, head resting against the edge of the tub, eyes closed.


    His mind replayed the events of the night before¡ªnot just the pleasure, but the way they had touched him, held him, seen him. It was strange.


    He was used to being desired. He wasn''t used to being cherished. The thought lingered, heavy, even as he finished washing up.


    Once he was dried and dressed, he made his way downstairs. The estate was quiet at this hour, the usual bustling energy of servants not yet in full swing. The faint scent of polished wood and lingering incense filled the halls, but the kitchen was different.


    The moment he stepped inside, the familiar scent of herbs and spices greeted him, mingling with the faintest traces of last night''s meal. The kitchen was massive¡ªdesigned more for a full staff than for one person, but that didn''t matter.


    He was going to cook.


    Last night, they had devoured his cooking, even Evelyn¡ªwho was usually so refined¡ªhad moaned around a scoop of stew, her eyes filled with something dangerously close to worship.


    He smirked at the memory.


    Yeah. He was definitely cooking again.


    Damian rolled up his sleeves, surveying his options. Eggs. Bread. Meat. He could work with that.


    He cracked a few eggs into a bowl, whisking them with practiced ease. He wasn''t the type to cook often, but he did enjoy it. It was different from combat. There were no enemies, no strategies, no blood. Just ingredients coming together to make something good.


    As the eggs hit the pan, the soft sizzle filled the kitchen, and for a moment, he let himself enjoy the simplicity of it.


    The scent of butter sizzling in the pan filled the kitchen, rich and warm, curling through the air and seeping into the very walls of the manor. Damian stood at the counter, sleeves rolled up, flipping a thick slice of Moonshadow Brioche¡ªa soft, golden bread infused with midnight honey and a touch of mana-infused cinnamon. As it crisped in the pan, the magic in the honey reacted to the heat, releasing a faint, star-like shimmer across the surface.


    He smirked slightly as he watched the glow fade. That was new.


    Next, he moved on to the Sylvanberry Compote, a deep purple jam-like mixture made from berries harvested under fae moonlight. Sweet with a tangy aftertaste, they were known to mildly replenish stamina and sharpen focus, making them perfect for groggy mornings. He spooned the warm compote over the toasted brioche, letting the juices soak into the crisp edges.


    On the side, a small pot of Stormroot Brew¡ªa dark, robust tea made from stormroot bark¡ªbubbled gently. It had a sharp, almost electrifying scent, rumored to jolt the body awake faster than a shock spell.


    A batch of Sun-kissed Omelets was next. Damian had whisked fresh eggs with Emberfruit slices, a rare ingredient that gave off a gentle heat when eaten. The warmth wasn''t just for flavor¡ªit subtly boosted circulation, making it a favorite among warriors before a long day of training. As the omelets cooked, they filled the kitchen with a subtly spicy-sweet aroma.


    And for the final touch¡ªMisty Vale Cream, a thick, velvety spread made from enchanted valley milk, churned with a hint of vanilla and powdered fae sugar. It was known to settle the nerves and soothe magic depletion. He scooped a generous dollop onto a plate, watching it melt slightly from the warmth of the freshly baked brioche.


    The whole kitchen smelled like a feast of magic and warmth.


    As he plated the food, a familiar voice groaned from behind.


    "...What the hell are you doing?"


    Cassius stood in the doorway, arms crossed, his usually pristine appearance a little messy from his morning routine. There was a faint scorch mark on his sleeve¡ªprobably from a misfired barrier spell¡ªand his hair was still damp, evidence that he''d actually watered the garden despite, well... everything. Bet he used his [Telekinesis] again.


    Damian glanced over his shoulder. "Cooking."


    Cassius snorted, stepping into the kitchen. "Yeah, I can see that. But why? We have servants for that."


    Damian shrugged, flipping another slice of brioche. "Felt like it."


    Cassius sighed, rubbing his forehead. "Let me guess. This is about last night?"

 Chapter 353: Not Unexpected

    Warlock Ch 353. Not Unexpected


    Damian tensed for a fraction of a second. "What about last night?"


    Cassius gave him a pointed look. "You woke up feeling light, wanted to do something nice, so you cooked breakfast like some kind of domestic¡ª" He sniffed the air, cutting himself off. "Okay, wait. That actually smells good."


    Damian smirked. "Didn''t doubt me, did you?"


    Cassius rolled his eyes. "I doubt you in many things. Cooking, apparently, isn''t one of them." He leaned closer, peering at the food. "Is that Misty Vale Cream? That''s rare."


    "Yeah. Figured it''d be good after..." He hesitated, then changed the subject. "You eat yet?"


    Cassius huffed. "I was going to grab something after I¡ª" He stopped, his nose twitching as he caught another whiff of the sizzling omelets. His expression shifted from indifferent to mildly tempted.


    Damian raised an eyebrow. "Sit down."


    Cassius scoffed. "I don''t¡ª"


    "Sit. Down."


    A beat. Then, with an exaggerated sigh, Cassius dropped into a chair. "...Fine."


    Damian smirked in victory as he set down a plate in front of him. Cassius poked at the food suspiciously at first, but the moment he took a bite of the omelet, his eyes flickered with genuine surprise.


    "...Damn," he muttered.


    "Good?"


    Cassius just grunted, shoving another bite into his mouth.


    Damian chuckled, but before he could say anything else, soft footsteps echoed from the hallway. A moment later, Evelyn''s voice, still thick with sleep, broke the quiet.


    "Smells good," she mumbled.


    Damian turned, watching as Victoria stepped into the kitchen, her hair slightly messy, her usual sharp expression softened by the remnants of sleep. But there was something different about her this morning¡ªless guarded, more at ease. The oversized shirt she''d thrown on barely covered her thighs, and for a second, Damian''s brain short-circuited.


    Damn.


    She stretched lazily, eyes flicking to him with a slow, assessing look before landing on the sizzling food. Her nose scrunched.


    "You''re making breakfast," she muttered. "Why?"


    Damian smirked as he flipped the Moonshadow Brioche onto a plate, letting the golden crust glisten under the morning light. The scent of melted mana-infused cinnamon and warm honey filled the air, mixing with the tart sweetness of the Sylvanberry Compote he was preparing on the side.


    "Felt like it," he said, turning to grab another pan.


    Victoria hummed, walking over and propping herself against the counter. Her gaze flickered over the food, unimpressed.


    "You do realize I can''t eat any of that, right?"


    Damian shot her a look, already reaching for a crystal glass. "Yeah, yeah, hold on."


    Victoria raised a brow as he pulled out a small, glowing vial filled with a dark, swirling liquid. He uncorked it, pouring the liquid into the glass, watching as it shimmered slightly with a faint iridescence. Nocturne Elixir¡ªa blend of blackthorn nectar, abyssal nightshade, and a drop of arcane moonlight. A vampire''s equivalent of an energy drink, but without the bitterness most of them had.


    And then, without hesitation, he bit his own thumb, letting a few drops of his blood drip into the mixture.


    The elixir reacted immediately, deepening to a rich, intoxicating crimson. The air shifted, thick with magic. Damian swirled the glass before sliding it toward her.


    "Extra flavor," he said casually.


    Victoria''s pupils dilated as she picked it up, bringing it to her lips. She took a slow sip, her sharp fangs peeking out slightly as the drink slid down her throat. Then she exhaled, a pleased hum vibrating in her chest.


    "You did this because of last night, didn''t you?" Evelyn piped up from behind them, her voice still laced with sleep. She stepped into the kitchen, rubbing her eyes, her silver hair a tangled mess.


    Damian leaned against the counter, arms crossed. "Kinda," he admitted, watching as Victoria drained the rest of the glass. "I feel better."


    Evelyn gave him a long look before shaking her head with a smirk. "Good."


    "Good thing you three weren''t as loud as I expected," Cassius said, completely deadpan.


    Evelyn choked on her tea. Victoria didn''t even blink.


    Damian narrowed his eyes. "Cas."


    Cassius, unbothered, kept eating. "I''m just saying," he continued. "I was this close to kicking all three of you out."


    Victoria smirked, swirling her empty glass. "You wouldn''t dare."


    Cassius stared at her, face blank. "Try me."


    Damian rolled his eyes before setting the plates down on the table. "Eat. If I hear another word about last night, I''m setting this whole breakfast on fire."


    Victoria raised a brow. "You wouldn''t."


    Damian held up a small flame in his palm.


    "...You absolutely would," she muttered.


    They started eating, the kitchen filled with the sounds of clinking silverware and soft murmurs. The Moonshadow Brioche was light and fluffy, soaking up the syrupy Sylvanberry Compote perfectly. The Crimsonleaf Sausages were spiced just enough to leave a lingering heat on the tongue, made from magically-enhanced boar that increased stamina. The Goldenroot Hash had a crisp, buttery texture, subtly enhancing mana flow with every bite. Even Victoria, despite her inability to eat normal food, seemed content just watching the rest of them enjoy it.


    For a brief moment, Damian let himself sink into the moment.


    The warmth of the kitchen. The lingering scent of cooked spices. The quiet presence of people who, despite everything, had stayed.


    It was... nice.


    But then, mid-bite, he froze.


    A shift. A disturbance in the air.


    Cassius set down his glass, sighing.


    "Yeah," he muttered, voice laced with irritation. "Faster than I expected."


    Damian exhaled through his nose, fingers tightening around his fork. "They''re coming."


    A pause. Then Victoria tilted her head, curiosity flashing in her crimson gaze. "Who?"


    Damian looked up, eyes dark. "The fae. Selena. Cedric. Alric. Business."


    Evelyn leaned back, folding her arms. "Well. That''s not unexpected."


    Cassius pinched the bridge of his nose. "Yeah."


    Damian rolled his shoulders, stretching out the stiffness, before exhaling. His fingers drummed against the table, his mind already calculating the possibilities.


    "Shall we meet them?" he asked, his tone casual, but there was an undeniable weight beneath it.


    Cassius let out a slow breath. "Yeah. I''ll have the servants bring them here. Who knows, maybe they''ll want to eat with us."

 Chapter 354: Professional Blood Bartender

    Warlock Ch 354. Professional Blood Bartender


    Damian snorted, a dry smirk pulling at his lips. "I doubt it. Selena is a princess, and Cedric is a prince. They just witnessed how we killed three Rank S magi last night¡ªwithout a trace. So..." He gestured vaguely, as if that alone explained everything.


    Cassius arched a brow. "Details."


    Damian just smirked, but he could tell Cassius was already piecing it together.


    With a flick of his wrist, Cassius murmured an inaudible command, and the air around them shifted. A ripple passed through the room¡ªsubtle, but present. His shadow servants moved through the space like whispers in the void, slipping out of sight as they carried out their master''s will.


    Damian did the same, his own shadow servants flickering into existence at his feet like liquid ink pooling across the floor. With a mere thought, they understood his command, disappearing in an instant to accompany the guests.


    And then... silence.


    For a moment, everything stilled, the room thick with anticipation.


    Cassius flicked his fingers.


    Just like that, the barrier that surrounded the estate¡ªthe one that had kept prying eyes out, kept enemies at bay¡ªshimmered briefly before parting, creating a gap just large enough for their visitors to step through.


    Damian inhaled deeply, the subtle scent of fae magic curling into the air. Sweet, like morning dew and crushed petals, but sharp enough to remind him that these weren''t just guests¡ªthey were fae royalty. Powerful. Unpredictable. And depending on their mood, potentially dangerous.


    Footsteps echoed from the hall.


    And then they entered.


    Selena was the first through the opening. Her eyes locked onto Damian the moment she stepped inside. Beside her, Cedric followed, his presence no less commanding. And then there was Alric.


    Compared to the other two, Alric was more... relaxed. His eyes flickered with curiosity as he glanced around, his posture loose, but Damian wasn''t fooled. Beneath that easygoing demeanor was a warrior''s sharp instincts.


    The three of them stood there for a moment, their gazes sweeping over the room¡ªover Damian, over Cassius, over Evelyn and Victoria, who were still seated, watching silently.


    Then Cedric spoke, his voice smooth as silk, laced with something unreadable. "We weren''t expecting an invitation."


    Damian tilted his head, lips curling. "Didn''t think you needed one."


    Cedric chuckled, stepping forward. "Fair enough." His gaze flickered toward the remnants of breakfast on the table, his sharp senses undoubtedly picking up the lingering traces of magic in the food. "Though, it seems we interrupted a pleasant morning." He smirked, folding his arms. "We can leave if you''d rather get back to... whatever it was you were doing."


    Victoria smirked. "Oh, trust me. That part of the morning is already over."


    Damian shot her a look, but she just sipped at her Nocturne Elixir, unbothered.


    Selena watched the exchange with mild amusement, though her attention quickly shifted back to Damian. "You''re calm," she noted. "Considering what you did last night."


    Damian leaned against the table, fingers tapping idly against the wood. "Should I not be?"


    Selena''s gaze didn''t waver. "Most would be uneasy after eliminating three Rank S magi so efficiently. But you? You seem... unbothered."


    Damian shrugged. "If you were expecting guilt, you''re going to be disappointed."


    Cedric smirked. "Of course not. But it does make us wonder." He moved closer, circling slightly, his presence subtly pressing in. "How much of what happened last night was just... the beginning?"


    Evelyn sat up straighter. Victoria''s grip on her glass tightened slightly. Even Cassius¡ªwho was usually the picture of neutrality¡ªlooked mildly interested in where this conversation was going.


    Damian, however, just exhaled slowly. "Depends," he said.


    Selena raised a brow. "On?"


    Damian smiled, slow and sharp. "On how the rest of this conversation goes."


    A pause. Then, Cedric let out a laugh. Not mocking. Not condescending. Just... entertained.


    "I see," he mused. "I suppose that''s fair."


    Selena studied him for another long moment before exhaling, her gaze flickering to the remnants of breakfast on the table. "I suppose breakfast is out of the question, then."


    Cassius, who had been quiet until now, leaned back in his chair, swirling his cup with a lazy motion. "We did have the servants prepare extra," he offered. "In case you changed your mind."


    Alric''s sharp eyes swept over the table, his posture stiff, but there was a barely contained curiosity in his gaze. "Moonshadow Brioche?" His voice was thoughtful, like he wasn''t sure whether to be impressed or suspicious.


    Damian arched a brow. "You know your food."


    Alric didn''t immediately respond, his lips pressing into a thin line before he finally gave a small nod. "I was raised around fae chefs. It''s not hard to recognize the scent of mana-infused ingredients." His gaze slid toward the sausages, something flickering behind his eyes. "Crimsonleaf Sausages too? That''s... not easy to cook."


    Cedric, who had been mostly observing, leaned forward slightly, his gaze locked onto Damian like he was trying to figure out a puzzle. "And yet, you made all this yourself?"


    Damian smirked, crossing his arms. "I''m full of surprises."


    Victoria let out a soft chuckle, still lazily swirling the last of her Nocturne Elixir in her glass. "You should''ve seen last night''s dinner," she mused.


    Selena let out a sigh, rubbing her temple. "Alric, Cedric, please."


    Cedric didn''t say anything, his eyes narrowing slightly as he studied Victoria. Then, as if something clicked, his gaze shifted between her and Damian, his posture stiffening slightly. "Why is she still here?"


    Damian blinked. "Excuse me?"


    Cedric''s expression remained thoughtful, but there was a trace of confusion. "She''s a vampire queen. I assumed she was only passing through, but..." His gaze flickered between them. "You''re still here. Why?"


    Victoria, completely unfazed, leaned back in her chair, stretching her arms behind her head. "I came for breakfast."


    Selena stared at her, then at Damian. "Breakfast."


    Victoria flashed a lazy smile. "Is that so hard to believe?"


    Cedric looked like he wanted to say something, but Damian cut him off before he could. "I''m Victoria''s a professional blood bartender." He gestured toward her now-empty glass. "Made her something special this morning."

 Chapter 355: High Standards

    Warlock Ch 355. High Standards


    Cedric''s eyes flickered toward the glass, his interest piqued. "A professional blood bartender?"


    Damian shrugged. "I mix drinks for the undead. Specialized concoctions tailored to different blood types, magical influences, and personal taste." He glanced at Victoria. "And she has very high standards."


    Selena, who had been silent for a moment, finally spoke, her voice quieter, more measured. "I see..." Her eyes lingered on Damian just a bit longer than necessary before she exhaled, shifting her posture. "Regardless, we didn''t come here for food."


    Damian tilted his head slightly, watching her carefully. He knew that look.


    "Yeah," he murmured. "I figured."


    Cedric cleared his throat, breaking the silence. "Then you know why we''re here."


    Damian met his gaze steadily. "I can guess. But I''d rather you tell us directly."


    Cedric paused, folding his hands together neatly. He looked calm on the surface, but Damian caught the slight twitch of his jaw.


    "I assume you''ve heard what happened," Cedric began quietly, his eyes flickering across the room, taking in everyone''s expressions. "Edward died a few days ago."


    Cassius glanced away briefly, Evelyn''s shoulders stiffened, and Victoria just stared, expression unreadable. Damian felt his own jaw tighten.


    Cedric continued softly. "It was tragic. We were too late to pick him up. This place''s bureaucracy is disgusting. They deliberately stalled us, throwing every bit of red tape they could in our way."


    Damian''s voice hardened slightly. "Yeah. I hear that." He knew the frustration Cedric spoke of. The Council, with its endless layers of power and politics, had never made things easy¡ªespecially for outsiders. They''d do anything to protect their own interests, even at the expense of someone''s life.


    Selena''s lips parted slightly, as if she wanted to speak. Her eyes finally locked onto Damian''s. But before she could get the words out, Cedric placed a gentle hand on her arm, giving a small, almost imperceptible shake of his head.


    It was Cedric who spoke again, his voice steadier than Damian expected. "Also... I''m sure you''re aware of what happened last night."


    Damian felt everyone''s gazes snap onto him, sharp and knowing. He didn''t flinch, simply tilting his head slightly. "You''re going to have to be more specific."


    Cedric''s mouth curled faintly at the edges, a hint of amusement slipping through the seriousness. "The attack on the three Council members last night." He paused, watching Damian closely. "Was that you guys?"


    Damian felt Evelyn tense beside him, Victoria''s crimson eyes narrowing slightly, while Cassius merely lifted an eyebrow, unfazed. Damian met Cedric''s gaze, expression deliberately neutral. "Is that question really necessary?"


    Cedric didn''t back down, holding Damian''s stare. "Yes. And no." He exhaled slowly, leaning forward slightly, voice dropping into something more sincere, less guarded. "Look, I understand you''d rather keep it under wraps. I get it. But I need to know if we''re on the same side here. There are bigger forces at play, powerful people involved. You did what you had to do¡ªit''s kill or be killed, right?"


    Damian felt his chest tighten. Cedric wasn''t wrong.


    "Maybe," Damian finally admitted. "But what exactly do you want from us?"


    Cedric hesitated, clearly weighing how much to say. He glanced briefly toward Selena, who watched Damian with barely concealed concern. She looked ready to intervene, her expression tight with worry. Cedric drew in a breath, his shoulders stiffening.


    "I need witnesses," Cedric said slowly, clearly reluctant to admit it. "The council members were conspiring. They weren''t just targeting random people¡ªthey were planning to kill Selena, specifically."


    He paused again, eyes briefly flicking downward, voice quieter. "And me."


    "So," Damian finally broke the silence, voice calm but edged with quiet danger. "You want us to openly admit we killed three Rank S magi in cold blood¡ªto save your life?"


    Cedric shook his head slightly, leaning back in his chair, sighing softly. "No. Not openly, anyway. But we need to at least privately acknowledge the facts. They targeted Selena for a reason. Someone inside the Council orchestrated this. They saw Selena as a threat, and wanted her dead." His gaze turned darker, harder. "If they succeeded, it would''ve plunged the fae kingdom into chaos. That was their goal."


    "And what exactly do you plan to do now?" Damian asked quietly, eyes locked onto Cedric''s, reading every nuance of his expression.


    "Expose their plan," Cedric said firmly. "Or at least, enough of it to send a message. The conspirators will hesitate if they know someone''s onto them."


    Cassius nodded slowly. "It''s a bold move. Dangerous, too."


    "Dangerous," Selena echoed quietly, finally speaking. Her voice was softer, gentler than Cedric''s. Her gaze returned to Damian, holding his eyes firmly now, determination and worry tangled together. "But we can''t just hide and hope they give up. Not after what we''ve already seen."


    Damian regarded her quietly, feeling the intensity in her stare, the sincerity behind her words. Selena had always been earnest¡ªsometimes painfully so¡ªbut right now, he admired her courage. And maybe, just maybe, he felt something else too.


    "Fine," Damian said softly, exhaling slowly as he leaned back, feeling the tension drain from his shoulders. "We''ll help you."


    Cedric''s eyes widened slightly in surprise, before settling into cautious relief. Selena''s face brightened immediately, a soft blush spreading across her cheeks before she quickly looked away, embarrassed at her own reaction. Damian suppressed a faint smile.


    "Then we have an understanding," Cedric said firmly, offering a genuine, grateful nod. "Thank you."


    "Don''t thank us yet," Victoria drawled lazily, breaking the heaviness in the air. "Knowing Damian, he''ll probably start another fight before we even finish talking."


    Damian glared at her playfully. "You''re not helping."


    Victoria grinned smugly. "I rarely do."


    Cassius snorted, shaking his head with mock exasperation.


    Evelyn merely rolled her eyes, a reluctant smile forming despite herself.


    Damian''s gaze settled once more on Selena. She''d grown quiet again, her cheeks still tinged faintly pink, eyes lingering on his for just a moment too long.


    He allowed himself to hold her stare a bit longer than he normally would, acknowledging what he saw there.


    A small warmth sparked in his chest at the sight¡ªsomething fragile, hesitant, yet quietly hopeful.

 Chapter 356: Easier Said Than Done

    Warlock Ch 356. Easier Said Than Done


    Selena quickly looked away, her gaze dropping to the table. Damian almost smiled at that. It wasn''t something he''d ever really expected to feel from a fae princess. Shyness. She looked different than Selena he met in the exam.


    "So," Damian finally broke the lingering silence, clearing his throat slightly. "Any ideas for what we should do next? Because honestly, I''ve got nothing except..." He swung his thumb in front of his neck, meaning "killing them."


    Cassius chuckled softly, leaning back into his chair. "We''ve been at a loss too. We had the same idea you guys did at first¡ªpulling them into the open, forcing their hand. But it turns out it''s easier said than done."


    Damian gave a grim nod, jaw tightening slightly. "They''re careful. Really careful."


    Cassius sighed, nodding solemnly. "Exactly. Their game is incredibly organized. We tried tracking them, baiting them¡ªnothing. Every trail we found eventually went cold. That''s why last night we decided to make the judgment ourselves."


    Evelyn crossed her arms, fingers tapping thoughtfully against her elbow. "And I''m sure you noticed how good they are at covering their tracks. Not just good¡ªthey''re frighteningly skilled at it. I mean, look around. The city''s security was tightened dramatically. It''s supposedly for the citizens'' protection, but honestly, I think it''s just their way of controlling the crowd. And now..."


    Damian nodded, following her thought. "Now, they''re locking everything down."


    Cedric leaned forward, running a hand tiredly through his hair. "True. It''s not easy getting information either. They''re using bureaucratic channels to keep us at bay. Even if we have proof of conspiracy, the second we present it openly, they''ll dismiss it as fabricated or claim it''s biased."


    Victoria scoffed softly from the corner, spinning her empty glass idly. "Typical. Politics at its finest. They''d rather bury the truth than face the consequences."


    Damian''s eyes narrowed thoughtfully. "Which means we''re essentially prisoners right now. They might not have us in chains, but the effect is the same. They''re making sure we can''t move openly, can''t openly fight back."


    Cassius exhaled slowly, frustration flashing in his eyes. "They have control of the narrative, at least publicly. The Council knows exactly how to twist public perception, how to turn people against us. Right now, we''re the villains in their story."


    "Not just you," Cedric interjected softly. "Selena and I are targets now too. We know too much. They''ve already shown they''re willing to eliminate royalty to get what they want." His voice lowered, grave and wary. "But if I were to call my soldiers here, it''d spark a war. A real one."


    Damian let out a heavy sigh, rubbing his temple slowly. "Then we need something subtle. Something they won''t expect."


    Cassius leaned in, eyes brightening slightly at the challenge. "You''re thinking sabotage?"


    Damian smirked faintly, shrugging. "Not exactly. More like... manipulation."


    Victoria chuckled, glancing at him with a raised eyebrow. "Careful, Damian. You''re starting to sound like me."


    Damian rolled his eyes, a reluctant smile tugging at his lips. "God forbid."


    Evelyn let out a quiet laugh. "But he''s right. They expect violence from us¡ªthey''re prepared for brute force. Maybe it''s time we tried something more indirect."


    Cedric nodded slowly, intrigued. "Such as?"


    Evelyn leaned back in her chair, eyes glancing thoughtfully toward Damian. "Like spreading the news further? Rumors, stories, whispers about what the Council''s really up to."


    Damian shook his head slowly, regret creeping into his voice. "You know, I wish it could work, Evelyn. But we''ve already tried that. Rumors have been flying around for weeks. The kingdoms, the other races¡ªthey all know something''s happening. But they''re just watching. Nobody wants to be the first to step forward and interfere."


    Cassius crossed his arms, expression contemplative. "What about your dad, Cedric? The fae king surely must have something to say about all this."


    Cedric sighed deeply, running a hand over his jaw, frustration clear in his posture. "My father''s ready for war. He''s been preparing ever since the assassination attempt. But... he''s holding back. With Selena safe, he sees no immediate reason to intervene. He''s cautious, careful¡ªhe won''t move without absolute proof. And..." Cedric hesitated, voice dropping slightly. "He''s given us a deadline."


    Damian''s gaze sharpened immediately. He caught the subtle shift in Selena''s expression, the quiet dread hidden behind her eyes. "Deadline?" Damian asked softly.


    Cedric glanced at Selena briefly, before turning back to Damian, reluctantly continuing. "If our investigation here doesn''t yield results within three days, Selena and I have orders to return home."


    The room fell silent. Damian felt a strange heaviness pressing down on him, especially when his eyes met Selena''s again. The way she looked at him spoke volumes¡ªthe quiet sadness, the gentle plea behind her gaze. She''d probably never see him again if she returned to her kingdom now.


    And yet, despite himself, he knew it was for the best. Selena deserved better than to be caught in the brutal shadow-war he was fighting.


    Selena, however, clearly wasn''t thinking the same. She cleared her throat softly, stepping forward. "You know, I was thinking," she began quietly, her voice soft yet surprisingly steady. "Maybe I could stay here a bit longer?"


    Cedric''s head snapped toward her immediately, eyes widening. "Selena¡ª"


    She held up a hand quickly, cutting him off, determination flickering in her gaze. "Think about it, Cedric. This place is incredibly secure. Damian and the others are strong enough to keep me safe, safer than anywhere else in the city right now. It might actually be for the best if I stayed."


    Damian frowned slightly, hesitant, though he understood where she was coming from. "Selena," he said gently, trying to find the right words. "This place might be secure, but we''re not exactly living a peaceful life here. We''re actively hunting corrupt council members, assassins, and anyone who stands against us. We''re dealing with a government determined to paint us as villains. Things could get messy. Staying here means you''ll be in danger too."


    Selena looked up at him, her gaze steady, unwavering. "I understand the risks. But right now, being anywhere else is more dangerous. And if my presence here can help in any way, even slightly¡ªthen I want to stay."

 Chapter 357: Three Days

    Warlock Ch 357. Three Days


    Cedric let out a long, frustrated breath, shaking his head slowly. "Selena, you''re not thinking clearly. Father won''t allow it. He expects us back."


    Selena turned to him, determination hardening her voice. "Then convince him otherwise. Tell him I''m safer here, under Damian''s protection."


    Damian raised an eyebrow slightly at that, surprised by the fierceness in her tone. Victoria chuckled softly from the side, amusement glinting in her crimson eyes. "She''s got a point, Cedric. Damian might look harmless, but he''s pretty good at keeping people alive."


    Cedric shot Victoria a skeptical glance. "He''s also good at attracting trouble."


    Damian shrugged lightly. "Occupational hazard."


    Cassius smirked slightly at Cedric''s reluctance. "I get why you''re cautious, Cedric, but Selena has a point. She''s probably safer here than anywhere else right now. At least here, we control the security."


    Cedric rubbed the bridge of his nose, clearly battling his own misgivings. "Three days," he finally said, looking directly at Selena, his voice firm. "We''ll see if we can sort this out in three days. If not, you come home. No arguments."


    Selena hesitated briefly, then gave a reluctant nod. "Fine. Three days."


    Cedric sighed, clearly not entirely happy, but willing to compromise. Damian felt a curious sense of relief mixed with quiet apprehension. Selena''s presence complicated things¡ªespecially given how he felt her gaze linger on him longer than necessary¡ªbut it also gave him unexpected motivation. He couldn''t afford mistakes, not with Selena''s life now hanging on his decisions.


    Evelyn smiled warmly at Selena, clearly pleased with her decision. "Well, Selena, I guess that officially makes you one of us¡ªat least for the next three days. Welcome to the rebellion."


    Victoria rolled her eyes, leaning back casually. "Such dramatics, Evelyn."


    Evelyn shot her a playful glare. "Like you''re one to talk."


    Damian chuckled softly, the tension easing from his shoulders slightly. "Well, if we''re done arguing, maybe we should actually plan our next move."


    Cassius leaned forward thoughtfully, tapping a finger on the table. "We need to keep pressure on the Council. If rumors aren''t enough, maybe we target their resources next. Cut their supply lines, slow their communications."


    Damian nodded, considering carefully. "Sabotage could work. The less stable they are internally, the more mistakes they''ll make."


    Cedric''s expression softened slightly, interest replacing some of his earlier caution. "If you need information on their movements, I can quietly contact some of my father''s informants still operating here. They might have something useful."


    Damian met Cedric''s gaze, grateful. "That would help. Anything we get, even small details, could turn the tables."


    Selena, sitting back down slowly, looked cautiously hopeful. "Maybe I can help too. I still have friends in the diplomatic corps who don''t trust the Council. They might speak freely around me, not suspecting I''d side openly against them."


    Damian glanced at her, worried despite himself. "Be careful, Selena. If they realize you''re gathering intel, things could get dangerous."


    She smiled faintly, trying to mask her nervousness. "I''ll be careful. I promise."


    Cassius glanced around the room, satisfied. "Then it''s settled. Selena and Cedric work discreetly to gather intel, we sabotage quietly from the shadows, and hope we shake them enough to make mistakes."


    Cedric nodded slowly, standing up with a resigned sigh. "Three days. Let''s see what we can achieve."


    Damian rose too, stretching slightly as the meeting seemed to wind down. Cedric nodded respectfully at Damian before turning toward the door. "I''ll return to our delegation and start making discreet inquiries."


    Selena hesitated, lingering behind slightly. She looked up at Damian, suddenly seeming small, vulnerable in the quiet of the room. "Thank you," she said softly. "For letting me stay."


    Damian''s heart twisted slightly, hearing the sincerity in her voice. He gave her a gentle smile, nodding. "Of course. Just... keep your guard up."


    She nodded slowly, eyes warm and trusting. "I will."


    He watched her leave with Cedric and Alric. The door closed softly.


    "Well," Cassius finally broke the quiet, clapping his hands lightly. "I suppose that settles it, then. Selena''s staying."


    Victoria gave a faint smirk, swirling her empty glass again, her crimson eyes sparkling with barely contained amusement. "Interesting twist, isn''t it? A fae princess willingly becoming our accomplice."


    Evelyn rolled her eyes gently at Victoria''s teasing tone, rising from her chair and stretching slightly. She glanced toward Damian, concern flickering briefly in her violet eyes, before she turned to Cassius. "Do you think we have spare clothes that would fit Selena?"


    Cassius nodded thoughtfully, already mentally mapping out the manor. "Yeah, I''m pretty sure we do. Third wardrobe on the second floor, guest wing. They should fit her well enough for now."


    Evelyn smiled gratefully. "Perfect. I''ll show her later."


    Cassius turned toward Damian, raising an eyebrow slightly when he noticed Damian''s distant expression. "And you, Damian¡ªany thoughts on Selena''s living arrangements? Any preferences?"


    Damian blinked, pulled abruptly from his tangled thoughts, and shook his head slowly. "No. Anything''s fine, as long as she''s safe."


    Cassius gave a short nod, then turned slightly and flicked two fingers toward the darkened corner of the room. The shadows there twisted unnaturally for a moment, stretching and condensing until a vaguely humanoid form emerged¡ªtall, sleek, and utterly silent. A shadow servant, shaped like a cloaked silhouette, bowed slightly at the command.


    "Escort Princess Selena to one of the guest rooms in the east wing," Cassius ordered, his voice low but firm. "Keep an eye out. No one gets close without my permission."


    The shadow dipped its head again, then glided soundlessly toward the hallway.


    Selena, who had been quietly standing nearby, gave Damian one last glance. Her eyes lingered on him with a quiet mix of worry and something softer¡ªsomething he didn''t have the strength to name just yet. Then she gave a polite nod to the others and followed the shadow servant, her soft footsteps fading into the hall.


    Only when she disappeared fully from sight did Cassius turn his full attention back to Damian.


    He chuckled knowingly, folding his arms as he watched Damian carefully. "Tell me what you''re thinking right now." He tilted his head, mockingly thoughtful. "Wait, let me guess. Worried about Selena?"

 Chapter 358 358: Flip The Narrative

    Warlock Ch 358. Flip The Narrative


    Damian sighed deeply, rubbing a hand across his forehead. "Not only her," he admitted quietly. "All of you. This... this whole thing feels like the start of something bigger. Something dangerous. It''s not going to be long before they paint us as the villains. I can already feel it."


    Cassius narrowed his eyes, studying Damian''s expression intently. "So what¡ªyou''re thinking of leaving us again? Disappearing into the shadows, trying to handle this alone?"


    Damian looked away, the idea twisting uncomfortably in his chest. It wasn''t that he wanted to run¡ªhe hated running. But the last thing he wanted was for his friends, the people he cared about, to suffer because of him. Especially Selena. She''d always been safe in her world, protected, happy. Damian knew firsthand the price of standing against the Council, the senators.


    It was harsh.


    Brutal.


    Unforgiving.


    "I''m not leaving," Damian finally said, his voice low and firm, though tinged with hesitation. "But it feels unfair dragging all of you into this mess. Selena''s used to a good life¡ªa happy life. She has everything to lose by being around me."


    Cassius laughed, short and humorless, shaking his head in disbelief. "Are you serious right now, Damian? Unfair?" His voice softened slightly, becoming serious. "You think any of us are here unwillingly? Selena made her choice, just like we did. You don''t have to keep carrying everything alone. Not anymore."


    Victoria leaned forward slightly, eyes glittering dangerously. "Cassius is right, Damian. You always do this¡ªtrying to bear all the responsibility yourself, thinking you''re protecting us." She paused, voice firm and unwavering. "Instead of constantly avoiding everything, why don''t you finally face it? Once and for all."


    Damian met Victoria''s gaze steadily, frustration warring with uncertainty. "That''s exactly my plan," he murmured, voice low but resolute. "But I''m afraid... no matter what we do, they''ll still manage to twist it around. They''ll paint us as villains. How do we fight that?"


    Victoria leaned back, a small, smug smile crossing her lips. "Simple. Flip the narrative. If they want to make us villains, then we need to show the people something else entirely. Make ourselves heroes."


    Damian frowned slightly, unsure. "Heroes?" The word felt foreign on his tongue, like a role he''d never been allowed to play. "How?"


    Evelyn stepped closer, gently placing a hand on Damian''s shoulder, her touch comforting yet firm. "You''ve already started. Those councils we eliminated last night¡ªthey were targeting innocent people. You saved lives."


    Damian exhaled slowly, considering her words. "But the Council controls the public''s perception. If they brand us as rogue magi, murderers... who''s going to believe our version of the story?"


    Victoria''s eyes narrowed thoughtfully, the wheels clearly turning in her mind. "Then we give them something undeniable. If rumors aren''t enough, then we gather proof. Hard, tangible proof. Documents, testimonies, anything that reveals the corruption inside the Council."


    Cassius nodded approvingly. "Exactly. People might ignore whispers, but physical evidence is much harder to dismiss. Even if the Council tries to suppress it, word will spread."


    Damian stood up, pacing slowly, the gears in his mind turning quickly. "But getting that proof won''t be easy. They''re extremely cautious."


    Cassius grinned faintly, his eyes brightening. "When have we ever backed down from a challenge?"


    Damian finally allowed a small smile, shaking his head gently. "Fair point."


    The silence settled again, more comfortable this time.


    Damian glanced toward the hallway where Selena had disappeared, thoughts drifting back to her again despite himself. He knew she had feelings for him¡ªhe''d seen it clearly today. And he wouldn''t deny there was something inside him that responded, something soft and vulnerable that craved what she seemed to promise. Warmth, acceptance, a moment of peace.


    But his world wasn''t peaceful. It was blood-stained, dangerous, a constant struggle to survive. Selena deserved better than that. He couldn''t¡ªwouldn''t¡ªlet her be dragged down into his darkness.


    Evelyn broke the silence gently, sensing his conflict. "Damian, Selena''s stronger than you think. She''s not naive. She knows exactly what she''s stepping into."


    Cassius nodded slowly. "And if she''s choosing to stay here, it means she''s already accepted the risks."


    Damian''s jaw tightened slightly, voice quiet. "I just don''t want her getting hurt because of me."


    Victoria stood up gracefully, stretching lightly, her crimson eyes locking onto Damian''s firmly. "Then don''t let her. Protect her. Protect all of us." She shrugged lightly, tone suddenly softer. "That''s your job, isn''t it?"


    Damian exhaled slowly, his tension easing slightly. Victoria was right. He couldn''t avoid this, couldn''t run from it. Not anymore. He''d already chosen this path, and now, he had people depending on him. He needed to stand firm¡ªno matter how dangerous things became.


    "Alright," Damian finally said, voice steadier now, more resolute. "Then we go all in. We flip the narrative, just like you said. If the Council wants to brand us as villains, we''ll show the people who the real villains are."


    Cassius grinned approvingly, slapping Damian''s shoulder lightly. "Now there''s the Damian we know."


    Damian chuckled softly, shaking his head in reluctant amusement. "Don''t get used to it. Optimism isn''t my style."


    Evelyn laughed lightly, eyes sparkling. "Too late. You''re stuck with it now."


    Victoria rolled her eyes dramatically, though a small, satisfied smile curved her lips. "And here I thought Damian finally grew up."


    Damian glared playfully at her. "Careful, or you''ll be drinking water instead of premium blood cocktails for the rest of the week."


    Victoria''s eyes widened slightly in mock horror. "You wouldn''t dare."


    "Try me," Damian replied smoothly, unable to hide his grin.


    The tension finally broke completely, replaced by quiet laughter. But even as Damian laughed quietly with them, his thoughts still drifted toward Selena, toward the uncertain days ahead. Three days. That was all they had. Three days to gather proof, three days to change public opinion, three days to protect Selena and keep their fragile alliance intact.


    And beneath it all, he couldn''t shake the feeling that even three days wouldn''t be enough to escape the storm coming their way.

 Chapter 359 359: Rats in a Burning Barn

    Warlock Ch 359. Rats in a Burning Barn


    After breakfast finally wound down and the others scattered to deal with their own tasks¡ªCassius to his reports, Evelyn to check the magical wards, Victoria had disappeared to gods-know-where, probably lounging in one of the manor''s sunrooms like a smug cat after getting her favorite toy.


    He didn''t feel like training. Not today. The high from last night''s flawless assassinations had already faded. The kind that clung to your skin and pressed against your skull like a storm waiting to break.


    The hallway felt colder than before, quiet in a way that pressed against Damian''s thoughts. He walked slowly, letting the silence seep into his skin, his mind already racing ahead.


    He''d just sent a few of his shadow servants into the city¡ªtasked with eavesdropping in council chambers, noble estates, and seedy backrooms where secrets liked to bleed. He doubted the senators and council bigwigs would stay silent after what happened.


    Sure, the assassinations had been clean. Silent. Elegant. Not even a drop of blood left behind. But people don''t just vanish without someone noticing eventually. Especially three Rank S magi with political weight.


    They''d be sniffing around by now. Talking in whispers. Pretending nothing had happened while secretly scrambling like rats in a burning barn.


    He couldn''t make a move until he saw how the pieces shifted. One wrong step and he''d be exactly where they wanted him¡ªcaught, framed, displayed to the public as the monster they were already painting him to be.


    So yeah. For now, it was a waiting game.


    He pushed open his bedroom door and stepped inside. The room was dim. The bed was still unmade, its sheets tangled from a restless sleep and... well, he didn''t even bother fixing it. No point.


    Damian crossed the room, tossing his coat over the back of a chair before sinking into the velvet armchair by the window. The view looked out over the southern courtyard, where twisted willow trees danced lazily in the wind.


    He reached for the bookshelf beside him and pulled out a familiar volume¡ª"Hexcraft & Hollow Crowns: A Treatise on Forgotten Blood Magic"¡ªa dense, ancient tome bound in cracked leather and faintly humming with latent mana. Dust flared into the air as he opened it, the smell of old parchment and dried herbs curling into his nose.


    He started reading, the words pulled him in like a spell. Diagrams of long-dead rituals, forgotten sigils, theoretical constructs of blood-forged pacts. It was all familiar, strangely comforting. A language he hadn''t spoken aloud in years, but still remembered like a scar.


    And then¡ªbecause of course¡ªhis peace didn''t last long.


    ''You always did have a thing for boring books,'' came a dry, sardonic voice from somewhere deep inside his chest.


    Damian froze.


    He didn''t look up. Just turned the page with a little more force than necessary.


    "Shut up," he muttered under his breath.


    The voice laughed¡ªlow and rich and irritatingly smug.


    ''Aww, don''t be like that, Kaelan. I was starting to miss our little chats. You''ve been unusually quiet lately. What happened? All those women keepin'' you too distracted to talk to your favorite parasite?''


    Damian gritted his teeth. "You''re not my favorite anything."


    ''Liar,'' the Demon King replied smoothly.


    Damian rolled his eyes, still scanning the page in front of him even though he''d already read it a dozen times. "You only ever show up when I''m trying to concentrate."


    ''Because it''s the best time to bother you,'' the voice said matter-of-factly. ''Besides, things are heating up, aren''t they? All this sneaking and killing and pretending you''re the morally gray hero. I''m just saying¡ªit''s starting to look awfully familiar.''


    Damian''s jaw tightened. "I''m not him anymore."


    ''That''s adorable. You even believe that.'' The Demon King chuckled darkly, the echo of it reverberating faintly through Damian''s mana core like a ripple in still water. ''But I know you, Kaelan. I was there when the world called you a savior. I was also there when they burned your statue to the ground and spat on your name.''


    Damian slammed the book shut, not caring that the sound cracked through the silence like a whip. He leaned forward, elbows on his knees, fingers steepled as he stared at the floor.


    "You done?"


    ''Nope,'' came the cheerful reply.


    Damian took a slow breath, exhaled. "Then say what you came to say."


    ''Fine.'' The voice shifted¡ªless mocking now, more thoughtful, even if it still held that ever-present edge of arrogance. ''You''re walking the same road again. Gathering allies. Making enemies of people in high places. You know how this ends, don''t you?''


    Damian stayed quiet.


    ''You fight. You win. And then they still crucify you because the truth doesn''t matter¡ªonly the version of it the people choose to believe.''


    Damian leaned back slowly, eyes closing. "Yeah. I know."


    ''So why are you doing it again?''


    He didn''t answer right away. Just let the silence settle between them like a thick fog. The truth was... he didn''t know. Not really. Maybe because he couldn''t ignore it. Maybe because the world kept giving him reasons to stand up and fight, even when he didn''t want to.


    He opened his eyes again, staring out the window.


    "I guess I just... can''t let it go," he said quietly. "Not when I know what''s happening behind the scenes. Not when I can actually do something."


    The Demon King was quiet for a moment. Then¡ª''You''re still such a bleeding heart.''


    "I''m trying not to be."


    ''Failing spectacularly.''


    Damian snorted. "You''re a real motivational speaker, you know that?"


    ''Hey, I have my moments. This one? Not one of them. I''m mostly here to mock you.''


    Damian shook his head, standing up to pace the room. "You''re irritating."


    ''And you''re predictable.''


    He paused by the mirror, looking at his reflection for a beat longer than he meant to. The faint red glow in his irises flickered¡ªremnants of the cursed mana running through his soul. The price of housing the Demon King in his core. The burden of power.


    "I don''t care if they paint me as the villain," he said aloud this time, voice low but clear. "I just don''t want to see the people I care about burned because of me."


    ''Too late for that, Kaelan. They''re already in the fire. You just haven''t noticed the smoke yet.''


    Damian''s chest tightened.


    Then a knock came at his door. Soft. Hesitant.

 Chapter 360 360: Im Holding Back

    Warlock Ch 360. I''m Holding Back


    Damian turned toward the sound, still standing halfway between the mirror and the bookshelf. His fingers flexed briefly. He expected Cassius, maybe Evelyn.


    But the presence behind the door wasn''t them.


    "Come in," he called.


    The door eased open.


    Selena stepped in, gently closing it behind her. She clutched her hands loosely in front of her, her eyes searching his face with quiet intensity.


    "Princess," Damian greeted with a polite nod, masking the slight surprise in his voice. "What brings you to my room? Do you need something?"


    She blinked at him, then offered a small smile¡ªnervous, hesitant. "Nothing. I just... wanted to talk." Her eyes softened. "Like a chat. I have nothing to do, after all."


    Damian''s brow arched slightly, but his expression remained calm. "Please, sit." He gestured to the armchair across from his, and as she moved toward it, he flicked his fingers, activating [Telekinesis] to return the thick tome to its place on the shelf behind him with a gentle thud.


    Selena sat carefully, hands folding over her lap. "Am I bothering you?"


    He shook his head and moved to sit across from her, elbows resting on his knees, posture casual but alert. "Not at all."


    She gave a small nod, glancing briefly at the window before looking back at him. He caught it again¡ªher hesitation.


    "Tea? Coffee?" Damian offered.


    Selena shook her head. "No. Thanks."


    "Alright," he said with a quiet sigh. "Then what do you want to talk about?"


    Selena tilted her head slightly, studying his face. "You look different."


    That caught him off guard.


    Damian blinked. "Different how?"


    Her gaze didn''t waver. "Back during the entrance exam, you looked more reckless. Messy. Kind of like a typical Rank A mage who got in by some miracle. Maybe a little arrogant, maybe a little stupid."


    Damian narrowed his eyes, lips twitching with the start of a grin. "Thanks?"


    She flushed. "No¡ªI mean, that''s what it looked like. At the time." She looked down briefly, then back up at him, expression softening. "But now... just a few weeks later, you''re like a completely different person."


    He leaned back slightly. "Different how?"


    Selena hesitated for a moment, choosing her words. "Sharper. Quieter. Like you''re always two steps ahead of everyone else. You walk into a room like you own it, like you already know what''ll happen. But back then, during the exam, you were¡ª"


    "¡ªLess impressive?" Damian finished, raising a brow.


    She bit her lip, then let out a small laugh. "I didn''t want to say it like that."


    He gave a low chuckle but didn''t deny it. "I was... holding back."


    Her eyes narrowed just slightly. "Why?"


    Damian shrugged, voice low. "Didn''t feel like showing my cards in front of the Council."


    Selena leaned forward a bit. "So you covered your power when you joined the exam?"


    He nodded once. "Kinda."


    There was a beat of silence before she spoke again, her voice gentler now. "But that masked warlock who saved you in the forest... that was you, wasn''t it?"


    Damian exhaled, eyes flicking toward the window for a brief second. "Yes... and no."


    Selena tilted her head, visibly confused. "What does that mean?"


    "It was the past me," he said softly. "Not me."


    Her brows furrowed. "That... makes no sense."


    Damian looked at her then, the shadows in his eyes deep and old, older than they had any right to be in someone his age. "There are things I can''t talk about, Princess."


    She sat back slightly, his words clearly cutting deeper than he intended. "Because I''m a stranger?"


    He winced. "That''s not what I meant."


    "Really?" Her voice was quiet, but it stung. "Because after everything¡ªafter risking my life to come here, after offering to help, after choosing to stay¡ªyou''re still keeping me at arm''s length?"


    "It''s not about trust," Damian muttered.


    "Then what is it about?"


    Damian''s fingers curled into fists for a moment before he forced them to relax. He sighed and looked up at her. "It''s about danger. The more you know about me¡ªthe real me¡ªthe more risk you take on. And you''ve already taken enough."


    Selena didn''t look away. "You don''t get to decide that for me."


    Her voice was firm now. Steady. She wasn''t some fragile little noble playing rebellion for fun. She meant every word.


    Damian let out a breath, dragging a hand through his hair. "You deserve to live a good life, Princess. Not get dragged into the shadows with me."


    "And what if I''m okay with the shadows?" she whispered.


    That stopped him. For a long moment, he didn''t speak. Couldn''t.


    Selena blinked, her voice softer now. "I know I''m not like Evelyn, or Victoria, or the others. But I meant what I said¡ªI''m not here because I want to play politics. I''m here because I trust you, Damian. And maybe because I..." She caught herself, looking down quickly. "Never mind."


    Damian swallowed thickly, heart hammering against his ribs. "Princess..."


    She stood abruptly. "Forget it. I didn''t mean to make things weird."


    He stood too, stepping forward. "You didn''t. It''s just... complicated."


    She looked up at him, and the light from the window caught her eyes just right¡ªsoft and stormy and full of hope. "Life is always complicated."


    There was a beat of silence. Then Damian sighed and nodded. "Yeah. It is."


    She gave him a small smile¡ªbrave and fragile at the same time. "Thanks for talking with me."


    "Anytime, Princess."


    Selena turned and walked to the door, her hand pausing on the handle. She glanced back over her shoulder. "And Damian?"


    "Yeah?"


    "If it still hurts... Please come to me."


    And then she slipped out, the door clicking shut behind her.


    Damian stood there for a moment longer, the echo of her words settling heavy in the room.


    ''You''re such a disaster,'' the Demon King murmured in his mind. ''You know she''s in love with you, right?''


    "I know," Damian whispered back.


    ''And you''re going to break her heart.''


    Damian didn''t answer. He just turned toward the window again, jaw clenched.


    He hated that the Demon King was probably right.

 Chapter 361 361: Don’t Pretend to be Noble

    Warlock Ch 361. Don''t Pretend to be Noble


    He let out a slow breath, letting himself fall back into the armchair. The room felt heavier now, the silence thicker. But not for long.


    ''You know what?'' the Demon King''s voice slithered into his mind, sharp and dry with amusement. ''Just fuck her and bind her with your contract. She''s a fae. You''d get her power, her soul, and honestly, you could use a little more fire on your side.''


    Damian huffed, eyes flicking toward the ceiling. "Yeah," he muttered sarcastically, "because that''s a totally healthy approach to relationships."


    ''Don''t pretend to be noble now,'' the voice drawled. ''You''ve done worse. A contract is a contract. Power is power. You knew the game before you even stepped onto the board again.''


    He leaned forward, elbows on his knees, rubbing at his temples. "I''m supposed to bind a princess with a good life to my cursed soul. Drag her into blood, lies, and shadow wars. What exactly do you think I can give her?"


    ''Well,'' the Demon King said, smug now, ''you didn''t think about that when you made the contract with Victoria.''


    Damian stiffened.


    The Demon King chuckled. ''She''s a queen. Powerful. Independent. Royalty. She had everything. And yet you didn''t hesitate.''


    "I knew what Victoria was capable of," Damian snapped. "I''ve seen her in combat. I know how strong she is. She''s been through hell long before she met me."


    ''So what you''re saying,'' the voice purred, ''is that the fae princess isn''t strong enough to be worthy of you?''


    "Tch," Damian gritted his teeth. "Shut up."


    ''Ooh, hit a nerve, did I?'' The voice was grinning now, you could practically hear it. ''So that''s it. You don''t think she can handle your world. That sweet little princess with stars in her eyes wouldn''t survive it.''


    Damian stood, pacing. "I''m not afraid she won''t survive. I''m afraid she''d change. And not for the better."


    ''You''re afraid she''ll end up like you.''


    That silenced him.


    The words sank deep.


    Damian stared at the floor, shadows shifting around his boots like creeping smoke. "Yeah," he said eventually. "I don''t want her to end up like me."


    ''And yet,'' the Demon King murmured, quieter now, less amused, ''she''s already started walking toward you.''


    He hated how true that was. Selena wasn''t just staying out of duty or politics¡ªhe saw it in her eyes. That unshakable pull, the way she looked at him like he was something worth saving. And maybe that''s what scared him most.


    "I''m not ready," he whispered to himself.


    ''No one ever is.''


    Silence fell again.


    Damian moved to the window, watching the clouds roll over the manor grounds, the gray light softening the angles of the twisted willow trees below. Wind bent the tall grass in slow, graceful arcs.


    He needed to focus.


    He couldn''t afford to get distracted now.


    "Maybe..." he muttered, running a hand through his hair, "maybe I should ask Victoria and Evelyn to help her. Train her. Show her the parts of this world I can''t. If she''s serious about staying..."


    ''So now you''re grooming her to survive you? Touching.''


    "Shut. Up."


    ''You shut up.''


    Damian sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose.


    "Look, if she''s going to stay, I''m not binding her unless she chooses it. Fully. Not because of love. Not because she feels obligated. But because she understands what it means."


    ''Then tell her.''


    "I will. When the time''s right."


    ''And until then?''


    He turned away from the window, face hardening. "We concentrate on cleaning up the Council filth."


    The Demon King hummed. ''Back to business then. I like that. Very Kaelan of you.''


    Damian ignored the name¡ªhis old name¡ªand grabbed his coat.


    There were people still out there¡ªpowerful mages, corrupt senators, fake heroes wearing clean robes soaked in invisible blood. They were the real problem. If he could finish what he started, maybe, just maybe, there would be room for something else. For someone like Selena.


    But not yet.


    Never yet.


    He opened the door and stepped out into the hallway. If Selena was going to stay... she''d need to be ready. And he needed to be strong enough to protect all of them¡ªwhether they loved him or not.


    Damian''s boots echoed against the cold stone floors of the manor as he walked with purpose, the distant hum of wards and protection barriers humming faintly in the walls. He didn''t head toward the library, or the east wing where the others were likely gathered. No, this time his feet led him somewhere quieter¡ªemptier.


    The training hall.


    He needed the grind.


    As the large oak doors to the training hall creaked open, the scent of iron, sweat, and magic-infused dust hit him. The place looked the same as always¡ªwide, circular, with the same runes scorched into the obsidian floor and scorch marks littering the walls. It was warded to hell and back, designed to contain spells and summoned creatures without spilling damage outside.


    It was perfect.


    Damian didn''t waste time.


    He reached into his satchel and pulled out two Summoning Crystals¡ªrough, jagged stones with crimson cores pulsing faintly under the surface. High-grade, unstable. The kind you weren''t supposed to use alone.


    He didn''t care.


    He stepped into the middle of the summoning circle etched into the floor, tossed the first crystal forward, then the second. The stones clacked against the ground, spinning slightly before flaring to life. Blood-red runes lit up beneath them, and the room shook as the mana thickened, the air going electric.


    The first creature appeared in a pulse of smoke and flame¡ªa Razorhide Cerberian, a three-headed hound demon, easily twice the size of a horse, its fangs dripping acid, its eyes glowing an unnatural blue. The second followed a second later¡ªa Thornmaw Goliath, all bark-skinned armor and spiked vines twisting around a core of molten stone.


    Both let out unholy shrieks.


    Damian didn''t flinch.


    [System Notice]


    Summon Complete


    Enemies: Razorhide Cerberian (Lv. 148) +Thornmaw Goliath (Lv. 151)


    Solo Combat Activated


    Perfect.


    No servants. No companions. No Cassius watching his form with a disapproving glare. Just him and the grind.


    Damian cracked his knuckles and took a deep breath.


    "Let''s begin."

 Chapter 362: Stay And Learn

    Warlock Ch 362. Stay And Learn


    Selena sat on the edge of the bed, staring at the quiet walls of the room Cassius had assigned to her.


    It wasn''t big by noble standards¡ªdefinitely not a palace suite or anything¡ªbut it was well-crafted and oddly... comforting. The walls were made of enchanted stone, warm to the touch and laced with subtle spellwork. The security here was no joke. She''d noticed at least three layers of warding the moment she walked in. Maybe more if she actually took the time to probe deeper.


    She pulled her knees up and wrapped her arms around them, her eyes drifting slowly around the space. A single window let in the cloudy afternoon light. Heavy black curtains framed it, but the glass itself was reinforced with a mana-binding layer. A small desk sat beneath the window, cleared and dusted. The wardrobe on the far side was slightly open, revealing the spare clothes Evelyn had mentioned earlier¡ªneutral tunics, soft pants, and even a cloak or two. Nothing flashy. Just... functional.


    And then there were the bookshelves.


    That, she hadn''t expected.


    Most guest rooms didn''t have any shelves at all, and if they did, they were filled with the usual decor books¡ª"Famous Spells of the Fourth Age," or "History of Haven''s Trade Agreements." But here?


    No.


    This was something else entirely.


    Every shelf was packed. Some tomes were thick and bound in worn leather, others narrow and shimmering with illusion-sealed pages. A few had no titles at all, just strange glyphs burned into the spine. Selena felt drawn to them immediately, half curious and half... weirded out.


    She stood and walked toward the nearest shelf, brushing her fingers across the covers. The books practically buzzed with old mana. The one that caught her eye first was wrapped in something like black silk and sealed with a faint blood rune. She grimaced slightly and reached for a different one, grabbing it off the shelf.


    The title made her blink.


    "Blood Sigils and Soul Marks: Reforging the Bound Contract"


    Selena squinted, tilting her head. "Uh... Warlocks sure have weird readings," she muttered.


    Still, she turned the book over in her hands. There was something fascinating about it, even if it wasn''t the kind of thing she''d normally read. She sat back down on the bed, resting the book in her lap, and opened it.


    The first page was entirely in glyphic script. Not fae. Not human. Something old. She could barely make sense of it.


    Flipping ahead didn''t help. The diagrams inside were unnerving¡ªcircles drawn in blood, names scratched out in arcane ink, soul fracture charts. At one point, she saw something that looked like a ritual involving a severed horn and a corrupted mirror.


    Selena scrunched her nose. "Okay... not bedtime reading."


    But despite herself, she kept looking.


    Because deep down, this was part of who Damian was. She could feel it. This was his world¡ªthese dark, complex, taboo-leaning studies. It was the kind of magic the fae high circles never even mentioned unless it was to whisper warnings. Warlocks were no longer hunted, sure, but they were still... strange. Always walking the edge of something darker. Dangerous.


    And yet... here she was. In his world.


    She looked at the book again and asked softly, "Damian studies this too?"


    She didn''t expect an answer. Of course not. But the thought stuck in her head like a splinter.


    Damian was so different now. So much colder. Sharper. He wasn''t the same boy she saw back during the exam¡ªcocky and kind of reckless. That guy had been interesting, sure, but this Damian? The one who moved through war councils and assassinations like a shadow? The one who stood toe to toe with mages three tiers the same as him and didn''t even blink?


    He was terrifying.


    And she couldn''t stop thinking about him.


    Selena set the book aside and curled her legs up beneath her, staring at the window as thoughts tumbled through her head.


    Was she really ready to be here?


    She''d insisted she could help, had stood in that dining hall and all but demanded to stay. But now, alone in this warlock''s manor, she was starting to realize just how deep she''d stepped into the dark.


    A knock on the door startled her.


    She stood quickly and smoothed her dress, calling out softly, "Yes?"


    It was just a shadow servant¡ªa silent figure made entirely of smoke and void magic, bowing its head respectfully as it entered. It carried a small tray¡ªtea and a few simple snacks¡ªand moved with the kind of eerie movement that made her neck prickle. Still, she offered a small smile and nodded.


    "Thank you."


    The servant bowed again and vanished into the wall like mist.


    Selena sat back down and took a slow sip of the tea, the warmth grounding her.


    "Okay," she whispered to herself. "You said you''d stay. So stay. Learn. Try to understand him."


    Another glance toward the book on the bed made her shiver slightly.


    "...even if he scares you."


    She couldn''t deny it. Damian did scare her sometimes. But not in a bad way. It wasn''t fear of harm¡ªit was fear of gravity. Of being pulled deeper into something she didn''t fully understand.


    Something she wasn''t sure she could climb out of once she was in too far.


    But that''s the thing about falling¡ªespecially for someone like Damian.


    It never really felt like falling.


    It felt like being caught.


    "Dumb," she whispered, shaking her head at herself, though she couldn''t help but smile a little. "I''m so dumb."


    Still, she reached out, hesitated, then picked up the book again. Maybe if she read a little more, she could understand. Maybe if she understood him... she could stand beside him. And maybe¡ªjust maybe¡ªhe''d stop calling her "Princess."


    Selena turned a few more pages, forcing her eyes to follow the strange inked diagrams and dark annotations, though most of it blurred together. Even the parts she could read barely made sense. Half of it sounded like metaphor, and the other half sounded like a riddle whispered during a fever dream. Her brows furrowed with each line.


    "...when the contract is sealed with blood willingly given, the soul becomes not a prisoner, but a mirror..."


    "What does that even mean?" she whispered, flipping back and forth between the pages.

 Chapter 363: His Training

    Warlock Ch 363. His Training


    Her thoughts drifted again. Not just to the book, but to him.


    Damian.


    When would he tell her everything? Would he ever?


    And when that time was coming¡ªif it was even coming¡ªwould she be ready?


    She closed the book gently, her fingers lingering on the cover.


    "Well... I''m not even sure the time will come," she whispered to the room.


    They only had three days. Three days to uncover a plot so tangled even the council didn''t seem to see it clearly. Three days to find a truth hidden beneath centuries of lies.


    If they failed... she''d be sent back.


    Back to the fae territory. Back to the safety of silver towers and gilded halls. Back to her father''s watchful eyes and endless diplomacy.


    And she wasn''t sure she''d ever get out again.


    "I can''t believe this," she murmured, voice raw. "All these years I''ve been looking for him. But when I met him... I have to separate again?"


    Her heart twisted.


    -DUM!


    The sudden boom of magic echoed through the manor like a war drum. Not a window-rattling explosion from the distant city¡ªthis one came from inside.


    Selena shot up from the bed, her body instantly alert.


    "What was that?"


    Another muffled boom followed. A low, vibrating thrum of power that rippled through the walls.


    That wasn''t just any explosion.


    It was a magic release.


    And not a small one.


    She shoved the book back onto the shelf, her breath quickening as she slipped out into the hallway. The usual quiet was gone¡ªreplaced with a subtle hum in the air, like the whole manor was holding its breath.


    Selena followed the pulse instinctively. Her feet moved quickly but carefully, the soft fabric of her slippers barely making a sound against the runed floor.


    The further she went, the stronger the pressure became.


    Until she turned a corner and saw them.


    Two shadow servants stood silently outside a thick set of blackstone doors. They were taller than the ones she''d seen working around the manor¡ªbroader too¡ªand something about the way their mana flared at the edges told her they weren''t Cassius''s.


    These were Damian''s.


    She could feel it.


    Their forms were darker, edges constantly shifting, like their bodies were only just holding themselves together. They didn''t move, didn''t even seem to breathe. Just stood there like statues.


    Selena approached slowly.


    "Um..." she began softly, then cleared her throat, trying to hide the tremor in her voice. "Is Damian inside?"


    One of the servants tilted its head slightly, as if acknowledging her. Its voice was barely audible¡ªmore like a whisper directly in her mind than sound through the air.


    "Master Damian is training. If you require him, we can deliver a message."


    Training? Was that what all this was?


    Selena''s brows furrowed. "Can I watch?"


    There was a pause, and then. "Yes. But please do not step inside the barrier. It will be dangerous."


    She nodded immediately. "Of course."


    The shadow stepped aside without another word, and the door creaked open.


    The moment it did, heat and mana poured out like a wave, brushing against her skin and making her breath catch.


    It felt like walking into a storm.


    Selena stepped inside slowly, her eyes adjusting to the low light. The massive training hall stretched out before her¡ªcircular, reinforced with runes and obsidian walls, everything thrumming with active warding. And there, in the middle of the chaos, was him.


    Damian.


    His coat was off, shirt torn along the side, exposing a deep cut across his ribs that pulsed with faint red light¡ªalready healing, but clearly fresh.


    Around him, two summoned monsters roared.


    One was a Razorhide Cerberian, its three heads dripping with venom, fangs snapping through the air as it lunged. The other was a Thornmaw Goliath, its massive frame covered in bark armor and shifting vines, molten energy glowing beneath its skin.


    And Damian?


    He didn''t flinch.


    He moved.


    Dodging the Cerberian with a tight roll, he slid beneath its belly and struck upward with a blade of pure void magic¡ª[Shadow Fang], if she remembered correctly.


    The beast shrieked as dark energy erupted through its spine, and Damian twisted away, not pausing to catch his breath.


    The Goliath''s arm slammed down where he''d just stood.


    He countered with [Shadow Step], reappearing above the monster mid-air, plunging his dagger into the exposed molten shoulder. Mana burst from the impact, shaking the floor.


    Selena''s eyes widened.


    He wasn''t training.


    He was fighting like his life depended on it.


    His breathing was heavy. Sweat ran down his back. His movements weren''t choreographed¡ªthey were raw. Desperate. As if he wasn''t just fighting monsters... but something inside himself.


    She watched, frozen in place, hands tightening around the edge of the railing that ran along the upper level of the hall.


    Every move Damian made was precise. Brutal. Controlled chaos. He took hits but never backed down. Never faltered.


    He was grinding.


    Pushing himself past his limit on purpose.


    But he ignored them all.


    Selena swallowed hard, her heart racing.


    ''What are you doing to yourself, Damian?''


    Finally, after what felt like an eternity, he brought both monsters down with a massive burst of mana¡ª[Nova Burst], an advanced spell she didn''t even know warlocks could use without a catalyst. The entire chamber shook.


    The Cerberian crumbled into ash.


    The Goliath shattered into vines and stone.


    Damian dropped to one knee, panting.


    Selena''s heart ached at the sight.


    She wanted to go to him. Say something. Anything.


    But she remembered what the servant said.


    ''Don''t step inside the barrier.''


    She stayed back, watching as Damian slowly stood again, brushing a bloody hand through his hair, chest rising and falling with every ragged breath.


    He didn''t even notice her.


    And in that moment, Selena realized¡ª She didn''t understand his world.


    Not really.


    But she wanted to.


    She wanted to be strong enough to stand beside him.


    Even if he never stopped calling her "Princess."


    Selena''s grip on the railing tightened as her breath caught in her throat. Her wide eyes remained locked on the battlefield below.


    The training hall trembled again.

 Chapter 364: Suicidal Training [Part 1]

    Warlock Ch 364. Suicidal Training [Part 1]


    The two summoning crystals, still pulsing faintly in their magic circles, suddenly flared brighter¡ªlike heartbeats accelerating into a panic. A second later, their light turned blinding, pulsing so hard it sent thin cracks spiraling through the summoning stones.


    "No way," she whispered, stepping back instinctively.


    The air in the room grew thick again, charged with volatile mana. The summoning runes blazed brighter, and in the span of two heartbeats¡ª


    Five new monsters emerged from the haze.


    Five Razorhide Cerberians leapt into the chamber with snarling growls, acid dripping from their jaws and their eyes burning blue with summoned fury. Their three heads barked and twisted wildly, pawing at the ground like beasts already mid-hunt.


    And right behind them, lumbering forward, were another five Thornmaw Goliaths, their bodies crackling with bark-like armor and molten energy. Ten monsters. Ten high-level summons. All at once.


    Selena could barely process what she was seeing.


    Damian, still catching his breath, just glanced at the wave.


    "Another wave already?" he muttered under his breath, voice strangely calm. Not annoyed. Not panicked. Just... resigned.


    Selena stared, absolutely stunned.


    ''Training with one summoning crystal was already considered excessive.'' She had tried it once in her life¡ªonce¡ªand it left her on the floor, vomiting mana and barely conscious. But two crystals? Back-to-back? This was beyond reckless.


    It was suicidal.


    And yet...


    Damian didn''t waver.


    He stood tall.


    No backup. No servants. No Cassius. He didn''t even have a shield equipped. Just his coat flaring behind him like a dark halo and that look in his eyes¡ªthe one that made it feel like he already knew how this would end.


    The Cerberians pounced.


    Damian reacted instantly.


    His fingers snapped through the air.


    [Dark Chains]


    Chains of void surged from the floor, wrapping around the first four Cerberians mid-leap, dragging them down into the stone like weighted anchors. The beasts howled and struggled, but their power visibly dropped.


    Four down.


    Six to go.


    The other Cerberian got close¡ªtoo close¡ªand launched a stream of acidic flame toward him.


    [Shadow Step]


    He vanished in a burst of dark smoke and reappeared behind it. A pulse of Terror radiated from his arrival point, and the monster staggered, yelping.


    Damian raised a hand.


    [Hellfire Spear]


    A spear of flame and corrosion burst into existence in his grip. With a twist, he hurled it directly into the beast''s central skull. The explosion that followed sent a wave of heat through the chamber, shaking the very walls.


    Selena gasped.


    The monster''s body shattered.


    One down. Nine to go.


    And Damian¡ªDamian looked like he was just getting started.


    The Goliaths stomped forward now, their massive fists glowing molten red.


    [Spectral Surge]


    Damian''s form blurred, then tripled, afterimages of himself flashing around the chamber as he moved at impossible speeds. He zigzagged across the field, his spear slicing through vines and bark, tearing into the beasts before they could pin him.


    The chains holding the first wave finally cracked. The Cerberians freed themselves¡ªbut Damian was already mid-spell.


    [Dark Dominion]


    A pulse of darkness exploded outward from him, forming an aura that drowned the chamber in oppressive mana. The Cerberians skidded to a halt. Their howls turned to whimpers.


    Terror.


    Real, soul-deep terror.


    Selena could feel it from the upper level. Her heart was pounding, her legs shaking¡ªand the aura wasn''t even aimed at her.


    What kind of training was this?


    What kind of person was Damian becoming?


    One of the Goliaths tried to smash him from behind.


    He spun.


    [Void Rift]


    A swirling rift tore open behind him, dragging the Goliath in like a black hole. Its movement slowed drastically, its bark splintering under the void pressure.


    [Shadow Inferno Strike]


    Damian burst forward in a streak of black and red flame, crashing into the beast with a devastating explosion. The Goliath''s body didn''t just fall¡ªit disintegrated into flaming ash.


    Selena couldn''t breathe.


    He was¡ª


    Beautiful.


    Terrifying.


    Flawless.


    And utterly alone in a room filled with monsters.


    No hesitation. No doubts. Just... focus.


    Damian pivoted, muttering something under his breath.


    [Curse of Agony]


    Chains of cursed energy slammed into two more Cerberians, slowing them, draining them, the magic twisting around their limbs like poison.


    [Blood Manipulation]


    He raised a hand, and with a slow, deliberate gesture, the blood of the Cerberians began to tremble.


    Selena''s eyes widened.


    The blood in their bodies... moved.


    It squirmed under their skin, pulsing, writhing¡ªthen burst. Not outwards, but inwards. The Cerberians screamed¡ªthen collapsed, blood erupting in a crimson shockwave that damaged the Goliath standing beside them.


    [Bloodwell Surge]


    The fallen beasts'' blood rose like mist, drawn into Damian''s body, restoring his wounds instantly. His torn skin reknit. His shallow breath steadied.


    It was monstrous.


    And yet it was him.


    Selena''s legs finally gave out. She knelt behind the railing, heart racing.


    She didn''t know how long she stayed there. Watching. Listening. Holding her breath.


    And still, he kept going.


    More spells.


    More counters.


    More enemies downed, one after another, like he was caught in a loop of destruction and control.


    It was like...


    He was trying to bury something.


    Selena''s eyes softened.


    "No," she whispered. "Not trying to win..."


    He was trying to bleed something out.


    To erase something from himself.


    All this power. All this control. All this magic wasn''t about growth or mastery.


    It was survival.


    It was therapy.


    It was punishment.


    The final Goliath fell with a massive impact that rocked the entire chamber. Damian stood there, surrounded by ash and scattered remains, his body drenched in sweat, his breath ragged.


    Selena rose slowly, walking toward the barrier.


    The shadow servant stepped slightly forward but didn''t stop her. She didn''t cross the line.


    She just watched.


    And for the first time...


    Damian noticed her.


    He turned, startled, and for a moment, the mask cracked. Just a little.


    "...Princess?" His voice was hoarse.


    Selena looked at the devastation behind him. The blood. The void-scorched walls.


    And then she looked at him¡ªreally looked.


    Eyes full of weight. Shoulders bearing more than she could guess.


    "I..." she hesitated, then smiled gently. "I just wanted to understand you better."


    Damian blinked, as if unsure how to respond.


    Selena didn''t push further.


    She just stood there¡ªoutside the barrier.


    And for now, that was enough.

 Chapter 365: Suicidal Training [Part 2]

    Warlock Ch 365. Suicidal Training [Part 2]


    Just for a second. Their gazes met.


    And his frown deepened.


    "Understand me better?" Damian''s voice was rough, low, but it still carried across the barrier.


    She opened her mouth, unsure what she was going to say. Maybe yes, maybe you scare me, maybe I want to know why it hurts so much when you smile like that¡ª


    But she never got the chance.


    The summoning crystals pulsed again.


    No warning. No hesitation.


    Just another burst of violent red light and crashing mana. The floor beneath the summoning circles cracked from the force as another wave surged to life.


    Selena flinched. "Again...?"


    Even from where she stood, she could feel the pressure of it¡ªlike the room itself was being squeezed tighter and tighter with each wave.


    Damian didn''t look away from the creatures forming in front of him.


    "Seems the talk has to wait," he muttered, his voice flat but oddly calm.


    In one smooth movement, he summoned it.


    [Hellfire Spear]


    Flames burst to life in his hand, twisting and solidifying into a spear of molten crimson. Its surface pulsed with burning runes, and the heat it radiated made Selena take a step back.


    Damian didn''t just throw it this time.


    He gripped the weapon with both hands and charged forward.


    Not like a warlock.


    Not like someone casting from behind barriers and controlling demons from afar.


    No¡ªthis was close combat. This was rage. Precision. Violence.


    This was a battle mage.


    This was something else entirely.


    The monsters lunged.


    Cerberians again, mixed with another set of strange, vine-armored beasts that Selena didn''t even recognize from her studies. Their levels had to be high. Any one of them would''ve been enough to send a standard-ranked mage running. But Damian didn''t even flinch.


    He slammed into them like a storm.


    The spear spun in his hands like a dance, each sweep igniting the air in arcs of flame. One of the Cerberians lunged at him and he spun low, ducking beneath the bite, then drove the spear up into its gut.


    It exploded into flames.


    Another monster struck from behind.


    [Spectral Surge]


    Damian''s form blurred¡ªagain and again¡ªand reappeared just behind the attacker, sliding the spear along its spine and cleaving through vines, bark, and molten flesh.


    Selena could only watch.


    And her heart ached.


    "A warlock..." she murmured, eyes locked on the way he moved¡ªhow he didn''t cast from a distance but threw himself into the fight. "A battle mage... a magi... a blood mage..."


    She didn''t know how to define him anymore.


    Her voice barely a whisper: "What are you, Damian?"


    Every swing, every spell, every reckless dash¡ªit wasn''t just combat.


    It was something deeper.


    Like he was venting.


    Like he was bleeding himself dry on purpose.


    Pain in motion.


    She could see it now. Not just in how he moved, but in the way he took hits without flinching, how he let the enemy close¡ªtoo close¡ªlike he needed the pain to feel real. Like he was chasing it. Like it was the only thing keeping him from falling apart.


    Selena''s chest tightened.


    "And it still hurts, doesn''t it?" she whispered.


    The way he had looked in the forest when she first met him¡ªwounded, but standing. Angry, but calm. She had seen that same darkness in his eyes back then. The kind that didn''t come from arrogance or cruelty, but from loss. From being alone for too long.


    She thought maybe it had healed.


    But now...


    Now she realized that the pain had never gone anywhere.


    It just learned how to hide behind bigger spells.


    Damian dashed forward again, this time spinning mid-air and unleashing [Infernal Javelins]. The blazing spears formed around him and shot outward, exploding on impact, lighting up the training hall like a second sunrise. The barrier between them flickered from the impact, but held firm.


    She flinched from the blast, her hands trembling as the mana waves washed over her.


    When the smoke cleared, Damian stood in the center of the carnage, shoulders heaving, arms slack. His clothes were burned, torn in places. Blood soaked his side where something had landed a lucky hit¡ªbut he didn''t seem to notice.


    One of the monsters, barely clinging to life, growled and started to charge.


    Damian didn''t even look.


    [Blood Manipulation]


    He flicked his wrist, and the creature''s body locked up. Blood burst from its pores in a fine mist, then compressed into a spear that slammed back into its chest. The beast crumpled mid-run, dead before it hit the floor.


    Silence.


    Damian stood there.


    Breathing hard.


    Still.


    Selena took a step forward.


    The shadow servant by the door stirred slightly, but didn''t stop her. She didn''t cross the barrier. Just moved closer¡ªclose enough that her voice could carry without magic.


    "Damian..." she said softly.


    He didn''t turn around.


    "You don''t have to keep doing this alone," she said, her voice barely audible. "You know that, right?"


    Silence.


    She bit her lip, stepping even closer. "You don''t have to keep hurting just to feel like you''re still here."


    Still, nothing.


    She exhaled slowly. "I can''t fight like you. I don''t have your power. Or your scars. But I''m still here. And I meant it when I said I wanted to understand you."


    A long pause.


    Then finally, his voice.


    "...I know."


    It wasn''t much.


    But to Selena, it was everything.


    She stood there as Damian turned back toward the center of the room, his expression unreadable, his back still carrying the weight of a hundred memories she''d never seen.


    Selena didn''t move. Didn''t speak. The barrier still hummed between them, separating her from the battlefield¡ªand from him. But in that moment, she realized there were other barriers too. Invisible ones. The kind made of choices and regrets, of things said too late and things never said at all.


    Damian didn''t look at her. He just kept staring ahead, shoulders still, hands clenched at his sides. His voice, when it came, was low but clear, slicing through the mana-charged air.


    "But I still have a lot of things to do," he said. "I need to get stronger for it."


    Selena swallowed.


    "Because..." he paused, exhaling a shaky breath, "I don''t want to repeat the same things."

 Chapter 366: Is This His Punishment?

    Warlock Ch 366. Is This His Punishment?


    There was a hint of something in his voice¡ªsomething small and frayed at the edges. Not regret. Not really. Just... weariness. The kind that came from carrying too much for too long.


    He turned slightly, just enough for her to see the side of his face. There was a faint smile there¡ªtired, yes, but determined.


    "I chose this path," he said. "I''m the one who started it, so I''ll be the one to end it."


    Selena didn''t reply.


    She couldn''t.


    She could only watch as the summoning crystals flared again, casting wild shadows across the hall as two more monsters formed. This time, they came out roaring¡ªCerberians again, bigger than the last wave, their bodies pulsing with unstable energy.


    Before they had even fully materialized, they lunged¡ªfast, coordinated, one flanking from the side, the other barreling straight at Damian''s exposed back.


    Selena''s heart stopped.


    "Damian¡ª!"


    But he was already moving.


    He jumped back, just before the first set of jaws snapped where his neck had been, twisting midair with that inhuman grace that made it look effortless.


    The [Hellfire Spear] appeared again in a burst of flame, summoned to his hand like it had always belonged there.


    He didn''t hesitate.


    Mid-spin, he reversed his grip and drove the spear down into the skull of the Cerberian charging from below. The point pierced through hide and bone with a sickening crunch, and the creature''s momentum carried it into the floor in a heap of smoke and burning flesh.


    The second came at him from behind.


    Damian yanked the spear free with a hiss and rolled across the ground, narrowly avoiding a bite that would''ve taken off his leg. He came up on one knee, blood trailing down his arm where one of the claws had grazed him.


    His eyes burned.


    Selena stared.


    She''d never seen anyone move like that.


    He wasn''t just fighting. He was flowing¡ªadapting to every move, every counter. Like he knew what they''d do before they even thought of it.


    The monster howled, charging again.


    Damian didn''t flinch.


    [Dark Chains]


    The floor erupted with shadowy tendrils that lashed out, anchoring the beast''s limbs in place. It struggled, snarling, but the chains held fast.


    [Curse of Agony]


    Dark energy spiraled into the air before slamming into the monster''s chest. It let out a screech, its movements slowing, its skin visibly corroding.


    And Damian?


    He just walked toward it.


    Step by step.


    No panic. No hesitation.


    His spear ignited again in crimson flame, brighter than before. He launched forward with a roar that matched the monster''s, slamming the weapon into its core and twisting it until the entire thing exploded in a burst of ash and fire.


    Then silence.


    Thick, heavy silence.


    Selena stood frozen.


    Damian was breathing hard, bloodied and burnt, his clothes half-shredded. But his eyes¡ªhis eyes were still sharp. Focused.


    He didn''t even acknowledge the victory.


    Just turned toward the summoning crystals again.


    Because he knew.


    Another wave was coming.


    Selena watched all of it.


    And she didn''t say a word.


    Not because she didn''t want to.


    But because she didn''t know how.


    She had never felt more useless. More helpless. She was a trained magi, a noble of the fae court. She''d been in battles before. She''d cast spells, defended cities, negotiated with diplomats that could kill with a whisper.


    But here?


    She was just watching.


    Watching someone she¡ª


    No.


    She wasn''t going to say that word yet.


    But it was there. Sitting just beneath her ribs like a heartbeat too fast.


    What scared her more wasn''t the monsters, or the magic, or even the way Damian tore through them without mercy.


    What scared her was how alone he looked.


    He was surrounded by power. But there was no warmth in it. No joy.


    Every spell. Every strike. Every kill¡ªit wasn''t for victory.


    It was for release.


    A vent for everything locked behind his eyes.


    She remembered the look he''d given her when she first found him in the forest years ago.


    Wounded.


    But quiet.


    Lonely.


    And now?


    He was still wounded.


    Still quiet.


    Still so damn alone.


    She wrapped her arms around herself, watching as he wiped blood from his cheek, only for more to slide down from a new gash.


    "I don''t want to repeat the same things," he''d said.


    Was this what he meant?


    Was this his punishment?


    ''Damian...''


    Selena took a breath.


    It was shallow. Tight. One of those breaths that didn''t actually calm anything, didn''t steady the storm building behind her ribs. Her eyes remained locked on Damian¡ªstill fighting, still burning. She didn''t even know how long he had been down there now. An hour? Two? Time had blurred into ash and spells and fire.


    A voice came from her side, soft and low.


    "You look about to cry, Princess."


    Selena flinched.


    She turned.


    It was Evelyn.


    The witch leaned casually against the far wall beside the observation platform, arms folded across her chest, her eyes fixed on Damian below. Her expression, as always, was unreadable¡ªcool, composed, like she''d already seen this scene a hundred times before.


    "I''m not crying," Selena said too quickly. "I''m just¡ª"


    "Worried?" Evelyn cut in.


    Selena hesitated, then nodded. "Yes."


    There was a pause. Evelyn didn''t turn to look at her. She just kept watching Damian, lips twitching upward in a knowing sort of way.


    "Yeah," she said quietly. "Me too."


    Selena''s heart twisted a little.


    "But this view," Evelyn added, almost like she was commenting on the weather, "is normal. So get used to it."


    Selena stared at her, stunned. "This is normal?"


    Evelyn finally looked over, one brow raised. "You think this is bad? You should''ve seen the first week after he returned from the exam. He trained until he coughed blood. Cassius nearly locked the training room, but Damian threatened to leave if he did."


    Selena''s eyes widened. "He... what?"


    Evelyn smiled, but it was tired. "You''ll be shocked how far he pushes himself. Even without being asked."


    "Why?" Selena asked, voice barely above a whisper. "Why would he go that far? Isn''t he already strong enough?"

 Chapter 367: He Knows His Enemy

    Warlock Ch 367. He Knows His Enemy


    Evelyn looked back down at Damian, who was now circling a monster like a predator on the edge of patience. "Because he knows his enemy."


    Selena frowned slightly. "The senators?"


    "Them," Evelyn said. "And the corrupted within the council. But also others. Hidden players. He doesn''t say it outright, but I know what he''s feeling." She exhaled. "They''re not just powerful, Selena. They''re smart. Ruthless. They use people. Burn them. And they never fight fair."


    Selena tightened her arms around herself.


    Evelyn continued, her voice gentler now. "Damian doesn''t want to be a burden to us. That''s what drives him the most. He doesn''t fight to prove he''s stronger. He fights because... he''s scared we''ll get hurt."


    Selena blinked. That word. Scared. It didn''t fit the Damian she knew. Not the one casting spells like storms or tearing monsters apart with burning spears.


    "He''s desperate," Evelyn murmured. "You can feel it in the way he moves, right?"


    Selena nodded slowly.


    "And it''s because he wants to protect us."


    There was silence for a while.


    Just the sound of spells echoing through the training hall, mixed with monster roars and the heavy pulse of mana-laced air.


    Selena broke the quiet. "Lady Evelyn..."


    Evelyn tilted her head slightly.


    "Evelyn is fine," she said.


    Selena hesitated. "Then... Evelyn..."


    Another pause.


    "Do you love him?"


    It came out more honest than she expected. Her voice cracked on the last word. Not with bitterness. Not with accusation. Just quiet longing. And maybe a little fear of the answer.


    Evelyn didn''t hesitate.


    "Yes," she said, her voice soft but steady. "I love him. More than anything."


    There was no fanfare. No theatrics. Just truth. Plain and raw.


    Selena looked down.


    She shouldn''t be surprised. But it still made something in her chest ache.


    "...Since when?" she asked.


    Evelyn smiled a little. "Since he gave me a choice no one else did. Since he looked at me¡ªnot as a weapon, not as a witch, but as someone worth fighting for."


    Selena was quiet for a long moment. "He calls me ''Princess'' all the time."


    Evelyn chuckled. "Yeah. That''s how he keeps distance."


    "I hate it," Selena murmured.


    "I know."


    She looked over at Evelyn again, and for once, the woman''s guarded expression softened entirely.


    "I won''t ask you to give up," Evelyn said. "If you want to stay by his side, then fight for it. But know this..."


    She leaned in just slightly.


    "Loving him means accepting how broken he is. And still choosing him every day."


    Selena''s throat tightened.


    Evelyn smiled.


    "And he''s worth it."


    They both looked down again.


    Damian was still fighting.


    Still standing.


    Still alone in the fire.


    Selena didn''t say anything more.


    But she stayed.


    "You''ll be fine," Evelyn said, her eyes steady. "Just don''t overthink things too much."


    Selena glanced toward her. "You''re leaving?"


    Evelyn nodded, then held something out to her¡ªtwo small glass bottles. One glowing blue, the other a pale gold. A third item rested in her other hand, a soft towel folded neatly.


    "He''ll need these when he''s done," she said.


    Selena blinked. "Mana and stamina potions?"


    "Yup," Evelyn said, smirking. "Not because he needs them. But because sometimes he forgets he''s human. The towel''s for the blood. Just in case."


    Selena took them slowly, holding the bottles carefully in both hands. "Thank you."


    Evelyn gave her a knowing smile, a little too soft for someone known to freeze a mage''s lungs with a word. "You''re welcome. And Selena?"


    She looked up.


    "Try not to fall harder while he''s covered in monster blood."


    Then she was gone¡ªvanishing into a puff of midnight mist.


    Selena sighed, looked at the bottles, and waited.


    It felt like another hour passed. Maybe more. She wasn''t counting how many waves came anymore. Ten? Twelve?


    But eventually... it ended.


    The summoning crystals flickered weakly, their once-pulsing cores now dulled like burned-out embers. Their mana spent, finally giving in to silence.


    Selena stepped closer to the barrier''s edge, still clutching the potions and towel. Her heart pounded, half from anticipation, half from something else she couldn''t name.


    Damian stood in the center of the devastation, alone. Ash clung to his clothes, cuts streaked across his skin, and his left glove was nearly melted off. His hair was damp with sweat, clinging to his forehead. He looked exhausted.


    He turned slightly. Then¡ªhe stopped.


    And she saw it.


    The wound on his chest, one that had been deep and gushing only moments before, was knitting itself together. Skin closed. Muscle mended. The blood clinging to him dried out, the gash vanishing as though it had never been there.


    Her jaw dropped.


    Damian stretched his shoulder, rolling it like someone brushing off a bruise.


    "What..." she whispered to herself.


    He turned then¡ªand saw her.


    His eyes blinked once.


    Then¡ª He vanished in a blink of a shadow.


    [Shadow Step]


    He appeared right in front of her with a soft burst of black mist, startling her so badly she almost dropped the potions.


    He smirked, tilting his head. "Are those for me?"


    It was like¡ª It was him again.


    The Damian from the exam. The one who grinned at her after casting his [Dark Chains] or pretended to be a lunatic and chased around other participants.


    His presence wasn''t heavy anymore. No aura of wrath, no darkness looming behind his shoulders. He just... smiled.


    Like he''d flipped a switch.


    Selena stared at him for a second, stunned. Then she shook herself and held out the bottles and towel.


    "Evelyn told me to give you these," she said, trying to keep her voice even. "She said you''d forget to stop."


    Damian took the towel first, rubbing it across the back of his neck, then chuckled. "She''s not wrong."


    He accepted the potions but didn''t drink them right away. Instead, he stepped past the barrier fully and leaned against the stone wall beside her, head tilted back.


    "Thanks," he murmured.


    Selena looked up at him. "You were... amazing down there."


    Damian''s eyes remained closed. "It''s not amazing when you''re just running from your own head."

 Chapter 368 368: I’m Learning Things

    Warlock Ch 368. I''m Learning Things


    She didn''t know how to respond to that.


    So she didn''t.


    They stood in silence.


    She glanced at the training hall¡ªat the destroyed floor, the ruined walls, the marks his magic had carved into the stone. This room had probably seen hundreds of battles, hundreds of training sessions.


    But nothing like what Damian just did.


    "I saw you heal," she said finally.


    Damian opened his eyes.


    Selena frowned slightly. "You didn''t even drink anything. The wound just... closed."


    He looked at her for a long moment, then said, "I''m learning things."


    "Warlock things?"


    "Something like that."


    Selena shifted, brushing a lock of hair behind her ear. "It''s not normal, is it?"


    "No."


    "Does it hurt?"


    He paused.


    Then he gave her that small smile again. "Only sometimes."


    She lowered her gaze.


    "You don''t have to push yourself like this," she said quietly.


    "I know." He looked down at the towel now stained with ash and sweat in his hand. "That''s the thing," he murmured. "Now that I''m not alone... I''m scared of losing it."


    Selena didn''t say anything at first. She wasn''t sure she needed to. She just stood there beside him, the scent of scorched stone and burned monsters still clinging faintly to the air.


    Then, as if catching himself being too serious for too long, Damian straightened and rubbed the back of his neck with a small, sheepish laugh.


    "Anyway," he said, voice lighter now, like he was trying to reset the mood, "I''m probably gonna have to fix this place before Cassius sees it and kicks me out."


    Selena blinked and looked over her shoulder at the mess of the training hall. The floor was cracked in multiple places, some of the summoning circles had deep scorch marks carved into them, and one of the walls had collapsed halfway inward from some earlier explosion. Smoke still curled lazily from one of the stone support beams.


    "...Yeah," she muttered. "It kind of looks like a dungeon boss used this place as a chew toy."


    Damian grinned, throwing the towel over his shoulder like a casual bard after a gig. "Well, it was a productive grind session."


    She laughed, a quiet thing that surprised even her. It felt good to hear him speak like that¡ªto see this side of him again, the one that teased, that smiled, that didn''t look like he was always preparing for the end of the world.


    "I can help, you know," she offered after a beat. "With the repairs."


    Damian raised an eyebrow, amused. "Appreciate the offer, Princess, but I got it covered. I''ve got some cool spells for this stuff. Plus, my shadow servants are pretty handy."


    Selena folded her arms. "You can even fix all this? Like, restore walls and stone and all that?"


    He shrugged, trying not to look too proud. "Yeah. I mean, it took some trial and error. Mostly error. But I figured it out."


    Her brow rose. "Cassius taught you?"


    Damian''s grin turned sheepish. He glanced to the side, not quite meeting her gaze.


    "...No. I, uh... taught myself."


    She stared. "You taught yourself magic repair?"


    He rubbed the back of his neck again. "Let''s just say when you blow up one or two... okay, five rooms over the span of a month, you start to realize hiring people every time gets expensive. And Cassius gave me that look one too many times."


    Selena blinked. "What look?"


    "The ''if-you-break-my-library-again-I''m-feeding-you-to-the-walls'' look."


    She laughed again, genuinely now, and Damian looked relieved to hear it.


    "Honestly," he said, stepping away from the wall and glancing around the ruined chamber, "I probably only need half an hour. Some [Fix], a few shadow servants for lifting the big chunks, and we''ll be good. Easy."


    Selena took a small step forward, her smile dimming just slightly. "So... after that... what happens next?"


    Damian turned his head, eyes flicking back toward her.


    She hesitated, then spoke again. "What can I do? If I want to stay? With you?"


    The question hung there.


    Raw. Exposed.


    Damian blinked.


    Selena''s heart thudded painfully in her chest. She hadn''t meant to be that direct. Or maybe she had. It was hard to tell anymore. But she meant it. She wasn''t asking out of curiosity. She wasn''t here to be polite.


    She was here because she didn''t want to go.


    And he knew it.


    He looked down for a long moment, then said, quietly, "Your dad''s permission."


    Selena''s breath caught.


    "You''ll need that," Damian added. "If you want to stay."


    She looked down at her hands, fingers tightening slightly. "So that''s it?"


    He looked at her. "Selena..."


    "I''m not a kid," she said, voice soft but firm. "I know what''s out there. I know what you''re fighting. I chose to be here."


    "I know you did," Damian said, sighing. "But your father is the High Fae Lord of one of the most politically explosive territories in the entire alliance. You disappearing into a warlock''s manor after the council just tried to kill you? That''s a diplomatic bomb waiting to go off."


    "I don''t care about politics."


    "I do."


    That stopped her.


    "I care about you too much not to," he said.


    Her throat tightened.


    They stood there, quiet again.


    After a moment, Damian stepped closer. His voice was lower now, steadier.


    "I''m not saying no. I''m saying I don''t want your choice to blow back on your people. Or on you. Or on us. If your father gives you permission... it''ll make it easier for both of us to breathe."


    Selena met his gaze. "And if he doesn''t?"


    Damian was quiet.


    "...Then we''ll figure it out," he said finally.


    Her heart squeezed at that.


    She wanted to kiss him.


    Gods, she wanted to.


    But she didn''t. Not yet.


    Instead, she nodded and stepped back slightly, glancing once more toward the ruined chamber.


    "Guess I''ll leave you to your fixing, then."


    "Guess you will."


    But before she could turn, he added, softer this time¡ª


    "I meant it. I want you here."

 Chapter 369 369: Work First, Think Later

    Warlock Ch 369. Work First, Think Later


    Selena''s eyes flicked to his, startled by the raw honesty in his voice. Her lips parted slightly, but no words came out.


    Damian could practically see the emotions battling inside her.


    Confusion, surprise, and the quiet, hesitant joy she was desperately trying to hide. It was cute. It was real. And yeah, it made his heart squeeze just a bit.


    "I... I''ll talk to him," Selena finally said, her voice soft. "I promise."


    Damian just nodded, the corner of his lips curving into a gentle smile. "Take your time. It''s not like I''m going anywhere."


    She hesitated another heartbeat longer, then turned and walked quietly out of the room, the soft click of the door behind her echoing softly.


    Damian watched the door for a moment longer before releasing the long-held breath he hadn''t even realized he''d been holding.


    "It''s getting complicated, isn''t it?" he muttered quietly to himself, the words slipping out as he rubbed the back of his neck.


    Complicated didn''t even begin to describe it, honestly. Damian had been through this before. Victoria had known exactly who he was¡ªKaelan, the infamous warlock. She knew every inch of his past, every dark deed, every questionable decision, and yet she still chose him.


    Selena... was different. Selena didn''t know the truth. Not yet. She knew Damian as he was now¡ªa warlock with a mysterious past, not the monster whose name had become a curse whispered fearfully in the dark.


    Could Selena handle that truth?


    He shook his head slightly. Now wasn''t the time to get tangled up in that mess. "Right," he muttered, forcing himself to refocus. "Work first, think later."


    With that mantra firmly in place, he turned around, eyes roaming over the chaotic destruction he''d left in Cassius''s training hall. Damian grimaced slightly, scratching his chin.


    "Yeah, Cassius will definitely kill me if he sees this," he muttered with a sigh. "Better fix it before he finds out."


    Stepping back into the room fully, Damian rolled up his sleeves, cracked his knuckles, and reached out a hand, palm up. He felt the mana in the air respond instantly, drawn to him like iron filings to a magnet.


    He closed his eyes briefly, channeling his mana.


    "[Fix]," he murmured softly.


    The air shimmered around him, a gentle hum filling the space as tendrils of blue and silver magic began to weave together, spreading out from his fingertips like delicate threads. The cracked stones beneath his feet began to vibrate and shift, pieces knitting back together with a quiet grinding noise. Broken pillars, splintered walls, even shattered summoning circles slowly restored themselves, the damage erasing itself piece by careful piece.


    Damian kept his hand steady, pouring more mana into the spell, guiding it carefully. Repair magic wasn''t flashy. It wasn''t destructive. But it was delicate¡ªone wrong move, and instead of repairing the wall, he could accidentally fuse the rubble into a weird new sculpture. That happened last week, and Evelyn wouldn''t let him hear the end of it.


    After several long, careful minutes, he lowered his hand. Most of the damage had been fixed¡ªwalls restored, cracks sealed, runes redrawn. Sure, there was still debris scattered around, but the heavy lifting was done. He felt a dull ache throb behind his eyes; even minor repairs like this were taxing if he rushed them.


    "Right," Damian sighed, "time for the cleanup crew."


    He raised his hand again, snapping his fingers sharply. "Summon."


    Inky darkness pooled around him, shifting and forming into humanoid silhouettes¡ªhis faithful servants stood at attention.


    "Clean up the rest of this, would you?" he asked tiredly. "Sort the rubble, dust things off, and uh, maybe hide the scorch marks so Cassius doesn''t notice right away."


    They nodded silently and dispersed, their shadowy forms gliding smoothly across the hall, picking up scattered stones and sweeping up ash like ghosts tidying up after a haunted party.


    Damian exhaled heavily and walked to the side of the room, dropping into the chair Cassius usually occupied when watching Damian''s training sessions. It felt strange sitting there¡ªlike stepping into a parent''s shoes or something. A shadow servant quietly approached, handing him a steaming cup of tea with practiced ease.


    "Thanks," Damian murmured absently, taking a slow sip.


    The warmth soothed his tired body, but his mind was still spinning.


    What to do next?


    How to strike at Ralvek?


    That man was untouchable right now, protected by layers of politics, power, and public opinion.


    Damian couldn''t just waltz into his fortress and blast him with a [Hellfire Spear].


    Tempting, but suicidal.


    No, he needed something subtler. He needed to chip away at Ralvek''s power piece by piece¡ªstrike at the people around him, dismantle his resources, and expose the horrific experiments he''d been conducting behind closed doors. Those sick creations of his would be Ralvek''s undoing if the public saw them. Damian would make sure of it.


    He leaned back, eyes staring blankly into the tea''s rippling surface.


    "But who first...?" Damian muttered to himself, running through a mental checklist. "The senators covering for him? The council members who conveniently look away?"


    He sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "I swear, this is like fighting a hydra. Cut off one head, two more take its place."


    The tea was growing colder in his hands, and he took another absent sip, grimacing at the bitterness as his thoughts spiraled deeper. If he moved openly against Ralvek now, the public would never side with him. Not when Ralvek still had so many puppets playing heroes and saints, masking the horror behind smiles and speeches.


    He needed evidence. Something undeniable. Something so damning, even Ralvek''s staunchest supporters couldn''t spin it.


    Damian''s mind drifted back to Selena. If he did this right, if he exposed everything properly, maybe Selena''s father wouldn''t hesitate to give his blessing.


    The High Fae Lord was wise, fair¡ªhe''d never support Ralvek''s madness. But Selena''s safety would be paramount. Damian had to ensure nothing about his past¡ªKaelan''s tainted reputation¡ªcould harm her or sway her father''s judgment.


    He sighed again, setting the tea aside.


    "Gods, I''m overthinking this," Damian muttered irritably.


    A shadow servant paused nearby, tilting its head in silent curiosity.


    "Sorry," Damian said, glancing up. "Just talking to myself."


    The shadow servant gave a quiet nod and continued its cleaning.

 Chapter 370: Do You Always Have to do That?

    Warlock Ch 370. Do You Always Have to do That?


    Damian leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees, hands clasped together tightly. The road ahead was complicated. Messy. Dangerous. But he''d chosen this path. Every step, every decision¡ªit had been his from the start.


    He closed his eyes briefly, drawing a slow breath. He pictured Selena''s face, the way her eyes softened whenever she looked at him. She was strong, despite her delicate appearance. Maybe stronger than he gave her credit for.


    But could she accept all of him? The darkness, the sins, the twisted past? Victoria had. Evelyn had. But Selena was different¡ªbrighter, purer. Would his shadows tarnish her, or would her light pierce through his darkness?


    Damian shook his head, forcing those thoughts aside once more.


    "Focus," he whispered harshly to himself. "Deal with Ralvek first. Everything else comes after."


    He opened his eyes, gazing around the repaired training hall. The shadow servants had nearly finished cleaning; the place almost looked as good as new. Cassius would probably still notice something¡ªhe always did¡ªbut hopefully, he wouldn''t notice enough to actually complain.


    Damian chuckled softly. "Hopefully."


    He leaned back into Cassius''s chair again, closing his eyes briefly, exhaustion pulling at the edges of his mind. Just when he was about to relax for a second, a familiar male voice sliced cleanly through his peace.


    "Not bad."


    Damian jerked slightly, eyes snapping open, then twisted sharply to his right.


    There he was¡ªCassius, casually reclining in a second chair Damian could''ve sworn wasn''t there five seconds ago. He held a steaming cup of tea in one hand, calmly sipping from it, the usual detached amusement shining in his eyes.


    Damian stared at him for a beat, then groaned. "Seriously. Do you always have to do that?"


    Cassius raised one elegant eyebrow, completely unfazed. "Do what?"


    "Sneak in silently and judge my handiwork," Damian grumbled, running a hand through his messy hair. "You''re worse than Evelyn."


    Cassius smirked slightly. "I''ll take that as a compliment."


    "Of course you will," Damian muttered, leaning forward again and taking his cup of rapidly cooling tea off the nearby table. He took a long sip, grimaced at the taste, and sighed heavily. "So? What''s your verdict, Master Cassius?"


    Cassius glanced around the training hall, eyes narrowing slightly as he took another slow sip of tea. "Hmm. Repairs are adequate...but you missed a few spots."


    Damian rolled his eyes. "Come on, Cas, really?"


    Cassius ignored his protests, pointing calmly toward a far corner. "There''s ash still covering that spot. And over there, the scorch marks on the north wall? Quite obvious."


    Damian sighed loudly, exaggeratedly sinking back into the chair. "Fine, fine. Guys?" He waved a hand at the remaining shadow servants. "Clean them up, please?"


    The shadows nodded silently and glided off, returning to clean the missed spots quickly and efficiently.


    "There," Damian muttered, mock annoyance evident in his tone. "Satisfied, Master Cassius?"


    Cassius''s lips curved in faint amusement, but his eyes were thoughtful as he studied Damian. "For now, yes."


    Silence stretched for a few moments, both men sipping their tea and eyeing the restored hall. Cassius seemed perfectly content with the quiet, but Damian''s mind was already racing again, plans and plots tangling in an endless loop.


    Cassius eventually broke the silence. "So?"


    Damian shot him a sideways glance. "So, what?"


    Cassius set his cup down gently. "You trained like a madman today. I can still feel the residual mana lingering in here." His gaze sharpened. "How strong are you now? Strong enough to kick Ralvek''s ass yet?"


    Damian let out a quiet laugh, half-bitter and half amused. "Honestly? I''m not sure."


    Cassius raised a brow, surprised. "You seemed confident earlier."


    Damian rubbed the back of his neck. "Yeah, I''m stronger. A lot stronger, actually. Maybe strong enough to face him directly now, but...that''s not how we win this. You know that."


    Cassius''s expression softened slightly. "Agreed. It''s never about raw strength when dealing with snakes like Ralvek."


    Damian sighed deeply. "Exactly. Even if I could walk right up to him, challenge him directly, and somehow win¡ªhe has layers of protection, friends in high places, resources. We have to take those away first. Cripple him slowly, methodically. Make sure he has nowhere left to hide."


    Cassius hummed thoughtfully. "And you''re certain you''re ready for that?"


    Damian hesitated for only a second before nodding firmly. "Yeah. I am. I''ve seen enough, trained enough. The system has unlocked more than I could''ve imagined. The skills I have now¡ªthey''re not just flashy tricks. They''re powerful enough to dismantle the network protecting him."


    Cassius leaned forward slightly, folding his hands together. "So? More hunting tonight, then?"


    Damian''s gaze hardened, resolve settling deeply in his chest. "Yeah. Tonight. We start cutting the heads off the hydra one by one."


    Cassius chuckled, leaning back again, relaxed. "Careful. Mythological hydras have a nasty habit of sprouting new heads if you''re not quick enough."


    Damian snorted softly. "Then we just need to cauterize the wounds fast enough, don''t we?"


    Cassius''s lips twitched in approval. "Exactly."


    Damian drained his now lukewarm tea and set the cup aside, his fingers drumming thoughtfully against the armrest. "First targets should probably be his fellow senators covering his experiments. Without political cover, Ralvek will have a tougher time defending himself."


    Cassius nodded thoughtfully, swirling the tea in his own cup. "Ralvek''s already begun eliminating some of his own allies. Making examples of them, then spinning it to make them scapegoats. Blaming them for leaks or mistakes."


    Damian''s jaw tightened. "Smart. Ruthless, but smart."


    Cassius gave a grim nod. "He''s burning bridges before we can cross them. Covering his tracks in blood."


    Damian leaned forward, elbows resting on his knees, eyes dark with thought. "Actually, we could turn that against him."


    Cassius arched an eyebrow, curious. "How so?"


    Damian''s lips curled into a slight, cold smile. "We make our moves subtle enough to blend with Ralvek''s purge. People will assume his fallen allies are simply being targeted by him. He does half our work for us, and if he tries to claim innocence, who''d believe him?"


    Cassius chuckled dryly. "Using his own paranoia against him? Clever."


    Damian shrugged lightly. "It''s practical. He made his bed; we''re just helping him lie in it."


    Cassius eyed him with newfound respect. "You''re thinking like a true politician now, Damian. That should frighten me a little."


    Damian grinned humorlessly. "It frightens me, too. But we can''t win playing fair."


    Cassius raised his teacup slightly. "Then here''s to fighting dirty."


    Damian grabbed his almost empty cup and raised it, smirking. "And here''s to giving Ralvek exactly what he deserves."


    The cups clinked together softly, sealing the promise in quiet determination and the faintest hint of dark humor.

 Chapter 371: Safe Doesn’t Exist Anymore [Part 1]

    Warlock Ch 371. Safe Doesn''t Exist Anymore [Part 1]


    The night crept slowly over Haven City, bringing with it a thick blanket of uneasy silence. It was the kind of quiet that crawled under the skin and sat there, making even the bravest magus glance nervously over their shoulder.


    In a narrow alley, cloaked figures moved hastily from the back entrance of a grand, yet unmarked building¡ªone known only among a select few. This building had no signs, no welcoming lights, only silent sentries in shadows and wards so dense it made breathing feel difficult. Tonight, however, even these wards seemed insufficient.


    Councilor Hendrik stepped hurriedly down the stone steps, pulling his hood tighter over his head. Beside him, Councilor Amelia matched his pace, her usually proud demeanor visibly shaken. Hendrik kept glancing around, eyes darting nervously at each shadow as if expecting something horrible to leap out.


    "I still don''t understand it," Amelia hissed quietly, her voice shaking slightly. "They''re rank S magus. How can three of our best just vanish?"


    Hendrik shook his head, his eyes wary. "That''s exactly what terrifies me. Rank S don''t simply vanish. They fight, they scream, they burn their attackers to ashes. Yet, nothing."


    A younger senator walking behind them quickened his step, whispering hurriedly, "Perhaps they''ve betrayed us. What if they''ve sided with Prince Cedric?"


    Hendrik turned sharply, eyes cold. "Watch your mouth, senator. Accusations like that without proof can make you vanish next."


    The senator recoiled, falling silent, pulling his cloak tighter around him as if that could somehow shield him from unseen danger.


    Amelia cast a worried look at Hendrik. "Still, what else can explain it? Three powerful magi gone without a single trace. No blood, no signs of struggle. Nothing."


    Hendrik exhaled slowly. "Magic can do terrifying things, Amelia. Perhaps even erase existence itself. Ralvek has already accused several of his allies of betrayal, hasn''t he? Perhaps this chaos is exactly what he wants."


    The senator behind them spoke again, quieter now, "And what about Damian and Cassius? The spies say their manor is impenetrable. Even high-level assassins can''t get close without dying."


    Hendrik laughed bitterly. "Cassius built that place to withstand wars. Of course assassins fail. But sending them serves another purpose¡ªit keeps Damian''s group trapped inside. Without testimonies, our narrative remains intact."


    Amelia shivered visibly. "I don''t like this. Playing politics is one thing, but this¡ª"


    "This is survival," Hendrik cut her off sharply. "Damian is dangerous. Cassius even more so. If they publicly reveal what we''ve been hiding, everything collapses. Our allies will turn their backs. The entire council system crumbles."


    They hurried past a dim lantern hanging from an ancient, crumbling stone wall. The senator glanced nervously around, feeling eyes on him from every shadow. "So, what now? If they are trapped, why do I feel as if we are the ones under siege?"


    "Because we are," Hendrik growled, quickening his pace. "Ralvek''s paranoia is spreading. He''s purging his own supporters, thinning his ranks. It''s like the damned man enjoys chaos."


    Amelia clenched her fists. "And if he turns on us?"


    Hendrik''s eyes hardened. "Then we fight back. Ralvek needs us just as much as we need him¡ªfor now."


    They reached the end of the alley, pausing at the edge of a wide street bathed in the faint glow of enchanted lamps. The senator behind them spoke up once more, nervously glancing over his shoulder. "What about the public? If they find out about the missing magi¡ª"


    "Which is exactly why no one can know," Hendrik snapped. "The search teams are working silently. The public must remain ignorant."


    Amelia exhaled, her shoulders sagging slightly. "We''re running out of time, Hendrik. Damian and his allies won''t stay silent forever."


    Hendrik''s voice lowered dangerously. "Then we make sure they don''t speak again."


    Far above, on a rooftop cloaked in shadow, a figure crouched quietly, watching the senator with a cold, calculating gaze. Damian''s scout¡ªa shadow servant¡ªremained unseen, untraceable. It observed, listened, and reported back.


    "Did you feel that?" Amelia hissed suddenly, stopping abruptly.


    Hendrik paused beside her, eyes narrowing. He glanced around carefully, scanning the dark corners, the deep shadows. "Feel what?"


    "Something..." she whispered, her voice taut, "like we''re being followed."


    He shook his head, but his own heart was pounding harder now. "Impossible. The wards would have detected anyone. We''re safe."


    "You really believe that?" Amelia shot back quietly, eyes wide. "Three Rank S magi vanished without a sound. Safe doesn''t exist anymore, Hendrik."


    Hendrik''s jaw tightened. She was right. Paranoia crept into his thoughts, wrapping icy tendrils around his spine. "Fine. Let''s take a detour through the market square. More open ground. If someone is following, we''ll trap them there."


    She nodded tersely, and they quickened their pace. Shadows flickered and shifted as they moved, making every darkened doorway look like an ambush. Amelia felt her pulse quicken, her mana crackling just beneath the surface, ready at a moment''s notice.


    They reached the edge of the market square, dimly lit by a single, flickering streetlamp. Hendrik stopped again, glancing around carefully, eyes narrowing.


    "Ready?" he whispered.


    "Ready," Amelia replied, her voice firm.


    In one swift movement, they turned, mana flaring around them, spells at the ready. Amelia''s hands ignited with brilliant white flame, while Hendrik''s palms sparked with crackling electricity.


    But no one was there.


    Just shadows. Silence. Emptiness.


    Hendrik frowned, lowering his hands slowly. "Maybe it was nothing."


    "Or maybe we missed them," Amelia whispered, still staring into the darkness, unsettled.


    Suddenly, the air around them shifted, heavy and dark. The streetlamp flickered violently, casting bizarre, twisted shadows across the square.


    "What''s going¡ª" Hendrik began, but his words were swallowed by a surge of darkness that burst up from the ground.


    The world around them seemed to distort, gravity pulling them down as an icy coldness seeped through their bones. Amelia struggled to move, her limbs slow and sluggish. "What the hell is this?" she cried, panic rising in her voice.


    "Magic¡ªhigh-tier!" Hendrik gasped, desperately trying to raise a defensive barrier.

 Chapter 372 372: Safe Doesn’t Exist Anymore [Part 2]

    Warlock Ch 372. Safe Doesn''t Exist Anymore [Part 2]


    Before he could react further, chains erupted from the shadows, black and jagged, snapping around their wrists and ankles.


    Hendrik yelled in pain as the chains tightened mercilessly, draining the strength from his limbs. "Amelia¡ª!"


    But Amelia was already casting desperately, her flames erupting outward. "I''ll burn these chains!" she shouted defiantly.


    Yet her fire spluttered and vanished as the air itself turned dark and suffocating. She fell to her knees, coughing as the dark magic stole the oxygen from her lungs. Terror surged inside her, primal and overwhelming.


    This wasn''t merely strong magic¡ªthis was impossibly powerful. Amelia''s heart sank. "Ralvek?" she managed to choke out.


    "No..." Hendrik gasped, voice strained, eyes widening as realization dawned on him. "Not Ralvek..."


    A figure appeared then, materializing from the shadows with unsettling ease, his steps slow and deliberate. Amelia forced herself to look up, her vision blurry, heart pounding desperately.


    "Cassius?" she murmured weakly, hoping desperately it wasn''t him. She knew Cassius''s power, but this felt darker, heavier.


    "No," the voice replied coldly, quietly. Familiar, yet different¡ªsharper, more dangerous.


    Her heart froze.


    "Kaelan?" Hendrik whispered, his voice trembling. He stared up in horror at the figure''s silhouette, framed by darkness and moonlight, a spear of black fire glowing ominously in his hand.


    For a heartbeat, Amelia saw eyes¡ªblue eyes, cold and merciless, filled with a terrifying calm. Recognition and dread crashed through her simultaneously.


    "No..." she breathed, realizing too late. "It can''t be you..."


    Damian stepped forward slowly, the darkness coiling around him obediently. "Surprised?" he asked softly, tilting his head slightly. "You shouldn''t be. You tried so hard to keep me locked away. Now you''re disappointed?"


    "Damian..." Hendrik gasped weakly, struggling uselessly against the chains. "You... this isn''t possible. You were just a rank S magus..."


    Damian chuckled softly, humorlessly. "Appearances can be deceiving."


    With horrifying casualness, he raised one hand. Arcane energy crackled to life, sizzling through the air, illuminating his face for a brief moment¡ªa face devoid of mercy.


    [Arcane Bolt]


    The bolt ripped forward, splitting the air with a vicious hiss. Hendrik was ready, his hands glowing as a powerful barrier surged into existence, absorbing the initial impact with a thunderous crack. The shield wavered but held, though his hands trembled from the strain.


    "Do you really think it''ll be that easy?" Hendrik growled, struggling to his feet, anger blazing in his eyes. Amelia rose beside him, her expression twisted in fury.


    "Arrogant brat," she spat. Her voice rose sharply as her mana surged. "[Divine Flamestorm!]"


    A searing wall of white-hot fire exploded toward Damian, flooding the entire area with scorching heat. Damian quickly reacted, a crystal in his hand flashing brilliantly as a shimmering dome erupted around them all.


    [Protective Crystal - Activated: Barrier Dome]


    The dome sealed tight, preventing their violent clash from spilling into the streets beyond. Damian''s eyes narrowed, sweat forming at his brow from maintaining the crystal''s barrier while simultaneously fighting. He knew he didn''t have much time before the protective crystal''s mana ran dry.


    Damian raised his hand swiftly, calling forth his own shield of darkness to blunt Amelia''s flame.


    [Shadow Barrier]


    The flames crashed against Damian''s barrier, roaring in protest, sending sparks cascading into the darkness. Amelia gasped in shock, her eyes widening in disbelief.


    "How?!" she snarled. "My flames should tear through anything below S rank¡ª!"


    Damian''s lips curled faintly. "Who said I was below S rank?"


    Before she could reply, Damian surged forward, his movements becoming a blur, enhanced by the power pulsing through him.


    [Spectral Surge]


    He vanished momentarily, leaving only shimmering afterimages in his wake, reappearing suddenly behind Hendrik, spear raised. Hendrik spun, a powerful lightning storm erupting from his fingertips.


    "Die, you bastard!" Hendrik roared. "[Lightning Tempest!]"


    Bolts of electricity lashed outward chaotically, blasting through Damian''s afterimages, crackling and arcing toward him. Damian hissed in pain as a stray bolt clipped his shoulder, burning into his flesh, but his eyes burned brighter, fueled by determination.


    He retaliated instantly.


    [Void Rift ]


    The ground split apart violently beneath Hendrik and Amelia, a dark vortex of energy swallowing their footing, dragging them downward, slowing their movements as if trapped in quicksand. Hendrik cursed loudly, his muscles straining, fighting desperately against the pull.


    Amelia screamed, forcing her mana outward, blasting herself free just as the dark chains erupted around them.


    [Dark Chains]


    Chains snapped around Hendrik''s limbs, dragging him into the void. Amelia narrowly escaped, rolling away, eyes frantic.


    "Amelia!" Hendrik roared desperately. "Break the chains¡ªquickly!"


    Amelia channeled her energy, eyes glowing brightly, mana crackling furiously around her body. "[Purification Burst!]" A pulse of brilliant white energy surged from her, slicing into Damian''s chains. The chains shattered, releasing Hendrik as he collapsed forward, gasping.


    Damian scowled, his breath heavier now. Fighting two S-ranked magi was draining, even for him. Time was short, and the protective crystal barrier flickered slightly, weakening.


    "Looks like you underestimated us, Damian," Amelia sneered, breathing heavily.


    "No," Damian said coldly, straightening slowly. "I just haven''t gotten serious yet."


    Amelia''s smile faded. Fear flickered briefly across her face.


    Damian''s eyes darkened, a terrifying pressure emanating from him as he unleashed his most devastating aura.


    [Nova Burst]


    Darkness surged outward, twisting reality around them. A crushing weight forced Hendrik and Amelia to their knees, choking the breath from their lungs. Hendrik gasped, his voice a weak rasp, "This...this isn''t possible! Only Kaelan¡ª"


    His words cut off sharply as Damian appeared inches away, eyes glowing an icy gold. "Only Kaelan, you say?"


    "Wait¡ª!" Hendrik gasped, raising his hands weakly.


    Damian''s hand plunged forward, the Hellfire Spear erupting to life with merciless fury.


    [Hellfire Spear]


    The spear struck true, impaling Hendrik''s chest. He howled in agony as his mana shield shattered into pieces. Fire and shadow consumed him instantly, his screams fading into nothingness.


    "Hendrik!" Amelia shrieked, desperately lunging forward, flames bursting from her fingertips. "[Holy Inferno!]"


    Damian spun sharply, narrowly deflecting her blazing attack with another barrier, smoke and embers cascading around him. Pain flared briefly through his side, another burn marking his skin. He grimaced¡ªhe was reaching his limit.


    Amelia stood panting, tears streaking her face, fury and grief mingling in her eyes. "You...you monster!"

 Chapter 373 373: Safe Doesn’t Exist Anymore [Part 3]

    Warlock Ch 373. Safe Doesn''t Exist Anymore [Part 3]


    Damian exhaled slowly, eyes cold. "Am I the monster? Look around you, Amelia. How many innocents have you silenced for your own greed?"


    She flinched, fists shaking. "It''s not like that...we did what we had to!"


    Damian''s voice softened dangerously. "No. You did what was easy. There''s always another choice."


    She cried out desperately, flames roaring as she hurled herself toward him, a final, desperate strike. Damian met her head-on, reaching out toward her.


    [Blood Manipulation]


    Blood surged from Amelia''s veins, violently wrenching her back. She crashed to the ground, eyes wide with shock and agony. Her flames sputtered and died.


    Damian knelt calmly beside her, voice quiet, almost gentle. "Any last words, Amelia?"


    She glared defiantly through her pain. "Ralvek...he''ll come for you. He''ll end you."


    Damian smiled faintly, cold and humorless. "Let him try."


    She stared up weakly, her voice barely audible now. "You really are Kaelan, aren''t you? The Demon King''s monster..."


    He leaned closer, his whisper soft. "No, Amelia. You made this monster yourselves."


    The final flicker of life left her eyes, silence reclaiming the streets. Damian stood slowly, breathing heavily, sweat dripping down his face. The protective crystal barrier flickered once more, finally failing and shattering quietly into nothingness, the fight''s evidence completely erased.


    Two Rank S senators gone.


    Damian closed his eyes briefly, exhaling deeply as the pain from his wounds flared sharply. He''d won, but barely. Fighting two Rank S opponents wasn''t something even he could do lightly. The burns on his side still sizzled faintly under his torn shirt, and his breathing was uneven. His mana reserve, though vast, had taken a hit.


    But this fight wasn''t just about elimination¡ªit was about misdirection. About warping the narrative before the truth ever had a chance to surface.


    He knelt beside what little remained of Hendrik''s body and pulled a sealed scroll from his storage ring. It shimmered faintly with layered enchantments¡ªa forged letter, crafted by Evelyn and Victoria the night before. The paper smelled faintly of lilac ink and ash, marked with the private seal of a nonexistent syndicate supposedly working in direct opposition to Ralvek''s regime.


    With careful hands, Damian placed it in Hendrik''s satchel, ensuring it looked aged and half-burned, as though someone tried to destroy the evidence before death. He dusted it with a bit of arcane residue¡ªhis own mana signature thoroughly cleansed beforehand¡ªand conjured a weak illusion magic trail leading away from the bodies.


    "Just enough to raise eyebrows," he muttered under his breath, lips tight with effort.


    Next came Amelia. He produced a cracked comm-crystal and slipped it into the inner pocket of her robes, wrapping her cold fingers around it. The crystal had been tampered with, loaded with a one-sided conversation that would appear as though Amelia had been feeding information to a rival faction. Her voice. Her words. Her intentions¡ªall expertly fabricated.


    "Ralvek will be forced to listen to it," Damian said softly, voice low. "He won''t trust anyone now." And if the others found them first... it would paint Ralvek as the villain.


    And that was the point. Amelia and Hendrik weren''t just removed. They were now framed as traitors¡ªrats in Ralvek''s carefully guarded ship. The kind of betrayal that seeps into the bones of an empire and poisons it from within.


    He summoned his shadow servant one final time, giving it a short, silent command. The figure dissolved into the ground, set to deliver anonymous tips to one of Ralvek''s inner circle¡ªproof of Amelia and Hendrik''s supposed treachery.


    It was subtle. Cold. Cruel.


    But it was war.


    Damian glanced once more toward the heart of the city, the distant lights of the council chambers gleaming ominously through the thick night fog. Even from here, he could feel it¡ªthe pulse of tension. The stench of fear just beginning to rise.


    Ralvek''s paranoia would now spiral out of control, forcing him to tear apart his own allies, to question every loyal hand that reached out to help him. The beast would eat itself, and Damian would only need to watch¡ªand strike again when the time was right.


    The chaos was just beginning.


    "Good luck sleeping tonight, Ralvek," Damian murmured softly, turning toward the shadows. "Because your nightmare has only just started."


    Using his [Shadow Step], Damian emerged silently on the rooftop, shadows coiling around his form as he surveyed the quiet city streets below. He took a single step toward the darkness, ready to leave¡ªbut suddenly he froze.


    A distant roar pierced the night. It echoed through the sky, savage and powerful, vibrating the very air around him. Damian''s heart skipped, his muscles instinctively tensing as he recognized the sound immediately.


    It wasn''t human. It wasn''t even magical beasts.


    It was something far worse¡ªfar more dangerous.


    Dragons.


    He turned his head sharply, eyes narrowing, searching the horizon until he caught it¡ªa faint but unmistakable flash of emerald fire cutting across the night sky far away in the east. His jaw tightened as his pulse quickened with a mixture of dread and excitement.


    "Shit," he muttered, smirking bitterly. "The dragons, too? Looks like this mess is even bigger than I thought."


    The dragons'' involvement wasn''t something he could simply shrug off. They weren''t like other races¡ªisolated, proud, and fiercely neutral. Their very presence in Haven City implied something terrifyingly significant.


    For the magic community, dragons were not just another powerful race; they were legends, beings who sat atop the magical hierarchy, controlling territories rich in ancient mana sources. Each dragon held power comparable to an army of magi. They rarely interfered with mortal affairs, seeing themselves as above petty politics and squabbles. Their neutrality had always been a stabilizing force.


    But if they had come now, openly roaring their challenge into the sky, it meant something profound had changed. The political balance had shifted enough to warrant their direct involvement. It meant Ralvek''s ambitions¡ªand the corrupt factions backing him¡ªhad grown bold enough to threaten even the dragons'' territory or interests.


    Damian clenched his fists, eyes hardening.


    It also meant he was quickly running out of time. If dragons were involved, things would escalate rapidly. Mortal factions, councils, senators, Ralvek himself¡ªevery player in this dangerous game would panic and start making reckless moves. The collateral damage would be devastating.


    And that was something Damian couldn''t allow.


    "Damn it," he muttered softly. "As if Ralvek wasn''t enough trouble."


    He knew exactly what this meant. His next moves had to be faster, more ruthless. If he hesitated now, this whole city¡ªmaybe the entire region¡ªcould be consumed by war.


    Damian took one last glance at the distant emerald flames flickering against the clouds. The dragons'' arrival changed everything. Now he''d have to contend with ancient creatures whose slightest breath could incinerate cities. Powerful, unpredictable, and notoriously difficult to negotiate with.


    But it didn''t matter. He couldn''t stop. He wouldn''t stop. He had a mission to complete, allies to protect, innocents to save, and a legacy of darkness to rewrite. If dragons wanted to join the game, then he''d play his cards even smarter.


    With a final, determined breath, Damian stepped back into the shadows.

 Chapter 374: Rising Panic

    Warlock Ch 374. Rising Panic


    The morning came heavy and tense¡ªthick with smoke, rumors, and the scent of rising panic.


    It didn''t take long for the murders to hit the inner circles of Sanctum''s government like a mana blast to the gut. At first, the reports came in quietly¡ªAmelia and Hendrik had gone missing. Then the whispers followed¡ªdisappearance, no trace, no communication spells received, no magical beacons triggered.


    By noon, they weren''t whispers anymore.


    They were news.


    And they weren''t alone.


    Within hours, the list of the missing expanded¡ªSenator Alvren, Councilor Thessa, High Judge Callum, and three others. All of them known associates or political enablers of Ralvek. All of them with deep ties to the very underbelly of the corruption Damian and the others were targeting. Rank A to Rank S. Important, influential.


    Gone.


    Wiped out like they never existed.


    Of course, it wasn''t just that they were dead. No bodies. No explosive battles in the streets. No destruction that could be blamed on rogue magic. Just quiet, clean, surgical disappearances.


    The panic spread like wildfire.


    And worse¡ªsome of the fake evidence left behind, carefully planted by Damian, Victoria, Evelyn, and Cassius, had been intercepted. Stolen. Taken before it reached the intended hands. Some ended up exactly where they wanted¡ªlike seeds dropped into the right minds, pushing the narrative they were carefully constructing. That the murdered senators were traitors, collaborators, conspirators within the Sanctum itself.


    But some of the fakes ended up where they shouldn''t.


    Into the hands of wrong people. Or perhaps too right of people¡ªthose who''d dig deeper than they should.


    The Council''s internal divisions began widening immediately. Factions accused one another. Emergency meetings were called, only to descend into shouting matches. Ralvek, normally untouchable and poised, was now more tense than anyone had ever seen him.


    And that was when the roar came.


    Not a metaphorical roar. A real one.


    The sound of an ancient, powerful dragon unleashing its voice into the sky over Haven.


    Everything stopped.


    Councilors and magi who had been screaming at one another in the assembly chamber froze mid-argument. Soldiers and clerks looked up in dread. Even the wards surrounding the city shuddered at the resonance, like the city itself was holding its breath.


    Everyone in the city¡ªmages, nobles, even commoners¡ªknew what that sound meant.


    The dragons had arrived.


    And suddenly, the game changed.


    This wasn''t part of the plan.


    Back at Cassius'' manor, the dining room was unusually quiet.


    Not tense exactly, but filled with the kind of silence that came with too many thoughts and not enough answers.


    The long obsidian table stretched across the polished stone floor, its surface gleaming faintly from the enchanted lights overhead.


    Damian stood near that far end, hands resting on the back of the chair he hadn''t sat in yet. His eyes were fixed on something invisible, brow furrowed just slightly¡ªnot enough to look bothered, but enough that the others noticed. His mind was elsewhere.


    Cassius sat at the center of the table with his legs crossed at the ankle, one hand lazily tapping the rim of his crystal glass filled with what looked suspiciously like blood-red wine.


    Evelyn sat at his right, flipping casually through one of the enchanted communication scrolls they''d intercepted from Sanctum''s internal channels.


    Victoria leaned against the wall near the windows, arms crossed, one leg casually kicked up behind her as she watched everyone with her usual predatory amusement.


    Shadow servants moved efficiently in the background, preparing their lunch. The smell of buttered mana-bread and sizzling meat wafted through the air, faintly sweet, vaguely spicy. Comforting. Homely.


    "So... to summarize," Cassius began, breaking the quiet as his finger finally stilled against the glass. "Four confirmed dead. Three more unaccounted for. Ralvek''s inner circle is fraying faster than I expected. And to top it all off¡ªdragons."


    Victoria scoffed. "Never thought I''d hear that word again in politics. How long''s it been since they last gave a damn about what happens down here? Fifty years? A hundred?"


    "Two hundred," Evelyn corrected, eyes still on the scroll. "Last time was the Cold River Treaty. And they didn''t participate. They just sent an observer."


    Cassius nodded slowly, lifting the glass to his lips. "Which makes this worse. The fact that they''re here¡ªphysically, vocally¡ªmeans something major is shifting."


    Damian didn''t speak.


    He stared out the tall glass windows as the warm glow of morning bled through the haze outside. The golden light didn''t quite reach him. His shadow stretched long across the floor, still, unmoving.


    Evelyn flicked her gaze to him. "You''re quiet. That''s not a good sign."


    Damian didn''t react at first. Then, slowly, he turned and finally sat in his chair, resting his forearms on the table''s edge.


    "I know why they''re here," he said quietly.


    That made everyone pause.


    Victoria tilted her head. "And?"


    Damian''s fingers flexed once before curling loosely together. "There''s a general. From the northern tribe. White-scaled. Titleholder of Frost Fang. She''s... not the type to show up for appearances."


    "Frost Fang?" Cassius echoed, raising an eyebrow. "That''s a name I haven''t heard in a while. Thought she was more legend than fact."


    "She''s not," Damian muttered. "I met her. Once. When I was still... Kaelan."


    That earned a sharp look from Evelyn. "When?"


    "During the Western Wildfire campaign," Damian replied. "I was tracking a shipment of corrupted mana crystals being smuggled through dragon territory. Thought I could sneak in, steal the shipment, and vanish before anyone noticed. I needed something to build the artifact, to suppress the demon king''s power."


    "And?" Victoria asked.


    Damian''s lips tugged into a mirthless smirk. "She noticed."


    Cassius laughed under his breath. "Let me guess¡ªshe kicked your ass."


    "Nearly," Damian admitted, his voice quiet. "We both got hurt. I was bleeding out, she was limping from the shoulder I nearly tore apart. It should''ve ended there... but it didn''t."


    That made Evelyn pause mid-flip through her scroll. She blinked, visibly surprised. "You fought her to a draw?"


    Damian leaned back, arms folding across his chest, gaze still far off like he was watching the past unfold across the window glass. "More like a standstill. I had the upper hand for a second¡ªjust a second. Long enough to kill her if I wanted to. But I didn''t. She wasn''t the enemy. Just... in the way."

 Chapter 375: Dragons

    Warlock Ch 375. Dragons


    "Which is unlike you," Cassius murmured, one brow raised. "Back then, Kaelan wasn''t exactly famous for restraint."


    Damian gave a slow nod. "Exactly. But something about her... felt different. She didn''t attack like the others. She was following orders, yes, but I could tell¡ªshe didn''t believe in it. I could see it in her eyes."


    Victoria, lounging near the window, smirked faintly. "And you let her live. That''s rare."


    "She let me live too," Damian said softly. "She could''ve finished me once I staggered, and I know it. Instead, she said something like... ''I see what you''ll become, warlock. I won''t stop you now. But when you go too far, remember it was me who let you live.''"


    Evelyn leaned forward slightly, brows drawn. "That''s... cryptic."


    "Poetic," Victoria added with a shrug. "Typical dragon talk."


    Damian exhaled slowly through his nose, eyes narrowing slightly. "If she''s here now, it''s not for a show of force or diplomatic puffery. She''s a battlefield general. A warborn. She doesn''t move unless it''s worth moving for. Which means something¡ªor someone¡ªcrossed a line."


    Cassius tapped the edge of his glass with one finger, his thoughts clearly racing. "You think it''s Ralvek?"


    "Not directly," Damian replied. "But maybe something he''s touched. If any part of that experiment he''s brewing draws on ancient magic, dragonkin relics, or something that messes with ley lines they''ve staked territory on... they''d notice. And they don''t like being poked."


    Evelyn closed the scroll in her hands with a quiet snap and set it on the table. "That would explain the roar we heard last night. It wasn''t a threat. It was a warning."


    "They''re watching," Cassius muttered, eyes distant. "And knowing dragons, they''ll treat us like suspects until proven otherwise."


    Victoria pushed off the wall and walked slowly toward the table, lips pursed in thought. "So what''s the plan? Avoid them, play it safe, pray they don''t burn us alive?"


    "No," Damian said, finally meeting their eyes. "We find out what their goal is. If they''re here to wipe out what they think is a threat, we need to make sure they don''t lump us into it."


    "And if the general recognizes you?" Evelyn asked.


    Damian didn''t answer right away. His jaw flexed slightly before he replied. "Then she''ll remember that I didn''t kill her. And she''ll decide whether that mercy meant anything."


    Cassius studied him, eyes unreadable. "You think she''ll talk first?"


    "I don''t know," Damian said. "But she''s not someone who wastes her breath. If she speaks, it''s for a reason."


    The room grew quiet again, thick with unspoken possibilities. Footsteps from the kitchen broke the tension as shadow servants appeared, efficiently placing steaming plates and delicate porcelain cups on the table. The smell of freshly baked mana-bread, roasted nightroot vegetables, and smoked spice-pork filled the room, warm and heavy.


    Cassius reached out and grabbed a piece of bread, sighing like an old man facing another decade of war. "Well, if the dragons are coming, at least we''ll be fed before they vaporize us."


    Victoria chuckled under her breath. "We should hang a sign outside. ''Please incinerate after breakfast.''"


    Evelyn rolled her eyes. "You''re all so dramatic."


    Damian didn''t respond. He sat still, staring at his untouched tea, thoughts spiraling deeper than any of them could guess. He wasn''t just worried about a political war anymore. Dragons meant ancient grudges, long memories, and power that made Ralvek look like a spoiled child playing with fire.


    And her... that general.


    He remembered her eyes, sharp and piercing. The way she didn''t hesitate to strike, but didn''t flinch when he held his spear to her throat either. She fought like someone who already knew the outcome but needed to see it through anyway. He hadn''t learned her name that day. He''d only bled beside her.


    ''If she''s here... she''ll remember.''


    And if she didn''t come for Ralvek?


    Then maybe¡ªjust maybe¡ªshe came for him.


    His grip tightened slightly around the edge of his cup.


    Let her come.


    This time, he wouldn''t run.


    The doors creaked softly.


    All four heads turned.


    Selena stepped in.


    She was dressed simply¡ªone of the spare tunics Evelyn had shown her yesterday¡ªbut her movements were stiff, her eyes slightly swollen, rimmed red as if she hadn''t slept. Her gaze flicked across the room quickly and landed on Damian.


    She froze for half a second.


    Cassius glanced at her, then sideways to Damian, arching one eyebrow as if to say ''yours to deal with''.


    "Princess?" Damian said, standing slowly from his chair, his voice soft but unmistakably concerned. "What happened to you?"


    Selena blinked once. "Nothing."


    Her voice was quiet. She moved to sit at the far end of the table, opposite Damian, her gaze not quite meeting his. Evelyn frowned faintly, sharing a glance with Victoria but said nothing. Victoria, for once, didn''t smirk.


    Damian didn''t press. He sat again, studying her for a second longer.


    She looked like she''d spent the whole night crying.


    And deep down, he already had a feeling why.


    Two days.


    That was all she had left.


    No confirmation yet. No decision from her father. No promise she''d stay. Just a ticking clock counting down to another inevitable goodbye.


    He hated it.


    The quiet lingered for a while. The clinking of silverware being arranged by the servants. The soft pouring of enchanted berry-wine into crystal goblets. The faint pop of a warming spell refreshing a dish that had cooled. The kind of small, domestic peace that made everything outside these walls feel like a different world.


    Selena slowly reached for a piece of mana-bread, her fingers lingering on the soft crust.


    Cassius leaned back in his chair and said casually, "You''re late. We were starting to think you melted in the bath."


    Selena gave a weak smile, but it didn''t touch her eyes. "I wasn''t hungry."


    Victoria leaned on one elbow. "No one here eats just because they''re hungry. We eat because Cassius insists on shadow-chefs who can cast food-enhancement spells."


    Cassius grinned. "Don''t mock what you keep devouring."


    Evelyn gently set a glass of water in front of Selena. "Drink. You look like a wind spell could knock you over."

 Chapter 376: Permission is Overrated

    Warlock Ch 376. Permission is Overrated


    Selena hesitated... but nodded and drank.


    Damian finally asked, his voice lower now, "Did you sleep at all?"


    She shook her head slightly. "A little."


    He watched her fingers twitch. Watched how she didn''t meet his eyes, how her posture forced calmness.


    There was something she wanted to say.


    He could feel it.


    But she was holding it in.


    They all ate slowly after that. Between bites of spiced pork and the soft sweetness of warm mana-bread, the conversation returned to safer topics. Mostly. Council movements. Mage patrol patterns. The usual updates. Selena said little, just listening, watching.


    Eventually, Cassius set his utensils down and spoke into the air. "Two days left, huh?"


    Selena flinched¡ªbarely, but enough that Damian noticed.


    Cassius''s voice wasn''t unkind. Just matter-of-fact. "That''s how long your father gave you and your brother, right?"


    Selena didn''t reply.


    Victoria looked at Damian. "You planning to do anything about that?"


    Damian''s fork paused midair. He met her gaze with a raised brow. "Like what?"


    "I don''t know," she said, voice light. "Kidnap her? Convince her? Make a big romantic gesture? You''ve done worse."


    Damian sighed. "She''s not a prisoner."


    "No," Evelyn cut in, her voice sharper. "But she doesn''t want to leave, either."


    That finally made Selena speak again, her voice quiet. "It''s not that simple."


    Damian looked at her. "Maybe not. But if you want something to change¡ª"


    "I do," she interrupted, her voice cracking just slightly. "I just... don''t know if I''m allowed to."


    The words were out before she could catch them. Her eyes widened slightly, as if she hadn''t meant to say it.


    Cassius clicked his tongue and poured himself another glass. "Permission is overrated."


    "Not when your whole kingdom watches you," she muttered.


    Damian leaned forward slightly, elbows on the table. "Princess."


    She looked up, reluctantly.


    His voice was calm. Steady. The same tone he used when speaking before a battle. "Do you want to stay?"


    Her lips parted. Her throat worked once. Then she nodded.


    He exhaled slowly, his expression softening for just a moment. "Then say it. Don''t hide it behind nothing."


    "I want to stay," she said, louder this time, the words trembling like they''d been locked behind her ribs for too long. "I don''t want to go back."


    The silence after that was heavy. But it wasn''t cold.


    It was real.


    Evelyn gave a quiet smile, then stood. "I''m going to check the perimeter enchantments."


    Victoria rose as well, stretching. "I''ll go with. Let the lovebirds mope in peace."


    Cassius snorted. "I''m not leaving. This is getting interesting."


    Damian turned his head slowly and shot him a sharp glare from across the table. It wasn''t even a full expression¡ªjust the kind of look that said, ''If you don''t leave, I will shove you through a shadow gate and dump you in the middle of the volcano.''


    Cassius held up both hands in mock surrender, eyebrows lifted. "Alright, alright. I get it." He stood from his chair with theatrical slowness, brushing off his coat like it was covered in tension. "You two have your little emotionally-repressed heart-to-heart. I''ll go brood somewhere else."


    He turned, muttering under his breath, "Everyone around here''s too dramatic anyway..."


    The door clicked gently behind him a moment later, leaving the dining room quieter than it had been all morning.


    Selena gave a soft laugh despite herself, her fingers nervously curling around the edge of her plate. She looked at Damian again¡ªthis time, really looked at him.


    "You already knew, didn''t you?" she said gently, eyes searching his.


    "I figured," he said quietly. "But I needed you to say it."


    "Why?"


    "Because I want you here," he replied, simply. "But I won''t ask you to give up your life for mine."


    Selena''s eyes glistened again, and she looked down at her plate to hide it.


    Two days left.


    And already, she wished they were longer.


    She took a shaky breath, then finally spoke again, her voice quieter than before. "I sent a magic messenger to my father last night."


    Damian blinked. "You did?"


    She nodded, still not looking up.


    Damian leaned back in his seat, surprised¡ªnot by her decision, but by the fact she''d done it so quickly. "And... he refused to give his permission?"


    Selena shook her head. "I haven''t gotten a reply yet."


    Damian folded his arms, his gaze narrowing slightly. "Then why were you crying?"


    There was no accusation in his voice. Just that same infuriatingly calm concern. The kind that made her chest squeeze in ways she didn''t have the energy to explain.


    She let out a soft breath, brushing her hair back behind her ear. "Because I was nervous."


    Damian blinked again. "Nervous?"


    Selena finally looked up, and her lips pulled into a weak, self-deprecating smile. "You don''t get it, do you?"


    "Clearly not."


    "I''m a princess, Damian. My whole life, everything''s been planned. Every trip, every tutor, every word I say in public. Even this little visit was supposed to be a political courtesy." She exhaled. "And then you happened. And now I''m sitting here wondering if I''ve done something... insane."


    Damian chuckled under his breath. "Yeah. That tracks."


    "I''m serious."


    "I know," he said. "But you don''t need to be scared of wanting something different."


    She stared at him for a second. "You''re really calm about this."


    "I''m not," he replied, rubbing the back of his neck. "I''m just trying not to push you."


    Selena rested her elbows on the table and leaned forward. "I wasn''t crying because I was afraid of you. I was crying because I don''t want to go back to that life and pretend none of this happened. I don''t want to stand by my brother''s side and smile in court when all I''m thinking about is you."


    "Princess¡ª"


    "Don''t call me princess right now," she interrupted softly. "Just... don''t."


    Damian''s throat tightened a little, but he nodded. "Alright."


    She gave him a look. "Say it, then."


    He blinked. "Say what?"


    "My name."


    He hesitated. "Selena," he said finally, almost too softly.

 Chapter 377: Do You Love Her?

    Warlock Ch 377. Do You Love Her?


    She smiled, not a weak one this time, but a small, genuine one. "See? Not that hard."


    Damian rolled his eyes. "You say that like I''ve been mentally trained for years to treat you like a commoner."


    Selena gave him a flat look, tearing a small piece of mana-bread from the warm loaf. "Damian, we''ve known each other for what? A few weeks? You didn''t train for this."


    He opened his mouth like he was about to argue¡ªthen stopped, sighed, and conceded with a small nod. "Alright. Fair. But I have been trying to be careful."


    "Oh really?" she asked, tone teasing now, but with a sharp glint in her eyes. "Because I''ve never once heard you say ''your majesty'' to Victoria. And she''s an actual queen."


    Damian blinked, then smirked. "That''s different."


    "How?"


    "Because I''m not scared of Victoria."


    Selena raised both brows. "I''m terrifying now?"


    "No," Damian said, then hesitated, eyes drifting downward for a moment. "But I am worried."


    Her playful expression softened. "About what?"


    Damian leaned forward slightly, his voice lower now. "That your father won''t accept it. That you''ll end up giving this up just to keep your kingdom''s peace."


    She frowned. "You think I''m that weak?"


    "No," he said quickly. "I think your position is hard. You''re a princess. Fae royalty. And I''m a warlock."


    "You''re an S-ranked warlock," she countered, voice sharper.


    Damian shrugged, looking off to the side. "Yeah, a new one. With no formal faction, no deep alliances, no political backing. And... already with Evelyn."


    He didn''t say Victoria. He didn''t need to.


    "And most people think Victoria''s the one who owns me," he added.


    Her mouth opened, closed. She tapped her fingers on her glass for a moment before whispering, "Do you love her?"


    He was quiet.


    Then, finally, "Yes. I do."


    Selena didn''t flinch. Didn''t cry. But her lips pressed together tightly. "And Evelyn?"


    Damian nodded. "Her too."


    Silence settled between them again¡ªthis one more fragile than before.


    Selena inhaled shakily, then said, "So... what do I become? If I stay? Just another one in the shadows?"


    Damian leaned forward again. "No. You''d be you. And I''d never hide that."


    "But people will talk."


    "They already do," he said with a shrug. "About everything. About my power. My past. My title. My sins. One more rumor isn''t going to change anything."


    Selena gave a sad smile. "You''re better at this than you think."


    He raised an eyebrow. "At what?"


    "Making someone feel like they matter."


    That shut him up.


    Damian didn''t say anything. He just held her hand like he was afraid the moment would vanish if he moved too quickly. His thumb brushed against hers once¡ªbarely a movement, but enough to make Selena''s breath hitch. The silence that settled after that wasn''t uncomfortable. It was full of everything they hadn''t said yet, thick with things they might never be able to explain.


    Selena didn''t pull away. She didn''t want to.


    She just looked down at their hands, then slowly up to his face again. "So," she murmured, voice still a little uneven, "are you going to sit here all day pretending you''re not also starving?"


    Damian blinked like he''d forgotten food was even on the table. "Right. Lunch."


    She snorted. "Smooth."


    He let go, but only to finally grab his fork. "You know," he said while scooping some of the roasted nightroot vegetables onto his plate, "for a moment there I thought you were going to make this harder."


    "I could still change my mind."


    He glanced up at her, amused. "Try me."


    Selena smiled, genuinely this time, then took a bite of the mana-bread. "You win. The food''s too good."


    They ate in silence for a bit, stealing glances between bites. The kind of quiet that felt warm, like the storm in her chest had settled into a breeze.


    Then Damian asked softly, "What will you do if your father says no?"


    Selena''s fork paused halfway to her mouth. She set it down. "I''ll... I don''t know. I should say I''ll listen to him, go back, be the good daughter. But..."


    "But?"


    "I don''t think I can," she admitted. "I don''t want to."


    Damian nodded. "Then you''re already braver than most people I''ve met."


    "That''s depressing," she said.


    "It''s true."


    She shook her head, fingers idly running along the rim of her water glass. "It''s just strange, you know? Wanting something for yourself after so long of only doing what''s expected."


    Damian tilted his head. "I get it."


    "You do?"


    He hesitated, then gave her a wry smile. "I got tired of being helpless too."


    "You don''t seem very helpless now."


    "That''s because I made myself into something they couldn''t control," he said, voice quiet but intense. "But I lost things doing that. People. Parts of myself."


    Selena watched him closely. "And now?"


    "Now..." he looked at her again. "Now I''m trying to build something that can last. Not just power. Not just a legacy. Something real."


    Her cheeks warmed. "You mean this?"


    He didn''t flinch. "Yeah. This. You. Them."


    Selena looked away, suddenly overwhelmed. Her heart beat like it wanted to climb out of her chest. "You''re getting better at this whole emotional vulnerability thing."


    "I''ve had practice lately," he muttered.


    "With Evelyn?"


    Damian didn''t answer immediately. Then "And with you."


    That made her smile again, small and stunned. "You know this doesn''t make any of it easier, right?"


    "I don''t expect it to be easy," he said. "Just worth it."


    She shook her head, eyes glassy again. "Damian..."


    He leaned forward, voice softer now. "Selena."


    "I¡ª" she stopped, letting out a long, shaky breath. "I''m just scared."


    "So am I."


    She looked up at him in surprise. "Really?"


    "Yeah." He smiled crookedly. "You think I''ve done this before? I''ve fought demons, survived assassination attempts, been hunted by entire factions... but navigating feelings? Princess, that''s the real nightmare."


    She laughed, the sound breaking through the tears threatening her throat. "You''re an idiot."


    "Yeah," he said. "But I''m your idiot."


    She covered her face with one hand. "That was so cheesy."


    "I regret nothing."

 Chapter 378: Perfect Time

    Warlock Ch 378. Perfect Time


    Selena peeked at him through her fingers. "Even if my father sends a mage squad to retrieve me?"


    Damian grabbed his goblet and raised it in a mock toast. "Then I''ll feed them dinner too."


    "And if they try to drag me away?"


    "Then I''ll drag you back."


    She stared at him, heart fluttering, face hot. "You''re insane."


    "Possibly," he said, taking a sip like they weren''t talking about war and politics and heartache. "But at least I''ll be insane with you."


    Selena reached across the table again, her fingers brushing his. "If I stay..."


    He locked eyes with her. "If you stay, we''ll figure the rest out together."


    She didn''t answer right away.


    But she smiled.


    And this time, he didn''t need her to say it.


    He already knew.


    Selena didn''t have to say anything. Damian could see it in the way her smile lingered, soft and warm and aching all at once. She didn''t need to spell out what she wanted anymore. It was there¡ªin her gaze, in her grip, in her willingness to be here at all.


    And maybe, just maybe, that was enough.


    The moment settled into silence again, only this time, there was a kind of peace to it.


    Of course, that peace didn''t last.


    Because no more than three seconds later, the door creaked open like it had been waiting for the drama to cool down.


    Cassius strolled in with a smug look plastered across his face, followed closely by Evelyn, who held her usual composed expression. Victoria trailed in last.


    Damian didn''t even bother looking up. "You guys listened, didn''t you?"


    Cassius dropped into a chair like he owned the place. Which he did. Technically. "Don''t mind us. We just happen to know the perfect time to ''accidentally'' walk in."


    Victoria flopped lazily into the seat next to Selena, smirking. "Your timing was immaculate, by the way."


    Evelyn slid back into her original seat. "We heard enough. Also, congratulations. That might be the longest non-violent conversation I''ve ever heard from you."


    Damian groaned and sank deeper into his seat. "Right... yeah. Totally believe the ''accidental'' part."


    Selena just looked flustered, but didn''t try to deny it. Her cheeks were still pink, but she didn''t look away from Damian this time. She just smiled quietly and reached for her drink again, pretending to focus on the food.


    Lunch resumed.


    Kind of.


    It was chaotic in that familiar way¡ªCassius tossing sarcastic one-liners about everything from politics to the seasoning on the spice-pork, Victoria flicking bits of bread at him like she was bored out of her mind, and Evelyn constantly switching between ignoring them and sighing dramatically.


    Damian mostly listened. So did Selena. And for a moment, it felt almost normal.


    Until it didn''t.


    It hit like a wave of cold pressure¡ªa quiet whisper brushing against the edge of Damian''s awareness. Subtle. Focused. From the shadows.


    He straightened without realizing it.


    Across the table, Cassius paused mid-chew, one brow twitching. He glanced at Damian and tilted his head slightly.


    Damian didn''t need to say a word.


    They both felt it.


    One of their shadow servants had just pinged them.


    A guest had arrived.


    And not just any guest.


    "Shit..." Damian muttered under his breath.


    Cassius exhaled, his lips twitching in some combination of annoyance and resignation. "Let me guess."


    Damian nodded. "Yeah. It''s that general."


    Evelyn raised a brow, setting her cup down slowly. "The dragon?"


    Victoria actually stopped playing with the food. "Wait. The general?"


    Damian ran a hand down his face. "She''s here. I don''t know why, I don''t know how she found us, but yeah... that''s her. Damn it."


    Cassius leaned back in his chair, arms folding. "Well, we did say this mess was getting bigger."


    "And louder," Victoria added.


    Selena frowned, glancing between them. "Is she dangerous?"


    Damian didn''t answer right away.


    "She''s not someone who talks unless she already has the advantage. If she comes here in person, she wants something."


    "Or she''s here to kill you," Cassius said with way too much casualness.


    "Thanks," Damian muttered.


    Selena reached for his hand under the table without thinking.


    He looked at her, surprised¡ªbut didn''t pull away.


    "I''ll go greet her," Damian said, standing slowly. His tone had shifted back to business¡ªcool, level, detached. The part of him that had just smiled over bread and teasing words was gone. This was the warlock now.


    Selena didn''t let go immediately. Her fingers tightened around Damian''s hand, a silent plea lingering in her touch.


    "You''ll be okay?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.


    Damian offered a faint smile, though it didn''t quite reach his eyes. "I''ll live," he replied. "But I guess she wants to meet me. She must have met those senators or whatever. So it''s either she considers me an enemy or... she considers me a witness. I hope it''s the latter."


    Victoria, lounging with an air of regal indifference, arched an eyebrow. "Do you need me?"


    Damian shook his head. "Not yet. Let''s stick to the plan that the vampire queen is back in her territory. Not here."


    Victoria''s lips curved into a smirk. "Just tell me if you need it."


    He nodded in acknowledgment.


    Cassius glanced toward the entrance. "She''s coming. I''ll open the barrier for her. Just be careful, okay?"


    Damian took a deep breath, steeling himself. "Understood." He gently released Selena''s hand and stood, his movements deliberate.


    The living room was spacious, adorned with dark, polished wood and deep crimson drapes that filtered the afternoon light into a subdued glow. The air was thick with anticipation. Damian positioned himself near the center, his posture relaxed but alert. The others remained seated, their eyes tracking his movements.


    A faint ripple shimmered through the room as Cassius deactivated the protective barrier. The front door creaked open, and a gust of cool air swept in, carrying with it the scent of frost and ozone.


    She entered with a commanding presence, her tall frame draped in armor that seemed to shimmer between hues of silver and icy blue. Her eyes, a piercing shade of cerulean, scanned the room with a predator''s precision. Long, platinum hair cascaded down her back, partially braided in intricate patterns that spoke of ancient traditions.

 Chapter 379: General Lysandra of Dragon Tribe

    Warlock Ch 379. General Lysandra of Dragon Tribe


    "General Lysandra," Damian greeted, his voice steady. "To what do we owe the pleasure?"


    Lysandra''s gaze settled on him, her expression unreadable. "Warlock," she replied, her tone cool and measured. "We need to talk."


    Damian gestured to a chair opposite him. "Please, have a seat."


    She remained standing for a moment longer before acquiescing, the metal of her armor barely making a sound as she moved. The room''s atmosphere grew taut.


    "I assume this isn''t a social visit," Damian began, leaning forward slightly.


    Lysandra''s eyes narrowed. "No, it isn''t. The recent... disturbances involving the senators have drawn our attention. Your involvement is evident."


    Damian interjected, his voice light but edged. "Disturbances are a mild way to put it."


    "The dragon tribe does not take kindly to political upheavals that threaten the balance. We need to understand your intentions."


    Damian leaned back slightly, crossing his arms over his chest. "Intentions? We just want to live. Peacefully."


    Lysandra''s eyes narrowed, her scrutiny pressing down on him. "Peacefully?" She let the word hang in the air. "Then explain the recent disturbances. The assassinations. The political unrest."


    Damian met her gaze evenly. "Those events have nothing to do with me."


    She tilted her head slightly, as if weighing his words. "Perhaps. But your presence at the S-rank examination ties you to these events. You were a witness."


    He nodded slowly. "I was there. I saw what happened. But I was also a victim."


    Lysandra''s expression remained unreadable. "I''ve also learned that Princess Selena is here, under your protection. I spoke with Prince Cedric, and he confirmed as much."


    Damian''s jaw tightened at the mention of Cedric. "Selena is here of her own volition. She sought refuge."


    Lysandra''s gaze softened just a fraction. "Refuge from what?"


    He hesitated, choosing his words carefully. "From the constraints of her position. From expectations she no longer wishes to fulfill."


    She studied him for a long moment before speaking. "You understand the implications of harboring her? The political ramifications?"


    Damian exhaled slowly. "I do. But my priority is her safety and well-being."


    Lysandra leaned forward, resting her elbows on her knees. "The dragon tribe values balance above all else. Disruptions, especially those involving high-ranking individuals, can lead to chaos."


    He nodded. "I respect that. But sometimes, to maintain balance, one must take a stand."


    She sighed, a rare sign of frustration. "You are stubborn."


    A faint smirk tugged at the corner of Damian''s lips. "Thanks."


    Lysandra''s lips twitched, almost forming a smile before she caught herself. "Be that as it may, I need assurances. The dragon tribe cannot afford unforeseen conflicts."


    Damian''s expression grew serious. "I can assure you, our goal isn''t to incite conflict. We seek peace, but we won''t shy away from defending ourselves if necessary."


    She nodded slowly. "Very well. But know this: anything that threatens the balance, we will intervene."


    Damian leaned back, studying Lysandra.


    "I never pegged dragons as the meddling type," Damian said, breaking the silence.


    Lysandra''s lips twitched in a ghost of a smile. "We have our own concerns and objectives."


    He arched an eyebrow. "Care to elaborate?"


    She hesitated, then said, "We''ve detected a powerful anomaly emanating from this city."


    "Anomaly?" Damian''s mind raced through possibilities. "You think it''s me?"


    Lysandra shook her head. "No. It''s not a person. It''s... a thing."


    He frowned. "And you believe I have information about it?"


    "Perhaps," she said, her gaze unwavering. "At the very least, I need your assurance that our goals align."


    Damian exhaled slowly. "For your information, I''m not exactly on the council''s Christmas card list. I don''t trust them."


    A flicker of amusement crossed Lysandra''s face. "We share that sentiment."


    He leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees. "So, what''s your play here? You want me to keep an eye out for this... thing?"


    "Information is power," she replied. "And right now, power is in short supply."


    Damian nodded thoughtfully. "Fair point. But why approach me? Surely there are others more... cooperative."


    Lysandra''s expression darkened. "The other witness is dead. That leaves you and Princess Selena."


    His eyes narrowed. "You''re well-informed."


    She inclined her head. "It''s my business to be."


    Silence stretched between them, thick with unspoken implications.


    Finally, Damian broke it. "Look, I get it. You want to maintain balance. But if you''re asking me to pick sides¡ª"


    "I''m asking you to be vigilant," Lysandra interrupted. "To recognize that some forces are greater threats than petty human politics."


    He studied her for a long moment. "Alright. If I come across anything... anomalous, you''ll be the first to know."


    A genuine smile touched her lips. "That''s all I ask."


    She stood, her movements fluid and graceful. "Until we meet again, Warlock."


    Damian watched as she departed, her presence leaving a palpable void in the room. He rubbed his temples, feeling the weight of yet another complication settling on his shoulders.


    "Great," he muttered to himself. "As if things weren''t complicated enough."


    He glanced toward the window, the city sprawled out before him, oblivious to the undercurrents of power shifting beneath its surface. With a resigned sigh, Damian stood and prepared himself for the storm he sensed was coming.


    As he turned to rejoin the others, a subtle shift in his shadow servants alerted him to another presence approaching the manor.


    "Right... Prince Cedric. Of course," Damian muttered to himself, rubbing his temples. The day was proving to be more eventful than he''d anticipated.


    Steeling himself, he made his way back to the living room, arriving just as the doors opened to reveal Prince Cedric. The prince''s usual composed demeanor was overshadowed by evident concern, his eyes scanning the room anxiously.


    "Warlock," Cedric began, his voice tight, "I need to see Selena. Is she safe?"


    Damian nodded, gesturing toward a nearby chair. "She''s fine, Cedric. Please, have a seat."


    Cedric hesitated for a moment before complying, his posture rigid. "I heard about the assassinations," he said, running a hand through his hair. "And I just saw a dragoness leaving this place. What''s going on?"

 Chapter 380 380: Power Plays

    Warlock Ch 380. Power Plays


    Damian leaned against the mantle, choosing his words carefully. "The city''s in turmoil. Power plays, betrayals... it''s a mess. Lysandra¡ªthe dragoness you saw¡ªcame seeking information."


    Cedric''s brow furrowed. "Information? About what?"


    "An anomaly," Damian replied. "A powerful presence detected within the city. She''s concerned about the balance of power."


    The prince''s eyes narrowed. "And she thinks Selena is involved?"


    Damian shook his head. "No, but she knows Selena and I witnessed events at the S-rank examination. She wanted assurances that we''re not contributing to the chaos."


    Cedric exhaled slowly, tension evident in his shoulders. "I don''t like this. Selena''s position is precarious enough without dragons and assassins in the mix."


    "I understand," Damian said, his tone steady. "But she''s safer here than anywhere else right now."


    The prince''s gaze softened slightly. "She trusts you."


    Damian met his eyes. "And I won''t betray that trust."


    A moment of silence passed between them before Cedric nodded, some of the tension leaving his frame. "Thank you."


    Damian offered a faint smile. "We''re all navigating this storm. Let''s ensure we don''t sink each other in the process."


    The prince managed a small chuckle. "Agreed. Keep her safe."


    "I will," Damian affirmed.


    As Cedric rose to leave, he paused, glancing back. "If you learn more about this... anomaly, let me know."


    "Of course," Damian replied.


    With a final nod, Cedric departed.


    He turned, rubbing his temples. The roasted nightroot veggies were probably cold by now, and the mana-bread had lost its perfect fluff. But whatever, he was gonna eat anyway. He''d earned that damn lunch. One dragon general, and a worried prince in one morning. That had to qualify for at least one hot meal, right?


    He exhaled through his nose, quietly trudging back toward the dining room like a tired office worker clocking back in after a disaster meeting.


    "I need to resume my lunch," he muttered to no one in particular.


    Of course, life had other plans.


    The moment he stepped foot in the hallway, another ping echoed through his awareness¡ªanother shadow servant alert. He froze. His jaw twitched.


    "You''ve got to be kidding me."


    He turned around. Slowly. Like a man walking toward the guillotine. He didn''t even ask who it was.


    Because the moment the heavy double doors creaked open, he already recognized the mana signature. Sharp. Familiar. Balanced like a sword honed for political war.


    Damian''s shoulders sagged as he planted himself back in the middle of the living room, his face wearing the universal expression of ''What now?''


    Aria stepped in, dressed in her usual muted violet robes, tailored so perfectly they somehow managed to scream wealth and authority without being flashy. She looked every bit the composed senator¡ªthe kind who didn''t flinch during committee bloodbaths.


    "Warlock," she greeted, her tone clipped, her hands folded behind her back. No bow. No nod. Just straight into business. "We need to talk."


    Damian sighed and tilted his head. "Can''t I eat my lunch in peace?"


    Her eyes narrowed. "No."


    Of course.


    He gestured wordlessly to the sitting area. She didn''t need the invitation, but she took it anyway, moving with the kind of grace that said, ''I''m not here for tea. This isn''t friendly.''


    Damian sat across from her, folding one leg over the other and leaning into the backrest like a man seconds from cracking a joke. He didn''t.


    "You look better than I expected," she said, her voice even. "All things considered."


    "Thanks. I moisturize."


    She didn''t laugh. Aria rarely did. Instead, she watched him closely, her expression unreadable but very, very sharp.


    "Did you know about the assassinations?"


    Damian''s smile faltered for a heartbeat. Not enough for anyone else to notice. But Aria wasn''t just anyone.


    He held her gaze. "No."


    Lying wasn''t easy. Not to someone who used to be his enemy. Not to someone who''d once tried to slit his throat in a burning council hall because she thought he was a threat to the realm.


    She didn''t react. Didn''t call him out. She just said, "Hm."


    That was more dangerous than yelling.


    "There''s been... evidence," she continued slowly. "Pointing to Ralvek. At least, not directly. This wasn''t his usual execution style. It''s more complicated."


    Damian frowned. "Evidence from where?"


    "You tell me."


    "I don''t know what you''re talking about," he said, feigning confusion like a damn professional.


    Her eyes narrowed. "Don''t play dumb."


    "I''m not playing. I''m naturally charming and stupid."


    She wasn''t amused. "A trail of forged communications. Seals. Planted whispers about betrayal within the high council''s core. Whoever did this wanted to fracture the council from the inside. And they''re succeeding."


    He leaned forward slightly, playing into the performance. "Wait. So you think someone other than Ralvek''s people is staging this?"


    "I know someone is." She paused. "And I think they''re getting help. From someone who knows how to cover their tracks."


    "Then maybe you should look into whoever trained Ralvek''s informants. You think he doesn''t have backups? Failsafes?"


    She ignored that. "The illusion trails were too clean. Mana fingerprints were wiped too well. The false leads weren''t sloppily done¡ªthey were meant to be found."


    "Okay," Damian said slowly.


    "Someone left them behind on purpose. To cause chaos," she said simply. "To make sure no one trusts anyone."


    "Mission accomplished, I guess."


    "Are you seriously pretending you''re not involved in any of this?"


    Damian gave her a flat look. "Aria, if I were involved in this, do you think I''d still be sitting here eating cold vegetables while everyone else is panicking?"


    "Yes."


    Fair.


    He rubbed his temples. "Look. I''ve been keeping my head down."


    "That''s funny," she said dryly. "I could''ve sworn I saw you fighting in front of the entire city during the Rank S exam. And then again, when the top five senators and seven Sanctum councils disappeared without a trace. Funny way to keep your head down."


    "Okay, maybe slightly above the radar."


    She leaned forward now, her voice lower. "I''m not here on Ralvek''s behalf. I''m not even here on the Council''s authority."

 Chapter 381 381: Not With The Same Sword

    Warlock Ch 381. Not With The Same Sword


    That made Damian pause. He tilted his head slightly. "Then why are you here?"


    She hesitated. And that... that was rare.


    "I saw the aftermath," she said, voice softer now. "I saw what was left behind. The evidence. The way it was placed. I''ve worked beside Kaelan before. And this? This felt familiar."


    Damian blinked.


    "So I came to confirm something."


    "Which is?"


    She looked him straight in the eye. "That you''re still fighting. Just... not with the same sword."


    That caught him off guard. He didn''t reply.


    She took that as permission to keep going.


    "I don''t care who you were. Kaelan. Damian. Whatever name you''re wearing now. But if you''re going after the people who deserve it¡ªthe ones who''ve built their kingdoms on silence and bones¡ªthen I''m not going to stop you."


    Damian''s heart dropped.


    It didn''t show on his face, not at first. Outwardly, he was calm. Steady. The kind of unreadable expression he''d mastered over years of surviving lies and blades in dark rooms. But inside?


    He was screaming.


    ''She knows.''


    His mind spiraled for a split second, the words echoing in a cold, sharp loop. Aria had figured it out. Not guessed. Not suspected.


    Confirmed.


    His old name still tasted like blood and fire. Kaelan. The war criminal. The butcher. The exile.


    The part of him that had died¡ªand now, apparently, not as quietly as he''d hoped.


    He leaned back in the chair, but his body was tense, spine stiff, like it was deciding between fighting or fleeing. His fingers twitched once before he folded his arms across his chest, trying to appear casual.


    "How?" he asked, voice quiet. Controlled. Too controlled. "How did you figure it out?"


    Aria''s expression didn''t change. "Does it matter?"


    "It does to me."


    She looked at him for a long moment, then said, "Your eyes. They''re not the same as Kaelan''s... but they carry the same weight."


    Damian cursed silently.


    "You knew me back then," he said. "When everyone else just remembers the stories."


    "I knew the version of you who nearly tore the High Chamber in half with nothing but fury." She tilted her head. "And I knew the look of someone who regrets surviving that day."


    Damian''s breath caught for half a second.


    Then he asked the next question, slower this time. More dangerous.


    "Are you here to kill me?"


    Silence.


    Gods, even the shadow servants had gone still.


    Aria blinked once. Then again. She didn''t smile. Just met his eyes, unflinching.


    "No."


    Damian didn''t relax. He couldn''t. Not yet.


    "Why not?"


    "You''re not him anymore," she said.


    "That''s convenient," he muttered, bitterness slipping through his voice.


    "No," she said sharply. "It''s earned. And barely."


    He stared at her, then let out a breath that shook more than he wanted it to.


    He leaned back again, deeper this time, settling into the cushions like they might anchor him. Folded his arms again. Bit back on the thousand ways this could go wrong.


    "And what, you want to join the rebellion?" he asked, voice dry.


    She smiled faintly¡ªand for the first time in a long time, it didn''t feel like a threat.


    "No. I want to survive it."


    A beat passed. Tension still buzzed under his skin like a live wire. But it was shifting. Becoming something else. Not fear. Not panic.


    Just... weariness.


    "And if you die," she added softly, "then all the things you started will die with you. That''s what I''m here for. To make sure you don''t waste your second chance."


    Damian stared at her.


    This woman. Aria. Who once demanded his execution in front of a hundred witnesses. Who swore she''d never trust anyone who bore the demon king''s mark. Who now sat in his living room, calm and composed, offering help wrapped in veiled words and sharp pragmatism.


    It was surreal.


    It was dangerous.


    And yet, part of him felt lighter. Because someone else knew. Someone else saw the truth¡ªand didn''t flinch.


    He let out a breath. "So what do you want from me?"


    "Nothing," she said. "Just answers."


    "Answers I can''t give."


    "Then give me truths."


    Damian rubbed the bridge of his nose, dragging his palm down his face. "Okay. Here''s a truth. The system''s breaking down. Ralvek''s slipping. The council is eating itself. And I''m not the one pulling those strings."


    "But you''re benefiting from it."


    He met her gaze. "Maybe. But only because it was going to collapse anyway."


    He hesitated.


    His fingers clenched slightly around the arm of the chair, and something raw slipped into his voice before he could stop it.


    "I want to prove my innocence."


    That caught Aria''s attention.


    Damian''s throat worked, jaw tight. "I''m not guilty. Not now, not in the past."


    She didn''t respond, not yet, but he saw her expression shift¡ªsubtle, wary.


    "Kaelan was innocent," he said, and now the words were spilling out¡ªnot angry, not defensive. Just wounded. Honest. "They threw the dirt at me because I was convenient. Because someone had to take the fall," he stated. His bitterness was clear from his voice.


    His voice dropped lower, bitter and brittle. "And you... You were my childhood friend, Aria. You knew me. You knew what I stood for. And you still took their side."


    The silence that followed was absolute.


    Aria didn''t flinch. Didn''t deny it.


    She didn''t have to.


    The look on her face said enough¡ªlike a mirror to a memory she''d long buried. The way her mouth pressed into a thin line. The way her eyes lowered, just briefly.


    She had no defense.


    Only silence.


    Damian looked away, exhaled slowly, and rubbed the back of his neck. "I wasn''t perfect. Gods know I did things I regret. I made mistakes. But I never betrayed anyone. I never betrayed you."


    Still nothing.


    But now, her breathing had changed¡ªslower, deeper. Like she was holding something back. Guilt, maybe. Or shame. Or something she couldn''t put into words.


    And he wasn''t sure he wanted to hear it.

 Chapter 382: I’m Trying to Build Something That Can Last

    Warlock Ch 382. I''m Trying to Build Something That Can Last


    He looked back up at her, eyes colder now. "You think I''m benefiting from the collapse. Maybe I am. But that''s not why I''m here. I''m not trying to burn it all down. I''m trying to build something that can last. Something that doesn''t sacrifice good people just because it''s politically convenient."


    Aria exhaled slowly. Almost like a sigh.


    She didn''t argue.


    She didn''t apologize.


    But she didn''t look away.


    "One more question," she said, finally, voice quieter now.


    "Of course."


    "Is Selena staying?"


    His eyes flickered, barely. "Yes."


    "You''re not worried that''s going to make things worse?"


    "I''m worried about a lot of things," he said. "But she made her choice."


    "And if her father retaliates?"


    Damian didn''t answer.


    He didn''t have to.


    The look on his face said everything.


    ''Let him try.''


    Aria studied him for another long moment, like she was trying to see through all the layers¡ªwarlock, survivor, murderer, protector, liar, Kaelan. Damian.


    Then she stood.


    "That''s all I needed to know."


    Damian raised an eyebrow. "That''s it?"


    "For now."


    She turned to go. Her boots made almost no sound against the hardwood floor. But then, halfway to the door, she stopped.


    "You''ve changed," she said quietly. "But the magus society hasn''t."


    Damian''s voice was soft, tired. "Then I''ll change it."


    Aria gave a faint nod. "Good luck, Warlock."


    Then she was gone. No teleportation. No dramatic exit. Just footsteps fading into silence.


    And Damian?


    He stayed there.


    For a long moment, he didn''t move. The weight of everything she''d said¡ªwhat she knew¡ªsettled in his chest like an old injury flaring back to life.


    She knew. And she wasn''t trying to destroy him.


    That should''ve been a relief.


    So why did it feel like a countdown had just started ticking?


    Finally, he stood.


    Walked back into the dining room, his footsteps heavier than before.


    Cassius was gone. Evelyn and Victoria too. Even Selena had slipped away. Shadow servants had cleared the plates, then returned¡ªprobably listening the whole time but wise enough not to interrupt.


    He sat down again.


    Same chair. Same cold food.


    The plate hadn''t moved. It waited for him, like it knew.


    He picked up his fork. Stabbed a piece of meat.


    "Can I finally eat in peace?" he muttered, half to himself, half to the room.


    No one answered.


    So he took a bite.


    It was cold.


    But it tasted like survival.


    The second bite of cold meat had just made it to Damian''s mouth when he felt the familiar flicker of magic stir the air behind him.


    Footsteps.


    Three sets.


    He didn''t turn around. Just sighed through his nose like a man who''d been through too much in one morning.


    "You know," he said flatly, chewing as he stared at nothing in particular. "If one more person walks in on me trying to eat lunch, I''m throwing the entire city into a void rift."


    Cassius''s voice came first¡ªcheerful and unbothered. "Mood."


    Damian looked up to see Cassius strolling in with a bottle of wine in one hand and two glasses in the other. His coat was slung lazily over one shoulder like he''d just returned from a nobleman''s duel or a fashion shoot.


    Evelyn followed behind him, her expression unreadable.


    Victoria, of course, came last¡ªstretching her arms overhead like she hadn''t just been listening behind a door for half an hour.


    "Let me guess," Damian said, stabbing another piece of cold pork. "You guys eavesdropped."


    Cassius plopped into the nearest chair, setting the bottle down with a soft clink. "Kinda."


    "Kinda?" Damian arched a brow.


    Victoria grinned and leaned against the table. "We only listened to the dramatic parts. You know¡ªbetrayal, regret, childhood friends with unresolved tension. Real tearjerker stuff."


    Damian groaned. "Unbelievable."


    Evelyn didn''t sit. She just stood near the edge of the room, arms crossed, eyes fixed on him with that piercing stare of hers. "She knows, doesn''t she?"


    He nodded once. "Yeah."


    Cassius poured himself a drink. "Did she threaten to kill you?"


    "No."


    "Whew." Cassius raised his glass. "Progress."


    Victoria looked amused. "Did she apologize?"


    "No."


    "Less progress."


    Evelyn finally spoke again. "How did she figure it out?"


    "Eyes," Damian muttered, pushing his fork around the plate. "My eyes. Apparently, I still carry that same ''regret-filled stare'' that Kaelan had."


    Victoria whistled low. "Oof. You''ve got war criminal face."


    Cassius took a long sip of wine, then shrugged. "At least it''s not ''tax collector face.'' That''s way worse."


    Damian gave him a look. "Not helping."


    Evelyn stepped closer. "Do you believe her?"


    He hesitated. "Yes. For now."


    "Dangerous words," she said softly.


    "Familiar ones," Damian shot back.


    She didn''t argue. Just gave a slight nod.


    Cassius leaned back in his chair, balancing it on two legs with his foot hooked under the table for stability. "So, what now? You gonna keep playing the long game? Or are we shifting to full rebellion mode?"


    "I''m trying not to ignite the city overnight," Damian said. "Just... light a few fuses in the right places."


    Victoria looked delighted. "That''s the spirit."


    Evelyn sat down finally, her hands folded neatly on the table. "If Aria''s figured it out, others might too. Are you prepared for that?"


    "No," Damian admitted. "But I don''t think I have a choice anymore."


    Victoria tossed a grape into her mouth. "Well, you did pick the whole ''masked vigilante with a tragic past'' route. Comes with the territory."


    "You realize I''m not trying to be mysterious and broody, right?" he said, rubbing his temples.


    Cassius tilted his glass toward him. "That just makes it worse. Mystery by accident? That''s elite brooding."


    Damian snorted despite himself. "Gods. You''re all insufferable."


    Victoria winked. "We''re family."


    Damian looked up at that. Not sarcastically. Not bitterly.


    Just... quietly.


    Yeah.


    They were.


    "Still," Evelyn said after a moment, "we need a plan. If Aria''s supporting you, that''s a powerful ally. But if anyone else finds out¡ª"


    "They won''t," Damian interrupted. "Not unless I want them to."


    Cassius grinned. "Spoken like a true paranoid mastermind."

 Chapter 383: Not Paranoid

    Warlock Ch 383. Not Paranoid


    "I''m not paranoid."


    "You have three shadow servants assigned to just the courtyard."


    "It''s called layered security," Damian muttered.


    Cassius shrugged and took another slow sip of his wine. "Sure, and I call it ''living in a paranoid fortress run by a broody warlock who won''t let us install a hot spring because ''it might be cursed.''"


    Damian didn''t even bother with a comeback. He just sighed and pushed the food around on his plate again. His appetite had finally started to return¡ªjust a little¡ªwhen Evelyn spoke up from across the table.


    "Have you told her?" she asked suddenly.


    Damian blinked. "Told who what?"


    "Aria," Evelyn clarified. "About what we heard last time. About what Ralvek''s building. That... thing."


    Damian shook his head. "No. I didn''t tell her. Yet."


    Cassius raised a brow. "You sure that''s wise? The dragons could''ve come because they detected it."


    "Most likely, yeah," Damian admitted, voice low. "But Lysandra didn''t say anything. So I didn''t say anything either."


    Victoria, still perched comfortably on the table, cocked her head. "And you didn''t tell Aria anything either."


    Damian didn''t answer right away. He just kept his eyes on the table, jaw tight.


    "I..." He paused. His voice was rough when it finally came out. "I didn''t want to say too much to her. I don''t know which side she''ll take yet."


    Silence settled over the room.


    The fireplace crackled quietly in the corner. The scent of roasted spices and faint mana-steam still lingered in the air, but the warmth felt distant now.


    The trio just... looked at him.


    Not judging. Not accusing.


    Just there.


    Cassius was the one who broke the silence.


    "Guess past betrayal still stings, huh?"


    Victoria raised a brow, brushing an invisible speck off her sleeve. "If Aria thinks she did the right thing in the past, it doesn''t count as betrayal, you know."


    Damian''s grip tightened around his fork. "I don''t care about that."


    He finally lifted his gaze, and the flicker of emotion behind his eyes was sharp. Tangled. Tired.


    "My problem is I''m not alone anymore," he said quietly.


    The words hung there, heavier than anything he''d said all morning.


    "I have you guys," he continued, voice softer now. "And that means you could get dragged into my problems. Again. You could suffer because of me. Because of Kaelan. Because of whatever mess I end up pulling down next."


    Evelyn stood.


    Her chair scraped against the floor, harsh and sudden.


    She walked around the table slowly, her boots making soft thuds against the stone tile until she stood in front of him. Her eyes, sharp and bright like a storm barely held in check, locked on his.


    Then she grabbed the edge of his coat and tugged him halfway out of his chair.


    "Don''t," she said, her voice low and dangerous. "Don''t ever think about leaving us again, Damian."


    He didn''t move.


    Didn''t pull away.


    He just... stared at her.


    Evelyn''s hands trembled slightly against the fabric. Not out of weakness. Out of restraint. Her breath was tight, like she was holding back something far more painful than anger.


    Cassius leaned forward slowly, the wine glass forgotten.


    Victoria sat up straighter too, her usual smirk gone, replaced by something colder¡ªlike the air had shifted.


    Damian didn''t say anything. Not at first.


    Because he knew why she was saying it like that. Knew exactly where that fire in her voice came from.


    She wasn''t mad at him.


    She was scared.


    And it all tied back to her past¡ªthe one where people left. Where partners walked out. Where comrades abandoned missions halfway through because the cause got too heavy.


    Where someone she trusted disappeared without a goodbye.


    He knew. Because she''d told him. Not in words, but in the way she''d clung to him. The way she stayed outside his room at night after the fallout from the Rank S exam. The way she never let her back face the door.


    "I''m not leaving," he said, finally.


    Evelyn''s eyes flickered.


    Damian reached up slowly, brushing her wrist with two fingers¡ªnot forcefully, just enough to steady the tremble.


    "I''m not going anywhere," he said again, softer this time. "I just... I needed you to know what could happen."


    Evelyn exhaled through her nose, her grip loosening.


    "You idiot," she muttered.


    "Yeah," he whispered. "I know."


    Cassius finally leaned back again, hands laced behind his head. "I''m just gonna say it¡ªif you did leave, I''d hunt your ass down and drag you back."


    Victoria nodded. "Same. Probably with a bit more bats and blood involved, though."


    "I''d deserve it," Damian said.


    "Damn right you would," Cassius said cheerfully. "You''re our problem now. Like a cursed artifact that we don''t know how to destroy, so we just keep you in the vault and feed you pastries."


    Victoria raised her hand. "I''d keep him for stress relief. Like a magical punching bag. Or one of those cute warlocks who pretend they''re fine."


    Damian snorted. "Glad to know I''m useful."


    Evelyn finally stepped back, arms crossing again, but her posture wasn''t defensive anymore. Just... grounded.


    "You''re not dragging us into anything," she said firmly. "We chose this."


    Damian looked around the room.


    Cassius, who''d known him longer than anyone.


    Victoria, who''d seen the worst of him and still stayed.


    Evelyn, who refused to let him run from the past even when it hurt her too.


    He nodded slowly. "Okay."


    No long speech. No over-the-top vow.


    Just a word that held everything he couldn''t say out loud.


    Okay.


    The warmth crept back into the room bit by bit. Cassius reached for the bottle again and started pouring everyone a glass¡ªwhether they wanted it or not. Victoria kicked her boots up on the table again, earning a glare from a shadow servant that she pointedly ignored. Evelyn returned to her seat, watching Damian but no longer hovering like he might vanish.


    Outside, the wind shifted.


    The sky had begun to cloud, thick with mana-charged air. Another storm was coming¡ªliteral or metaphorical, Damian couldn''t quite tell.


    But this time, when it came, he wouldn''t be facing it alone.


    And deep down?


    That made all the difference.

 Chapter 384 384: Therapeutic Yapping

    Warlock Ch 384. Therapeutic Yapping


    After that eventful morning, there wasn''t much left to do except wait. The entire manor felt like it had taken a long breath and now just held it, tense and quiet. The shadow servants had been dispatched, watching, listening, and sniffing out any whispers.


    Most of the group just drifted.


    Cassius took over the library, pretending to read while mostly rotating between wine, staring at the ceiling, and throwing sarcastic comments at the paintings on the walls.


    Victoria claimed a sofa in the war room and dozed with one eye open, still in full leather like she was ready to spring into a fight even in her sleep.


    Evelyn moved like she had no interest in relaxing¡ªshe checked the outer perimeter wards three times, rewrote the magical seals on the east wing''s windows, then locked herself in her study with three encrypted communication scrolls and a cup of something that smelled like peppermint and murder.


    And Damian?


    He went to the training ground again.


    Because some days, swinging a spear at monsters was easier than dealing with everything else.


    The moment his boots hit the obsidian tiles of the hall, the ambient enchantments flared up around him. Pale blue glyphs shimmered along the walls, activating movement tracking and elemental impact nullifiers. The temperature dropped slightly, as if even the room itself was bracing for a fight.


    Damian didn''t say a word. Just summoned his spear in a burst of black flame and started moving.


    Lunges. Sweeps. Full rotations. Fire-based charges followed by shadow-step retreats. He pushed himself hard¡ªway harder than yesterday. His muscles screamed, but he didn''t stop. If anything, the pain helped him focus.


    The system notifications blinked softly in the edge of his vision.


    [Proficiency increased by 0.6%]


    [Combo Execution Bonus Achieved ¨C Chain Count: 57]


    [Passive Trait ''Discipline'' triggered ¨C Recovery Speed +10% for 10 minutes]


    It wasn''t just mindless repetition. He was testing new combinations. Weaving in short-range teleportation mid-combo. Timing his [Void Rift] cast between consecutive strikes. Even layering [Hellfire Spear] with [Spectral Surge], just to see how the balance worked under high-speed pressure.


    And of course, the demon king in his head didn''t shut up.


    ''Swing wider,'' came the deep voice, smug and loud inside his skull. ''Your form is getting sloppy. Are you even trying?''


    "I''m literally bleeding from my knuckles."


    ''That''s not bleeding. That''s sweat mixed with cowardice.''


    "You''re real chatty today," Damian muttered aloud, stabbing the illusion of a knight through the chest. The construct exploded into sparks.


    ''I am your inner darkness,'' the demon king said, all dramatic. ''And you are a mess right now. Someone''s gotta hold the line.''


    "You mean yap in my ear for two hours straight?"


    ''Therapeutic yapping.''


    To be fair, the demon wasn''t wrong. There was a mess in his head.


    And the biggest, ugliest knot in there was Aria.


    She knew. About Kaelan. About him.


    And she hadn''t tried to kill him. She hadn''t outed him to the Council or sent an assassin or even screamed at him. She just... accepted it. Not warmly. Not trustingly. But she accepted it.


    And that was the part that scared him most.


    Because last time? It had started like that too. People smiling to his face while sharpening the knife behind his back. Friends who believed in him¡ªright up until they didn''t. Until it was easier to believe the propaganda than the truth. Until they were afraid of what it meant to stand by his side.


    The spear trembled in his grip as he forced himself to stop.


    His heart was racing. Sweat dripped down his back. And he was still stuck in the same thought spiral.


    Across the room, quietly and patiently, Selena sat on the chair near the wall. Same spot as yesterday. Legs crossed, hands folded in her lap, a towel draped over one shoulder and a flask of enchanted water beside her. This time, she''d brought a small container of rice cakes and grilled meat skewers too. Probably snuck it out of the kitchen while everyone else was too distracted to notice.


    She hadn''t spoken once.


    Not even a hello.


    And neither had he.


    But that wasn''t unusual between them anymore. Some silences were just... understood.


    When the dusk arrived, he walked to the side of the hall, dismissed his spear, and grabbed the towel she offered without a word. Wiped his face. Sat down beside her, his breathing still sharp and uneven.


    Still nothing.


    Selena glanced at him briefly, her expression soft but distant. She held out a skewer of meat.


    "Thanks." He took it. Bit into it. Chewed.


    The spices hit his tongue¡ªwarm, slightly sweet, tinged with mana. Probably cooked by one of the shadow chefs under Cassius'' ridiculous food enhancement program. It should''ve made him feel better.


    It didn''t.


    She didn''t push. Just sat beside him quietly, sipping from her glass and watching the flickering glyphs along the ceiling slowly dim as the enchantments cooled down.


    "Long day," she said eventually, voice barely above a whisper.


    "Mm."


    "Training hard?"


    "Too hard."


    "Do you always do that when you''re thinking too much?"


    Damian didn''t respond.


    She didn''t press further.


    And then, Damian spoke again.


    "Yeah," he muttered, his voice low, almost like he was just thinking out loud. "Especially since I know I need to get stronger. Fast."


    Selena turned her head, brows pulling together slightly.


    "My time''s limited," Damian went on, rubbing at the back of his neck, sweat still clinging to his skin. "I don''t have much left. They''re gonna come after me soon enough. You know how it works... they don''t let people like me live."


    Selena''s throat tightened. She stared down at the nearly empty food box in her lap for a second before replying. "It''s messed up out there."


    He glanced at her, but didn''t interrupt.


    She shifted a little on the bench, eyes dark and tired. "When I gave my testimony... They pressured me. The moment I said I was defending you, they started with it. ''Are you sure?'' ''Are you not under some sort of spell or manipulation?'' Like I couldn''t possibly think for myself."

 Chapter 385 385: Dark Manipulator

    Warlock Ch 385. Dark Manipulator


    Damian scoffed, leaning back against the wall, shoulders tense.


    "They tried to twist everything," Selena continued, her voice quieter now. "Tried to make it sound like you were controlling me. Like you were some kind of villain hiding behind sympathy magic or... or seduction."


    That got a short, bitter laugh out of Damian. "Classic. Paint me as the dark manipulator behind the pretty fae princess."


    "Yeah." Selena clenched her fists, her tone trembling now. "They tried so hard to frame you. But the evidence was too much. The manipulation spells they claimed you used didn''t match the mana signatures at the scene. The recording crystal from the trial grounds, the witnesses from the exam..."


    She looked up at him again, her eyes clear.


    "The narrative was there," she said. "But the audience didn''t buy it. Everyone who was actually there¡ªthey weren''t caught up in the council''s story anymore. They saw what really happened."


    Damian stared ahead, silent.


    "They know you''re innocent," she said finally, like it was something she needed to say, to remind both of them.


    "My brother didn''t want to let them go," Selena added a moment later. "He knew what they were trying to do. He pushed back. And I did too. I refused to redact my statement. I stood by what I saw."


    Damian closed his eyes for a second, jaw tightening.


    "That''s my reason," he said quietly, "why I keep seeking more power."


    Selena blinked.


    He turned his head toward her, and the look on his face wasn''t angry.


    It was just... tired. Worn down by knowing too much.


    "I know they''re going to throw everything they''ve got at me," he said. "Lies. Magic. Leverage. Dirty tricks wrapped in pretty politics. That''s how they operate. And I''ve seen it before. I lived through it before. I know what''s coming."


    Selena didn''t answer. What could she say?


    She thought fae politics were exhausting¡ªendless balls and diplomacy, fake smiles, and fragile alliances that could shatter over a poorly placed gesture. But this?


    This was worse.


    This was rot beneath marble. Blood on clean carpets. Systemic corruption dressed up in law and protocol. It wasn''t just brutal. It was methodical.


    And cold.


    She looked away, her fingers tightening around the fabric of her skirt. The flickering ward-lights cast long shadows across the floor. The mana glyphs still faintly pulsed, like the training hall was listening to everything without saying a word.


    Damian smiled, but it didn''t reach his eyes.


    It was bitter. Resigned. Familiar.


    "It''s always like this," he said, his voice dry. "Powerless people are either pitied or weaponized. And powerful people? They''re feared. Controlled. Or destroyed."


    Selena finally looked at him again. "You think they''ll try to kill you?"


    "I know they will," Damian said. "They just need the right excuse. Something they can broadcast to the public and make it look justified. An attack. A scandal. A manipulated message from one of their own." He shrugged. "Hell, maybe even one of you."


    Selena flinched. Not from the implication¡ªshe knew he wasn''t accusing her¡ªbut from the reality behind those words.


    They were all vulnerable.


    Even her.


    "You''re not alone," she said quietly.


    Damian nodded once. "I know."


    "But that doesn''t make it easier."


    "No. It doesn''t."


    The silence returned.


    Selena reached into the food box, pulled out the last skewer, and handed it to him.


    He took it wordlessly, chewing slowly.


    A soft chime echoed from one of the glyphs in the corner of the room. A shadow servant''s signal.


    Selena glanced toward it. Damian didn''t.


    He just sat there, jaw tense as he swallowed the last bite, staring at the rippling glyphs across the wall like they were a battlefield he couldn''t win yet.


    "We''ll fight," Selena said, voice steadier now. "All of us."


    Damian finally looked at her again.


    And this time, when he smiled, it wasn''t bitter.


    It was small. Quiet. But real.


    "I know," he said again.


    His voice was quiet¡ªjust a whisper. Then Damian moved.


    He stood up slowly, without another word. His legs ached, but he didn''t show it. His body was drenched in sweat, his shirt clinging to his back, skin prickled from the cooldown enchantments humming faintly in the floor tiles. His mind was still a mess, but he had already said more than he''d planned to say today¡ªand maybe more than he should''ve.


    He walked past her, quiet and heavy like something unfinished.


    But before he fully passed, he stopped beside her.


    Still didn''t say anything.


    Just reached out and gently patted her head once. His hand lingered for a brief moment¡ªwarm and steady, his fingers brushing lightly against her hair. It was a simple gesture. Maybe dumb. Maybe instinctive. But somehow it said a thousand things he didn''t have the energy to voice out loud.


    Then he dropped his hand, turned, and walked toward the exit.


    Selena watched him go, unsure if she should say anything¡ªuntil the question slipped out like breath.


    "Tell me, Damian," she said suddenly, her voice clear and low in the vast quiet.


    He stopped near the training hall''s exit. But he didn''t turn around. Not yet.


    Selena stood now too, eyes focused on his back. "Why does a young warlock like you act like you''re old?" she asked. "Like you''ve lived more than a hundred years?"


    She hesitated, then added, "I mean, I get it with Cassius. He is old. But you... you look like you''re barely older than me."


    Damian turned his head just slightly.


    His expression was unreadable. Tired. But there was the faintest curve at the edge of his mouth¡ªhalf a smile, maybe even a little sad.


    "That''s because this is my second chance," he said simply.


    The air shifted around the hall, mana rippling faintly like it recognized those words.


    And then he stepped through the door, vanishing into the darkened corridor beyond, leaving Selena standing there with a hundred new questions in her chest.


    She didn''t move for a while.


    Just stared at the door, heart pounding softly.


    Second chance?


    What did he mean by that?

 Chapter 386: Sweat And Bitter

    Warlock Ch 386. Sweat And Bitter


    The moment Damian stepped out of the training hall, the hallway felt colder¡ªless like temperature and more like pressure. His clothes clung to him, damp from sweat and mana fatigue, the scent of burnt air and exhaustion trailing behind him as he made his way through the manor.


    By the time he reached the living room, Cassius was already sprawled across the velvet-lined sofa with one leg hanging off the side and a crystal of darkwine in one hand. Two of the shadow servants knelt near the fireplace, their cloaks still damp from the city''s shifting weather. Another figure in the corner flickered out of stealth, revealing a third servant.


    Cassius looked up lazily. "You smell like sweat... and bitter."


    Damian raised an eyebrow, wiping his neck with a half-used towel. "I just got back from training."


    Cassius took a sip. "And?"


    "I masked it."


    Cassius made a face. "The sweat or the power?"


    Damian tossed the towel onto a chair, slumping into one of the high-backed armchairs. "If I released everything, I''d have leveled your training hall. Again."


    "Fair enough." Cassius sniffed his wine. "Would''ve preferred the destruction over the stink, though."


    Damian smirked. "You''re welcome."


    "Alright, enough joking," Cassius muttered, sitting upright and gesturing toward the shadow servants. "Let''s hear it. What do we have?"


    "We observed activity near the west sanctum district. Ralvek''s inner circle has pulled back from public spaces. Most of their movements have shifted underground¡ªliterally. Hidden pathways, teleport anchors, dimensional folds in merchant buildings. They''re covering their tracks aggressively."


    "There were three emergency meetings called today. No records were kept¡ªno scrying allowed. They''re scared," another servant said.


    Cassius narrowed his eyes. "Scared of us?"


    "Scared of something," the third servant said, stepping forward now. "Their paranoia has shifted focus. Internal purges have started. One senator was executed last night. They claimed it was due to treason, but the body was too clean. No torture. No interrogation burns."


    Damian leaned forward. "That''s damage control. They''re tying up loose ends before it spirals."


    Cassius swirled his wine thoughtfully. "They know something''s coming."


    "They also point all to you," one added. "But they don''t have any proof. Your name keeps coming up in hushed whispers. Not Kaelan. Damian. The warlock. The witness. The variable."


    Damian''s brow twitched. "Which means the mask is slipping."


    "And Aria?" Cassius asked.


    "She hasn''t spoken your name in public. She''s kept her posture neutral. But her guards have increased. She''s preparing for conflict."


    Cassius sighed. "So basically, the entire city''s in panic mode, half the senators are sharpening daggers behind their smiles, and everyone''s praying they''re not next."


    "Essentially."


    Damian ran a hand through his damp hair, exhaling slowly. "Did you find anything about the anomaly? The one Lysandra mentioned?"


    The servant hesitated. Then nodded. "We believe the source is under the central archive vault. The mana concentration is unstable, layered with anti-detection glyphs and corrupted ley energy. Old magic. Possibly older than Haven City itself."


    Cassius whistled. "Well. That sounds delightful."


    The first servant stepped closer, producing a folded parchment. "We extracted a magic fragment from a guard''s boot. Traces of blood, demon residue, and¡ªthis is important¡ªfae binding script."


    Damian blinked. "Fae?"


    The second nodded. "And not just any fae. Royal-level constructs. It''s messy. Old treaties are being broken, or worse... rewritten."


    Cassius groaned, slumping back dramatically. "Why is it always ancient buried death magic mixed with political sabotage? Can''t we get one week of normal assassination attempts?"


    Damian took the parchment, studying the script. His eyes narrowed. "This... is foundational magic. Whoever''s doing this isn''t just experimenting. They''re reweaving system laws."


    Cassius drained his wine. "So. Giant eldritch conspiracy it is."


    "I need access to the vault," Damian muttered.


    The servant shook his head. "Impossible. Every entrance is locked under royal override. You''d need a direct key from the Sanctum High Tower or..." he trailed off.


    "Or what?" Damian pressed.


    "Or someone with blood access."


    Cassius arched a brow. "You''re suggesting a traitor on the inside?"


    The servant nodded. "Or someone from the royal line who''s gone rogue."


    Damian''s mind raced. That narrowed it down¡ªbadly. Especially since Selena''s testimony had shifted more attention toward his circle than away from it.


    Cassius stood, brushing nonexistent dust from his sleeves. "Alright. So what''s the move?"


    "We wait," Damian said. "Until we know exactly what''s brewing down there, I''m not making noise."


    "And if the noise comes to us first?" Cassius asked.


    Damian''s gaze was cold. "Then we answer louder."


    The servant bowed. "We''ll return to monitoring the leylines. If anything shifts, you''ll know first."


    "Thank you," Damian said.


    The shadow servants faded into the room''s dimmer edges.


    Cassius dropped back into his chair, stretching his arms wide. "So. You ready for the next storm?"


    Damian glanced out the tall window, watching the clouds churn above the city, silver lightning flashing across the sky like distant claws scraping reality.


    "No," he said quietly. "But I''ll be standing when it hits."


    Another presence shimmered into view¡ªsubtle, seamless. No noise, no flash. Just a slow ripple near the corner of the room as the fourth shadow servant materialized.


    "Master," the servant said, voice cool and precise. "Forgive the delay."


    Damian straightened immediately, eyes sharp. "What do you know?"


    The servant didn''t hesitate. "General Lysandra. She''s not here as an observer, nor as a representative of neutrality."


    Cassius stiffened beside him.


    "She came," the servant continued, "for you."


    The words landed hard.


    Damian''s expression didn''t move, but something tightened in his jaw. "You mean she recognized me."


    The servant nodded. "Yes, Master. Not as Damian. But as Kaelan. She has spoken your true name aloud¡ªto her aide, at least once. She''s not acting on orders from the dragon council. She came of her own accord."


    Evelyn had entered from the hall, just in time to hear that. Her eyes narrowed. "So it''s personal."


    "And that''s not all," the servant added, pulling a scroll. "She''s also here for whatever the council is building. The anomaly. She traced its core vibration and recognized its signature as something forbidden."


    Damian took the scroll slowly. "She thinks they''re trying to use it."


    "Yes, Master," the servant said.


    Cassius exhaled long and low. "Well, that complicates everything."

 Chapter 387: Too Fast

    Warlock Ch 387. Too Fast


    Damian didn''t answer. His mind was already ten steps ahead, racing through contingencies. If Lysandra had said his true name out loud... the mask was slipping faster than he''d thought. And if she was here for more than diplomacy?


    Then it was only a matter of time before things exploded.


    Literally.


    Damian stood still, silent as stone. One hand absently gripped the amulet hanging from a cord around his neck, the cool metal pressed to his chest like it might hold him together. It was an old artifact, simple in design, carved with faint lines of dark silver and smoothed with use. Its magic was subtle but effective¡ªa suppression tool that masked presence and power.


    But even now, standing in the middle of the manor''s living room, he could feel it... fraying. The threads of concealment were starting to strain.


    Too much power. Too fast.


    He hadn''t expected to level up this quickly. To push through skill thresholds, shatter limitations, and emerge with enough force coiled beneath his skin to warp attention around him. The amulet wasn''t meant for someone like him¡ªnot anymore.


    He sighed quietly, fingers still holding the artifact. There''d be a time when this thing would become completely useless. Just a charm. A memory.


    But he didn''t think it would be this soon.


    Cassius watched him closely, lips drawn in a thin line. He glanced toward the shadow servant still kneeling near the hearth. "If there''s nothing else, you''re dismissed."


    The servant bowed low and melted back into nothing, like a ripple sinking into still water.


    And then Cassius exhaled through his nose, muttered something that sounded halfway like a curse, and walked over with a slow, measured pace. "I know what you''re thinking."


    Damian didn''t look up.


    Cassius sat down on the edge of the couch, elbows on his knees. "This is bad. Sure. No one''s denying that. But it doesn''t mean it''ll end like last time."


    Damian let out a soft huff¡ªmore breath than laugh, more disbelief than agreement. "No. It won''t end the same as the past."


    He finally looked up, eyes distant. "I mean... they know I''m Kaelan. And I''m still breathing. That''s... good. I guess."


    He didn''t sound convinced.


    Not even a little.


    Cassius frowned. He''d seen that look before¡ªyears ago. Different battlefield. Different name. But the same storm behind the eyes. Like Damian was already bracing for betrayal even before it arrived.


    "You don''t believe it," Cassius said.


    Damian gave a one-shoulder shrug. "I want to. But you know how it went last time. Same thing. Same silence. Then a knife in the ribs when I finally stopped looking over my shoulder."


    Cassius nodded slowly, eyes narrowing just slightly. "Yeah. I remember."


    A pause.


    "You know what I hated most?" Damian said, suddenly quieter. "Not the betrayal. Not even the pain. It was the way they made it look justified. Like they were saving the world from some monster. And everyone cheered."


    Cassius looked at him for a moment longer, then leaned back slightly. "We''re not there anymore."


    Damian scoffed. "We''re close enough."


    "No," Cassius said, firmer now. "We''re not. Because this time, people know. They''ve seen what you''re doing. What you''ve built. You''re not hiding in the shadows anymore."


    Damian turned to him slowly. "That''s what scares me."


    Cassius blinked, caught off guard by the honesty in those words.


    But then Damian straightened, rolling his shoulders. His eyes sharpened again, shifting from doubt to focus. "Either way," he muttered, "we can''t sit still."


    Cassius nodded. "Exactly."


    He stood, brushing his coat back into place with a smooth motion. "We need to thin Ralvek''s people more."


    Damian stood too, posture more grounded now. "Another hunt?"


    Cassius smirked. "A very polite one. Leave the usual chaos at home. We don''t want to spook the fence-sitters."


    Damian crossed his arms. "Any targets in mind?"


    "We''ve marked three," Cassius said, pacing slowly now, thoughtful. "Two are minor council aides, both have been redirecting funds from magical stabilization programs. The third? A city patrol commander. Just got promoted last week. Too clean. Too fast. And way too informed for someone with no magical background."


    Damian tilted his head. "So basically, another puppet."


    "Exactly," Cassius said, voice grim. "They''re all deep in Ralvek''s pocket. No markings. No affiliations on paper. But their movement patterns match known informants."


    Damian''s fingers twitched at his side, the faint pull of mana swirling under his skin. "What''s the risk?"


    Cassius stopped pacing and gave a long, low sigh. "High. They''re baiting us. Hard. We''ve hit too many nodes in too short a time. Ralvek''s not stupid¡ªhe''s expecting retaliation. This smells like a trap."


    "So it''s a trap," Damian repeated, eyes narrowing.


    "Definitely."


    "And we''re walking into it anyway?"


    Cassius gave him a toothy smile. "Of course."


    Damian exhaled through his nose. "You''re insane."


    "Right back at you," Cassius said, and this time, his voice was lighter¡ªteasing, but with a sliver of seriousness underneath.


    Damian walked to the window, gaze sweeping over Haven City. The rooftops were dusted with fog, streetlamps casting blurred halos in the thickening mist. It looked quiet. Still. The kind of quiet that only came when something was holding its breath.


    "We''ll go tonight," he said.


    Cassius nodded, straightening. "I''ll prep the crew. Quiet team."


    Damian tapped the window frame with one finger, the cold glass slightly fogged beneath his touch. "Keep Victoria and Evelyn in reserve. If this is a trap, we''ll need someone to break it fast. No hesitation."


    Cassius gave a low chuckle. "You''re assuming Victoria will wait if things go sideways."


    "I''m assuming you''ll convince her," Damian said, half-turning to meet his gaze.


    Cassius rolled his eyes but didn''t argue. "Fine. I''ll try. You know they only listen to you."


    Damian looked back at the city again. His voice dropped. "We won''t get another clean shot after this. If we hit tonight, it needs to matter."


    Cassius''s usual smirk faded. "I know. We won''t make mistakes," he repeated, firmer.


    Damian glanced back, expression cool and focused, but his voice held weight. "We can''t afford to."


    And just like that, the next move began.

 Chapter 388: Manaless Commander [Part 1]

    Warlock Ch 388. Manaless Commander [Part 1]


    Haven City''s nights were always thick¡ªthick with tension, fog, and secrets. Tonight was no different. The fog rolled across the cobbled streets like a low whisper, and the lamplights barely did their job, flickering uselessly against the creeping mist. In the upper ward, three figures moved separately, distant from one another but bound by a single purpose.


    None of them knew they were bait.


    Two council aides moved cautiously through different routes¡ªtheir hoods pulled low. One walked through the shadowed merchant corridor, glancing over his shoulder every few seconds. The other stayed near the temple grounds, sticking close to guarded areas but never settling too long in one spot.


    And then there was Commander Ryven Halden.


    Commander of the 3rd Haven Guard Patrol. Newly appointed. Unmarked by magic. His dark blue uniform bore silver buttons and a clean rank insignia, but nothing else. No staff, no casting focus, no magical presence of his own.


    Because Ryven couldn''t cast.


    He wasn''t born with the gift. But he had survived. Through smart deals, good instincts, and more than a few enchanted artifacts. His belt was lined with talismans¡ªdisposable magic woven into stone and paper. A satchel on his side jingled faintly with mana crystals, ready to be broken in emergencies.


    He walked with his hand near them now, every footstep deliberate, every breath measured. His eyes flicked between alleyways and rooftops.


    He knew someone was watching.


    Not just one person. Dozens.


    But still, he was the bait. And he knew it.


    He reached the midpoint of the Derwyn sector¡ªa narrow walkway boxed in by decayed buildings and a tall, locked gate. He stopped beneath a broken streetlamp, looked up, and sighed.


    Nothing.


    No noise. No attack.


    Just fog and that sick feeling at the base of his neck.


    He reached into his coat slowly, fingers brushing the edge of a mana crystal when¡ª


    A sound. Sharp. Wrong.


    His head snapped left¡ªtoo late.


    A knife of black wind sliced past his cheek, close enough to sting. He spun, heart hammering, drawing one of his talismans and slapping it to his chest.


    Barrier Charm ¨C Triggered


    A transparent hexagonal shield burst to life around him, just in time to catch the next strike¡ªa bolt of raw energy that splintered on impact with a deafening crack.


    "Show yourself!" he barked, voice steadier than he felt. "I know you''re here!"


    No one answered.


    But more came.


    A flicker in the mist to his right¡ªmovement.


    Then to his left.


    And then all at once, from the rooftops and behind cover, they appeared.


    Not enemies.


    Mercenaries.


    Half a dozen of them, clad in enchanted leather, mana-infused blades glowing faintly at their hips. Battle mages. All freelancers, faces half-covered in enchanted masks. Their auras buzzed faintly with held-back magic.


    Ryven didn''t relax.


    Because he knew why they were here.


    They weren''t here to protect him.


    They were here to protect the trap.


    "Contact?" one of the mercs asked, stepping beside him. Her voice was clipped, professional.


    "Something struck from the shadows," Ryven said. "Didn''t see anything."


    Another merc dropped down beside them, his staff lighting faintly. "He''s watching. Or they''re watching. Doesn''t matter. They''ll come again."


    Ryven exhaled slowly, reaching into his satchel again. "Then let''s be ready."


    The mercs spread out around him, three of them forming a triangle perimeter while the others activated small, floating drones¡ªtiny orbs that spun and pulsed with scanning magic.


    The street filled with an eerie hum.


    But above them, beyond the edges of their vision, someone was watching.


    Not through magic. Not through tech.


    Through darkness.


    Deep in the mist, nestled within the warped shadow of a rooftop gable, a presence waited¡ªlow to the ground, unmoving, completely veiled in a perfect blend of stillness and magic suppression.


    Damian crouched there, his cloak draped over his back like liquid smoke.


    His breathing was even. His eyes locked on Ryven and the mercs below.


    He didn''t blink.


    He didn''t need to.


    Because he wasn''t here to be seen.


    This wasn''t his time to strike.


    But his fingers were already glowing with a faint pulse of power, ready to move the moment they stepped out of line.


    A sigil on one of the mercs'' scanners flickered red.


    "Something just moved," the mage said quickly. "West rooftop¡ªsomething big."


    "Could be a rift echo," the leader replied.


    Ryven grit his teeth, knuckles tightening around a talisman shaped like a throwing dart.


    They were ready for anything.


    Or so they thought.


    Another sound¡ªlike something scraping the edge of reality.


    Everyone froze.


    And then, something did appear.


    A wave of pressure rippled across the alleyway¡ªso fast, so wide, every single barrier on the mercenaries flickered for half a second.


    One of them cursed. "What was that?!"


    "Mana fluctuation! Big one!"


    Ryven opened his mouth to issue a command¡ª And that''s when it happened.


    The air split down the center of the alley as chains of pure darkness erupted from the fog.


    They didn''t lash out.


    They dropped, heavy, thick, snapping around two of the mercs before they could even blink.


    [Dark Chains]


    The two grunted, dropping to one knee, their power immediately dulled. Their enchantments hissed like they''d been soaked in acid.


    "On me!" Ryven shouted, tossing a talisman into the air.


    [Emergency Recall: Triggered]


    A burst of blue light formed a sigil beneath his feet, starting to form a teleportation gate¡ªbut it fizzled, flickered, and died.


    [Dispel]


    No teleport.


    No escape.


    "This is bad," one of the mages growled, hurling a fire spell into the mist.


    It exploded.


    Revealed nothing.


    Another silence.


    And then a voice, quiet, cold, from everywhere.


    "Trap acknowledged."


    Ryven''s spine stiffened.


    "Let''s see how you like being on the wrong side of it."


    The moment that voice ended, the sky above them ripped.


    No spell incantation. No buildup. Just raw power condensed into a descending force.


    The air bent¡ªjust slightly¡ªas if something too massive to understand pressed down on them.


    The mercs screamed for shields.


    One of them activated a talisman just in time¡ª


    But it didn''t matter.


    The darkness fell.


    [Void Rift]


    The alley collapsed in on itself with a sudden rush of void energy, slowing everything, sucking the air out of their lungs. Dust and stone warped as gravity bent inward.

 Chapter 389: Manaless Commander [Part 2]

    Warlock Ch 389. Manaless Commander [Part 2]


    Just for a second¡ªwalls bowing, metal groaning under pressure, light warping around the void''s heart.


    Commander Ryven Halden stumbled back with a sharp grunt, barely keeping on his feet. His barrier talisman cracked and hissed at the edges, overstrained but still holding¡ªfor now. The void pressure made every movement feel like wading through wet cement, his body sluggish, his breath stolen.


    But the mercenaries?


    They moved.


    Fast.


    Professional.


    Even under pressure.


    Two of them, pinned by [Dark Chains], triggered their contingency charms. Crimson runes flared beneath their boots as their backup enchantments kicked in.


    Limit Release (Rank A)


    The chains snapped¡ªbut not fully. Their bodies burned with silver tattoos now glowing under their armor, the force of their magical enhancements pressing back against the weight of Damian''s skill.


    "Eyes on all angles!" barked the squad leader. "He''s not gone¡ªhe''s here. I want barrier domes now!"


    The backup caster raised a gauntlet and slammed it to the ground.


    Field Dome (Rank S: Casted)


    A shimmering wall flared up, cutting the void energy just enough to give them space to breathe. It wasn''t stable¡ªit shuddered at every pulse of the rift¡ªbut it bought them seconds. And seconds were everything.


    "Where the hell is he?!" one of the mercs yelled, scanning with his arc-lens. "I''m not seeing anything! No heat, no aura trace!"


    Ryven wiped blood from his lip and snapped a mana crystal, tossing it into the air.


    Detection Pulse (Rank B: Activated)


    A pulse of blue light rippled out, sweeping the alley.


    Nothing.


    But they all felt it.


    Something brushed against their minds. Cold. Slow. Intentional.


    "He''s near," Ryven growled. "He''s watching." He readied another talisman and nodded at the squad leader. "If we see movement, we attack together. We flush him out, now."


    The squad spread, careful, tight formation. Their eyes scanned rooftops, walls, windows. Even the fog.


    Especially the fog.


    It wasn''t normal anymore. It clung to their ankles, too thick, too quiet.


    Suddenly¡ªmovement.


    A flicker of shadow across the eastern rooftop.


    "Left flank!" someone shouted.


    Three mercs reacted instantly, breaking into a sprint. Boots slammed against stone. Arcane blades drawn. Their movement blurred with speed spells, their shadows trailing behind like smears of smoke.


    They reached the rooftop in seconds¡ªonly to find nothing.


    Just a wall scorched by a recent spell, and a bloodstain that didn''t belong to any of them.


    "Dammit¡ªhe''s toying with us!" the squad leader snarled. "He wants to bleed us without showing himself!"


    And it was working.


    The battle turned into a hunt. One-sided. Nerve-wracking.


    Every time they shifted positions, someone else got clipped. A talisman fizzled. A rune broke. A weapon shattered on impact with nothing.


    One by one, their advantages unraveled.


    And Ryven... he fought anyway.


    No magic of his own, but he moved with purpose, coordination. His talismans were high-grade¡ªmulti-layered scripts woven into blood-drawn scrolls, probably a black market commission. He threw one behind him mid-dash.


    Magnet Seal (Rank A: Triggered)


    An explosion of magnetic force pulled in everything nearby¡ªstones, weapons, even fog¡ªand left behind a scatter of noise and chaos. Just enough to cover his retreat.


    "He''s funneling us!" Ryven shouted as he leapt down a narrow stairwell leading into the courtyard. "He''s setting us up!"


    "No shit!" one of the others snapped, sliding down beside him.


    But they couldn''t retreat now.


    Because one of theirs was already down.


    The youngest mage in the squad was still somewhere in the void-flooded section of the alley. Last they saw him, his arm was limp, and his barrier charm shattered across his chest like broken glass.


    "We have to pull him out!" the squad leader yelled.


    "Too late!" shouted the flame-wielder behind her. "If he''s in that rift, he''s gone!"


    "No one gets left behind!" she screamed back, voice cracking with fury.


    They moved again¡ªdown the winding path behind the councilor district. A maze of old stone alleys and dead-end courtyards, all filled with fog.


    And through it all...


    The culprit remained unseen.


    His presence came in flashes. A ripple in the air. A glint in the mist. Once, a low whisper¡ªtoo soft to catch.


    And then the commander caught something.


    Not sound. Not sight.


    Instinct.


    He spun and hurled a talisman behind him with all the force he had.


    It hit something.


    And for the first time... the shadow shimmered.


    A silhouette.


    A blur.


    A man in black.


    And then it was gone.


    But the talisman detonated.


    The force blasted Ryven back into the alley wall, hard enough to crack stone.


    He slumped forward, coughing blood.


    But he was alive.


    More importantly¡ªhe''d touched something. Felt something.


    "He''s not invincible," Ryven spat.


    The squad leader helped him up, her eyes wide. "You hit him?"


    "Only the edge," Ryven gasped, holding his ribs. "But I felt it."


    And that changed everything.


    The hunt was no longer blind.


    Now it was personal.


    "Light the torches," the squad leader ordered, her voice cold. "We''re burning this bastard out."


    One of the mercs raised a hand.


    Flares of Truth (Rank S: Casted)


    Six golden torches ignited around the sector, burning bright and fast. Fog hissed and withdrew like a living thing.


    But there¡ªjust for a heartbeat¡ªat the far end of the courtyard...


    A figure.


    Not fleeing.


    Not hiding.


    Just watching.


    And Ryven saw the faint glow around his hand. The black-and-red light flickering, forming a spear of pure nightmare flame.


    "RUN!" Ryven shouted.


    But it was too late.


    [Infernal Javelins]


    The courtyard exploded with black fire.


    Walls melted. Stone cracked. The sky itself seemed to burn.


    The javelins had left a trail of molten destruction across the alleyway. The explosion hadn''t just scorched the ground¡ªit warped it, charred it, turned it into something unnatural. A black crater now split the courtyard in two, glowing faintly like a wound too deep to heal.


    Ryven Halden rolled behind what remained of a stone bench, gasping for air, his barrier talisman finally reduced to smoking fragments. He wiped the soot and blood from his face, spitting dust and trying to focus.


    He was alive.


    But barely.

 Chapter 390: Manaless Commander [Part 3]

    Warlock Ch 390. Manaless Commander [Part 3]


    The mercs weren''t faring much better. Their ranks had been cut down to four now¡ªone crushed by falling rubble, another vaporized in the initial blast. The others moved like ghosts, darting through alleys and over rooftops, scanning, tracking, coordinating¡ªbut nothing stuck. Every time they thought they saw their attacker, he vanished. No sound. No aura.


    Only fear.


    "What is this?" the flame-user cursed, hurling another wide-range blast toward the shadows. "He''s not just cloaked¡ªhe''s baiting us!"


    "I know!" Ryven barked, slapping another crystal into his side pouch. "But he''s not invincible! I hit him before. That means he bleeds."


    "And if he bleeds¡ª"


    "We can kill him," Ryven finished.


    But no one said it with confidence.


    They regrouped in a circular formation, backs to each other, in the center of the fractured courtyard. The torches of truth still flickered weakly at the corners, barely holding the fog at bay.


    "This guy isn''t normal," one of the mercs said. Her arm was half-burned and her voice was trembling. "I''ve fought demonbound. I''ve fought half-possessed maniacs. But this guy... he''s playing with us."


    "I don''t think he''s trying to win," the caster added, voice shaking. "I think he''s studying us."


    "Stop talking," Ryven growled, eyes darting through the dark. "Stay sharp. Use short-range pulses every thirty seconds. Don''t break formation."


    They all nodded grimly.


    Seconds passed.


    Then¡ª


    A chill.


    Not wind. Not magic.


    Something colder. Quieter.


    The light dimmed slightly¡ªthen flared¡ªthen blinked out.


    And then came the pressure.


    [Dark Dominion]


    The moment it hit, every single one of them froze. Their breath caught. Their minds screamed. It was as if their very souls recoiled from the presence that now circled them.


    The shadows trembled.


    One of the mercs cried out, dropping to her knees, clawing at her helmet like something was inside her head.


    "Terror effect!" the squad leader barked. "Clear it! CLEAR IT!"


    They activated resistance charms.


    But the pressure didn''t lift.


    It deepened.


    "Six o''clock!" the flame-user shouted.


    A shadow blurred forward¡ªtoo fast.


    A figure appeared for less than a second, dragging a spear wreathed in black fire behind him like a comet''s tail.


    Ryven saw it, barely.


    [Hellfire Spear]


    The spear moved like a flame-fed scythe, carving through the flame-user''s midsection with a single clean sweep.


    His body dropped in two halves, the flames eating through armor like acid.


    "Fall back!" someone screamed. "Fall¡ª!"


    The second strike came instantly.


    Another merc was lifted off the ground, impaled mid-spellcast. Her mouth opened in a silent scream as the spear exploded inside her chest, flaring with volatile corruption and black light.


    The courtyard was chaos.


    They scattered¡ªsome trying to run, others casting blindly. One unleashed a cone of lightning. Another triggered a storm seal.


    It didn''t matter.


    [Shadow Step]


    He blinked between them, reappearing in a swirl of dread. Every arrival triggered an instant burst of Terror, locking their limbs, dulling their reactions. He didn''t speak. He didn''t even breathe like a normal man.


    He just moved.


    He stepped behind the caster. Slit his throat with the spear''s edge.


    Pivoted. Tossed the weapon like a javelin.


    It exploded.


    Ryven was thrown back again, crashing into the side of a fountain. His ears rang. His ribs screamed. He could barely lift his hand¡ªbut he still reached for his last talisman.


    It was cracked, charred around the edges. A last resort sealed in iron, embedded with a single drop of phoenix blood. If this didn''t work, nothing would.


    Phoenix Flare (Rank S Emergency Artifact: Triggered)


    The talisman ignited in a blaze of golden light, flaring so bright the shadows recoiled for a split second. A dome of heat burst outward, vaporizing the mist in a thirty-meter radius and giving Ryven a breath of air that wasn''t thick with fear.


    The rest of his squad¡ªwhat was left¡ªused it to move.


    "Fall back! Use the flare cover!" someone barked, likely the squad leader, though her voice was hoarse, ragged, and soaked with pain.


    Three mercs still stood. One limped, his armor scorched and dripping blood. Another''s right arm hung limp, but she still had her spellbook gripped tight in her left hand. The last was eerily calm, a large, armored man with twin axes that hummed with faint red energy¡ªpossibly a berserker.


    Ryven struggled to stand. His body wasn''t responding right. But his instincts still worked. He looked around and saw no enemy.


    Just the faint whisper of movement overhead.


    "Eyes up!" he shouted, staggering behind cover.


    Nothing.


    Silence again.


    Then, a blur across the rooftop.


    Another blur on the opposite wall.


    He was moving between them. Too fast to track. Using the rooftops, windows, and shadows like a damn chessboard.


    The berserker growled, swinging his axes in wide arcs. "He''s not teleporting. He''s blinking. Short-range. Line-of-sight."


    "That''s impossible," the spellcaster snapped. "The cooldown on teleportation¡ª"


    "It''s been enhanced," Ryven said between gasps. "He''s using it like a dance."


    A low, vibrating growl echoed off the alley walls.


    They didn''t know where it came from.


    Until the berserker''s head twisted slightly.


    His eyes widened.


    "Behind¡ª"


    [Shadow Step]


    Terror pulsed.


    And the spear came.


    Hellfire ignited as it slashed across the alley, carving through the berserker''s axes with ease. The man blocked just in time to avoid losing his head, but the explosion that followed threw him down the street in a tumble of sparks and blood.


    The caster reacted next.


    Time Freeze Rune (Rank S: Casted)


    A disc of blue magic surged outward. Everything slowed for a second. Even the flicker of flames from the destroyed streetlamp froze mid-air.


    She aimed.


    Chanted.


    Aimed again.


    But nothing was there anymore.


    Not even a silhouette.


    "Where¡ª"


    The air behind her split.


    And her throat did too.


    She dropped before the spell was even released, her blood vanishing into the shadows before it could stain the ground.


    "Fall back!" Ryven screamed again. "He''s thinning us¡ªhe''s not here to fight fair!"


    The last merc stumbled beside him¡ªthe one with the limp. His eyes were wide. He''d stopped believing they could win five minutes ago, but now... now it was just survival.

 Chapter 391: Manaless Commander [Part 4]

    Warlock Ch 391. Manaless Commander [Part 4]


    Ryven shoved him forward. "Go! Head for the perimeter beacon! You see the red rune, don''t look back!"


    The man didn''t argue.


    He ran.


    Ryven turned back toward the courtyard.


    He didn''t expect to win.


    He just wanted to see him.


    One more time.


    So he pulled his last weapon.


    A dagger¡ªsmall, but sharp, wrapped in an enchantment to cut through veil magic.


    He held it like a lifeline.


    "You want me?" he growled, blood dripping from his mouth. "Come on then. No more hiding."


    The shadows answered.


    Not with a voice.


    With silence.


    And then¡ª


    [Infernal Javelins]


    A hundred spears of flame and darkness materialized in the sky above the courtyard, circling like vultures.


    They didn''t come down at once.


    They watched.


    Like him.


    Ryven swallowed.


    "You bastard," he whispered. "You''re playing with us."


    One javelin fell.


    It didn''t aim for him.


    It chased the fleeing merc.


    Ryven turned, mouth open to shout¡ª


    But it was too late.


    The explosion tore through the far end of the block. The man was gone. Nothing left but molten rubble and a blackened street.


    Ryven turned back.


    The figure stood at the edge of the fog now.


    Not quite visible.


    Just... there.


    Watching.


    The cloak he wore billowed like smoke in the windless night, the hood pulled low enough to cast his face in shadow. All that could be seen beneath it was the faint outline of a bone-white mask, smooth, featureless, expressionless. That mask was more chilling than anything else¡ªbecause it felt like a deliberate choice. A blank canvas for death itself.


    Ryven''s fingers twitched toward the last talisman strapped to his belt.


    His eyes narrowed. "You''ve killed my team," he said, voice hoarse. "Stalked us like prey. Cut us down like it meant nothing."


    The figure didn''t respond. The only sound was the soft tap of his boots as he stepped forward¡ªslow, unhurried. The spear in his hand was wreathed in flickers of black and ember-red flame, each step making the weapon pulse as if responding to his presence.


    Ryven pulled the talisman and cracked it against his palm.


    Adrenal Surge (Rank A)


    A pulse of energy rushed through his veins, momentarily numbing the pain, enhancing his reflexes, sharpening his mind.


    "If you''re gonna finish this," Ryven growled, "then do it face to face. No more shadows. No more hit-and-run tricks. Just you. And me."


    The masked figure stopped.


    Then tilted his head slightly.


    A single step forward.


    He nodded once.


    The air changed.


    The fog didn''t lift¡ªbut it shifted, swirling back like it had been commanded, revealing a broken stretch of courtyard barely lit by a shattered lantern and the faint glow of scorched brick.


    A field for a duel.


    Ryven stepped into the open slowly, hand brushing over the six etched knives sheathed across his chest. He wasn''t a mage. Never had been. But he was a killer. A survivor. And magic or not, he''d taken down monsters before.


    This one just... felt different.


    Still, Ryven dropped into a stance. "Let''s see if that mask hides something worth fearing."


    The figure raised the Hellfire Spear slowly¡ªthen dropped into a mirrored stance.


    Ryven moved first.


    He surged forward, momentum fueled by adrenaline and desperation, and whipped one of the enchanted knives straight for the masked man''s throat. It should''ve forced a reaction. But instead¡ª


    A twist.


    A flick of the spear.


    The knife was deflected mid-air with a spark of flame.


    Ryven was already on him.


    He feinted left, spun, drew two more knives, and came in low for a sweep to the legs.


    The masked figure stepped into it.


    No block.


    No hesitation.


    He let Ryven come.


    And then moved.


    Too fast.


    A sidestep with unnatural precision¡ªone foot dragging behind like a shadow¡ªand the spear came down hard, forcing Ryven to dive out of the way.


    The ground behind him exploded as the spear slammed into the stone, sending shards upward like shrapnel.


    Ryven hit the ground rolling, already pulling his next talisman.


    Mirror Pulse (Rank B)


    A decoy shimmered into existence¡ªan illusion that looked exactly like him. It darted right while the real Ryven went left.


    The spear-wielder turned his head just slightly.


    And launched the spear.


    It went for the decoy.


    Then curved midair and kept going.


    Straight at Ryven.


    Ryven''s eyes went wide.


    He ducked just in time, the spear grazing his shoulder and exploding behind him in a column of black fire.


    Pain screamed through his nerves.


    He didn''t stop.


    He charged in close while his opponent was momentarily without a weapon.


    Big mistake.


    Because the masked man didn''t need it.


    With one gloved hand, he caught Ryven by the front of his jacket mid-lunge and lifted him¡ªslamming him into the ground so hard the breath flew from his lungs.


    Ryven''s vision swam.


    But his hand moved on instinct¡ªjamming a blade toward the ribs under that cloak.


    It connected.


    Or should have.


    Instead, the blade stopped¡ªcaught in some kind of barrier he couldn''t see. Like trying to stab through ice.


    A pulse of force shot back through the dagger and knocked it from his hand.


    Then he was airborne again.


    Another throw.


    Another crash.


    He hit a cracked pillar and slid down it, coughing blood.


    The masked figure walked toward him, retrieving the spear with a silent gesture. It flew into his grip like it belonged there.


    Ryven laughed, bitter and pained. "You''re not human, are you..."


    The figure stopped.


    Then, slowly, deliberately, raised the spear again.


    Ryven pushed himself to one knee.


    "Do it," he rasped. "But I''m not dying on my knees."


    He pulled the last talisman. The real one.


    A custom piece. Illegal. Fused with corrupted essence.


    He crushed it.


    Crimson Break (Prototype: Triggered)


    A shockwave of red energy exploded around him¡ªwarping space in a ten-meter radius. It wouldn''t kill his attacker. But it''d hurt.


    Maybe.


    Maybe not.


    Because the moment it exploded, the masked figure was gone.


    Just gone.


    Ryven blinked.


    And then looked up¡ª The figure stood behind him now. Hand on his shoulder.


    He didn''t flinch.


    He just... whispered.


    "Thank you for fighting."

 Chapter 392: Like A Hunter

    Warlock Ch 392. Like A Hunter


    Ryven didn''t understand.


    And then the world turned red.


    The Hellfire Spear pierced through his chest from behind, crackling with fire and void.


    He coughed once. Blood dripped down his chin.


    But he smiled anyway.


    "Got to see your face..."


    The mask leaned in, silent.


    Then the fire consumed everything.


    Ryven''s body collapsed.


    Smoke rose from the crater.


    The courtyard was silent again.


    And the figure¡ªcloaked, hooded, masked¡ªstood alone.


    No cheers. No echoes.


    Just shadows.


    The air still sizzled with residual heat from the last flare of [Hellfire Spear]. Cracks webbed through the cobbled ground, smoke curling in lazy tendrils from shattered stone and melted iron. The blood on Damian''s hands had already cooled, but the sting hadn''t faded.


    Especially not the one on his shoulder.


    He stood there for a second longer, breathing shallow through the thin slit of his mask. Then his hand moved up and pressed against the burn¡ªdeep enough to ache but not deep enough to slow him down. Not yet.


    "Shit," he muttered under his breath, grimacing behind the mask. "I''m careless..."


    The mark pulsed faintly, still hot beneath the fabric of his shirt. It must''ve been that damn knife. The one the commander landed on reflex. He didn''t expect Ryven to fight like that. Not that long. Not that well.


    It wasn''t enough to kill him.


    But it was enough to be a problem.


    The fight had gone too loud. Too explosive. The void rift, the javelins, the spear detonations¡ªhalf the city probably heard that final blast. If the council wasn''t on high alert before, they were now. And the mercs? They weren''t the only ones watching.


    He had to move.


    Now.


    Damian turned sharply, shadows curling at his feet as he activated [Spectral Surge], his body blurring with a sharp pulse of speed and afterimage. The flickering remnants of his form dashed through alleys, over crumbling walls, past abandoned homes and barricaded merchant stalls. The city spun around him in streaks of brick and light and fog.


    He kept running.


    But then...


    A sound.


    Not loud. Not magical.


    Just... presence.


    A crack of displaced air above.


    And the weight of something ancient behind him.


    He didn''t need [Observation] to know.


    He glanced over his shoulder mid-sprint.


    There she was.


    General Lysandra.


    Her wings weren''t out. Not yet. But her silver armor shimmered like moonlight forged into steel, and her long, braided hair whipped in the wind as she followed¡ªquiet, fast, and locked onto him with predatory calm. Her eyes glowed faintly in the dark, two shards of frost cutting through the city haze.


    She wasn''t chasing him with spells.


    She was chasing him like a hunter.


    Damian clicked his tongue. "Of course," he muttered.


    He couldn''t go back to Cassius'' mansion. That would put all of them in danger. Evelyn. Victoria. Selena. No way in hell was he leading her there.


    He needed to pull her away.


    Out of the city.


    Where he could fight her if it came to it.


    Or vanish.


    Whatever came first.


    He pivoted sharply at the next intersection, diving down a sewer maintenance tunnel that opened into an old smuggler route. Haven''s underbelly was a mess of forgotten magic tunnels and disused merchant passages¡ªhalf of which Cassius had helped him memorize.


    He didn''t hear her.


    But she was there.


    He ducked under a rusted gate, sprinted along the narrow walkway, and leapt clean over a collapsed bridge to the next tunnel. He could feel her, one heartbeat behind, matching his every move like she''d known these routes her whole life.


    A part of him respected it.


    The other part hated it.


    "Persistent," he growled under his breath.


    He reached into his cloak and threw a [Void Mine]¡ªa small enchanted trap he''d crafted two weeks ago during system testing. It detonated seconds after his exit, collapsing the tunnel behind him.


    But it didn''t stop her.


    Because as the dust cleared behind him... she emerged.


    Unscathed.


    Not running.


    Just walking.


    Like she was never going to stop.


    "I don''t want to fight you," Damian called out, his voice warped by the distortion from his mask.


    "Then stop running," she answered.


    It wasn''t a threat.


    It was a promise.


    Damian grit his teeth and accelerated again, breaking into a stairwell that led back up toward the outer ring of Haven¡ªpast the last guard post, through the cliffs that overlooked the Southern Ridge.


    His goal?


    The abandoned rail line.


    If he could get just far enough... he could bait her into a shadow portal. A risky one, yeah. But it would open outside the city''s reach.


    One more alley.


    One more jump.


    He landed on the steel platform with a grunt, skidding across damp metal, grabbing a rusted support beam to keep balance. His shoulder screamed at the motion.


    Behind him, boots hit the ground.


    "Enough," Lysandra''s voice echoed, closer now.


    "I told you," he snapped, eyes still forward, "I''m not stopping here."


    He reached for the switch hidden behind the lantern post. The old enchantment reacted sluggishly, sputtering as the rail line bridge creaked to life, forming a temporary crossing to the next bluff.


    But he didn''t step on it.


    He turned.


    Still cloaked. Still masked.


    General Lysandra stood ten meters away. Arms at her side. Not armed.


    Not glowing with power.


    Just... watching.


    "Who are you?" she asked softly. "And why are you hiding from me?"


    Damian didn''t answer.


    He couldn''t.


    She tilted her head. "You fight like someone with nothing left to lose."


    Damian''s hand flexed near his belt, readying another surge.


    "I''m not your enemy," she said.


    "That''s not what your presence here says," he snapped.


    "You slaughtered Ralvek''s hunters."


    "They were bait."


    "And the commander?"


    "He pulled a weapon first."


    Her gaze narrowed. "You didn''t have to kill them all."


    "No," Damian said. "But I couldn''t let them report."


    The silence between them sharpened.


    Lysandra stepped forward once. Just one step. No weapon. No wings.


    "You''re not a monster," she said. "I''ve met monsters. I''ve fought them. You don''t move like one. You think too much."

 Chapter 393: Choosing The Battlefield

    Warlock Ch 393. Choosing The Battlefield


    Damian didn''t move.


    Didn''t breathe.


    But something inside him twisted.


    She was right.


    And he hated that she could see it.


    "You''re Kaelan, aren''t you?" she said finally.


    It wasn''t a question.


    Just a quiet truth.


    Damian stared.


    And then stepped back toward the rail.


    "I don''t know who that is," he lied.


    Lysandra''s smile was faint, tired. "Then keep running. But just know¡ªI''m not chasing to kill you. I''m chasing because I think you might be the only one left who can stop what''s coming."


    He blinked behind the mask.


    And then stepped onto the rail bridge.


    The wind howled around him as the city''s edge vanished behind the fog.


    He didn''t look back.


    Because for once... he wasn''t running.


    He was choosing his battlefield.


    The wood and steel beneath his boots groaned faintly, worn from decades of rain and disuse. Below him, the cliff dropped sharply into darkness, the trees far below barely visible through the haze. The scent of ozone still lingered in the air. He was past Haven''s last perimeter ward now¡ªout where even the city''s watchers stopped watching.


    But the footsteps kept coming.


    He stepped off the bridge, cloak whipping behind him, and sprinted through the clearing. The light of Haven behind him dimmed, swallowed by the rising mist and thick forest that pressed against the broken rail line. Trees towered like skeletal fingers, their branches clawing at the sky.


    Damian dropped low behind a moss-covered rock and activated [Shadow Step].


    He blinked twenty meters to the left, landing in silence.


    Again¡ª[Shadow Step].


    Then again.


    He moved through the fog like a ghost¡ªno scent, no sound, no aura. The system bled mana with each jump, but he didn''t care.


    He needed space.


    He needed time.


    And yet...


    She kept finding him.


    She didn''t teleport.


    She didn''t fly.


    She just tracked.


    A flicker in the mist¡ªsilver armor glinting for half a second through the trees.


    "Tch," Damian muttered, clicking his tongue. His voice came out dry, low, laced with that sharp thread of frustration that meant he was starting to get annoyed. "I expected nothing less from a dragon."


    He ducked under a low branch and vanished again.


    [Shadow Step]


    He couldn''t afford to overuse it.


    Not now.


    Especially not when his mana bar hovered under 30%.


    The next clearing opened wide, full of moss and cracked stones from a long-collapsed chapel. The scent here was different¡ªolder. Dust, buried stone, and faded magic that still clung to the air like a whisper of the gods who were once worshipped here.


    He skidded to a stop behind one of the crumbled statues, breathing slow, calm.


    If she wanted to keep chasing, fine.


    But he wasn''t going to play hunted forever.


    He cast [Observation].


    It pinged back faint traces¡ªenough to show her general location, but not enough to make a move without giving himself away.


    Still... too close.


    She was tracking his steps. His mana. His presence.


    She wasn''t even using a spell for it.


    She was feeling him.


    A dragon''s instincts.


    That made her dangerous.


    He clenched his jaw behind the mask.


    No more hiding.


    Not if she was already this far in.


    Still crouched, he drew his fingers along the edge of the ruined stone beside him and pressed into the cracks, leaving a bit of blood behind. Old trick. Old misdirection.


    He activated [Spectral Surge] and bolted through the opposite side of the clearing, looping wide¡ªdeliberate, calculated steps¡ªmaking sure the mark behind him would be obvious enough to lead her astray for at least a second or two.


    Just long enough.


    He reached the forest edge, where the trees thinned into the rocky ridge sloping down toward the riverbank. That was his out. That water was deep. The current was fast. If he could leap from the cliff and survive the landing¡ª


    He stopped.


    The wind shifted.


    And then she landed.


    Not loudly.


    Not dramatically.


    Just there.


    A dozen meters ahead.


    Her armor was scratched now. Dirty with soot from the earlier pursuit. But her eyes still glowed. Not with rage. Not with bloodlust.


    With focus.


    "I can still smell the city on you," she said, her voice calm and even. "And fear."


    He didn''t answer.


    She took a step forward.


    "I''m not here to kill you, Kaelan."


    He didn''t flinch at the name, but his grip on the Hellfire Spear tightened behind the cloak.


    "I''m not Kaelan," he said, voice low.


    Lysandra tilted her head, not quite smiling. "Then why do you keep running like him?"


    Damian''s silence was a wall she didn''t bother trying to break.


    "I know what they did to you. What they said. What they made people believe." She stepped closer again. "I watched it happen, you know. I watched them paint your death like justice. Just enough blood on their hands to call it truth."


    Damian''s pulse ticked faster.


    "I''m not here to kill you," she said again. "But I am here for answers."


    He finally moved.


    Not toward her.


    But away¡ªfaster than the eye could follow.


    She blinked.


    [Shadow Step]


    This time, he didn''t blink from the ground.


    He blinked above.


    High. Into the trees.


    Landed on a thick branch and vanished into the canopy.


    But Lysandra was already moving, her gauntlets glowing faintly as the wind coiled around her boots and lifted her just enough to follow.


    "You can run," she said, voice still calm. "But I''m not going to stop."


    Damian muttered a curse under his breath and dropped into a low crouch. "Fine," he hissed. "Let''s make this harder, then."


    He threw a flare behind him¡ªArcane Disruptor¡ªjust bright enough to blind anyone looking straight at it.


    The forest exploded in white light.


    He didn''t wait.


    He sprinted again, weaving through the treeline until the brush thinned and the ridge opened below.


    The river roared ahead. Cold. Fast. Sharp rocks gleamed under the surface.


    But it was his best shot.


    "Can''t keep this going forever..." he muttered.


    He tossed one last [Dark Bolt] behind him¡ªjust enough to slow her if she got too close.


    Then he jumped.


    The wind screamed past him. Trees vanished. The cliff disappeared behind.


    And then¡ª


    The plunge.


    The water hit like a freight train¡ªicy and brutal.


    Everything spun.


    And the current took him.

 Chapter 394 394: Glacial Pursuit

    Warlock Ch 394. Glacial Pursuit


    The last thing he saw before the river pulled him under was Lysandra standing at the edge of the ridge... unmoving.


    Watching.


    And waiting.


    Damian didn''t surface.


    Not right away.


    Not even close.


    The freezing current yanked at him like a thousand clawed hands, spinning him sideways, slamming his shoulder into a submerged rock hard enough to make his vision blur. Water rushed into his ears, muffling the roar of the river until it felt like his skull was wrapped in cotton.


    Every instinct screamed at him to swim up, to breathe, to break through the surface¡ª But he didn''t.


    He clenched his jaw, held his breath, and let the river take him deeper.


    If he surfaced now, she''d be waiting. Probably with that ''I told you so'' face too.


    Nope. Not happening.


    His cloak tangled around his legs for a second¡ªhe kicked hard, twisting mid-current, then activated [Spectral Surge] just enough to cut through the flow and steer himself away from a jagged cluster of rocks. The mana cost was steep in water like this, but better that than snapping his neck on a hidden spike.


    Cold. So cold.


    The deeper he went, the more brutal it became. He didn''t have water resistance active¡ªhell, he barely had enough mana left to throw a real attack. Every part of him felt like it was being stabbed with tiny icy needles. His lips were already going numb. He didn''t dare open his mouth. His lungs were burning.


    Still, he refused to rise.


    The river narrowed ahead, pulling him into a long tunnel of stone where the current twisted like a serpent. Roots hung down from above, some of them glowing faintly with old magic¡ªmaybe wards, maybe remnants of a forgotten fae crossing. He didn''t care. He just held on, eyes half-shut, mask still clinging to his face with pure stubbornness.


    And then...


    The temperature dropped.


    Even through the adrenaline haze, he felt it.


    Not just cold.


    Frost.


    An unnatural chill chased down his spine like death whispering in his ear.


    He glanced back through the water¡ªand yeah, there it was. A swirl of ice spreading from behind.


    Frost lines racing across the riverbed, the surface above dimming with a layer of thin, crystalline white. A trail of icy mist rolled through the water, shimmering like it was alive, pushing toward him in a long tendril of winter.


    Lysandra''s skill. Glacial Pursuit.


    She didn''t need to dive in. She just owned the river now.


    Damian''s eyes narrowed.


    "You really don''t know when to quit, do you?" he muttered through clenched teeth, bubbles escaping as he bit down harder and kicked forward.


    The current had slowed. She was freezing it with him inside.


    A chill wrapped around his fingers like frostbite crawling under the skin. His mana responded on instinct, and he raised both arms as the darkness coiled behind his shoulders.


    He cast [Infernal Javelins].


    A hundred spears erupted behind him¡ªblazing hot, tips glowing with hellfire. He bit down and focused, draining every drop of rage he could summon from the pit of his chest.


    "Come on," he hissed under his breath and flung his hands forward.


    Half of the javelins plunged downward¡ªstraight into the frozen water, spearing through frost and cracking the ice bloom that was starting to form around him. The heat roared outward like underwater explosions, steam bubbling and shooting upward like geysers. It wasn''t fire that burned here¡ªit was pressure, fury, magic crashing into the unnatural cold like two storms colliding.


    The other half?


    Straight back.


    A tight, controlled volley aimed at the surface¡ªat the silhouette standing above the cliff edge, still watching.


    The javelins ripped through the river like bullets, carving trails of red-hot magic in their wake.


    He didn''t need to hit her.


    He just needed her to dodge.


    And she did.


    A wall of wind surged around her the moment the javelins neared. They didn''t explode on contact¡ªhe figured she was smart enough for that¡ªbut the distraction worked. The cold retreated just slightly, enough to break her focus. Enough for the current to surge again.


    He kicked with everything he had, lungs screaming now, air running out.


    The steam, the javelin detonations, the fragments of ice¡ªthey all swirled around him like chaos, and he let it carry him. The river twisted again, and this time, he didn''t fight it. Just angled his body and let it throw him forward like a bullet in a barrel.


    The cliff edge vanished behind the bend.


    The magic pressure vanished with it.


    No more frost chasing his heels.


    He surfaced fast, gasping, hacking up water as he broke through into an open basin carved into a canyon¡ªfar from the city, far from her.


    He crawled toward the riverbank like a half-drowned cat and collapsed against a tree root. Everything ached. His cloak was soaked. His mask still clung to his face, barely holding on, steam rising from it with every breath. Water dripped from his hair in thick strands. His hands trembled.


    But he was alive.


    And more importantly¡ªhe was free.


    Barely.


    He leaned back against the rock and finally yanked the mask off, letting it clatter to the ground beside him. Cold air hit his face like a slap, but at least he could breathe now.


    [Mana Regen: Paused ¨C Exhaustion State Active]


    [Status: Soaked, Cold Resistance: 0%, Debuff Applied ¨C Chilled (-30% Movement Speed, -15% Casting Speed)]


    "...Fun times," he muttered hoarsely, then coughed.


    The forest here was silent. Just the wind through the rocks and the distant hiss of the river now slowing behind him. The scent of pine, moss, and damp earth filled his lungs with every shallow breath.


    He stayed like that for a while. Just breathing.


    Just letting the cold settle.


    Then he pulled his knees in and exhaled long and slow.


    She knew.


    She knew who he was.


    And she still didn''t try to kill him.


    That was worse somehow. Way worse.


    He wiped a hand down his face and groaned. "Damn it... She said she doesn''t want to kill me, but she acts like she wants me dead."

 Chapter 395 395: Stay And Fight

    Warlock Ch 395. Stay And Fight


    The sting of the river still clung to his bones. His soaked cloak hung heavy over his shoulders, dragging along the forest floor as he limped uphill, boots squelching with each step. His fingers were numb, skin tingling with that post-freezing burn as if the cold had carved a memory into his flesh.


    But it wasn''t just the cold that got to him.


    It was this place.


    He paused, eyes narrowing as the fog cleared just enough to give him a better view of his surroundings.


    The clearing.


    The sloping ridge.


    The tall, crooked tree split down the middle by lightning long ago.


    Yeah. He knew this place.


    A slow, dry chuckle left him. "Hilarious."


    He stood at the same damn spot he had, decades ago.


    Same forest. Same weather. Same heavy sky overhead, bloated with clouds that never quite rained.


    Back then, he wasn''t Damian.


    He was Kaelan.


    Just a guy caught between duty, betrayal and survival.


    He''d stood right here after leaving Haven City and his heart ripped to shreds. He remembered staring out over the trees, thinking about Evelyn''s tear-filled eyes, Cassius''s words that he''d refused to hear, and the choice he was too scared to make.


    Stay and fight.


    Or run and survive.


    He chose the latter.


    Back then, it felt smart. Tactical. Like he was buying time. But deep down? It was fear. Fear of what he was becoming. He was afraid of himself.


    So he cut them off.


    Evelyn. Cassius. The cause. Everything.


    "I thought I''d never come back here," he muttered, kicking at a moss-covered root. "Should''ve known fate would drag me right back."


    The irony wasn''t even subtle anymore.


    Lysandra didn''t kill him.


    Didn''t even try.


    She chased him like a storm, crashed into every defense he had, peeled him apart layer by layer¡ªand left him alive.


    He sucked in a breath, the forest air sharp and damp with the scent of wet bark and wild grass. The world felt quiet out here¡ªtoo quiet, like it was watching him make his choice again.


    But this time, he didn''t hesitate.


    "No," he whispered. "I won''t run. I won''t run away again."


    He clenched his jaw, straightened his back, and pulled his cloak tighter as he turned toward the valley path.


    Toward Haven.


    Toward Cassius.


    The hike wasn''t easy¡ªhis legs still screamed from the frost debuff, and the regen penalty made him feel like he was hauling a boulder¡ªbut his mind stayed sharp. Focused. Every step forward was a rejection of who he used to be.


    After an hour of climbing, dodging patrol guards, and avoiding a few too-curious forest beasts, the perimeter alert on his system pinged.


    [Warning: You are approaching Protected Zone ¨C Cassius Ward Property]


    [Defensive Wards: Active ¨C Warlock Class Detected]


    [Friend/Foe Protocol: Pending Update]


    He smiled faintly and raised his hand.


    [Requesting Access: Damian Blackthorn]


    Silence.


    Then¡ª


    [Access Granted ¨C Identity: Validated]


    The barrier shimmered once, a wave of deep violet energy pulsing outward like a heartbeat before vanishing into mist. The clearing inside hadn''t changed much. Stone archways lined with arcane glyphs glowed gently, and the path into the small manor twisted between ancient trees covered in magical moss. Little wisps danced near the roots, and a soft hum of warded magic buzzed through the air.


    Cassius had always had style. Even out here, in the middle of nowhere.


    The door didn''t creak when he knocked. Just a quiet, magical chime¡ªlike a tuning fork dipped in moonlight.


    He waited.


    One breath.


    Two.


    Then footsteps inside. Fast. Hesitant.


    The door opened, and there he was.


    Cassius.


    Wearing that tattered cloak like it was worth more than a throne.


    He froze the second he saw Damian.


    Didn''t say anything.


    Didn''t blink.


    Just stared.


    Then Cassius''s gaze flicked down¡ªtook in the dripping cloak, the soaked boots, the faint scorch marks still steaming off Damian''s armor.


    And sighed.


    "Let me guess..." Cassius muttered, turning away and walking deeper into the manor. "Those explosions earlier? That was you, wasn''t it?"


    Damian stepped inside, squelching across the smooth stone floor. "Yup."


    Cassius didn''t even glance back. "And the tremor that shook the east warding post?"


    "Also me."


    A whisper of movement echoed through the hall, and in a blink, three shadow servants materialized¡ªamorphous beings of swirling darkness shaped like humanoid silhouettes.


    One immediately reached for the soaked cloak. Another offered a fresh black towel folded with near-religious reverence. The last began mopping the wet footprints with a kind of quiet dignity that made Damian feel like he''d just walked muddy boots into a sacred temple.


    Damian peeled off the heavy cloak with a grunt and dropped the cracked mask into the servant''s waiting hands. Steam hissed faintly off the cloth as it was lifted away.


    "Thanks," Damian muttered to the servant as he scrubbed the towel across his dripping hair.


    The servant inclined its head like a bow and vanished with a puff of smoke, along with the others. Not a single drop left behind.


    Damian dropped onto the nearby couch like gravity had personal beef with his spine. "I was chased."


    Cassius arched a brow. "You''re always chased."


    "No, I mean seriously chased. That dragon general¡ªLysandra¡ªshe tracked me from the city outskirts to the cliffside. Nearly froze the whole river trying to stop me."


    Cassius raised the cup halfway, then paused. "Wait. Is that why you''re wet?"


    "Yup."


    "...You jumped into the river."


    "I didn''t exactly have a lot of options."


    Cassius took a slow sip, trying hard not to look impressed. "And the general?"


    "Still breathing," Damian muttered. "Unfortunately."


    "You didn''t kill her?"


    "She said she just wanted to talk, but the way she chased me down made it feel more like she wanted to stuff my body in a dragon urn and offer it to the elders as a warning."


    Cassius snorted. "Classic diplomacy."


    "Shit diplomacy," Damian grumbled. "She threw me halfway across a ravine before I even knew what was happening. I had to use [Shadow Step] so many times."

 Chapter 396 396: Adrenaline And Frustration

    Warlock Ch 396. Adrenaline And Frustration


    "Sounds about right," Cassius murmured, settling into the armchair opposite him. "And Commander Ryven?"


    Damian''s eyes narrowed. "More stubborn than I thought."


    Cassius frowned, swirling the liquid in his cup. "You''re not supposed to be throwing high class spells around town like it''s confetti."


    "Well, maybe someone should tell our enemy that," Damian snapped, then exhaled. He scrubbed a hand over his face, rubbing at the dried streaks of river water and leftover ash that still clung to his skin. His body was drying up, sure, but his nerves? Still soaked in adrenaline and frustration.


    Cassius sat across from him, casually sipping a cup of bitterroot tea like he hadn''t just heard about his best friend being hunted through a mountain river by a dragon general with murder in her eyes. He gave Damian a long look, eyes gleaming with that trademark warlock sarcasm. "You done pouting?"


    Damian grunted. "Maybe." He exhaled. "So, how about your mission?"


    Cassius smirked. "Mine went fine."


    "Yeah?"


    "The target''s dead."


    Damian blinked. "Just like that?"


    "No sound. No loud explosion. No river chase. No dramatic identity crisis." Cassius leaned back smugly. "Just a quiet slice through the shadows and poof¡ªno more cultist envoy."


    Damian cringed. "I feel personally attacked."


    "You should," Cassius said, taking a slow sip of his drink. "The mission briefing specifically said ''settle this silently.'' And yet... you''re out here making fireworks."


    "I said I''m sorry."


    "You blew up half an alley."


    "Okay, most of that alley was already falling apart."


    "You set the river on fire, Damian."


    "I was being chased!"


    Cassius''s smirk faded just a little, replaced with that calculating look he wore whenever things started getting serious. He set his drink down on the low table beside him.


    "Alright," he said, leaning forward, elbows on knees. "About this dragon general... Should we start preparing for a war, then?"


    Damian hesitated. "Honestly? I don''t know."


    Cassius raised an eyebrow.


    "She said¡ªget this¡ªshe just wanted to talk."


    "And then chased you across the goddamn countryside?"


    "Exactly!" Damian stood, pacing now, towel slung over one shoulder. "She said she wanted to talk, but the second I tried to dip out, she started launching attacks like I kicked her dog. I don''t know what part of ''conversation'' includes aerial pursuit and freezing half a river."


    Cassius leaned back again. "So you didn''t give her a chance to talk?"


    Damian stopped mid-pace. "She was chasing me."


    "Yes, I gathered that."


    "She had a sword out! She was casting [Glacial Pursuit]!"


    Cassius shrugged. "Maybe that''s how dragons say hello."


    Damian glared. "Oh, right. So next time, should I roll out a table mid-fight, pour some tea, and say, ''Would you like to talk, dear General, over biscuits and mild drowning''?"


    Cassius smirked. "I mean... I''d pay to see that."


    "Shut up."


    Cassius stood now too, brushing his cloak aside. "Look, I''m not saying she handled it well. But... if she really wanted you dead, you wouldn''t be standing here dripping in my study, would you?"


    Damian crossed his arms, jaw tight. "...No."


    "Exactly."


    "She called me Kaelan," Damian said suddenly.


    Cassius froze.


    There was a long silence. Even the fire seemed to pause for a beat.


    "...Right," Cassius muttered. "That''s why you ran."


    "I didn''t¡ª" Damian stopped himself. Then groaned. "Okay. Maybe. A little."


    Cassius raised both eyebrows. "A little?"


    "She knew who I was," Damian muttered, running a hand through his still-damp hair. "She looked me in the eye and said my name like it still meant something."


    "To her, it might."


    "And to the rest of the world?"


    Cassius didn''t answer.


    Damian turned away, pacing toward the window. Outside, the mist still hung heavy over the forest, glowing faintly under the wards'' protective veil. The trees beyond swayed gently in the breeze, like they were whispering secrets he wasn''t ready to hear.


    "I didn''t want to be him anymore," Damian said quietly. "He¡ª"


    "He protected people," Cassius cut in. "He gave us time. He made hard calls."


    "He ran."


    Cassius''s voice dropped. "And now he came back."


    Damian turned around, eyes meeting Cassius''s.


    "You''re not running anymore, right?"


    "No," Damian said. "Not anymore."


    "Then it doesn''t matter what name they call you by. Kaelan. Damian. Hell, Wet Disaster. You''re here. You''re fighting. That''s what counts."


    Damian barked a short laugh. "Wet Disaster, really?"


    "You brought that one on yourself."


    They both chuckled, tension easing just a bit. Cassius walked over and clapped a hand on Damian''s shoulder.


    "So," he said. "What now?"


    Damian sighed. "Now? I rest. I plan. And maybe figure out what the hell Lysandra wanted before the dragons decide to fry Haven to a crisp."


    "And if she comes back?"


    "I''ll try not to light anything on fire."


    Cassius snorted. "Don''t make promises you can''t keep."


    Damian smirked. "No promises. Just plans." He exhaled slow, watching the flames for a second before speaking again. "Anyway," he said, voice lower now. "She also said something strange."


    Cassius arched a brow. "Stranger than a dragon general chasing you across a city for a ''chat''?"


    "Yeah," Damian muttered. "She said I might be the only one who could stop it."


    Cassius didn''t respond. Just blinked slowly. Waiting.


    "I don''t know if it''s a threat or a prophecy or just another piece of cryptic dragon bullshit," Damian went on, running a hand down his face. "But the way she said it... I don''t know, man. It didn''t feel like a warning."


    "What''d it feel like then?" Cassius asked.


    Damian leaned forward, elbows on knees, rubbing the side of his temple. "It felt like something from back then. You know... when I made the choice to kill the Demon King."


    The silence that followed was heavy. Not because Cassius didn''t understand¡ªit was because he did. They''d lived it.


    "You mean when Kaelan killed the Demon King," Cassius said carefully.


    Damian nodded, jaw tightening. "Yeah. That one."


    Cassius let out a humorless snort. "And instead they accused you of stealing his power."


    "Yup," Damian muttered. "Next thing I knew, I was branded a traitor, war criminal, dark overlord wannabe. The works."


    He leaned back, eyes locking on the ceiling like it held answers he never found.


    "She said it the same way the council did, you know? Like I was meant to stop something. Back then, it was the Demon King. And this time..." He trailed off, frowning. "This time, I don''t know. She didn''t even say what it was."

 Chapter 397 397: Inspirational Hero Arc

    Warlock Ch 397. Inspirational Hero Arc


    Cassius tilted his head. "Do you think she''s telling the truth?"


    Damian didn''t answer immediately. He just stared into the fire, watching the flames ripple and twist like dancing spirits trapped behind glass.


    "...It could be," he finally said. "Could be she''s trying to warn me. Could also be she''s setting me up to walk right into another scandal. You know how it goes."


    "Yeah," Cassius muttered. "Slay a demon king, get slandered for treason. Real inspirational hero arc."


    "I''m so tired of being inspirational."


    Cassius smirked. "I always thought the ''Kaelan the Betrayer'' nickname had a nice ring to it."


    Damian rolled his eyes. "Shut up."


    "I''m serious. Very edgy. Very dramatic. I bet there''s fan fiction about you."


    "Don''t even joke about that. You know Evelyn reads that stuff when she''s bored."


    Cassius laughed, finally pushing off the mantle and walking toward the bookshelf. He grabbed a thick leather-bound tome and flipped it open lazily, more to distract himself than to read. "Alright. So let''s assume, just for fun, that Lysandra wasn''t lying. What do we do?"


    Damian leaned back again, hands behind his head, stretching until his spine popped. "No idea. We don''t even know what she thinks I''m supposed to stop."


    Cassius flipped a page. "Maybe we find her. Talk again. Without the running and river diving this time."


    Damian snorted. "Yeah, I''ll bring tea and biscuits."


    "See? That''s the attitude."


    A long pause settled over them again, softer this time. Just the two of them, the fire, and the constant low hum of layered protection spells humming through the walls like a lullaby only mages could hear.


    Damian closed his eyes for a second.


    The fire crackled beside him, casting soft light across the room. The couch beneath him was way too comfortable, the kind that made you sink deep and forget your worries for half a breath. But the truth? His mind wouldn''t shut up. His body was still aching from that river ride, his muscles sore, his core drained, and his head just¡ªloud.


    He opened his eyes and looked over at Cassius, who was now flipping through a grim-looking spellbook while sipping whatever weird potion-tea mix he brewed from blackroot and dried frost lilies.


    "Hey..." Damian said quietly.


    Cassius glanced up without moving his head, just his eyes. "Hmm?"


    "You think we can win this?"


    That made Cassius pause.


    "I mean..." Damian rubbed the back of his neck. "I don''t want this to end up like the last time. I don''t want to be the reason everyone gets dragged into some doomed prophecy mess again."


    Cassius shut the book with a quiet thump and gave him a long look.


    "I hate saying this," Damian added, voice dropping lower, "but yeah... sometimes I''m not sure, man. Like really not sure. I keep acting like I''ve got everything under control, like I know what I''m doing, but half the time it feels like I''m guessing. What if this isn''t the right thing? What if I''m just walking us into another trap?"


    Cassius let out a soft breath and leaned forward, arms resting on his knees.


    "Stop thinking so hard," he said.


    Damian blinked. "What?"


    "Seriously." Cassius gave him a look, the kind he used when he was about to drop some painfully simple truth. "Not everything is always that bad. You''re not Kaelan anymore. This isn''t some cursed solo crusade. You''ve got us now. And we''ve got way more evidence, way more power, and way more people on our side this time."


    Damian exhaled. "Still doesn''t feel like enough."


    Cassius pointed a finger at him. "Then stop making that face. You look like you''re about to cry and punch something at the same time."


    That earned a small laugh from Damian, who rubbed his face. "Gods. I need a nap."


    Before Cassius could add anything else, a sharp flutter of wings came from above, followed by a sudden drop in temperature¡ªnot cold, but crisp, like the night air before a storm.


    A bat swooped through the open upper window, black as ink and nearly silent.


    It spun once in the air and landed on the floor in front of them.


    And then, in a swirl of dark mist and a flash of crimson runes, the bat transformed.


    Tall, sharp-eyed, and way too smug for someone showing up uninvited¡ªVictoria materialized in full, her elegant vampire queen aesthetic in full force. High-collared black coat, form-fitting dress with crimson runes embroidered at the edges, and heels that made no sound when she stepped forward.


    Her eyes narrowed the moment she saw Damian.


    "What in the bloody abyss happened to you?" she asked, one eyebrow twitching. "Is showering in full clothes your new hobby?"


    Damian stared up at her and sighed. "Long story short? I fell into the river."


    Cassius helpfully added, "Because a dragon general chased him like a psychotic falcon."


    "Chased me," Damian corrected. "And flash-froze the damn river behind me. I had no choice."


    Victoria tilted her head. "Let me guess¡ªLysandra?"


    Cassius snorted into his cup.


    "Well," Victoria continued, glancing dramatically at the wet floor, "if she wanted to talk, there were easier ways than turning the river into a battlefield. Honestly, dragons."


    "Exactly!" Damian said, throwing his hands up.


    "But," Victoria added with a smirk, "my condolences for your pride."


    Damian gave her a dry look. "Thanks."


    She walked over to the edge of the couch and leaned over, her eyes narrowing as she inspected him. "Still in one piece, though. That''s something."


    "Barely."


    Cassius looked amused. "I told him he smells like wet failure."


    "I can second that," Victoria said without hesitation.


    Damian groaned. "Can we not make this a roast session?"


    "No promises," she smirked, then stepped back and flipped her long braid over one shoulder. "Anyway, while you were playing hide-and-seek with flying lizards, some of us were doing our jobs."


    Damian perked up. "What about your target?"


    Victoria tapped a finger against her chin with mock thoughtfulness. "Oh, he''s dead. Very dead. Elegantly dead, if I do say so myself."


    "Assassination or public execution?"


    "Assassination," she replied smoothly. "Slipped right behind him, whispered sweet nothings into his ear, and then removed his head before he could scream."


    Cassius nodded approvingly. "Classic."


    Victoria smirked, all teeth. "Because unlike some people, I don''t announce my presence with magic flares and rivers on fire."

 Chapter 398 398: I’m The Idiot

    Warlock Ch 398. I''m The Idiot


    Damian groaned again. "Let me guess. The chaos made your mission easier."


    "Oh, absolutely," she grinned. "The guards left their posts when that loud explosion echoed through the city. I didn''t even need to hypnotize anyone. Walked right in."


    "I wonder who that idiot was," she added casually.


    Damian raised a hand without looking at her. "It was me. I''m the idiot."


    Cassius tried¡ªreally tried¡ªnot to laugh, but it came out anyway, a low chuckle that turned into a full snort.


    Victoria rolled her eyes, then walked over and perched on the armrest next to Damian, crossing her legs. She reached over and flicked a strand of damp hair from his face.


    "You need to stop almost dying," she said.


    "You need to stop appearing like a cryptid at midnight," Damian shot back.


    "Touche?."


    Victoria gave him a lazy smile, the kind that said she knew she was ridiculous and leaned into it anyway.


    Cassius stretched with an audible groan, standing and twisting his back until something popped. "Alright. This has been fun, but I''m calling it. I need at least four hours of sleep if we''re gonna dive into that hellhole tomorrow."


    "Agreed," Victoria added, rising smoothly from the couch like her heels didn''t even touch the floor. "I''d like to be fully recharged before throwing hands with reality again."


    Damian tilted his head back against the cushions and stared at the ceiling. "Can''t we just, like... take a vacation instead?"


    Cassius snorted. "We did. That''s how we got into this mess."


    "Touche? again," Damian muttered.


    Victoria stepped closer and rested a hand on Damian''s shoulder, her fingers cool against the warmth of his still-damp shirt. "Sleep, Damian. Even cursed men need rest."


    He glanced up at her, the smallest smirk tugging at the edge of his lips. "Don''t start writing poetry now."


    "No promises." She leaned down, kissed his forehead gently, and turned to leave.


    "Oh, and before I forget¡ªarchive vault. Central one," Cassius added. "Tomorrow we check it."


    Victoria glanced back over her shoulder, "We''ll need Selena''s blood to bypass the seal. Do you think this could work?"


    Cassius shrugged. "Dunno. Not before we try."


    Damian frowned. "You think she''ll agree?"


    Cassius tilted his head. "She''s here. She''s been helping. She has a thing for you."


    Damian blinked. "That''s not¡ª"


    Victoria raised a brow. "Oh please. She looks at you like you''re the last moonflower in a dying forest."


    Cassius smirked. "He knows. He''s just pretending not to."


    Damian groaned. "I hate both of you."


    Victoria smiled sweetly. "You love us."


    Cassius clapped him on the back. "Now go sleep, lover boy. Tomorrow we try not to die again."


    Victoria made her exit first, disappearing down the hall with that same slow, regal stride she always had.


    Cassius followed after with a lazy salute. "Sleep tight, wet disaster."


    "Bite me."


    "Maybe later."


    The room fell quiet again, lit only by the dying fire. Damian finally stood up, stretching, every joint in his body clicking like someone shaking a bag of bones. His boots squelched faintly as he moved toward the stairs, and he made a mental note to burn them and never speak of them again.


    The hallway outside was dark, but not silent. He heard faint movement¡ªa door creaking softly, light footsteps. At the far end of the corridor, someone peeked out from one of the guest rooms.


    Selena.


    Her long hair was loose, cascading over her shoulders, and her eyes glowed softly in the dim hallway light.


    She looked small in her nightgown, barefoot, fingers curled around the edge of the doorway like she hadn''t fully decided whether to step out or stay hidden.


    "You''re not sleeping yet?" she asked, voice quiet, a little unsure.


    Damian smiled gently. "Heading there now."


    Her eyes drifted down, and her nose scrunched a little. "You''re... wet."


    Damian glanced down at himself like he''d forgotten. His shirt was still clinging to him, and his boots let out the softest squelch with every shift of weight. "Yeah. Fell into a river."


    Selena blinked. "What?"


    "The dragon general chased me," he added like it was just an unfortunate weather report. "I''ll take a shower after this. I swear."


    She bit her lip, trying not to smile. "You''re hopeless."


    "Been told that a lot today."


    She stepped a little further out into the hall, still watching him. "Did you... hunt them down? I mean... the councils. The ones trying to silence everything."


    Damian''s expression shifted just slightly¡ªhis smile fading, jaw tightening just a bit.


    "Yeah," he said, his voice lower now. "I need to thin out their forces. Cut off their reach before it spreads too far."


    Selena nodded once, serious now. She didn''t need to ask more. She already knew how far he''d go for the truth. How far he had gone.


    "There''s something else too," Damian added after a beat. "We found something. A lead."


    Her head tilted. "What kind of lead?"


    "A vault," he said. "Central archive, hidden chamber underneath it. Looks like some kind of sealed source. Information, maybe more. Something powerful. And..."


    He hesitated before finishing.


    "...we need your blood to open it."


    Selena stared.


    "A fae noble¡ªmaybe someone royal¡ªwas involved in the seal. Could''ve been generations ago. Your bloodline might be the key."


    She didn''t speak right away. Just processed.


    "Do you think it''ll work?" she finally asked.


    Damian shrugged. "We won''t know until we try."


    Another pause.


    Then she said softly, "Alright. If it helps you... I''ll do it."


    Damian nodded, something easing in his chest.


    She studied his face again, this time with more worry than teasing. "You look tired."


    "I am," he admitted, rubbing his neck. "Tomorrow''s gonna be... fun."


    Selena nodded slowly, then stepped back to her door. "You''ll wake me if you need me?"


    "I will," he said. "I promise."


    She gave him a small smile¡ªgentle, warm¡ªand closed the door behind her with a quiet click. Damian stood there a moment longer, then exhaled and made his way down the hall. The night was still. Just a few more hours of peace before it all began again.


    She lingered a moment longer, then disappeared back inside, closing the door with a soft click.


    Damian exhaled.


    One more night.


    Then back into the fire.

 Chapter 399 399: Another Day, Another Trouble *

    Warlock Ch 399. Another Day, Another Trouble *


    Another day, another trouble.


    That was the first thing Damian muttered as he slowly opened his eyes to the soft morning light filtering through the black-out warded curtains. The bedroom smelled like lavender, candle wax, and the lingering sharpness of blood and sex.


    His body ached in that lazy, satisfied way, muscles sore in all the right places. The sheets clung to his skin, warm and sticky, a mess of sweat, and tangled limbs.


    Victoria''s leg was still draped over his thigh, her bare skin cool to the touch. Her lips brushed against the side of his neck, warm breath ghosting along a fresh bite mark that was still faintly tingling with vampire magic.


    Evelyn, meanwhile, was lying partially across his chest, her tongue slowly lapping at a thin trail of cum that had dripped across his abdomen. Her soft white hair spread like a halo against his ribs, and her eyes were glazed with that dreamy post-hexing bliss.


    Damian groaned. "Seriously? I just woke up."


    Victoria chuckled against his neck, then slowly dragged her tongue across the puncture wound. "Don''t blame us. You''re the one who sleeps like a feast on legs."


    Evelyn lifted her head and gave him a lazy smirk. "And the way you twitched when I touched you in your sleep? That was practically an invitation."


    "I was dreaming about a forest chase," Damian muttered, running a hand down his face. "Turns out it was just you two chasing me into a goddamn threesome ambush."


    Victoria stretched like a cat, long fingers brushing over Damian''s chest. Her nails left faint tingles wherever they touched, magical residue still buzzing from last night''s chaos. "Not our fault you''re addictive," she purred. "Besides, we were gentle."


    Evelyn snorted. "I was gentle. You went full vampire dominatrix halfway through."


    "Which you enjoyed," Victoria fired back.


    "Did not."


    Damian raised a brow. "You bit my shoulder while moaning."


    Evelyn narrowed her eyes, clearly debating whether to throw a pillow or just own it. She settled for licking the last trace of cum from her lip and flicking her tongue at him with a wink. "Well, you tasted good."


    "I always do," Damian said flatly.


    Victoria chuckled and leaned down to kiss the bite mark again, this time without magic. Just a soft, possessive press of lips. "Mm. Still warm. You''ll be fine."


    "I know I''ll be fine. It''s not the damage I''m worried about¡ªit''s the timing." He pulled the sheet up slightly, trying to ignore how much of a mess they''d made. "You do realize we''re supposed to sneak into a sealed vault today, right?"


    "Later," Evelyn murmured, curling against his chest. "Let us have our moment."


    "It was a good moment," Damian admitted, exhaling.


    They lay like that for a while, just breathing. The room was quiet. No alarms, no sudden threats, no mana pings.


    Just warmth.


    The scent of sweat, sex, and blood lingered thick in the air. The taste of iron still coated the back of Damian''s tongue, faint from where Victoria had sunk her fangs in. And Evelyn''s magic, sticky-sweet like cinnamon and honey, still buzzed faintly beneath his skin.


    For a brief, rare second, everything felt calm.


    Then it changed.


    It was subtle at first¡ªa ripple, like someone flicking a stone into a still pond. Then the room shifted, the air pressing in just slightly too tight. The mana around them trembled. It wasn''t visible, but it was felt. A cold pinch between the shoulder blades. The hairs on his arms rose.


    Evelyn immediately sat up, eyes sharp now. "You feel that?"


    "Yeah." Damian was already out of bed, grabbing the nearest pair of pants from the floor and yanking them on without much care for the state of his shirtless torso. He pulled the curtain slightly aside, just enough to peek beyond the veil wards.


    "Mana flow just flared," Victoria murmured, now fully upright and reaching for the dark robe draped over the chair. She didn''t bother tying it. "External. Strong. Not hostile... but probing."


    Evelyn touched the floor barefoot and muttered a quick Trace. A faint pulse of light spread across the room''s barrier enchantment.


    "Someone''s here," she confirmed. "Just entered the perimeter."


    Damian''s breath caught for half a second. "It''s her."


    "Lysandra?" Victoria asked, voice colder now.


    "Yeah," Damian said. "That dragon general just paid me a visit."


    Evelyn exhaled and ran a hand through her hair. "Guess the morning after comes with flaming side quests now."


    "Perfect," Victoria muttered, already lacing her boots. "Do you want us there, or do you want to handle it?"


    Damian didn''t answer immediately.


    He looked out the window, down toward the gate where the mana signature was clearest¡ªsteady, heavy, unmistakably her. That calm, relentless pressure like an apex predator politely knocking on the door.


    He cracked his neck once, eyes narrowing. "I''ll talk to her."


    Evelyn moved in close, rising on her toes to press a kiss against his jaw¡ªsoft, grounding. "Just talk. No jumping off cliffs this time."


    Damian gave her a dry smile. "I''ll behave."


    Victoria raised a brow, arms crossed over her robe. "You said that last time."


    "Yeah," he muttered, glancing toward the window, "and then she froze the river and chased me off a cliff. Forgive me if I don''t send her a thank-you note."


    "You were also shirtless when she found you last time," Victoria added, walking over to pluck at his barely-draped cloak. "Just saying."


    Damian looked down at himself. Bite marks on his neck. A healing scratch along his ribs. Hair tousled like he just escaped a witch''s summoning circle¡ªwhich wasn''t exactly wrong. "Yeah... I look great."


    "You look like sex and regret," Evelyn said, smirking. "It''s a strong aura."


    "Maybe she''ll finally be scared of me," Damian deadpanned, pulling the cloak tighter over his chest.


    Victoria chuckled. "Or more curious."


    He rolled his eyes, exhaled one last time, and turned toward the hallway. "Let''s get this over with. If I die, burn something important in my honor."


    "Deal," they both said in unison.


    Still, he grinned. Because somehow, that felt right.


    "Alright," he muttered, stepping into the hall. "Let''s see what the dragon wants today."


    And behind him, the soft footsteps of the vampire and the witch padded quietly after. Just in case.

 Chapter 400: A Ghost

    Warlock Ch 400. A Ghost


    Damian walked through the quiet corridor, cloak clinging loosely to his shoulders, still half-damp where Victoria''s bite had drawn blood earlier.


    The old manor''s walls hummed softly with protective wards, and the scent of incense¡ªprobably Evelyn''s doing¡ªlingered in the air with a faint floral sharpness. He rubbed a thumb along the edge of his jaw, still sore from whatever spell she''d cast mid-climax. Hell of a way to start a morning.


    By the time he reached the living room, the air had already shifted.


    He knew she was here before he saw her. The mana pressure alone gave her away¡ªheavy, precise, calculated. Like a blade so sharp you''d only know you''d been cut once it was too late.


    The dragon general stood by the window, arms crossed, her armor pristine as always, though her eyes¡ªthose piercing, molten gold eyes¡ªwere already sizing him up.


    One of Damian''s shadow servants stood nearby, waiting for a dismissal.


    Lysandra turned when she saw him, her gaze pausing as it scanned him from head to toe. Her brow arched in the most unsubtle way imaginable.


    Damian, still barefoot and shirtless with nothing but a cloak and pants thrown on in a rush, gave her the flattest look he could manage¡ªthe universal ''what now?'' expression that conveyed how little patience he had left for the day.


    "You surely have an interesting taste of fashion, Warlock," she said coolly.


    Damian barked a dry laugh as he stepped down into the living room. "Thanks. I know you didn''t come to comment on that."


    "No," she admitted, tone unreadable. "But you reek of sex."


    He blinked. "Wow. Okay."


    "I''m serious." She walked further into the room and let herself fall onto the couch with a grace that didn''t match her steel-plated exterior. "Dragons have sensitive noses. That smell bothers me."


    Damian exhaled sharply through his nose, shaking his head. "Yeah, well, sorry. I''m a normal guy with a normal sex appetite. I wasn''t expecting guests this early."


    She ignored that and motioned for the servant to leave. With a soft whisper of shadows, the figure disappeared, melting into the floor.


    Damian walked to the opposite side of the room and dropped into the armchair, leaning forward with elbows on knees. "Alright. You''re here. You''re sitting. I''m shirtless. Let''s just pretend none of that''s weird and skip to why you''re really here."


    Lysandra''s eyes narrowed slightly. "I want to speak to you, Kaelan."


    Damian let out a long, frustrated groan, dragging his hand through his still-messy hair. "Kaelan is dead," he muttered. "You want to talk to ghosts now, too?"


    "You''re Kaelan," she replied flatly, tone sharp like a blade being drawn, not accusatory¡ªjust sure.


    He stiffened. "I''m Damian," he snapped, eyes narrowing. "Kaelan is my past. A name. A burned ID. A ghost, like I said."


    "You can ignore it as much as you want," she said, her voice dropping to something calmer but no less firm, "but I know what I saw. I''ve seen how you move. How you cast. The signature is the same. The mana feels the same. You can''t fake what''s in your blood."


    He met her gaze with a tired, flat expression, like someone who''d heard this too many times in too many ways. "Stop calling me that."


    "Fine. Whatever." Lysandra leaned back against the couch with a sigh, one leg crossed over the other, but her gaze didn''t soften. "What matters is¡ªyou heard what I said yesterday, right?"


    Damian nodded, rubbing at his temples. "Yeah. The part where I''m supposedly the only one who can stop whatever nightmare''s crawling out of the void? About how I''m apparently the only one who can stop... whatever it is you were being vague about."


    "I was being careful, not vague," she corrected. "There''s a difference."


    Damian arched a brow. "Not from my perspective."


    She didn''t rise to the bait. "The dragons have noticed something," she began, voice low now, serious. "Something big. Something unnatural. We''re not the only ones¡ªsome of the elder courts have too. Mana''s been shifting lately. Subtle things¡ªleyline fluctuations, sealed vaults waking, ancient magic pulsing in places that haven''t stirred in centuries."


    Damian leaned back in his chair, eyes narrowing. "You''re talking about convergence?"


    "Yes," she said, face grim. "But not a natural one. Something is forcing it. Gathering different power sources¡ªdivine, demonic, fae, arcane. Human experimentation included. And it''s happening beneath the surface. Carefully. Deliberately."


    "I''ve felt it too," Damian said, voice quiet. "The pressure. That strange hum in the system''s mana stream. It''s like... a storm that hasn''t broken yet."


    Lysandra nodded. "Exactly. And the dragons... we don''t do paranoia. But this?" She met his eyes. "This has us scared."


    Damian stayed silent for a moment, fingers tapping idly on the armrest.


    "I''m assuming you think I''m somehow involved?"


    "No," she said. "But I think you''re connected to it."


    "Why?" he asked flatly. "Because of what I used to be?"


    "Because of who you still are, no matter what name you put on," she said, gaze sharp. "Kaelan¡ªthe real one¡ªwasn''t just a warlock. He was the first to hold dominion over multiple magical pacts across opposing systems. That shouldn''t be possible. And yet, here you are. Still breathing. Still fighting. Still somehow balanced."


    Damian exhaled. "You want me to believe I''m some... catalyst?"


    "I don''t care what you believe," she said. "I''m telling you the threat is real. Something is building itself using remnants of old power. Shards of sealed magic, blood pacts, corrupted artifacts¡ªall stitched together. And when it finishes? It won''t care what side you''re on."


    Damian was quiet again, staring into the low-burning embers in the fireplace.


    "I heard that," he murmured. "A fragment, deep in the central vault. Sealed under layers of fae magic and blood-binding rituals."


    Lysandra tilted her head. "Then you know what I''m saying isn''t just fearmongering."


    "Yeah," he muttered. "I know."


    A long silence passed.


    Then she asked, more softly, "So if you knew... Why did you run last night?"


    Damian looked up.


    His lips twitched, but there was no humor in it.


    "...Because sometimes," he said quietly, "it''s easier to fight monsters than it is to face who you used to be."


    And Lysandra, for once, had no comeback.

 Chapter 401: I Was Never Evil

    Warlock Ch 401. I Was Never Evil


    The silence between them held weight¡ªnot the kind born from threat or tension, but something messier. Uneven. She looked at him like a puzzle that had suddenly revealed more pieces than she expected. Damian could feel it, the way her gaze lingered too long, too softly, and not quite where it should''ve.


    It wasn''t just judgment this time.


    No. It was something else entirely.


    "I see... so you admit it then," she said after a beat. "You were evil once."


    Damian scoffed, running a hand through his still-damp hair. "No," he muttered. "I was never evil."


    He didn''t raise his voice. Didn''t snap. He didn''t need to.


    "I made decisions people didn''t agree with. I challenged systems they were too scared to question. And yeah... I broke rules that weren''t designed to protect anyone but themselves."


    He looked her in the eye. "That''s not evil. That''s surviving."


    She tilted her head slightly. Still listening. Still watching. Not interrupting.


    "But being Kaelan..." Damian continued, his voice quieter now, "came with its own curses. Too many memories I''d rather leave buried. Too many regrets I never had time to fix."


    He leaned back in the armchair, cloak loose around his shoulders, revealing the lines of his scarred chest, the faint glow of Evelyn''s leftover healing charm still fading from his ribs. Bite marks still dotted his collarbone, and despite the weight of the moment, he didn''t cover them.


    "Yet here I am," he said, exhaling slowly. "Crawling back through the shit I thought I left behind. Trying to patch it up while the world just throws more dirt in my face."


    Lysandra didn''t respond immediately.


    But something shifted in her eyes.


    That look again.


    Not guarded. Not aggressive. But still... strange.


    She was quiet. Too quiet.


    And her eyes¡ª They weren''t on his face anymore.


    Damian followed the line of her gaze.


    Yeah. She was looking.


    Not just glancing, either. Her eyes dragged slowly over the lines of his chest, lingered at the curve of his collarbone. Her lips parted slightly¡ªbut not to speak. It was subtle. Maybe even subconscious.


    But it was there.


    Pity? No. He didn''t think so.


    Curiosity? Definitely.


    Attraction?


    Damian''s smirk curved, slow and deliberate. He leaned just a little to the side, letting his cloak shift open, his bare chest catching the flickering firelight. "Why are you looking at me like that?" he asked, voice light but carrying that signature edge of mischief and danger. "Do you have a crush on me or something?"


    She blinked, visibly caught. Her eyes snapped back up to meet his¡ªjust a little too fast, a little too sharp to be casual.


    "No," she said quickly. Flatly.


    Too flat.


    His eyebrow arched, amused. "Didn''t say you did," he said, stepping forward with slow, confident ease. "Just noticed the staring. Was starting to feel shy."


    "You don''t do shy," she shot back, eyes narrowing.


    "True," he admitted with a smirk. "But I do notice when a deadly dragon commander gets distracted by my abs mid-interrogation."


    Her jaw tightened¡ªbut she didn''t deny it.


    Didn''t argue, either.


    And that silence said more than words ever could.


    She looked away¡ªnot in shame, but in that subtle, defensive way people do when their thoughts wander somewhere they''re not ready to admit out loud. Her posture shifted, ever so slightly, like her armor suddenly felt heavier.


    Damian caught the faint parting of her lips, the way her shoulders squared for a breath, like she was about to say something¡ªsomething real.


    But then... she stopped. Whatever it was died in her throat. She turned, just slightly, as if keeping eye contact would make her too vulnerable. That flicker of hesitation¡ªsmall, but undeniable¡ªwas the first crack in her steel composure.


    And yet, it made the moment more unbearable.


    He sighed. The firelight wrapped around him as he stood, casting long shadows across the room. His bare feet padded against the wood floor with soft, careful steps.


    "Keep this to yourself," he said, his back turned to her now as he gazed into the flames. "This conversation. My past. What you think you saw."


    Lysandra''s voice came quieter, but not unsure. "Or else?"


    He turned halfway toward her, and in that instant, the weight behind his eyes changed.


    "Or else I''ll have to shut your mouth."


    His aura flared¡ªnot explosively, but enough to make the room hum. The fire hissed like it was reacting to him. Shadows licked the corners of the ceiling. Even the runes in the stone wall behind her pulsed faintly.


    Lysandra didn''t flinch.


    But her lips curled into the faintest smirk.


    "Is that a threat, Warlock?"


    Damian didn''t blink. "Yes."


    The tension twisted into something else. Not animosity. Something just beneath it. The kind of tension that belonged to people who fought too often and maybe, in another world, would''ve kissed just as fiercely.


    Lysandra stood with a quiet shift of her armor, walking to the door with long, confident strides. But just before she reached for the handle, she paused.


    She glanced over her shoulder.


    And her voice¡ªstill cold, but softer¡ªcut through the quiet.


    "You still carry him. Whether you want to admit it or not."


    "I carry a lot of things," Damian said. "Doesn''t mean I wear the name."


    She nodded once, not disagreeing. Then she opened the door.


    But she didn''t leave right away.


    She turned back to look at him fully, her eyes scanning his face again, slower this time. Not just sizing him up. Not analyzing him like an opponent.


    Something had changed.


    Something she wasn''t ready to say.


    So instead, she said nothing at all.


    And Damian didn''t push her.


    She stepped out into the hallway.


    The door clicked softly behind her.


    And once again, Damian was alone with the flickering fire, the fading scent of her magic still clinging faintly to the room like smoke after a storm.


    He stared into the flames for a long time before whispering to no one in particular.


    "Dammit..."


    Because she was right.


    And that was the worst part of it all.

 Chapter 402: Stubborn

    Warlock Ch 402. Stubborn


    Lysandra stepped through the final layer of the barrier, the magical veil parting like warm mist before sealing behind her with a soft shimmer of silver light. The air outside shifted immediately¡ªlighter, colder, less saturated with the mana-imbued comfort of the warlock''s protected territory. Her boots crunched faintly against the gravel-lined walkway, her senses still sharpened from the conversation she had no intention of forgetting anytime soon.


    She didn''t look back at first.


    Not until she reached the outer marker. Then she stopped.


    And turned.


    The mansion stood still in the morning light, its silhouette cutting sharp against the ever-shifting skyline of the magus district. Sleek walls, angled windows, hovering shield runes softly pulsing near the roofline¡ªit looked modern, minimal, elegant.


    But she knew better.


    That building was a fortress.


    Not because of its walls, or its wards, or the security measures she had already mapped in her head the moment she walked through the front door.


    It was a fortress because of him.


    Damian.


    No¡ªKaelan.


    She clicked her tongue softly and narrowed her eyes.


    "Stubborn bastard," she murmured to herself.


    And still... her expression didn''t harden the way it usually did when she thought about threats, enemies, or chaotic political chess pieces.


    Instead, something flickered behind her gaze. A kind of old ache. Something stored away, untouched for far too long.


    Memories.


    She didn''t want them, but they came anyway.


    Years ago¡ªdecades now, though her kind didn''t measure time like mortals did¡ªshe''d stood across from Kaelan on a shattered battlefield. The sky had been blackened with smoke, the earth scorched by fire and cursed spells, and her wings had ached from the clash. His aura had been unstable, pulsing with layered magics no mortal should''ve been able to handle.


    And yet... he stood.


    She remembered how he moved¡ªconfident, fast, wild like a storm breaking free from its leash. As a warlock, he should''ve been below her. Mortal-blooded, mana-bound, limited. He should''ve been crushed.


    But he didn''t break.


    He matched her.


    Every strike, every counterspell, every surge of raw energy¡ªhe kept up.


    The fight ended in a draw. She''d left with a torn gauntlet and bruised ribs. He''d left with a fractured arm and a grin that said, "See? We''re not so different."


    She hadn''t smiled back.


    But she remembered thinking, ''He''s dangerous. And impressive.''


    And maybe... interesting.


    Back then, no one knew how far he''d rise. No one could''ve predicted the unraveling that came later. The accusations. The exile. The betrayal. She didn''t believe it, not really. The claims that Kaelan had stolen the Demon King''s core, that he had absorbed it for power¡ªno, it didn''t make sense. It never had.


    But she''d stayed silent.


    Because she was dragonborn.


    And dragons... were not to interfere.


    They were the balance. The watchers. The neutral hand that maintained the line between ruin and order. That was their creed. Their law.


    And even when the world condemned Kaelan, even when the Magus Senate paraded a bloody verdict through every sanctioned platform, the dragon tribe stood back.


    Because Kaelan''s act¡ªhis crime¡ªhad done something else.


    It had sealed the Demon King.


    Not destroyed him. Not consumed him.


    Contained him.


    She knew. The tribe knew.


    Deep inside Kaelan¡ªno, Damian now¡ªsomething had locked the Demon King in a prison of soul and spell. A containment so ancient and brutal it could only be done by sacrificing everything else. Damian had taken that burden on himself.


    And the world had thanked him by throwing him away.


    Lysandra exhaled, slow and deep.


    She didn''t like feeling this way.


    Sympathy sat wrong in her chest. Pity even worse. And yet... something about seeing him again, standing shirtless with those tired, defiant eyes, still fighting, still bleeding for people who would never thank him¡ªit stirred something she hadn''t let herself feel in years.


    She had respected him once.


    And despite everything?


    She still did.


    The sound came softly at first¡ªbarely a breath against the wind. But Lysandra turned toward it immediately, her body tensing. Her fingers flexed at her sides, claws itching beneath skin. She stepped off the main path into the narrow alley between hedges, her boots silent now.


    She heard it again.


    A scrape. A whisper. Magic pulling too tight in the air.


    Amateurs.


    Her eyes narrowed, and her senses sharpened.


    Then she saw it¡ªthree cloaked figures moving along the side wall across the street, their shadows too slow, their presence shielded poorly. They were trying to be clever. Masking their scent with city grime and back-alley mana. But they weren''t ready for her.


    Lysandra didn''t speak.


    She didn''t warn.


    She moved.


    Her body blurred forward, wings snapping out in a burst of power that cracked the air like thunder. The first spy didn''t even turn around before she was on him¡ªher clawed hand pierced through his chest like paper. He choked once and collapsed without a sound.


    The second flinched and raised a charm¡ªdefensive, trembling.


    Lysandra''s eyes flared gold. "No."


    She opened her mouth, and a single word of Draconic spilled forth.


    "Nelithik (Die)."


    The spy''s body burned from within, blood boiling as the energy collapsed his inner wards.


    The third tried to run.


    Of course he did.


    But she was already in front of him.


    He skidded to a halt, wide-eyed, a dagger raised more out of desperation than hope.


    Lysandra stepped forward slowly, looking almost bored. "Did you think I wouldn''t notice?"


    He opened his mouth. "We were just¡ª"


    She slashed upward.


    The dagger hit the ground before he did.


    She stood over the corpses for a long moment, the faint smell of burnt ozone and blood staining the air. Her wings folded neatly behind her, and her armor clicked softly as she turned back toward the mansion in the distance.


    They were spies.


    Magus Society, maybe. Senators. Didn''t matter. Someone had been watching her.


    Watching him.


    She wiped her clawed hand on the cloak of the nearest corpse and muttered a quick [Cleanse] to remove the blood from her gauntlet.

 Chapter 403: We Do What We Have To Do

    Warlock Ch 403. We Do What We Have To Do


    Lysandra stood still for a moment, listening.


    And then¡ª


    "I thought dragons didn''t interfere."


    That voice.


    Controlled. Cold. And unmistakably smug.


    Lysandra didn''t even need to turn around to know who it was.


    She slowly shifted her stance and looked over her shoulder.


    Aria.


    The woman was all sharp lines and authority, wrapped in a pristine senator''s cloak that practically shimmered with layers of defensive enchantments. Her silver hair was swept up with deliberate care, her eyes unreadable as always¡ªhalf judgment, half amusement.


    Lysandra flicked a glance down at the corpse nearest to her boot. "Yes. But sometimes?" She raised her chin slightly. "We do what we have to."


    Aria''s lips curled faintly. "That''s the most dragon thing I''ve heard all week."


    "And yet you''re still here," Lysandra said evenly. "What are you doing in this district, senator?"


    "That should be my question," Aria replied, stepping closer, her boots clicking against the cobbled path like a metronome of pressure. "What are the dragons doing here? What made you come down from your lofty perch to... intervene?"


    Lysandra''s wings twitched slightly behind her, folding closer to her back. Her gaze didn''t waver.


    "I don''t owe you that answer."


    "No," Aria agreed, tilting her head. "You don''t. But I find it interesting that a dragon general happens to be exiting Cassius''s mansion just as enemy spies drop dead in a twenty-meter radius. Call it a senator''s instinct, but I''m inclined to ask more questions when that many things happen in the same breath."


    Lysandra exhaled through her nose, slowly turning to face her fully. "Dragons don''t report to senators."


    Aria smiled. "Believe me, I''m aware. Still..." She walked a half-circle around the nearest corpse, crouching to observe the clean wound at its center. "You know what the state of Haven City has been like lately. Assassinations. Missing operatives. Wards being breached, key evidence disappearing. And that mansion?"


    She looked up from the body.


    "Houses a valuable witness. Possibly the only one who can prove what happened."


    Lysandra''s jaw tensed. "So you''re watching it."


    "I''m protecting it," Aria replied smoothly. "You might think of it as the same thing."


    Lysandra crossed her arms. "And what? You think I was trying to kill him?"


    "I think," Aria said, rising back to her full height, "that you don''t just visit old enemies for tea."


    The words cut harder than Lysandra expected. Not because they were wrong¡ªbut because they hit somewhere uncomfortably close.


    "I didn''t come to kill him," Lysandra said, voice quieter now. "I came to talk."


    Aria''s brow rose. "Is that what dragons call it now?"


    Lysandra''s eyes sharpened, and her voice dipped lower. "Be careful, senator."


    Aria smirked again but didn''t press. Instead, her tone turned more thoughtful. "So... you''re on his side now?"


    "I''m on balance''s side," Lysandra said. "That hasn''t changed."


    "But your perspective has," Aria said, studying her closely. "You used to call him reckless. A disruptor. You nearly incinerated half a canyon fighting him once, if I recall correctly."


    "He nearly cracked my ribs," Lysandra said dryly. "It was a good fight."


    Aria chuckled once. "And now?"


    "Now..." Lysandra hesitated. Her eyes drifted back toward the barrier, still faintly glowing behind them, sealing the mansion from casual view.


    Now, she saw a man who still carried the burden of the demon king in his bones. Who had chosen to bear it without reward. Who still fought, even after everything was taken from him. Who stood shirtless in front of her, scarred and sarcastic and real.


    "Now I see someone the world misunderstood."


    Aria''s smirk faltered just a little at that.


    Lysandra didn''t like the look she was getting in return.


    It wasn''t suspicion.


    It was something closer to... relief?


    "So," Aria said, folding her arms. "You''re really not here to fight."


    "No."


    "And if it comes to it?"


    "If it comes to it," Lysandra replied, her voice like low thunder, "I will burn whatever needs to be burned. But not him."


    The senator studied her for a long, silent second.


    Then Aria nodded once. "Good."


    Lysandra blinked. "That''s it?"


    Aria smirked. "You''re not the only one who''s changed sides, General. Haven''s falling apart. And for once? We don''t have the luxury of pointing fingers at people trying to fix it."


    Lysandra didn''t reply.


    She stood there in the middle of the quiet street.


    The dragon general watched the senator''s back for a moment as she walked toward the mansion¡ªtoward Cassius''s mansion. A place Aria never would''ve approached willingly years ago. Not when she and Kaelan had nearly destroyed an entire warfront just by being in the same room.


    Now?


    She was walking in like she belonged there.


    Funny, how the world burned just enough to make people drop their grudges.


    "You''re the same as me," Lysandra said aloud, her voice calm but heavy.


    Aria didn''t break stride. "Maybe," she called back.


    Lysandra''s eyes narrowed slightly, watching the other woman''s figure vanish behind the ward shimmer as the mansion''s protective field parted for her.


    Maybe.


    Maybe not.


    The thought lingered.


    Because while Lysandra had accepted her role as observer, guardian of balance, Aria had been something else entirely. A symbol of order. A senator. A judge. A sorcerer powerful enough to rewrite the structure of a city''s council if she chose to.


    And yet, here she was. No entourage. No guards. No grand entrance. Just herself. Walking into the lion''s den to speak to the man she once wanted executed.


    The same man Lysandra had once fought with fire and steel and walked away from confused and intrigued.


    They were both stepping into unfamiliar territory.


    Lysandra exhaled through her nose, feeling the last traces of adrenaline begin to fade from her blood. The corpses at her feet were still and cold, her message already written in the blood they left behind¡ªclear to anyone with the sense to read it.


    Do not follow me.


    Do not spy on me.


    Do not interfere.


    She didn''t wait for cleanup. She wasn''t their janitor.


    With one last glance at the mansion''s sealed gates, Lysandra turned toward the sky. Her wings stretched slowly, catching the morning light as she lifted off the ground, the wind howling quietly around her.


    Whatever came next...


    They''d all made their choice.

 Chapter 404: You Look Dead

    Warlock Ch 404. You Look Dead


    "You look dead, Kaelan," Aria said.


    Damian groaned under his breath, slouched lower in his seat at the living room. He didn''t even look up. He just tore another chunk off the stale mana bread in his hand and shoved it into his mouth like it personally owed him money.


    "For the hundredth time," he said through the bite, "It''s Damian. Kaelan is on indefinite vacation."


    Aria, standing near the end of the room with her arms crossed and a look that screamed ''I''m not here for your sass'', quirked an eyebrow. "He''s still making a mess, though. So I''m going to assume that vacation''s been interrupted."


    Damian gave her a dead-eyed stare while chewing. His hair was a mess, still tangled and damp from sweat. His clothes, thankfully, were no longer just a half-open cloak and pants. Now he had on actual trousers and a loose shirt. Still hadn''t showered.


    He looked like a man barely holding it together. Because he was.


    "Can''t I eat my breakfast in peace?" he muttered, holding up the sad bread like a flag of surrender.


    "No," Aria said flatly. "Not until you tell me what the hell happened last night."


    Damian sighed and dropped the rest of the bread on his plate. "Those explosions were me," he said, voice low and unapologetic. "The one who killed Commander Ryven? Also me. What do you want? A written confession?" He was clearly annoyed.


    Aria walked around and sat across from him, eyes sharp and calculating. "No. I''m not here to arrest you. I''m here because everything is falling apart and you''re right in the middle of it."


    Damian scoffed. "Not the first time."


    "And likely not the last," Aria shot back.


    He rubbed his temples, exhaustion sinking deeper with every minute. "Ryven wasn''t supposed to be that strong. I thought his mana circuits were fried. Figured it would be a clean takedown."


    "And?"


    Damian shook his head. "I was wrong. The guy had tricks. Runes carved into his skin, mana crystals embedded in his gear, and talismans¡ªa lot of talismans. Layers of defense, counterattacks, even some weird reactive barrier I''d never seen before. Took three AOE skills, a couple of my spears, and one hell of an intense fight to finally drop him."


    Aria let out a low whistle. "You look like you barely made it out."


    "Whatever."


    They both fell silent for a moment, the only sound in the room being Damian''s plate scraping against the wooden table as he pushed it aside.


    Outside the windows, the morning sun cast long golden shadows across the warded courtyard. Somewhere down the hall, someone¡ªprobably Selena¡ªwas humming softly.


    Aria''s tone turned more serious. "You need to be careful. Things are worse than we thought."


    Damian finally looked up. "How bad?"


    "Bad enough," she said. "Prince Cedric was attacked last night."


    Damian straightened, eyes narrowing. "What?"


    Aria nodded. "He''s alive. But badly wounded. Alric, his knight, is worse. From what I heard, they were ambushed at the outskirts while trying to scout one of the last safe channels in Haven."


    Damian''s voice was cold now. "Who?"


    "No one''s claimed responsibility," Aria said. "But the fae royals didn''t take chances. They evacuated both of them this morning. Took them back to the forest estates under high security. No one''s been allowed to contact them since."


    Damian sat in silence for a moment, his jaw clenched.


    "Cedric and Alric are strong," he said. "For someone to ambush them and survive..."


    "I know," Aria said, folding her hands on the table. "That''s why I came. To warn you. If someone''s targeting royals now, this isn''t just about the archives anymore. It''s bigger."


    Damian''s mind raced. He tapped a finger against the table, slow at first, then faster as he pieced things together. His pulse began to rise¡ªnot from fear. From something colder.


    Then he stopped tapping.


    And stared at her.


    "Wait a second," he said slowly. "Are you sure it was the fae royals who took them?"


    Aria frowned. "What do you mean?"


    "I mean," Damian said, leaning forward now, voice sharp, "how sure are you that the ones who took Cedric and Alric were legit? You saw them?"


    "No. The report came from the watchers. Why?"


    Damian''s eyes darkened. "Because yesterday, one of my spies confirmed something. Someone inside the fae court¡ªroyalty or nobility, we don''t know who¡ªis hiding something. Also... there''s this sealed vault beneath the Central Archive. And it can only be opened with fae royal blood."


    Aria''s expression shifted.


    Damian pressed on. "You see where I''m going with this?"


    She didn''t answer.


    "Selena is here. She''s royal. And someone¡ªsomeone powerful¡ªcould''ve tried to take her. But she''s too well-guarded. Too close to me, Cassius, this place..."


    He paused.


    "So instead, they take Cedric."


    Aria''s face had gone pale.


    "You think this was a switch," she said.


    Damian nodded grimly. "I think it''s more than a switch. I think they needed him. For a key. A ritual. Something tied to that vault."


    Aria leaned back in her chair, arms crossed. Her jaw flexed as she stared at the wall, thoughts racing.


    "If what you''re saying is true..."


    "I know it is."


    "Then we need to confirm his location. Immediately."


    "And check who''s still inside the fae court," Damian said. "Someone''s playing both sides, and I have a bad feeling Cedric is the piece they needed."


    Aria was silent for a long moment.


    Then she stood. "I''ll call my informants. If anything''s wrong in the chain of command, I''ll find it."


    Damian nodded, rising slowly. "I''ll check with Selena. She might be able to trace Cedric''s bloodline magic."


    They both stood there for a moment, facing one another across the table.


    No longer enemies.


    No longer strangers.


    Just two people caught in the middle of a collapsing city, trying to keep the pieces from falling through their fingers.


    Aria turned to leave, but paused. "You''re still messy," she said over her shoulder. "Take a shower, Warlock."


    Damian smirked. "I will. But after this."

 Chapter 405: Phase One

    Warlock Ch 405. Phase One


    The door clicked softly behind her, leaving the room quiet again. For a moment, all Damian did was exhale. Not the dramatic kind. Just the tired kind¡ªthe type that came with not enough sleep, half a breakfast, and the creeping realization that today was already shaping up to be worse than yesterday.


    He leaned back in his chair, the wood creaking slightly beneath him, and lifted two fingers.


    "Summon..."


    In an instant, shadows gathered at the edge of the room like ink bleeding into reality. One by one, dark figures formed from the edges¡ªbodies cloaked in formless black, featureless, obedient. His shadow servants.


    Damian didn''t bother standing. He just sat there, chewing the last bite of his half-stale mana bread as the fifty summoned shadows knelt in front of him.


    "All right," he said, brushing crumbs from his shirt. "New task."


    They waited, motionless.


    "I want you to investigate the current whereabouts of Prince Cedric and Sir Alric. I want confirmation¡ªvisual, magical, and physical¡ªthat they were taken by actual fae soldiers from the royal domain. No illusions. No forged seals. No borrowed uniforms. Got it?"


    The shadows nodded in perfect sync.


    "Also," Damian added, narrowing his eyes, "find out what happened to the rest of the fae escort. I want names. Status reports. Last seen locations. If they vanished, I want to know when and where. If they''re dead, I want to know who did it."


    Another nod.


    "Split up. Prioritize stealth. If you get caught, vanish. Don''t engage unless you''re 100% sure it won''t blow our cover. Go."


    One by one, they melted into the floor like liquid darkness, vanishing without sound. The room dimmed slightly for a second as the mana pull of their summoning dispersed into the warded air.


    And just like that, he was alone again.


    Damian leaned forward, dragging the abandoned bread closer. He didn''t even bother warming it. He just bit into it like a man chewing on regrets. The texture was dry, vaguely sweet, and absolutely depressing¡ªbut it was all he had time for before Aria barged in.


    His jaw worked slowly, eyes scanning the far wall.


    He didn''t like this. Not one bit.


    The mess he made last night still hadn''t cooled down, and now? Now he might have to move against the Central Archive vault tonight.


    If Cedric was taken, if Alric was out of commission, if the fae royals were compromised¡ªhe couldn''t wait.


    And moving in a city like Haven?


    That never ended clean.


    "Of course it never ends clean," he muttered, taking another angry bite of bread.


    "You say that like you''re surprised," a voice said casually.


    Damian flinched slightly¡ªjust slightly¡ªas Cassius suddenly appeared in the armchair across from him, one leg crossed over the other, a cup of something that wasn''t mana bread in his hand. The smell of roasted coffee drifted faintly across the room, warm and somehow mocking.


    "How long have you been there?" Damian asked, deadpan.


    "Long enough," Cassius said, taking a slow sip. "This is really bad."


    "Yeah," Damian sighed, sinking further into his chair. "Did you hear all that?"


    "Every deliciously stressful word," Cassius replied, his voice way too calm for someone who had just heard the equivalent of a political disaster wrapped in royal bloodlines.


    Damian leaned his head back and groaned. "Then I don''t have to repeat it."


    "Nope. But I do have to ask¡ªare you going to tell Selena?"


    The question hit harder than Damian expected. He stared up at the ceiling, jaw working, something bitter resting in his throat.


    "Not yet," he said finally. "I need clarification first. I need facts. Not guesses. If I go to her now and I''m wrong..."


    Cassius nodded slowly. "Then you''ve just accused her entire kingdom of betrayal."


    "And if I''m right..." Damian''s voice dropped.


    Cassius didn''t finish that sentence. He didn''t have to.


    Damian set the bread down. It didn''t even taste like food anymore.


    "If Cedric was taken," Cassius said after a moment, "then I bet you anything they brought him to the Central Archive vault."


    Damian''s mouth twisted. "I was thinking the same."


    Cassius set his cup down on the side table. "And if he''s there... then whoever''s behind this already has the key."


    Damian''s jaw clenched. "Yeah."


    He stared at the wall for a long moment, mind racing, piecing together every bit of data he had¡ªevery rumor, every spy report, every twisted council update.


    It was adding up.


    The wrong way.


    The vault beneath the Central Archive was ancient. Pre-Senate era. Built during the last convergence war. And locked behind layers of racial magic only the original bloodlines could bypass. If the wrong people accessed it¡ªespecially with Cedric''s blood...


    He stood up suddenly, the legs of his chair scraping across the polished floor.


    "I have to go," Damian said, voice steady but sharp.


    Cassius looked up, brow furrowing. "You just sent out your shadows."


    "I''m not waiting," Damian replied, already pulling his cloak from the back of the chair. His fingers were quick, practiced¡ªwrapping the fabric over his shoulders in a single fluid motion. "If my gut''s right¡ªand it usually is¡ªI need to get ahead of this before they finish whatever the hell they''re planning."


    Cassius stood too, coffee forgotten. "Then I''m coming with you."


    Damian shook his head firmly. "No. You stay here."


    Cassius opened his mouth to argue, but Damian cut him off.


    "Someone has to watch Selena. If they couldn''t get to her before, they''ll try again. Especially if Cedric was just phase one."


    Cassius''s jaw clenched, but he exhaled through his nose and gave a reluctant nod. "Fine. But Damian?"


    Damian paused, half-turned toward the hallway. "Yeah?"


    "If you''re going into that vault tonight..."


    A tired smirk tugged at the edge of Damian''s lips. "Yeah, yeah. Take a shower first."


    Cassius let out a dry snort. "I was going to say don''t die. But that too."


    Damian gave a lazy two-fingered salute and stepped forward. The protective wards around the mansion shimmered as they recognized him¡ªbending, parting, making way.


    He was halfway through the door when Cassius added, "Oh, and Damian?"


    He turned back.


    Cassius stood with his arms crossed and a grin that didn''t quite hide the concern behind his eyes. "Bring something that explodes."


    Damian''s eyes gleamed faintly as he replied, "Already packed."


    And then he was gone.


    Vanishing into the hallway.


    Into the chaos.


    Into the storm.

 Chapter 406: Investigation [Part 1]

    Warlock Ch 406. Investigation [Part 1]


    Damian stepped outside and put on his mask, the mana wards sealing the door behind him with a soft chime. The moment the magic confirmed the threshold was closed, he activated his skill.


    [Shadow Step]


    In a blink, the world distorted¡ªshadows folding around him like a second skin, the streets vanishing into streaks of grey and motion blur. His body shifted through space, landing silently on the edge of a rooftop two districts over.


    The wind hit him hard up here¡ªcold, thin, tinged with the coppery scent of smog and distant mana exhaust. The spires of Haven''s upper sectors rose like jagged fangs in the distance, but he wasn''t heading there. No. Not yet.


    [Spectral Surge]


    Light flickered around his boots, violet-blue energy pulsing along the runes etched into his soles. The sudden rush of speed kicked off with a crack, like a whip breaking the sound barrier, and Damian blurred across the rooftops¡ªvaulting over alleys, kicking off chimneys, barely leaving a sound in his wake.


    He didn''t go to the Central Archive vault.


    Not yet.


    He had a feeling that once he did, there wouldn''t be time to backtrack.


    So instead, he shot toward the outer district where Cedric and Alric were last seen¡ªnear an inn commonly used by royal envoys. A neutral sector on paper, but known to harbor all kinds of scum if you knew where to look.


    Damian''s boots hit the rooftop ledge of the inn three minutes later. His breath fogged lightly in the chilled morning air. He crouched low, scanning the street below.


    The inn was old. Two floors, cracked stone fac?ade, enchantments barely holding together around its perimeter. There was no obvious blood, no wreckage. But he could feel it.


    Something wrong had happened here.


    The kind of wrong that left a scar behind, even after cleanup.


    He jumped down from the ledge, landing with a soft thud in a shadowy corner beside the alley entrance.


    [Dark Sight]


    The world shifted, dulling to grey and purple hues, revealing traces of mana residue most people couldn''t see.


    And there it was.


    A splash of brilliant crimson mana across the cobblestones¡ªfaint but still clinging to the stone like smoke. Cedric''s signature. Royal fae magic always left a trace. Elegant, strong, a little too pure.


    Damian moved closer, crouching to touch it.


    It was dry.


    Which meant the attack hadn''t happened in the last six hours¡ªbut not more than half a day, either.


    He followed the trail. It zigzagged toward the side wall. There, a partial imprint¡ªsomeone had fallen, braced against the bricks. Blood. Not human.


    Alric''s, probably.


    Then... nothing.


    A teleportation trace. Very faint, barely stabilized, but it was there.


    Someone opened a portal at this spot. Someone with enough skill to suppress the mana pulse so it didn''t trip the district ward sensors. That took either high-level clearance... or insider access.


    Damian stood slowly.


    He looked at the stone beneath the portal mark, then scanned the pattern again with [Analyze].


    [Skill Activated: Observation]


    [Trace Detected: Teleportation Anchor ¨C Royal Signature Suppressed]


    [Warning: Incomplete origin trace. Fragmented anchor spell. Possible override used.]


    "Tch," he muttered.


    A forced teleportation.


    Not clean. Not stable. Rushed.


    Someone either wanted them out fast... or wanted to make sure they couldn''t trace the point of origin clearly. That didn''t scream "royal escort." That screamed panic. Or misdirection.


    He kept moving.


    Next stop¡ªthe inn itself.


    Damian slipped in through the rear entrance, bypassing the front entirely. The kitchen was cold and quiet, though the fire runes were still faintly active. Someone had been cooking not long ago. But now, the place was abandoned. A "temporarily closed" sign hung lopsided on the front desk. Obvious cover.


    He walked upstairs, the floor creaking under his boots. Room 203. Cedric''s.


    He checked for traps first. Nothing active.


    Inside, the room was... too clean.


    Bed made. No discarded clothes. No scent of blood. Even the mana signature had been scrubbed.


    But¡ª


    Damian''s eyes narrowed. A tiny scratch on the lock. Burned at the edges.


    Someone forced it open. Then tried to reseal the door.


    [Spectral Echo]


    A shimmer pulsed through the air, distorting the space in front of him like ripples across glass.


    The room around Damian darkened slightly, colors fading to muted greys as the lingering mana in the space formed a ghostly replay.


    Phantom outlines¡ªtransparent, flickering like mist¡ªbegan to appear, shaped by the residue of emotional and magical imprint. Cedric stood near the window, posture tense, a sealed scroll gripped tightly in one hand. His clothes were torn, the sleeve of his tunic soaked with blood at the shoulder, and there was a deep cut just above his brow. He looked pale, but conscious. Alert.


    Alric was pacing in the middle of the room, his stance unsteady. A heavy gash across his side had bled through his armor. Still, he moved¡ªlimping, agitated. Not in good shape, but not dying either. Damian narrowed his eyes. They were both wounded... but not enough to justify an emergency evacuation.


    There was something else going on here.


    Then¡ªcrash. The door burst open.


    Fae soldiers stormed in¡ªthree of them, fast, armor gleaming with enchantment, movements precise and practiced. Too fast. Too clean. Not random scouts. These weren''t responders. These were waiting for a cue.


    Cedric reacted instantly, lifting his hand and flaring with mana, protective wards blooming around the scroll in his grip. He stepped in front of Alric, shielding him. But one of the soldiers stepped forward, lifted a hand¡ªSpoke.


    Damian couldn''t hear the words. The echo was visual only. But he saw the shift in Cedric''s eyes. The hesitation. A flicker of recognition, or doubt.


    The scroll vanished, sealed away in a burst of fae magic. Cedric turned back to Alric. Then, the soldier activated something¡ªa bright magic formation, etched on the floor, pulsing like a heartbeat.


    White light surged.


    The room snapped back to reality. The echoes disappeared, and the mana trail faded into nothing.


    Damian stood frozen, jaw clenched, heart pounding.


    They weren''t evacuated.


    They were taken.


    And Cedric had been holding something. Something they didn''t want to leave behind. Something even he didn''t tell Damian about.


    Damian turned on his heel and walked out, the door shutting behind him with a quiet click.


    "Damn it," he muttered as he leapt back onto the rooftop.


    He didn''t need more questions.


    He needed a damn answer.


    And fast.

 Chapter 407: Investigation [Part 2]

    Warlock Ch 407. Investigation [Part 2]


    Damian didn''t waste a second. The moment he stepped out of the inn, he activated [Spectral Surge] again and blurred down the empty alley like a phantom caught in motion blur.


    He needed more proof.


    The portal trace from the inn had been unstable. Rushed. Not the kind of spell used by a calm and collected royal escort. And definitely not one authorized by any of the fae court''s high mages. That anchor spell had been clumsy¡ªpatchwork.


    It felt more like a kidnapping than an extraction.


    And now, it was time to test the theory.


    Damian ducked into the nearest covered walkway and whispered, "[Dark Sight]."


    The world flickered. Colors drained. Everything dulled to layered greys and faint purples. In this version of reality, light was irrelevant¡ªonly mana mattered. Footsteps lit the street like afterimages, pulses of ambient power echoing long after the users had gone.


    And there¡ªfaint traces.


    Three teleport signatures. One strong, two weak. Fading mana trails stretched from the alley behind the inn toward the western sector.


    He followed.


    Moving quickly but quietly, Damian dashed between walls, vaulting over back fences, keeping to the rooftops and shadowed corners. His boots barely made a sound. This part of Haven wasn''t patrolled much¡ªtoo far from the Senate buildings, too close to the edge of the neutral district.


    He finally dropped into a half-collapsed warehouse¡ªonce a textile storehouse, now abandoned and overgrown with mana-gnawed vines. The trails led into it.


    Damian crouched near a fallen beam and triggered another skill.


    [Spectral Echo]


    The air shimmered, dust rising as if disturbed by invisible wind. Then the scene bloomed like a phantom memory. Blurred outlines of fae armor. Cedric slumped between two figures, barely standing. Alric behind him, half-dragged, half-carried. Blood streaked his face, dark even through the echo''s filter.


    Damian leaned forward, watching.


    The soldiers weren''t speaking, but their movements were hurried. Nervous.


    One turned to the other, handed over something¡ªa token? A seal?


    Then the image fractured. Gone.


    "Dammit," he muttered, kneeling to examine the floor where the token had been passed.


    He activated his skill.


    [Observation]


    His vision sharpened, zoomed.


    The floor glowed faintly.


    [Observation]


    [Subject: Discarded Royal Sigil ¨C False]


    [Crafted Origin: House Marenvell ¨C Lesser Fae Noble Line ¨C Blood Ties: Selena (Not Related), Cedric (Not Related)]


    [Function: Camouflage. Temporary Illusion. Signature Forgery (Royal Tier Mask)]


    [Warning: Tampering Detected ¨C Likely Replication Unit]


    Damian''s lips parted.


    "They faked it," he whispered. "They faked the royal identification."


    And they weren''t even part of the main fae bloodlines.


    Marenvell.


    He knew that name.


    A minor noble house. Always ambitious, always under suspicion for dabbling in illegal memory magic. Nothing proven. But now? Now they were the perfect suspect.


    Because Cedric and Alric had been wounded¡ªbadly. That wasn''t an escort. That was an ambush.


    And Marenvell''s emblem had been used as a disguise.


    He stood quickly, heart thudding in his chest. The pieces were coming together¡ªand it looked worse with every connection.


    They didn''t just want to take Cedric.


    They wanted to use him.


    Possibly for the vault.


    Possibly for something darker.


    Damian backed out of the warehouse, slipping into the shadows again, tracing the trail further west.


    His crystal pulsed again¡ªjust faintly.


    Another flash of mana.


    Not a teleport this time.


    A car?


    He moved faster, sprinting now. The streets blurred beneath his feet. Every step enhanced by [Spectral Surge], his cloak snapping in the wind. He passed through one sector gate, ignoring the stunned look from the guard posted at the side checkpoint.


    Two blocks later, he stopped.


    A small courtyard. Decorative. Too clean.


    But the mana was wrong.


    Damian raised his hand again. "[Dark Sight]."


    At first, nothing. Just a light echo from the carriage tracks.


    Then he saw it.


    A smear of blood. Alric''s again. And¡ª


    Another echo.


    [Spectral Echo]


    Alric slumped near the side wall, barely breathing. Cedric was conscious but dazed. Two cloaked figures stood near them. One wore Marenvell insignia.


    The other¡ª Damian squinted.


    Was that...


    A senator''s seal?


    He cursed.


    Not just fae betrayal. Someone on the inside was working with them. Someone in the Senate had authorized part of this.


    And maybe that''s why it was all so clean. Why there was no uproar. No alarm. Because it was hidden from the inside out.


    He deactivated the skills and rubbed a hand down his face.


    [Conspiracy Trail ¨C Senate Involvement Confirmed]


    [Warning: Royal Blood Compromised ¨C Vault May Already Be Accessible]


    "Shit."


    His mind spun with next steps.


    Tell Cassius.


    Warn Selena.


    But first...


    He had to move.


    Because whatever was happening at the Central Archive Vault?


    It was already in motion.


    Damian could feel it¡ªlike pressure tightening around his ribs. Every second wasted was another thread unraveling, another move made on the board. He had to move fast. And move smart.


    The moment he left the last location¡ªthe fake handoff site¡ªhe pulled his cloak tighter, adjusted his hood, and masked his aura. A warlock''s instinct.


    His goal? Get back to Cassius'' mansion.


    But of course, it wasn''t that simple.


    He noticed the first tail two blocks in. Sloppy movement in the reflection of a lamp post. A hooded figure who slowed exactly when he did. Another one, across the street¡ªchecking the same vendor stall three times.


    Three.


    Then four.


    Then five.


    Tailing him.


    Not attacking. Not revealing their affiliation. Just watching.


    That was a problem.


    Because he''d made sure, before he left the mansion, that it was clean. His shadow servants had taken care of the last batch of would-be assassins¡ªefficiently and quietly. No one had made it out alive, and no tracking spells had been left behind.


    So these guys?


    They were new. And they''d caught the scent from somewhere between here and the old warehouse.


    Which meant if he led them back now, he''d be serving Cassius and Selena up on a platter.


    Yeah. That wasn''t happening.


    He took a sudden turn into a narrow maintenance corridor between two potion shops. Broken lights. Trash piled up near the walls. An old rune-inscribed vent grating hummed faintly in the floor.


    He walked fifteen paces, then stopped.

 Chapter 408: Corrupted SS Warlock

    Warlock Ch 408. Corrupted SS Warlock


    Waited.


    One breath.


    Two.


    They followed.


    Three stepped in behind him from the alley entrance. Two more cut him off from the opposite end.


    Damian didn''t turn.


    He didn''t need to.


    He raised one hand and whispered, "[Dark Chains]."


    Shadowy tendrils exploded from the floor beneath the feet of the two closest enemies behind him, wrapping around their legs like serpents and yanking them down with bone-snapping force. Their bodies slammed into the ground with a dull thud, muffled by the enchanted dirt and trash below.


    Before the other three could shout, Damian flicked two fingers toward the ones behind.


    [Curse of Agony]


    The air shimmered with red sigils as the curse took hold.


    The two bound enemies writhed silently¡ªmouths wide open, gasping for a scream that wouldn''t come. The spell warped their nervous system, lighting every nerve on fire from the inside out. One clawed at his own face. The other twitched until he stopped moving entirely.


    Now.


    Three left.


    The closest charged with a curved dagger¡ªrunes etched into the blade to bypass basic wards.


    Damian didn''t blink.


    [Telekinesis]


    The dagger froze mid-swing.


    Damian twisted his wrist slightly.


    The weapon spun around, buried itself in its wielder''s throat. A quick, wet sound¡ªand the man dropped.


    Two remaining. Now backing away. One of them muttered something¡ªpossibly a trigger phrase for a failsafe teleport.


    Too slow.


    [Hex]


    Damian pointed. A dark glyph flared across his mask, and a shimmering, corrupted magic circle appeared beneath the caster''s feet. It surged upward, swallowing him in a spiral of violet-black energy laced with twisting hex runes.


    The man screamed¡ªbriefly.


    And then he was gone.


    When the light faded, there was no ash. No scorch marks.


    Just a single, shivering green frog sitting in the middle of the ruined cobblestone. Its eyes bulged, confused. Terrified.


    Damian tilted his head slightly.


    "Hex... still works," he muttered.


    The frog let out a panicked croak and tried to hop away.


    Damian''s boot came down fast.


    -Crunch!


    And just like that, it was over.


    No drama. No soul left behind.


    Only silence.


    The last one tried to run.


    Of course he did.


    He adjusted his cloak and muttered, "Should''ve run faster."


    Damian rolled his shoulders once.


    [Blood Manipulation]


    The man hadn''t made it five feet when his body seized. His own blood betrayed him¡ªveins turning into shackles, freezing him mid-stride. Damian raised a hand lazily, and with a flick of his finger, the man''s chest imploded as every drop of blood reversed course in one horrifying instant.


    He collapsed, eyes wide, mouth still open.


    Damian stood in the center of it all, five bodies cooling around him in silence. No alarms. No patrols. Just the soft flicker of an old light stone overhead, and the smell of iron heavy in the air.


    [Enemies Eliminated: 5]


    [Targets: Rank B¨CA Magus Operatives]


    [No Threat Detected]


    [+EXP]


    [Status: Undetected]


    [Current Title: SS-Rank Warlock ¨C Corrupted]


    [Note: You have previously slain over 100 Rank A Magi.


    He let out a slow breath.


    For a moment, the silence settled into his bones.


    Damian never imagined he''d become an SS-ranked warlock this way.


    Not through glory. Not through trials or recognition.


    But through the dark path¡ªblood-soaked streets, shadows whispering his name, and bodies left cold in alleyways. He had power now, more than most dared dream of. But it hadn''t come from a noble quest or divine blessing. It had come from pain. From loss. From surviving when everyone else decided he was the villain.


    A corrupted title.


    And he wore it like a hero.


    He turned back toward the main street, boots crunching against broken stone. No hesitation. No regret.


    He activated [Dark Chains] one last time, and the magic surged beneath his feet¡ªshadowy tendrils rising from the floor to drag the bodies, one by one, into the broken side chamber of the maintenance hallway. Each corpse was wrapped, bound tight, and pulled into the dark like offerings to something ancient and hungry.


    He followed them in, crouched beside the closest one, and drew a sigil in the air.


    A cursed flame rune pulsed red and hissed alive, burning their faces to unrecognizable charcoal. No identification. No soul trace. No resurrection options.


    Just silence.


    And shadows.


    Clean.


    By the time he stepped back into the crowd, his cloak didn''t have a wrinkle.


    His mask had reset.


    And the streets? Still bustling. Still normal.


    Like nothing had happened at all.


    Damian moved quickly now, taking side streets, rooftops, skipping known watchpoint alleys until he reached the outer barrier of Cassius'' mansion.


    He dropped his disguise at the gate.


    The wards shimmered in recognition and let him pass.


    Inside, the warmth of the barrier was immediate¡ªgentle heat, familiar mana signatures, and faint traces of Evelyn''s scent in the air. He stepped inside the hall, cloak dripping shadow off his back as the door sealed behind him.


    His boots echoed against the tile.


    Cassius wasn''t in the main room.


    But the silence was a relief.


    He exhaled and muttered to himself, "They know I''m looking. That means we''re close."


    But the fact that they''d sent five so fast?


    That meant something else too.


    Time was running out.


    Damian could feel it¡ªpressing against the base of his skull like a migraine, threading through every breath he took as he crossed the marble-floored hallway of Cassius'' mansion. The moment the wards had sealed behind him, some part of him had unclenched. But not for long. Because now that he''d seen the truth¡ªthe staged kidnapping, the forged sigils, the pain written into the blood Cedric and Alric had left behind¡ªhe couldn''t sit still.


    He needed to talk to Selena.


    But first?


    Shower. Gods. He needed to get this dried blood and alley stench off him before he spoke to anyone. And that stench of sex this morning.


    His boots tracked along the corridor as he made for the second-floor washroom, tugging at the clasps of his cloak with one hand.


    Then, right at the staircase landing, Cassius stepped into his path.


    Still barefoot.


    Still holding his mug.


    He raised a brow.


    "You haven''t reported anything to me."


    Damian blinked at him, then scowled. "Cassius. Move."


    "You smell like blood and street soup. That means you got something."


    "I''m not your servant," Damian snapped.

 Chapter 409: Taken

    Warlock Ch 409. Taken


    "You are not a servant," Victoria said, brushing her long coat back as she entered from the hall, her heels clicking softly against the tile. "But we are your allies. And judging from how you''re leaking tension all over the floor, I''m guessing you found more than garbage and memories."


    Damian opened his mouth again¡ªand then Evelyn appeared on the stairs above, arms crossed, barefoot, and in one of his black shirts again. Her eyes narrowed the moment she looked at his face.


    "...And based on your expression," she said, "it''s not good."


    Damian exhaled, long and hard. The kind that said he really wanted to argue but also knew they were right.


    He pinched the bridge of his nose. "Fine. Five minutes."


    He turned and walked back into the main living room. Cassius followed without comment. Victoria and Evelyn flanked him like silent specters.


    Once inside, Damian sat on the armrest of the couch, hands steepled, his voice low but sharp.


    "Cedric and Alric were taken. Not escorted. Taken."


    Evelyn''s eyes widened slightly.


    "Are you sure?" Cassius asked.


    "I traced the mana trails. Saw the spectral echoes. Blood smears. Struggle. Then a forced teleport¡ªmessy anchor, overridden sigil. And the fake seal? Forged. From House Marenvell."


    Victoria''s eyes narrowed. "A noble family."


    "Minor. Fae nobility. Enough access to be dangerous, not enough status to get what they want legitimately. And," Damian added, "they''re tied to artifact duplication and illusion magic. You can guess what they used."


    Cassius sat down across from him. "And Cedric?"


    "Holding something," Damian said. "A scroll. I couldn''t read it. But whatever it was, he didn''t want to leave it behind. Then he hesitated. And they grabbed him. He didn''t resist after that."


    Victoria crossed her arms. "So they needed him alive."


    "Exactly," Damian said. "They didn''t kill him. They didn''t even restrain him in a brutal way. They took him for a purpose. And I''m betting that purpose is the Central Archive vault."


    Evelyn stepped closer. "The one only fae royal blood can open."


    "Right," Damian said. "And they couldn''t get Selena."


    "So they grabbed Cedric instead," Cassius muttered.


    "Which means," Damian continued, voice now tight, "Selena might still be a target. And if she hears this before we''re ready... she''ll do something reckless."


    Victoria raised a brow. "You''re planning to tell her?"


    Damian nodded. "Yeah. She deserves to know. But I want my shadow servants to confirm the location first. If she''s going to move, it has to be with us, not alone."


    Evelyn sat beside him, placing a hand gently on his arm. "You''re doing the right thing."


    "Doesn''t feel like it," Damian muttered, staring at his palm like it didn''t quite belong to him anymore. "I just left five corpses in an alley, nearly got spotted twice, and I''ve still got blood under my nails."


    He flexed his fingers slowly, like the act of killing hadn''t fully left his bones yet.


    "I''m an SS-ranked Warlock now," he said after a moment, his voice low and rough. "A corrupted one."


    That word hung in the room.


    Corrupted.


    Victoria''s smile faltered. Evelyn looked at him quietly, her thumb still brushing over his forearm, grounding him.


    Damian gave a hollow laugh¡ªnot cruel, not bitter. Just... empty. "It''s funny. This is even worse than when I was Kaelan. I mean, Kaelan was reckless, sure. Arrogant. Too curious for his own good. But even he didn''t get his SS rank from killing people like this. Not like a shadow in the street."


    Cassius leaned back slightly, his fingers tapping against the armrest. "You earned it differently this time."


    "Did I?" Damian asked, gaze distant. "I don''t even know anymore. This city''s broken. Everyone''s twisting the rules, hiding behind their banners and families like they''re not all knee-deep in this shit. I''m just the one cleaning it up."


    "No," Evelyn said softly, squeezing his arm. "You''re the one facing it."


    Victoria stepped forward, her voice lighter but her eyes serious. "Kaelan might''ve broken things open. But Damian? Damian''s still here. Still fighting. Even if the whole damn system wants to chew you up."


    "Even if it already has," Damian muttered.


    Cassius leaned forward again. "Then do the smart thing. Go shower. Eat something that wasn''t baked last week. We''ll set up new perimeter wards, prep combat gear, and wait for your shadows to check in."


    Victoria tilted her head. "You look like death warmed over."


    "Thanks," Damian said dryly.


    "I meant it with love."


    He smirked despite himself. "Yeah, yeah."


    Evelyn gave his arm one last squeeze. "Go. We''ll hold down the fort."


    He finally stood with a quiet groan, cloak shifting around him. "Don''t let Selena out of your sight."


    Cassius stood too, his usual playfulness gone. "Already on it. I boosted the mansion wards with directional sensory runes¡ªany high-tier teleport will light up the whole damn grid. And I''ve got six shadow servants shadowing her. One in her room, cloaked. One trailing her from above. The others are rotating in intervals. No one''s getting through without us knowing."


    "Unless it''s from the inside," Damian muttered.


    Cassius didn''t argue that.


    "But," he added, "even then, they''ll have to go through me. And you know how fun I get when someone tries that."


    Damian nodded once, a bit of tension finally bleeding out of his shoulders. "Good."


    Victoria stretched, her coat flaring out behind her. "You''ve got ten minutes to be clean before we throw a bucket of enchanted rose water on you."


    Damian groaned. "That would be an act of war."


    Evelyn smiled. "Then hurry up."


    And with that, Damian turned toward the stairs, the heavy air behind him filled with quiet resolve and just a little warmth. The storm wasn''t over¡ªbut, he didn''t feel like he was walking into it alone.


    When he reached the bathroom, he peeled off his cloak, unbuckled the cloak and shirt, and tossed them in the laundry bin near the corner. His skin was sticky with dried blood and mana ash. Underneath the grime, his body was lean, scarred¡ªand covered.

 Chapter 410: Quite Shower

    Warlock Ch 410. Quite Shower


    Both of his arms were now wrapped in twisting sigils¡ªsome jagged, others smooth¡ªglowing faintly in an otherworldly blue under the enchanted bathroom light. They curled up his shoulders, branched across his chest, and trailed down his spine like flowing script etched by magic itself. They weren''t just marks¡ªthey were proof. Each one was tied to a contract, a servant, a power sealed or earned. The more he bore, the stronger he became.


    He stared at them for a long moment in the mirror, his reflection half-obscured by the steam curling through the air.


    He huffed and stepped into the shower.


    The hot water hit him hard, rushing over his shoulders and down his back, turning pink at his feet as blood and grime slid off his skin. The last traces of the alley, the fight, the city''s filth swirled into the drain.


    But the sigils?


    They didn''t wash away.


    Of course they wouldn''t.


    They pulsed faintly beneath the water, constant and unyielding, woven into the very structure of his mana core. A glowing testament to every pact he had forged. Every shadow that obeyed him. Every line he had crossed.


    He leaned forward, both palms pressed to the slick tile, head bowed under the stream, the soft blue light from his skin casting ghostly reflections on the walls.


    And then he closed his eyes.


    In an instant, his consciousness dipped inward.


    Into the void.


    The place where his mana core resided.


    Everything became still. Silent. A weightless nothingness, lit only by the faint hum of energy that pulsed from the center of the endless dark.


    There, floating like a star suspended in shadow, was the artifact. His mana core.


    Once cracked, broken, nearly inert¡ªnow nearly whole.


    It glowed like molten obsidian, humming with magic. The sigils across it had re-formed, most of them ancient and nearly impossible to decipher, layered upon one another like scars and stories.


    He stared at it for a long moment. Then he exhaled.


    "In just a few months..."


    He gave a dry, bitter smile.


    "This almost looks like its original state."


    A voice echoed in the void, deep and unmistakably smug.


    "Ha! Of course it does."


    Damian didn''t flinch. He knew the voice. Knew the presence curled deep within the artifact like a coiled serpent, watching, always watching.


    "You train like a madman every single day. And don''t even get me started on how recklessly you throw yourself into every suicidal mission."


    Damian straightened up in the void, arms crossed, eyes fixed on the swirling obsidian core pulsing with faint blue light.


    "You sound annoyed. I thought you''d enjoy watching me burn out."


    The Demon King''s voice echoed, smooth and dark, but not as sharp as it once was.


    "Oh, I do enjoy the show. Don''t get me wrong. But it''s a strange kind of torment¡ªwatching you get stronger while knowing I''m still chained to your pathetic little mortal soul."


    "Careful," Damian said with a tired smirk. "You''re starting to sound sentimental."


    "Hah. I''d rather disintegrate."


    The core pulsed brighter, the lines of ancient sigils briefly shifting, as if reacting to their shared irritation.


    "You know," Damian added, his tone quieter now, "I didn''t expect my memories to return this fast either."


    "I never expected it," the Demon King said, voice low. "I figured you''d whimper through another year or two of self-pity before growing your spine back."


    Damian chuckled, though there was no humor in it. "Thanks for the vote of confidence."


    "Don''t mention it. Truly. Please don''t."


    Silence settled for a beat, broken only by the slow hum of the mana core between them.


    "You still planning to take over when I crack?"


    "Of course." No hesitation.


    "Charming," Damian muttered.


    "But I''ll admit," the Demon King added, voice dipping into something close to contemplation, "you''ve held yourself together longer than I thought. Most mortals break with half your burden. Yet here you are¡ªrunning toward the fire like it owes you answers."


    "I''m not like most mortals," Damian said simply.


    "No," the Demon King agreed. "You''re not. That''s why I''m still here. And why I haven''t tried to rip your soul apart again¡ªyet."


    "Getting soft on me?"


    "I''m bored," came the dry reply. "And watching you teeter on the edge is the only entertainment I get in this damn prison."


    "Then maybe enjoy the next act," Damian said, turning his back to the core. "Because tonight, I might just burn this whole game to the ground."


    "...Now that sounds more like Kaelan."


    Damian paused, just briefly.


    "I''m not him anymore," he said, without turning.


    "No," the Demon King said, quieter. "But the world still thinks you are. And maybe that''s what scares them most."


    Damian stepped closer to the core. The energy pulsed as he approached, reacting to his presence. Familiar. Deeply linked. The bond between him and the Demon King wasn''t just symbolic¡ªit was metaphysical, stitched into the very makeup of his soul.


    "Still surprised you haven''t tried to take over again."


    "Tried," the Demon King echoed, mockingly. "You make it sound like I was ever truly trying. If I wanted to crush your little mind, I would''ve done it the moment you stepped into this void again."


    Damian smirked. "But you didn''t."


    A pause.


    "Because I''m waiting."


    "For what?"


    "To see how far you go before you fall." There was no malice in the words. Just... curiosity. Dark, ancient curiosity. "Because whether you accept it or not, our fate is bound. The stronger you become, the stronger I return. And frankly? Watching you claw your way back to SS rank has been entertaining."


    "I''m not doing this for you."


    "I know."


    Another pause.


    The core pulsed again, slower this time. More stable. A rhythm. A pulse Damian hadn''t felt in years.


    The Demon King''s voice dropped lower. Less theatrical.


    "But you are closer now than ever before. You''re remembering more. Fighting smarter. You''re... maturing."


    Damian rolled his eyes. "Wow. So proud of me."


    "Don''t be smug. You''re still reckless. Emotional. Predictable. But..." the voice hesitated, "...you''re changing."


    Damian looked down at his arms, still etched with sigils that weren''t entirely his. "Yeah," he said softly. "I know."


    A long silence stretched between them. Not awkward. Just... real.


    "You plan to face it tonight, don''t you?"


    "The vault?" Damian asked. "Yeah. I don''t think I have a choice."


    "You never did."


    "And you''re not going to interfere?"


    "Not yet. If you fall, I''ll take the reins. Until then..." There was a grin in the words. "Let''s see if you''re worthy of what you''re trying to become."


    Damian nodded once, then exhaled.


    The void dimmed.


    And he opened his eyes back in the steam-filled shower, the water still pouring down his back.


    He stood there a moment longer, then finally turned the faucet off.


    He toweled off, stepped out, and faced the mirror again.


    His eyes still carried the weight.


    But they also carried fire.


    He was running out of time.


    But he was ready to move.

 Chapter 411: Assassinated

    Warlock Ch 411. Assassinated


    He toweled off, stepped out, and faced the mirror again.


    His eyes still carried the weight.


    But they also carried fire.


    He was running out of time.


    But he was ready to move.


    Damian pulled on a clean black undershirt, the familiar, almost ritualistic feeling of it steadying his heartbeat slightly. His fingers moved automatically¡ªbuckling his belt, adjusting the bracers over his wrists, sliding on the reinforced coat tailored with defensive runes stitched into the lining.


    Everything felt heavier today.


    Maybe it was the irony¡ªknowing how far he''d come only to face the same kind of betrayal that broke him the first time.


    Maybe it was the fading adrenaline, leaving only the cold ache behind.


    Or maybe it was something deeper.


    Something that said this time, you might not walk away whole.


    His boots hit the floor harder than usual as he crossed the hall back toward his room.


    Each step echoed differently.


    Heavier.


    More... final.


    He didn''t rush. Just walked.


    Slow. Purposeful.


    As he reached his door, the mana flow around him shifted subtly.


    The air tasted different¡ªlike the first crackle before a thunderstorm.


    They were back.


    His shadow servants.


    He pushed open the door with a quiet creak and stepped inside, the wards sealing automatically behind him.


    The room was dim, lit only by the soft glow of the mana-infused crystals embedded into the high shelves. It smelled faintly of parchment, old leather, and rain-drenched stone.


    Damian dropped onto the edge of his bed, elbows on his knees, head bowed for a breath.


    Then he straightened, cold focus snapping back into place.


    The air in front of him twisted¡ªand one by one, his shadows materialized.


    Five figures, cloaked in darkness, featureless except for the faint silver markings that pulsed like heartbeats across their shrouds.


    They knelt.


    Damian rested his forearms on his thighs and said, voice low but sharp, "Report."


    The first shadow leaned forward slightly. Its voice was hollow, like the echo of wind through empty halls.


    "The fae soldiers escorting Prince Cedric were assassinated yesterday."


    Damian''s eyes narrowed slightly.


    "Most of their corpses were corrupted," the shadow continued, "using decay magic to conceal evidence. Recovery of identities incomplete. Traces match corrupted blood spells¡ªlikely Marenvell origin."


    Damian''s fingers tapped once against his knee, slow and deliberate. "Tch. Sloppy."


    He gestured for the next.


    The second shadow spoke, a little thinner in tone.


    "The fae royal court is unaware of the full incident. Instead, rumors have been circulated¡ªclaims that Prince Cedric and Princess Selena will remain in Haven longer."


    Damian lifted an eyebrow. "Because of the attack?"


    "No," the servant said. "The public story... is different."


    A pause.


    Damian''s voice was quiet. Dangerous. "Spit it out."


    "They say it''s because Princess Selena fell in love with a warlock."


    The room went very, very still.


    Damian leaned back slightly, resting his head against the wall behind him, staring at the ceiling like it had personally offended him.


    "So they''re already using me as an excuse, huh," he muttered dryly.


    None of the servants dared to move.


    He closed his eyes for a long moment, breathing slowly through his nose.


    He could almost feel Victoria''s smug ''I told you so'' if she ever found out about this rumor.


    Focus.


    He opened his eyes again. "Next."


    The third shadow stepped forward.


    "House Marenvell appears to be the main orchestrator. They have been sowing discord among the lower-ranked royals and nobles, exploiting minor bloodline disputes, whispering promises of power if certain blood seals are unlocked."


    Damian''s eyes sharpened.


    They were playing deep. Using political chaos to mask an ancient goal.


    "And they''re using Cedric to do it," he said grimly.


    The third shadow bowed its head lower.


    "Confirmed."


    Damian made a mental note to burn Marenvell''s estate to the ground later. Preferably while smiling.


    "And the fourth?" he asked.


    The last shadow¡ªslightly taller than the others¡ªspoke in a softer, almost regretful voice.


    "We could not track Prince Cedric or Sir Alric''s current location."


    Damian frowned.


    "Explain."


    "The teleportation anchor was corrupted after initial transit. Tracking magic disrupted mid-jump. Whoever set the destination used a mobile gate¡ªlikely transported them again within minutes."


    Damian exhaled through his nose. Slow. Controlled. Barely.


    "So they''re moving them constantly," he said. "Keeping them away from any divination."


    "Yes," the shadow confirmed. "By now, they are either deep underground or cloaked within high-grade noble wards."


    Damian stood slowly, stretching his arms up, joints cracking in protest.


    He turned to face the five servants fully, his presence solidifying around him like a second layer of armor.


    "Good work," he said quietly. "Dismiss. Regroup. Keep scanning for mana irregularities linked to fae teleportation."


    The servants bowed in unison, then melted back into the shadows like smoke dissolving into air.


    Leaving Damian alone.


    The room felt colder now.


    Not because of the temperature.


    Because of the choices stacking higher and heavier on his shoulders.


    He ran a hand through his damp hair and sighed, staring out the small window into the stormy skyline of Haven.


    The pieces were laid out.


    Marenvell had moved.


    The Senate had dirty hands.


    Cedric was gone.


    Selena was unknowingly sitting on a loaded gun.


    And now, the world thought she was staying because of him.


    He huffed a bitter laugh.


    "Perfect," he muttered.


    He was just about to drop himself back onto the bed, the weight of too many plots pressing down on him, when he heard it.


    A rustle.


    Soft, but not natural.


    Damian''s ears twitched, instincts kicking in before his brain caught up. His body stilled immediately, his senses sharpening into focus. The sound came from beyond the door¡ªquick steps, a whisper of movement, a flutter of fabric against the stone floor.


    Then, barely audible, one of Cassius''s shadow servants spoke in that flat, polite tone only shadows could master.


    "Princess, you can''t go now."


    Damian''s eyes narrowed. ''Princess?''


    Oh, for the love of¡ª


    Selena.


    He moved without thinking.


    [Shadow Step]


    In an instant, he blinked out of the room, reappearing just outside his door in a faint shimmer of warped space. The mana left a thin ripple in the air as he solidified¡ªright in front of a very guilty-looking Selena, frozen mid-step like a cat caught knocking over a vase.

 Chapter 412: Missing

    Warlock Ch 412. Missing


    Her hair was loose around her shoulders, her eyes wide, her hand half-extended like she''d been ready to yank the door open and storm inside.


    For a second, they just stared at each other.


    Damian knew immediately.


    From the look on her face¡ªpart hurt, part fury, all tremble¡ªthat she had heard everything.


    Selena swallowed, her voice tight and shaking.


    "Why didn''t you tell me that my brother and Alric are missing?"


    Her words sliced through the quiet like a blade, no hesitation, no confusion. Just raw demand.


    Damian''s face stayed calm, almost tired, but inside he cursed every lazy shadow servant that hadn''t thought to seal the hall.


    "I was about to," he said flatly. "Tonight. After I confirmed everything."


    Selena''s fists clenched at her sides. "But you knew. You knew and you still didn''t tell me."


    "Because," Damian said, forcing his tone to stay even, "this isn''t a small thing. And because if I told you without preparation, you would act like¡ª" he gestured vaguely, "¡ªthis."


    She blinked, her eyebrows drawing down. "Act like what?"


    He exhaled through his nose slowly. "Reckless."


    "I am not reckless!" she snapped, stepping forward, the mana around her starting to spark faintly with emotional resonance.


    Damian just stared at her. Deadpan.


    Selena huffed. "I''m not reckless. I''m just¡ª" she struggled for the words, hands moving animatedly, "¡ªresponsive!"


    "Right," Damian said, crossing his arms. "Responsive like a fireball in a dry forest."


    "You''re impossible!"


    "And you," Damian said, stepping even closer, "are going to do something stupid if I don''t stop you first."


    "I am going to help!" Selena shouted.


    "And you''re going to get yourself killed doing it," Damian snapped.


    She glared up at him, furious, cheeks pink with frustration, her chest heaving with shallow breaths. "You don''t trust me."


    He didn''t answer immediately.


    And that silence said enough.


    Selena turned on her heel, magic sparking wild and unfiltered, mana swirling around her body like a growing storm.


    Which was exactly why Damian didn''t waste another second.


    He lunged.


    She barely got half a step before he snatched her wrist firmly in his hand.


    "What¡ªDamian! Let me go!" she protested, struggling immediately.


    "Nope," Damian muttered.


    [Shadow Step]


    The world around them warped¡ªspace bending inward like a collapsing curtain¡ªand with a crackle of compressed air, Damian teleported them both directly into his room.


    The moment they materialized, Selena yanked hard against his grip, trying to pull free.


    She almost succeeded, too.


    But Damian was faster.


    And more stubborn.


    He slammed his palm into the rune embedded near the doorframe¡ªan emergency seal Cassius had built into the mansion''s structure.


    [Mana Seal ]


    [Seal Activation Successful ¨C Door Locked, Window Sealed, Teleportation Disabled]


    A golden shimmer raced across the door and windows, forming intricate rune locks that clicked into place with audible force.


    Selena froze mid-struggle, wide-eyed.


    "You sealed the room?" she said in disbelief.


    "You were about to bolt," Damian said, crossing his arms, face completely unbothered.


    Selena opened her mouth. Closed it. Opened it again. "This is kidnapping!"


    Damian shrugged. "Temporary imprisonment. You''ll live."


    "You can''t just lock me up!"


    "I can, and I did." Damian pointed at the glowing runes. "And unless you have a S-rank or higher curse breaker in your pocket, you''re stuck."


    Selena huffed, spinning dramatically to pace across the room. Her mana still sparked faintly, but she wasn''t trying to blow the walls apart. Which was something.


    Damian watched her quietly for a moment, taking in her body language¡ªthe trembling fists, the tight jaw, the way her wings, barely visible in her mana outline, twitched with tension.


    She wasn''t just angry.


    She was scared.


    And that''s why he had waited to tell her.


    He moved to lean against the wall near the bed, voice calmer now.


    "I know you''re scared."


    "I''m not scared," Selena snapped immediately, glaring at him.


    He raised an eyebrow.


    "Fine," she muttered, turning away. "Maybe a little."


    Damian softened his tone. "Selena... if I had told you earlier, before I had even the tiniest confirmation, what would you have done?"


    She hesitated.


    He pushed. "Would you have waited for me? Waited for Cassius to plan? Waited for Aria to gather the Senate forces?"


    She didn''t answer.


    "You would''ve flown straight into enemy hands," Damian said quietly. "Because you love your brother."


    Her shoulders sagged just a little.


    "And because you care about Alric," he added.


    Still no answer.


    He stepped closer, carefully. Gently.


    "Selena," he said, voice low, "I''m not hiding things from you because I don''t trust you. I''m hiding them because I trust you too much."


    She blinked, looking up at him.


    "If you thought you could save them by giving yourself up, you would," Damian said. "Without thinking. Without backup. Without a damn plan."


    Selena opened her mouth to argue¡ªthen stopped.


    Closed it.


    "Maybe," she muttered after a second.


    Damian gave her a small smile¡ªtired, but real.


    "And I can''t let you die for a trap we haven''t even fully seen yet."


    Selena sniffed once, wiping her eyes quickly. "I wasn''t crying," she said fiercely, even though no one had accused her of anything.


    "Obviously," Damian said, deadpan.


    She glared at him, cheeks pink, then stomped over to the bed and sat down with an annoyed huff. Arms crossed. Wings twitching. Face sulky.


    It was adorable.


    And dangerous.


    He sighed, sliding down the wall to sit on the floor across from her, arms resting on his knees.


    "Listen," he said. "We''ll get Cedric and Alric back."


    "How?" she demanded.


    "I don''t know yet," he admitted. "But we will."


    Selena stared at him for a long moment.


    Then, softer, almost a whisper.


    "Promise?"


    Damian met her gaze without hesitation.


    "I promise."


    And that was it.


    Selena, who had been trying so hard to keep it together¡ªto be the strong, stubborn princess everyone expected¡ªcracked right there. Her lower lip trembled slightly before she pressed her hands over her face and let out a muffled sound that wasn''t exactly a sob... but wasn''t not a sob either.


    Damian froze.


    Panic wasn''t something he felt often, but it shot straight up his spine.


    Shit.


    He knew how to kill people.


    How to survive suicide missions.


    How to manipulate mana fields and trap assassins mid-blink.


    But comforting crying girls?


    That was apparently above SS-rank difficulty.

 Chapter 413: Fae Princess in His Embrace

    Warlock Ch 413. Fae Princess in His Embrace


    "Uh..." he started, awkwardly pushing himself up from the floor, inching toward her like she was a wounded wild animal that might bite him.


    Selena didn''t move, shoulders shaking quietly under her loose hair.


    Damian hovered next to her for a second, mentally flipping through all the non-existent training manuals on "What To Do When A Princess Starts Crying In Your Sealed Murder Room."


    Finally, he crouched beside her and reached out one hand, hesitating midair.


    "Uh, here," he muttered, and very gently, very clumsily, wiped the tears from the side of her cheek with his thumb.


    Selena hiccuped against her hands.


    He awkwardly patted her hair.


    "Look," Damian said, his voice low and rumbling with rough-edged awkwardness, "I''m... not good at this. I didn''t exactly grow up with ''Comforting 101'' classes."


    Selena sniffled into her palms.


    "I mean," Damian continued, half-grumbling at himself, "I know how to gut a man six different ways, but wiping tears? Yeah. Whole new battlefield."


    That got a tiny, watery giggle out of her, barely audible.


    Damian relaxed about two percent.


    "I''m sorry," he said, and he meant it. "I should''ve told you sooner. I just... I needed a plan first. I didn''t want you running straight into danger without knowing what we''re up against."


    Selena finally lowered her hands, revealing her flushed, tear-streaked face. Her eyes were red-rimmed but stubborn.


    "I wouldn''t have run off," she mumbled.


    Damian lifted an eyebrow.


    "Okay, maybe," she admitted, cheeks pinking deeper.


    "Definitely," Damian corrected dryly.


    Selena huffed, crossing her arms again, looking away. But this time, the trembling was less. Her mana wasn''t sparking wildly anymore. She just looked tired. Worried.


    And determined.


    Damian sat back on his heels and exhaled. "Anyway. I need your help."


    That caught her attention. She peeked over at him suspiciously.


    "Help with what?"


    "The Central Vault," Damian said. "I''m ninety percent sure¡ªthat''s where they took Cedric and Alric."


    Selena blinked. "Ninety percent?"


    "Okay," Damian admitted, rubbing the back of his neck. "More like seventy. Maybe seventy-five on a good day."


    Selena gave him a Look.


    He raised his hands in surrender. "Hey, it''s a better chance than most plans I''ve survived."


    She wiped her cheeks again, this time more composed. "You think they''re trying to use him to unlock it?"


    "I know they are," Damian said grimly. "But the vault needs fae royal blood. Cedric''s blood will probably work. But even then... the seals on that thing aren''t something you just poke open with a spell stick."


    Selena frowned. "You need someone else."


    "Specifically someone who shares the bloodline but isn''t officially recognized as the primary heir," Damian said, tapping his forehead lightly. "A fallback key, built into the enchantment structure. In case the main line was compromised."


    Selena stared at him. "And you know this how?"


    Damian shrugged. "Investigation. I did it a lot. We did it a lot. We are trying to solve this problem without... killing ourselves or painting ourselves and the villains."


    Selena didn''t know if she wanted to laugh or cry again.


    Maybe both.


    "So," Damian said, voice gentler now, "I need you."


    Selena stiffened slightly.


    "I need your blood," he clarified. Then grimaced. "That came out wrong."


    Her cheeks flushed again.


    Damian coughed into his fist. "Not, uh, not all your blood. Just¡ªyour presence. Your mana signature. The vault should recognize you enough to bypass the secondary seals without triggering an alarm."


    Selena processed that for a moment.


    "You realize," she said slowly, "this is insane."


    "Completely," Damian agreed. "But what''s new?"


    Selena sighed, scrubbing her hands over her face once more, like she was trying to physically wipe away the emotions. When she looked up, there was a faint glint of steel back in her green eyes.


    "When?" she asked.


    Damian smiled a little. Not a cocky grin. Just a small, relieved curve of his lips.


    "Tonight," he said. "Once Cassius finishes prepping the equipment and my shadows finish sweeping the entrance."


    Selena nodded slowly, her silver hair swaying with the motion. "Alright. I''m in."


    Damian stood up fully, offering her a hand.


    She hesitated.


    Then took it.


    He pulled her easily to her feet, steadying her when she wobbled slightly.


    "Thank you," he said seriously.


    Selena looked up at him¡ªreally looked¡ªand for a second, the room felt smaller. Warmer.


    Less about plots and politics and bloodlines.


    More about two people who refused to leave each other behind.


    "You''re welcome," she whispered.


    Damian cleared his throat and released her hand, stepping back to grab his gear from the bedside.


    "Alright," he said briskly, shifting the mood back toward focus. "First rule of tonight''s operation¡ª"


    "Don''t die?" Selena guessed.


    Damian smirked. "Close. But no, the first rule is: if I tell you to run, you run."


    Selena crossed her arms. "I''m not leaving you behind either."


    "You say that now," Damian muttered. "But wait until you see what kind of monsters the Archive decided to hide in their basement."


    Selena raised an eyebrow. "Monsters?"


    Damian grinned¡ªsharp and wolfish.


    "Selena," he said, dead serious, "this is me we''re talking about. Nothing is ever just books and scrolls."


    "And yet somehow," she muttered under her breath, "I still agreed to this."


    "You''re welcome," Damian said brightly.


    She groaned.


    He laughed¡ªa deep, unguarded sound that rumbled in his chest and somehow made the sealed room feel smaller. Warmer.


    Selena crossed her arms and tried¡ªreally tried¡ªto look unimpressed. But it was hard. Especially when Damian was looking at her like that¡ªlike the chaos of the world could wait another hour if she needed it.


    She shifted her weight awkwardly from one foot to the other, suddenly too aware of the fact they were still inside a room sealed with mana locks.


    No way out.


    No one else around.


    Just her... and him.


    And gods, he was unfairly distracting when he wasn''t actively throwing himself into mortal peril. His hair was still damp from his shower, messy in a way that should''ve looked ridiculous but somehow just emphasized the sharp lines of his jaw. His sleeves were rolled up, exposing the blue sigils crawling faintly up his forearms¡ªthe visible proof of the insane power he carried now. The reminder that he wasn''t just a Warlock.


    He was Damian.


    The man who refused to fall even when the world threw him into hell.


    The same man who was now trying¡ªstubbornly¡ªto protect her.

 Chapter 414 414: Last Chance

    Warlock Ch 414. Last Chance


    Her chest tightened strangely.


    Damian tilted his head, catching her staring. His smirk softened a little into something more teasing.


    "What''s that look for?" he asked.


    Selena blinked, startled out of her spiraling thoughts. "What look?"


    "You''re looking at me like you''re planning a heist." He grinned. "Should I be worried?"


    Selena turned away quickly, face burning. "In your dreams."


    "I have nightmares, actually," Damian said casually, walking closer, brushing imaginary dust off his coat sleeve. "But if you''re offering to replace them with something more pleasant, I''m not opposed."


    She whipped back toward him, half-choking on air. "You¡ª! I¡ª! That''s not¡ª!"


    Damian just laughed again, the sound low and easy, like teasing her was the highlight of his otherwise apocalyptic day.


    Selena scowled and smacked him lightly on the arm.


    Big mistake.


    Because touching him made her notice everything¡ªthe way his muscles tensed automatically under her palm, the faint hum of mana always coiled beneath his skin, the heat of him so close it was almost magnetic.


    She yanked her hand back like she''d been burned.


    Damian watched her, amusement flickering in his gaze. But underneath it... something else. Something quieter. Curious. Unspoken.


    Neither of them said anything for a moment.


    The tension thickened in the air¡ªno longer the dangerous kind. This was... different.


    More dangerous in its own way.


    Selena swallowed hard. "You know," she said quickly, desperately hunting for something, anything, to say, "it''s not fair."


    "What''s not fair?" Damian asked, voice quieter now.


    "That you get to act like an idiot and somehow still be..." She waved vaguely at him, words failing her. "Still this."


    He stepped closer, very slowly, very deliberately, until she had to tilt her head back slightly to keep looking at him.


    "Still what?" he asked, and there was a faint rasp to his voice now¡ªlike he wasn''t entirely unaffected either.


    Selena''s heart was hammering against her ribs, loud enough she was pretty sure the rune seals on the door could hear it.


    "Still... you," she whispered, hating how breathless it sounded.


    Damian''s smirk faded completely.


    For the first time since this chaotic day began, he looked... serious.


    Tender.


    He lifted one hand¡ªslowly, giving her every chance to pull away¡ªand brushed a stray strand of hair behind her ear. His fingers were rough, calloused, but the touch was gentle. Careful.


    Selena''s breath caught.


    "You''re the only one who ever says that like it''s a good thing," he murmured.


    "It is a good thing," she said fiercely, surprising even herself with the intensity.


    Damian''s eyes darkened, his thumb briefly tracing the edge of her jaw before he caught himself and dropped his hand.


    He stepped back half a step, just enough to give her space again, but not so much that it didn''t still feel like the air between them was crackling.


    "Selena," he said, and her name sounded almost reverent on his tongue. "When this is over... when your brother''s safe... when this nightmare ends..."


    He didn''t finish the sentence.


    He didn''t have to.


    Because she understood.


    And maybe that was enough for now.


    She smiled up at him¡ªsmall, real, a little shaky.


    "Then I''m holding you to it," she said.


    Damian gave a lopsided smile, the kind that made her knees feel weirdly unreliable.


    "Yeah. You better."


    The silence that followed wasn''t awkward anymore. It was comfortable.


    Weighted.


    Promising.


    Finally, Damian straightened, his voice sliding back into his usual half-sarcastic, half-serious tone.


    "Alright. First thing''s first. You''re still locked in this room until I''m sure you''re not gonna make a heroic suicide attempt."


    Selena groaned dramatically. "You''re the worst."


    "And you love it," he said cheerfully, reaching for the mana seal.


    She didn''t deny it.


    And maybe... just maybe...


    That scared her more than any vault, any conspiracy, or any war they were about to walk into.


    Because falling for Damian?


    That was a battle she wasn''t sure she wanted to win.


    Selena watched him fiddle with the mana seal, his back to her for once¡ªunguarded, real. Every instinct in her, every part of her that had been taught to wait, to be careful, screamed at her to stay quiet.


    To let this moment pass.


    But another part of her¡ªthe part that had been broken open tonight¡ªknew better.


    This might be their last chance.


    If the information about the fae noble betrayals were true, if the Senate was involved, if tonight went badly... she might not have another sunrise to see him smirk, or tease her, or look at her like she wasn''t a princess but a person.


    Her letter to her father?


    Might never even reach him.


    Might already be burned.


    Her home?


    Already compromised.


    Her brother?


    Gone.


    And Damian¡ªthe stubborn, reckless, impossible warlock who somehow, against every damn reason, made her feel safe¡ªwas standing right there. Within reach. Warm and real and hers, if she dared.


    She licked her lips, heart hammering in her chest.


    Maybe it was reckless.


    Maybe it was desperate.


    But for once... maybe reckless was exactly what she needed.


    "Damian," she said, voice soft but sure.


    He turned, eyebrows raised slightly.


    And before she could overthink it, she crossed the space between them in two quick steps, stood on her toes, and kissed him.


    It wasn''t perfect.


    It wasn''t practiced.


    But it was real.


    Damian froze for half a heartbeat¡ªlike she''d just cast some insane spell on him¡ªand then his hands were on her waist, steadying her, pulling her closer without hesitation.


    Selena melted against him, feeling the tension snap like overstretched wires. The room around them¡ªthe seals, the mission, the world¡ªfaded into noise.


    There was only the press of his mouth against hers.


    The heat of his body.


    The sharp, staggering relief of finally.


    When they broke apart, breathless, Damian touched her cheek, his thumb brushing the corner of her mouth like he was memorizing her. His touch was hesitant again, almost conflicted.


    His brows furrowed slightly as he stared down at her¡ªmessy hair, flushed cheeks, lips kiss-swollen and trembling with want¡ªand for a second, he looked almost... lost.


    "This isn''t..." he muttered, voice low, rough around the edges, "this isn''t a good time for this."

 Chapter 415 415: I Dont Want Regrets *

    Warlock Ch 415. I Don''t Want Regrets *


    Selena smiled¡ªa small, aching thing¡ªand cupped his jaw gently in both hands, forcing him to look at her.


    "There''s never a good time for this," she whispered back. "You know that."


    Damian swallowed hard, his entire body tense like he was fighting himself and losing.


    "And besides..." Selena added, mischief flickering behind the storm still raging in her green eyes. "I heard you this morning."


    Damian blinked. "Heard what?"


    "Between you, Victoria, and Evelyn," Selena said, a little more smug now. "You know. That."


    It took him a second.


    Then it clicked¡ªand Damian''s face went red so fast she almost laughed.


    "You... heard that?" he croaked, horrified.


    Selena nodded, biting her lip to hide her amusement. "Yep. All of it."


    He groaned, dropping his forehead briefly to her shoulder like the universe had personally betrayed him.


    "I was actually about to come to your room," Selena continued, tracing light patterns along his bare shoulders with her fingertips. "I wanted to talk to you... maybe do something reckless even then. But..."


    "But?" he mumbled into her skin.


    "I heard them." She poked his side pointedly. "You. Them. Everything."


    Damian pulled back just enough to stare at her, a mixture of exasperation and embarrassment swirling in his dark eyes.


    "So you just... pretended to sleep?"


    Selena shrugged, feigning innocence. "Seemed safer."


    "You," Damian said slowly, voice dry, "have a terrible habit of eavesdropping."


    Selena grinned up at him, all fake sweetness. "And you have a terrible habit of making me want to."


    He huffed a quiet laugh despite himself, the tension bleeding from his frame, replaced by something warmer. More dangerous.


    Selena''s hands fisted in his coat again, pulling him closer until their noses almost brushed.


    "Selena," he rasped again, voice low and strained. "Are you sure? I mean... You aren''t stable. I don''t want you to make a decision that you will regret later."


    She nodded without hesitation, her heart pounding so loud it filled the spaces between their breathing.


    "I don''t want regrets," she whispered, feeling him shudder slightly at the honesty in her voice. "Not if... not if tonight''s the last night."


    He wanted to deny it, yet... he couldn''t say anything. He didn''t know what forces were inside the vault or whether they were strong enough or not to destroy it.


    Damian searched her face one last time¡ªlooking for fear, for doubt, for anything that might stop him.


    He found none.


    Only determination.


    And something terrifyingly, beautifully like love.


    He cursed under his breath, a soft growl, and kissed her again¡ªdeeper, hungrier.


    Something flashed in his eyes¡ªpain, want, fear¡ªand then he kissed her again. Harder this time. Desperate. Like he''d been holding back forever and finally let go.


    His coat hit the floor somewhere behind him.


    Her fingers tugged at his shirt, feeling the muscle, the heat underneath.


    Damian broke the kiss long enough to press his forehead to hers.


    "I''m bad at this. I mean..." he said hoarsely. "I don''t... I don''t do gentle very well."


    "I''m not asking for gentle," she breathed against his mouth.


    His answering growl was low, almost a purr.


    And then they were moving again¡ªstumbling toward the bed, bumping into the nightstand, laughing breathlessly between kisses.


    Damian''s hands roamed her body like he was trying to memorize every inch, every curve. His touch wasn''t hesitant anymore¡ªit was firm, grounding, steady. Like he was making damn sure she knew exactly how much he wanted her.


    Selena arched against him, pulling him closer, feeling the rush of mana between them¡ªtheir energies brushing, intertwining, like sparks from colliding storms.


    Clothes vanished piece by piece, shed without grace but with a kind of fierce hunger.


    When Damian finally pushed her gently onto the bed, crawling over her, braced on his forearms so he wouldn''t crush her, his sigils glowed faintly against her bare skin, lighting up the small space between them.


    "Tell me to stop," he said, voice rough.


    Selena shook her head, hands threading through his damp hair.


    "Don''t you dare."


    And then there were no more words.


    Only heat.


    Only touch.


    His mouth found her throat, her collarbone, her chest¡ªeach kiss reverent, searing. She gasped, her body arching to meet him, desperate for more. His hands mapped every inch of her like she was a puzzle he wanted to solve with touch alone.


    Selena shivered under him, the tension in her stomach coiling tighter with every slow thrust of his hips against hers, every graze of his teeth along her skin.


    When he finally slid into her¡ªslow, steady, so careful despite his earlier warning¡ªit stole her breath.


    They fit together perfectly.


    Like they had been made for this.


    Selena clutched his shoulders, nails digging into him slightly, but Damian just growled and kissed her harder, setting a slow, grinding rhythm that built and built until she thought she might snap.


    He murmured her name against her skin like a prayer.


    She whispered his in return like a promise.


    And when they finally broke apart¡ªshuddering, gasping, utterly wrecked¡ªSelena held onto him like the world would disappear if she let go.


    She clung to Damian''s body, her fingers digging into his shoulders, breathing hard against the damp heat of his skin. Her heart hammered wildly against her ribs, their tangled limbs half covered by the soft folds of the rumpled bedsheets.


    But even as her body trembled from the high of their kiss, the real storm hadn''t even started yet.


    Because Damian pulled back¡ªjust enough to look at her properly.


    His black hair was messy, his lips slightly swollen, his breath ragged. His arms were braced on either side of her, caging her in like she was something precious. Something he couldn''t afford to lose.


    Selena stared up at him, chest rising and falling fast, her nerves crackling under her skin.


    This was real.


    This was happening.


    A flicker of fear stirred in her belly¡ªnot because she didn''t want this¡ªbut because it was her first time. Because she didn''t know how this would feel, how much it would change her.


    She wasn''t naive. She understood what sex was in theory. She just never expected it to be with him. Not here.


    Not like this.


    And yet... there was no hesitation in her heart.

 Chapter 416: Broken Whisper *

    Warlock Ch 416. Broken Whisper *


    Damian''s eyes softened, like he could read every frantic thought tumbling through her mind.


    [Pact Creation activated]


    Selena gasped when she felt it¡ªfelt him¡ªpress against her entrance, thick and hard and more than she''d even expected. Her whole body shuddered with anticipation, fear, and an overwhelming, dizzying kind of need.


    Damian groaned low against her neck, his hips grinding slowly against her, teasing her, coating himself in her slickness, making sure she was ready.


    Still giving her a chance to back out.


    Still holding back.


    But Selena didn''t want restraint.


    She wanted him.


    She lifted her hips slightly in invitation, cheeks burning, breath stuttering.


    And that was all it took.


    Damian cursed under his breath¡ªand then he thrust forward, burying himself inside her in one long, slow, claiming stroke.


    Selena cried out, her nails biting into his back.


    It wasn''t painless¡ªit stretched her, filled her in a way she wasn''t ready for¡ªbut the sharpness of it was drowned out by the overwhelming rightness of having him inside her. She gasped again when he bottomed out, the fullness making her head spin.


    Damian didn''t move for a second. His whole body trembled with the effort of holding still, of letting her adjust.


    His forehead rested against hers, his breathing harsh, his muscles tight like coiled wire.


    "Selena," he rasped, voice broken, "gods, you''re perfect¡ª"


    Her heart squeezed painfully at the rawness of it.


    She whimpered, shifting under him, and Damian growled low in his throat¡ªbefore pulling back slightly and thrusting in again.


    The rhythm he set was slow at first¡ªgrinding, deliberate¡ªbut quickly grew rougher, deeper, each stroke dragging gasps and breathless moans from her lips.


    Selena clutched him tighter, hips lifting to meet every thrust instinctively, her body catching fire with each drag and grind of his body against hers.


    Damian kissed her hard, swallowing her cries, his hands roaming over her curves like he couldn''t get enough of her.


    Selena broke the kiss with a desperate gasp when he thrust particularly deep, her back arching, a sharp moan tearing from her throat before she could stop it.


    It hurt¡ªbut it was a good kind of hurt.


    A claiming.


    A bond.


    Damian''s pace turned rougher after that, his restraint fraying at the edges¡ªbut even then, his hands never left her. One arm wrapped around her waist, anchoring her to him; the other cupped her cheek, thumb brushing away the stray tears she didn''t realize she was shedding.


    Tears of overwhelming emotion, not pain.


    Tears because he made her feel alive. Seen. Wanted.


    Their bodies slammed together harder, faster, the slap of skin on skin loud in the sealed room. Selena lost all sense of time, of space, reduced to pure sensation.


    His heat.


    His scent.


    His voice growling brokenly in her ear as he whispered her name again and again.


    She clung to him when she finally broke apart, shattering around him with a loud, broken sob of pleasure she couldn''t hold back.


    Damian followed a heartbeat later¡ªthrusting deep, spilling inside her with a groan so raw it made her toes curl.


    And then¡ª


    A faint blue shimmer flickered across Damian''s vision.


    [System Notification]


    [Fae-Touched level 1]


    [Minor Resistance to Charm, Illusion, and Nature Magic]


    [Partners: Selena Delyanis (Fae)]


    [New Spell Unlocked: Verdant Binding]


    [Verdant Binding (Active): Summon enchanted fae vines to restrain or protect targets. Strength and flexibility scale with Magic Affinity.]


    For a long moment, neither of them moved.


    The only sound was the ragged symphony of their breathing, the faint crackle of dissipating mana lingering like embers between them.


    Selena buried her face into the crook of Damian''s neck, still trembling, her body boneless against him. She could feel the frantic pound of his heart against her chest, could smell the clean, wild scent of his skin, could taste the faint salt of sweat and the charged taste of magic in the air.


    Damian rested his forehead against hers, breath hot, arms still locked around her like he couldn''t stand to let her go.


    ''Fuck... What am I doing?''


    Selena shifted a little against him, feeling his low rumble of laughter vibrate through her body. She pulled back just enough to look up at him, her hair a wild halo around her flushed face.


    "What?" she asked, voice a raspy whisper.


    "Nothing." Damian''s hand brushed gently down her spine, slow and deliberate, making her shiver even after everything they''d just shared.


    But the way he was looking at her now...


    Like she was the only thing in the world that mattered.


    It made heat curl low in her stomach again, even though her body ached deliciously from the first round.


    And Damian?


    Judging from the way his hands tightened on her waist, the way his hips shifted slightly against hers, he wasn''t anywhere near done either.


    Selena blushed, realizing he was still inside her¡ªhalf-hard, already stirring back to life.


    She bit her lip, staring up at him.


    "You''re serious," she whispered.


    Damian leaned down, pressing a lazy, claiming kiss to her lips. "You have no idea," he whispered.


    Before she could answer, he rolled his hips forward¡ªslow and steady¡ªand she gasped sharply, clinging to him again.


    "Still perfect," he murmured against her mouth.


    This time there was no hesitation.


    No fear.


    Only the slow, hungry drag of his body against hers as he began to move again, rougher, deeper, every thrust sending sparks skittering down her spine.


    Selena moaned openly now, arching into him, her legs wrapping around his waist to pull him deeper. Damian grunted low in his throat, his pace picking up, more urgent this time. Less careful. More primal.


    The slap of skin against skin filled the sealed room again, the mana seals on the door vibrating faintly with the intensity of it.


    Selena barely noticed.


    All she could feel was him¡ªevery inch, every heartbeat, every broken whisper of her name on his lips.


    It hurt.


    It stretched her beyond what she thought she could take.


    But gods, it felt good.

 Chapter 417: The Warlock and The Princess *

    Warlock Ch 417. The Warlock and The Princess *


    Every rough thrust, every possessive kiss, every hand gripping her like she was the only thing keeping him tethered to the world¡ªit burned her alive.


    She sobbed his name when she came again, shattering around him, her whole body clenching desperately.


    Damian growled low, losing the last shreds of his control, pounding into her through her climax until he followed, groaning harshly into her shoulder, filling her again with staggering heat.


    They collapsed together, tangled and breathless and utterly undone.


    This time, neither of them said anything.


    There was no need.


    Because in the small, steaming space between their ragged breaths, their shaking hands, their racing hearts¡ªThey knew.


    This wasn''t just survival.


    Wasn''t just a reckless mistake.


    It was them.


    The warlock and the princess.


    The broken boy and the stubborn girl.


    Tangled together now, bound by blood, by magic, and by something even older.


    Something neither betrayal, nor war, nor death could ever fully erase.


    Damian''s arms tightened around her as he drifted down from the high, his lips pressing a slow, lingering kiss to the crown of her head.


    Selena smiled sleepily against his chest, her body aching, her heart terrifyingly full.


    Maybe the world was still burning outside.


    Maybe tonight they''d walk straight into hell.


    But for now?


    For now she had him.


    And he had her.


    And that was enough.


    An hour later, the room settled into a heavy, comforting silence, broken only by the soft sound of their breathing.


    Selena lay curled against him, her head tucked neatly under his chin, her body pressed flush against his side like she was trying to melt into him entirely. Her hair spilled across his chest in wild, silky waves. Every now and then, she murmured something half-coherent in her sleep¡ªsmall, soft noises that made Damian''s heart tighten in ways he didn''t entirely have language for.


    She was asleep within minutes.


    Deep, peaceful sleep.


    The kind of sleep only the truly exhausted¡ªor the truly safe¡ªcould manage.


    Damian stayed still, letting her weight pin him down, one arm loosely wrapped around her waist.


    His other hand traced slow, lazy circles across her bare back without really thinking about it.


    He should sleep.


    He knew he should.


    He needed it.


    But.


    Yeah.


    His mind refused to shut up.


    He stared up at the ceiling, eyes heavy but refusing to close, his brain clicking through scenarios faster than any spell calculation he''d ever run.


    Worst-case scenario:


    The vault is a trap.


    Cedric and Alric are dead or being used as leverage.


    Marenvell, Ralvek and whoever else is involved are ten steps ahead.


    Selena gets hurt.


    He dies ugly.


    Less-worst-case scenario:


    They break into the vault, find Cedric and Alric alive, but trip every hidden security enchantment ever made by paranoid fae ancestors.


    Fight six types of ancient guardian monsters.


    Get out missing some limbs, but alive.


    Best-case scenario:


    Yeah, he couldn''t even picture one right now.


    Maybe they''d find Cedric sipping tea inside, flipping off his kidnappers.


    Damian exhaled slowly through his nose, closing his eyes briefly.


    ''Focus.''


    He tightened his arm slightly around Selena, grounding himself.


    No matter how insane tonight got, he had one job.


    Keep her safe.


    Keep them all safe.


    ''No dying allowed.''


    He repeated it in his head like a stubborn mantra.


    But his mind kept wandering.


    And, annoyingly, it wandered to her.


    The dragon general.


    Lysandra.


    The stubborn, cold-eyed woman who chased him like a lunatic through a damn river.


    Who insisted on calling him Kaelan like she knew every secret he''d tried to bury.


    Damian grimaced, rubbing a hand down his face carefully so he didn''t wake Selena.


    He didn''t trust her.


    Hell, trusting anyone right now was borderline suicidal.


    But...


    He couldn''t deny it.


    She was strong.


    Not just strong like a good-ranked mage or a veteran warrior.


    Stupidly strong.


    Her mana output had been absurd. Enough to match a full strike team.


    Enough to give even Cassius¡ªor hell, even Damian at full power¡ªa serious workout.


    And if she was offering even neutral support...


    That might be the difference between surviving tonight or getting curb-stomped by whatever old monsters and political jackals were waiting at the vault.


    He chewed the inside of his cheek, glancing down at Selena''s sleeping face.


    Could he risk it?


    Could he risk bringing her into this¡ªagain¡ªwithout knowing if she would turn the second it suited her?


    "Ugh," he muttered under his breath.


    Because the worst part?


    The truly maddening part?


    His instincts¡ªthe same instincts that had kept him alive through betrayals, exile, wars¡ª


    They didn''t scream danger when it came to Lysandra.


    They whispered something else.


    Something even more dangerous.


    That maybe¡ªjust maybe¡ªshe wasn''t here to betray him.


    That maybe she actually believed in what he was trying to do.


    Damian tilted his head back against the pillow, staring at the ceiling like it personally offended him.


    "You''re getting sentimental, you idiot," he muttered to himself.


    Selena stirred slightly against him, mumbling something sleepy and incomprehensible.


    He immediately froze, soothing his hand gently down her back until she settled again.


    Damian sighed.


    Quiet. Long. Defeated.


    He had two choices.


    Either trust only himself, Cassius, Victoria, Evelyn, and pray it was enough...


    Or gamble.


    Invite Lysandra into the plan.


    And if he was wrong?


    Well.


    It would be a very short fight.


    Possibly ending with him being dragon-roasted like a particularly unlucky marshmallow.


    He rubbed his temples slowly, glaring into the darkness.


    Was this what leadership felt like?


    Constant headache. Check.


    Chronic second-guessing. Check.


    Desperate calculations between ''horrible'' and ''slightly less horrible'' plans. Check.


    Yeah.


    Real glamorous.


    He glanced at the mana clock etched onto the wall¡ªsoft blue numerals hovering in the air.


    Less than seven hours left until they had to move.


    ''Dammit.''


    Decision time.


    He leaned down, pressing a soft kiss to Selena''s forehead, careful not to wake her.


    "You stay here," he whispered against her skin. "I''ll deal with the crazy dragon."


    Selena murmured something in her sleep¡ªsomething that sounded suspiciously like "idiot"¡ªbefore nuzzling deeper into his chest.


    Damian smiled despite himself, brushing her hair back gently.


    She murmured something in her sleep¡ªsomething soft and warm and stupidly trusting¡ªand it made him hesitate for half a heartbeat.


    But only half.


    Because the moment he pulled his hand back, reality slammed into him like a slap.


    He couldn''t stay here.


    Not when there was a slim, suicidal chance to make sure none of them died horribly.

 Chapter 418: Not A Casual Visit

    Warlock Ch 418. Not A Casual Visit


    Damian exhaled slowly, sliding out of the bed with practiced care, trying not to wake her.


    She shifted once, reaching instinctively for where his body had been.


    His heart twisted, but he hardened his resolve.


    "I''ll come back," he promised quietly, even though she couldn''t hear him.


    He pulled on his clothes quickly¡ªtight black combat pants, a fitted shirt, lightweight armor plates hidden beneath a long, dark coat stitched with mana threads.


    Before he grabbed his coat from the chair, he hesitated.


    Then, muttering a curse under his breath, he grabbed the small cologne bottle Cassius had tossed at him as a "joke" two weeks ago.


    "Dragons have sensitive noses," he muttered to himself.


    He spritzed himself lightly, a sharp, clean scent blooming in the air¡ªlike rain on stone, with a faint kick of spice.


    Good enough.


    After fastening the last buckle on his boots, Damian summoned a shadow servant with a flick of his fingers.


    The space next to him shimmered, and the shadow knelt silently.


    "You," Damian said in a low voice. "Stay. Watch Selena. If she moves, sneezes, dreams about running off, you tell Cassius. Or tackle her. Whichever is faster."


    The shadow bowed low in acknowledgment, its form blurring as it melted into the darker corners of the room.


    Satisfied, Damian pulled his hood up and activated his skill.


    [Shadow Step]


    The room bent around him, darkness rushing up like a tide¡ªand when it fell away, he was outside the mansion.


    The wards shimmered behind him¡ªa comforting, pulsing hum of safety.


    Damian adjusted the coat around his shoulders and exhaled into the cool air, the faint scent of rain still lingering from earlier storms.


    No turning back now.


    He moved quickly, cutting through back alleys and side streets, his boots whispering across the wet cobblestones.


    He felt them before he saw them¡ªone of Cassius''s other shadow servants, tailing him discreetly from a rooftop.


    Persistent little bastard.


    Damian stopped near an empty plaza, turned slightly without breaking stride, and raised an eyebrow at the figure perched above.


    "Where do you think you''re going?" he asked dryly.


    The shadow simply nodded once¡ªsilent, stubborn.


    Damian huffed a half-laugh, half-groan.


    "You''re not gonna let me solo this, huh?" he muttered.


    The shadow tilted its head almost... smugly.


    "Tch."


    Damian waved a hand in surrender.


    "Fine. Tell Cassius that I''m going to Lysandra''s place to talk."


    The shadow disappeared again without a sound, melting into the architecture like a wraith.


    Typical.


    He kept moving.


    It didn''t take long.


    Lysandra hadn''t exactly hidden herself. She was staying in one of the fortified outposts near the perimeter wall¡ªan old dragon enclave that doubled as a diplomatic safehouse.


    Of course she was.


    Because nothing about tonight was going to be easy.


    Damian stopped a few paces outside the main entrance, eyeing the thick stone walls, the glittering runes embedded into the defenses, and the faint but insanely potent dragon mana radiating from inside like heat from a forge.


    He could feel it prickle against his skin even from here.


    Awesome.


    He exhaled sharply, adjusting his gloves once more.


    "Bad idea," he muttered to himself. "Worst idea."


    The mana-heavy air around the outpost buzzed faintly as he approached.


    Without hesitation, Damian stepped forward, his boots clicking against the stone pathway.


    The outer defensive barrier shimmered when he crossed it¡ªan intricate weave of dragon magic laced with old protective runes¡ªand for a moment, the field flared, pulsing like it was tasting him.


    Damian tensed instinctively, ready to bolt if it rejected him.


    But after a brief, vibrating pause, the barrier relaxed.


    Letting him through.


    He grunted under his breath.


    "Well. Guess that''s a ''welcome'' in dragon speak."


    The front door swung open on silent hinges, revealing the main hall beyond.


    It was... stark.


    Different from Cassius'' mansion, where even the shadows seemed full of life and lurking servants.


    Here?


    Nothing.


    No footsteps.


    No bustling attendants.


    No guards pretending not to stare at him.


    Just a wide, clean stone corridor that echoed slightly with every step he took.


    It felt less like visiting a diplomatic envoy and more like walking straight into a lair.


    ''Great.''


    He kept walking, senses sharp, feeling the subtle weight of magic woven into the very stones around him.


    And there she was.


    Standing in the center of the hall like she owned it¡ªbecause, let''s be honest, she probably did.


    Lysandra.


    The dragon general.


    She was in her armor again, though lighter now, less battlefield-heavy and more sleek. Her silver hair was braided back tightly, and her golden eyes locked onto him the second he stepped fully into the light.


    Damian stopped a few paces away, sliding his hands casually into his coat pockets, projecting a relaxed, cocky energy he absolutely didn''t feel.


    "Good afternoon, General," he drawled, voice light.


    Lysandra''s mouth twitched in something that might have been amusement¡ªor condescension. It was always hard to tell with her.


    "Good afternoon, Kaelan," she said smoothly, emphasizing the old name just to needle him. "I''m surprised you decided to visit me."


    Damian huffed a laugh under his breath, the corners of his mouth twitching.


    "Trust me," he said dryly, "no one''s more surprised than me."


    Lysandra tilted her head slightly, studying him.


    "Was it the impending doom?" she asked, voice cool but not unkind. "Or the realization you can''t pull off miracles alone anymore?"


    Damian raised a brow.


    "Maybe both."


    Her lips quirked in what could almost be called a smirk.


    He didn''t move closer yet.


    Instinct told him not to.


    This wasn''t some casual visit.


    This was a negotiation.


    Or maybe a gamble with his life as the ante.


    "You''re alone," he said, glancing around the empty hall pointedly.


    "I prefer it that way," she replied simply. "Easier to hear myself think."


    "Easier to kill visitors too," Damian muttered under his breath.


    Her smirk widened slightly. "Only the unwelcome ones."


    Damian snorted, rolling his eyes. "Comforting."


    He shifted his weight slightly, his hands flexing in his pockets.


    "So," he said casually, "you said you weren''t here to kill me. Still true?"


    Lysandra''s eyes gleamed faintly in the noon light streaming through the high windows.


    "For now," she said.


    Damian grinned.


    "Good enough."


    And with that, the real dance began.

 Chapter 419: Seducing a Dragon

    Warlock Ch 419. Seducing a Dragon


    Damian followed Lysandra''s silent gesture and dropped onto one of the chairs near the long, cold-looking table at the center of the hall. She didn''t sit across from him like a normal person. No, of course not. She slid into the seat next to him, just close enough that he could feel the ripple of her mana brushing against his.


    Subtle power play.


    Dragons didn''t waste energy if they didn''t have to¡ªand proximity was dominance without lifting a finger.


    Damian slouched slightly in his chair, stretching his legs out lazily like he couldn''t care less.


    It was an act. Every hair on the back of his neck was standing straight up.


    He opened his mouth to talk.


    And Lysandra spoke first.


    "You reek of sex," she said, blunt as a war hammer.


    Damian choked a little on air, freezing halfway through a breath.


    Lysandra leaned back in her chair, arms crossed over her chest, one pale eyebrow arching in faint amusement. "And not just any sex," she continued, cool and detached like she was listing combat maneuvers. "You just did it with the fae princess. I can smell her blood."


    Damian pressed his lips into a tight, flat line.


    Right.


    Dragon senses.


    Of course.


    Because why wouldn''t today get even better?


    He sighed through his nose, raking a hand through his hair.


    "Yeah," he said, tone resigned. "I just slept with her. It''s mutual, okay? No complaints. Nobody kidnapped. Consent everywhere. Can we move on?"


    Lysandra''s lips twitched again in that barely-there smirk.


    "Mutual, huh?" she said, tapping a fingertip lightly against the stone table. "Interesting."


    She leaned in slightly, close enough that Damian could feel the heat of her breath near his ear.


    "If cooperation with you," she murmured, voice dropping into something almost... wicked, "means sharing a bed... does that mean I have to sleep with you too?"


    Damian blinked.


    Once.


    Twice.


    His brain bluescreened for a solid second.


    Then he coughed, glancing sideways at her with a dry, unimpressed expression. "Depends," he said. "I''m afraid you''d kill me halfway through."


    Lysandra chuckled¡ªa low, rich sound that vibrated through the air between them.


    "Fair enough," she said, leaning back again, the faintest glint of amusement in her golden eyes.


    Damian shook his head, muttering, "Freakin'' dragons," under his breath before finally straightening in his chair, dropping the lazy act.


    Business time.


    He folded his hands loosely in front of him on the table and met her gaze squarely.


    "Why did I come here?" he echoed. "Simple. I need your help."


    Lysandra didn''t blink. Didn''t move. Just watched him, waiting.


    "The vault," Damian continued. "The Central Archive. We''re hitting it tonight."


    Her expression didn''t change.


    Not surprised. Not impressed.


    Just listening.


    Damian appreciated that more than he wanted to admit.


    "It''s not a clean operation," he added. "The fae nobles have their claws in it. The Senate might too. The kidnappings, the fake rumors about Selena... all of it''s tied together."


    Still no reaction.


    Damian exhaled slowly.


    "I''m not stupid enough to think we can get through it without a fight. Hell, we''re probably going to be walking into a goddamn bloodbath. Guardians, curses, traps, political hit squads¡ªyou name it."


    He leaned forward slightly.


    "But if we don''t move, they''ll kill Cedric. And then they''ll come for Selena. And then they''ll come for everyone else."


    A muscle ticked in Lysandra''s jaw.


    Progress.


    Damian pushed a little more.


    "I''ve got Cassius," he said. "I''ve got Victoria. Evelyn. Some shadows. It''s not nothing. But it''s not enough if the Senate''s really mobilizing. If Marenvell and Ralvek''s pulling ancient weapons out of their asses."


    He met her gaze head-on, voice low, steady.


    "I need an ally who can stand toe-to-toe with the real monsters."


    A pause.


    Then, almost reluctantly:


    "I need you."


    The words hung between them like a sword.


    Damian didn''t look away.


    He didn''t beg.


    He just asked.


    Because that''s what trust looked like now¡ª


    A gamble.


    A hand reaching into the dark and hoping it didn''t come back bloody.


    For a long moment, Lysandra said nothing.


    Her eyes were unreadable, the only sound the faint crackle of mana humming through the air between them.


    Then¡ªslowly, deliberately¡ªshe stood.


    Damian tensed automatically, muscles coiling under his skin.


    She paced away a few steps, her armor whispering against itself, before turning back to face him.


    "You know," she said, voice quiet, "the dragon tribes aren''t supposed to interfere."


    Damian nodded once. "I know."


    She tilted her head slightly.


    "But you''re asking me to choose. To pick a side."


    "Yeah," Damian said without apology. "Because if you don''t pick a side now... there won''t be a Haven left to stay neutral about."


    Silence.


    The light shifted through the high windows, casting long, dramatic shadows across the stone floor.


    Finally, Lysandra exhaled through her nose.


    "You are reckless, Kaelan," she said. "You always were."


    "I''m aware," Damian said, deadpan.


    "But," she added, stepping closer, her voice softer now, "you were also right more often than you were wrong."


    Damian blinked, surprised despite himself.


    Lysandra smiled faintly¡ªsharp and knowing.


    "And besides," she said lightly, "watching you flail around without me would be boring."


    He barked a short laugh.


    "So that''s a yes?"


    She rolled her eyes in an almost human gesture.


    "It''s a conditional yes," she corrected. "I''ll help you tonight. But after that, we reevaluate. Understood?"


    "Understood," Damian said immediately, standing too.


    They shook hands¡ªhers strong, calloused, warm even through her gauntlet.


    And in that moment, despite every logical instinct screaming that this was still a stupid gamble, Damian felt a flicker of something dangerously close to hope.


    Maybe... just maybe... they had a fighting chance after all.


    As they pulled apart, Lysandra smirked faintly.


    "One last thing, Warlock," she said, voice low and teasing.


    Damian raised a brow.


    "If you survive tonight..." she leaned closer, her breath brushing his ear, "maybe I will test that mutual agreement theory of yours."


    Damian swallowed hard.


    "You''re joking," he said weakly.


    Lysandra just laughed, a rich, wicked sound, as she turned away.


    And Damian?


    Damian had to seriously reevaluate his very fragile survival plan.


    Because somehow, seducing a dragon might end up being the least dangerous part of tonight.


    And that was saying something.

 Chapter 420: A Battlefield to Conquer

    Warlock Ch 420. A Battlefield to Conquer


    Damian stared after her for a second longer than he should''ve, his brain still trying to catch up with the chaos she kept dropping on him like live grenades.


    Because yeah¡ªof course the dragon general didn''t just agree to help.


    Conditions, remember?


    And judging by the mischievous glint in her eyes when she turned back toward him, he hadn''t even heard the worst part yet.


    She sauntered back to the table, moving with that lethal, slow grace dragons seemed to breathe, and leaned casually against it, arms crossed.


    "So," she said smoothly, "I''ll help you tonight."


    Damian exhaled a breath of relief he hadn''t even realized he was holding.


    "But," she continued, voice sharp as a blade sliding free of its sheath, "on one condition."


    He tensed immediately, shoulders stiffening.


    ''Here it comes.''


    "You have to sleep with me," Lysandra said, perfectly deadpan.


    Damian blinked.


    Then blinked again.


    "Wait¡ªwhat?" he said, voice pitching higher in disbelief.


    "You heard me," she said calmly, like she was asking him to pass the salt.


    Damian threw up his hands. "Hold on, why? I mean, I get dragons are weird but¡ªsleep with you? Out of nowhere?!"


    Lysandra tilted her head slightly, the faintest smirk tugging at her mouth.


    "I want to know," she said simply.


    Damian stared at her like she''d grown a second head. "Know what, exactly?"


    "How a dead man tastes like," she said, eyes gleaming.


    Damian made a strangled noise halfway between a cough and a laugh.


    "You want to kill me?" he demanded, stepping back a half pace.


    "No," she said, rolling her eyes. "I said sleep with you. Not murder you."


    "Right," Damian said, dry as a desert. "Because that''s such a clear distinction."


    He raked a hand through his hair, muttering under his breath, "You dragons and your messed-up priorities..."


    Lysandra shrugged one shoulder, utterly unbothered. "It makes sense to me."


    Damian gave her a flat look. "You think demanding sex out of nowhere makes sense?"


    "For dragons," she said simply.


    "For dragons," Damian echoed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Of course."


    He paced a slow circle around the table, trying to think.


    Sleep with the general and get guaranteed backup for tonight''s insane mission?


    Or refuse, piss her off, and probably face the vault battle down a SSS-rank ally?


    Damian sighed loudly, throwing his hands in the air.


    "Fine. Fine. Fiiiine."


    Lysandra smirked, victorious.


    "But for the record," Damian added, stabbing a finger at her, "this is officially the weirdest diplomatic negotiation I''ve ever been part of."


    "You haven''t seen anything yet," she said cheerfully.


    Damian grunted. "Yeah, that''s what I''m afraid of."


    He slid his coat off, tossing it onto a nearby chair, and cracked his neck. His mana stirred faintly under his skin, his muscles coiling instinctively.


    "Alright," he muttered. "Let''s get this over with."


    Lysandra pushed off the table with predatory grace, stalking toward him slowly.


    "Over with?" she repeated, amused. "You make it sound like a chore."


    Damian gave her a deadpan look. "Considering you might eat me halfway through, yeah, I''m not exactly writing love poetry here."


    Lysandra laughed, low and rough.


    "You''ll survive," she said.


    Damian muttered, "If I don''t, I''m haunting you."


    She smirked, stopping just in front of him, close enough that he could feel the heat radiating off her.


    "You wish you could," she murmured.


    Before Damian could fire back a retort, Lysandra reached up, fisting her hand lightly in the front of his shirt¡ªand yanked him down into a kiss.


    Damian staggered slightly at the force of it, but recovered fast, hands snapping up to her waist, holding her steady as their mouths collided.


    The kiss was nothing like Selena''s.


    Selena had kissed him like he was something precious.


    Lysandra kissed him like he was a battlefield to conquer.


    Rough. Demanding. Fierce.


    Damian groaned into her mouth, instincts kicking in hard. He pushed back just as fiercely, their teeth clashing slightly, their mana flaring between them in volatile sparks.


    Somewhere between one kiss and the next, Lysandra shoved him backward¡ªhard¡ªand he stumbled against the table.


    She followed immediately, crowding into his space, grabbing his belt with one hand and yanking his hips against hers.


    Damian swore under his breath, fighting to keep up.


    This wasn''t slow.


    This wasn''t romantic.


    It was raw. Brutal.


    Exactly what he should''ve expected from a dragon general who smelled blood and battle like perfume.


    Lysandra stripped off his shirt with efficient, predatory hands, tossing it aside like it was irrelevant.


    Damian caught her wrist before she could shove him fully onto the table.


    "Bed," he managed to gasp out. "We have beds, you maniac¡ª"


    She grinned, all teeth and sharp delight.


    "You assume you''ll make it that far."


    Damian gave her a look.


    "Bed," he said again, sternly.


    Lysandra laughed¡ªa throaty, wild sound¡ªand let him steer them roughly across the hall toward the adjoining chamber.


    They barely made it to the side of the massive, spartan bed before Damian twisted, reversing their positions and pinning her down against the mattress.


    "Still think I''m dead meat?" he growled lowly against her ear.


    She laughed breathlessly beneath him, her legs hooking around his waist.


    "Not yet."


    Damian kissed her again, biting at her lower lip until she gasped¡ªand used the opportunity to slide his hands under her armor, feeling the searing heat of her bare skin underneath.


    The armor hit the floor with a loud clatter seconds later.


    And after that?


    There were no more words.


    Just heat.


    Breath.


    Clashing bodies.


    A battle of dominance fought with teeth and nails and desperate, unspoken need.


    Damian claimed her mouth, her throat, her chest¡ªearning low, approving growls from her with every kiss and scrape of his teeth.


    Lysandra returned every touch with equal ferocity, clawing down his back, biting his shoulder hard enough to leave marks.


    When he finally thrust into her¡ªhard, fast, with a snarl against her throat¡ªshe arched under him, a vicious, broken moan ripping free.


    They moved together, rough and frantic, bodies slamming into each other hard enough to bruise.


    But even through the intensity, Damian never lost control.


    Never let her slip fully away from him.


    It wasn''t gentle¡ªbut it wasn''t mindless either.


    It was wild.


    Real.


    Electric.

 Chapter 421: Legal Loophole *

    Warlock Ch 421. Legal Loophole *


    Their bodies moved in a furious, messy rhythm, each thrust drawing guttural moans from deep in Lysandra''s throat as Damian ground deeper into her.


    The heat between them built fast, burning high and reckless, no hesitation left now¡ªonly need.


    And somewhere between the haze of pleasure and the grind of their hips, Damian''s brain decided to reboot mid-sex.


    ''Shit! What am I doing?!''


    He had literally just had sex with Selena a few hours ago.


    And now?


    Now he was pounding into the dragon general like his life depended on it.


    This was absurd.


    This didn''t make any sense.


    ''Yeah,'' he thought, thrusting deeper into Lysandra''s slick heat and dragging another sharp, breathless moan from her lips, ''I understand Selena. She had a crush. She risked everything to stay near me.''


    But Lysandra?


    He couldn''t wrap his head around it.


    Was it just the "reek of sex" thing she smelled? Some primal dragon impulse? Some screwed-up challenge?


    He groaned under his breath¡ªnot just from pleasure¡ªbut from the spiraling chaos in his skull.


    Because this?


    This wasn''t just sex for fun.


    This wasn''t even some twisted punishment because he was "Kaelan" the supposed evil warlock.


    This was... different.


    Messier.


    Deeper.


    And it scared the shit out of him.


    Still, his body didn''t stop¡ªmoving instinctively, grinding harder into her, eliciting another ragged cry from Lysandra as her nails raked down his back.


    Finally, with one last desperate thrust, they both climaxed together¡ªLysandra arching beneath him, her body spasming around him, Damian shuddering as he spilled into her with a low, broken curse.


    The aftermath hit like a storm breaking.


    He slumped over her, braced on shaking arms, breathing hard against the crook of her neck.


    And as if to underline how absolutely insane his life had gotten.


    [System Notification]


    [New Attribute Unlocked: Draconic Vitality]


    [Max HP +10%]


    [Natural healing rate increased]


    [Resistance to elemental damage +5%]


    [Partners: Lysandra Frostfang (Dragon)]


    [New Spell Unlocked: Frostbrand Chains]


    [Frostbrand Chains (Active): Summon ethereal chains of enchanted frost to bind and sap the strength of enemies. Chains resist magic and physical damage. Strength scales with Magic Affinity and Physical Strength.]


    He let his forehead thump lightly against Lysandra''s shoulder, half in exhaustion, half in confusion.


    "Looks like you''re a professional," Lysandra said lazily, her voice a low, satisfied purr against his ear.


    Damian said nothing, too busy trying to reboot his sanity.


    Still inside her.


    Still tangled up in crazy dragon politics.


    Still wondering at what exact point his life had gone from ''exiled warlock'' to ''accidental sex ambassador for cross-species alliances.''


    Finally, he pulled back enough to look her in the eyes¡ªsharp, unflinching gold.


    "Why?" he rasped, voice low and wrecked. "Let''s be honest. Why, Lysandra? What''s your real reason?"


    Because it couldn''t just be lust.


    It couldn''t just be some dragon mating thing.


    Not with how she looked at him right now.


    Not with the way the bond in the system clicked so neatly into place¡ªseamless, deep.


    Lysandra smiled lazily, brushing a strand of damp hair off her forehead.


    "You really don''t understand dragons at all," she said, almost fond.


    "Enlighten me," Damian said, voice dry as hell.


    She traced a slow line down his chest with one sharp nail, not hard enough to scratch, but enough to make him shiver.


    "Dragons," she said quietly, "cannot officially interfere with human matters."


    Damian stiffened slightly, frowning.


    Lysandra smirked. "We can''t take sides. We can''t make alliances. It''s part of our oldest treaties¡ªthe Balance of Power."


    She kissed the side of his throat lightly.


    "But," she murmured against his skin, "personal bonds? Those are different."


    Damian pulled back slightly, staring at her in dawning horror.


    "You slept with me," he said slowly, "to create a legal loophole."


    "Exactly," she said brightly, looking far too pleased with herself.


    Damian dropped his face into the pillow next to her and let out a muffled scream of frustration.


    "This is the stupidest, most dragon bullshit I''ve ever heard," he muttered into the sheets.


    Lysandra laughed, a full-bodied, delighted sound.


    "You needed me," she said, brushing her fingers lightly through his hair. "I needed an excuse to help you without breaking our laws. This was the cleanest option."


    "Clean," Damian repeated, lifting his head to glare at her. "This?"


    She shrugged elegantly, utterly unapologetic. "Cleaner than eating you."


    He stared at her.


    She smiled sweetly.


    Damian groaned, rolling onto his back and throwing an arm over his face.


    "So let me get this straight," he said. "You basically weaponized sex to bypass your diplomatic restrictions."


    "Correct," Lysandra said, positively beaming.


    "And I thought I was the crazy one," Damian muttered.


    He stayed like that for a minute, just breathing, feeling the strange hum of their newly-forged bond settling under his skin.


    It wasn''t like the bond with Selena¡ªsoft, tender, sweet.


    This was harsher. Wilder.


    But solid. Real.


    Like anchoring himself to a living storm.


    Damian exhaled slowly, dropping his arm back to the mattress and turning his head to look at her again.


    "And you''re serious about helping me?" he asked.


    "As serious as death," she said simply, no smirk this time.


    He believed her.


    Somehow, against all logic, he believed her.


    Damian shook his head slowly, a reluctant smile tugging at the corner of his mouth.


    "You are ridiculous," he said.


    "And you''re an idiot for trusting me," she shot back smoothly.


    They grinned at each other for a beat¡ªtwo predators, two survivors, two utter disasters of beings who somehow fit together just enough to make it work.


    Damian scrubbed a hand down his face and pushed himself up into a sitting position.


    "Alright," he said, looking down at her sprawled out across the ruined bed. "Fine. You''re in."


    "Was there ever a doubt?" she asked archly.


    "A little," Damian admitted. "Mainly when you threatened to kill me mid-coitus."


    She laughed, sitting up and stretching languidly, utterly unashamed.


    "Don''t worry, Warlock," she said, voice rich with promise. "You''re too fun to kill."


    Damian rolled his eyes and started searching for his pants.


    "Let''s hope you still feel that way after tonight."

 Chapter 422: Dragon Sigils

    Warlock Ch 422. Dragon Sigils


    Across the bed, Lysandra smirked lazily, stretching her arms above her head like a lounging cat.


    "Just a reminder, Warlock. Dragons..." she said, voice syrupy and casual, "have a ridiculous stamina for everything..."


    Damian froze halfway through buckling his belt, squinting at her suspiciously.


    "Hopefully I don''t die because of it."


    Lysandra laughed, a low, musical sound that vibrated pleasantly in the air between them.


    "No," she said, rising smoothly from the bed without a shred of shame. "You won''t."


    And before he could lob back another sarcastic comment, she leaned forward and kissed him again¡ªquick, decisive, a claiming peck on the lips.


    Then she pulled back, cool and composed as ever, grabbing a cloth from a nearby dresser.


    Damian, still sitting on the edge of the bed, caught the faint glimmer of crimson against her inner thigh¡ªthe unmistakable sight of virgin blood.


    His gut twisted strangely.


    Not guilt.


    Not pride.


    Just a deep, almost primal awareness of what they had just done. What it meant.


    But Lysandra?


    She didn''t even flinch.


    She wiped herself clean with methodical efficiency, tossing the cloth aside like it was nothing more than dealing with battlefield blood.


    Damian stayed silent, just watching her.


    Finally, when the quiet stretched too long, he muttered, "You look... not too bothered."


    Lysandra glanced over her shoulder at him, her hair catching the noon light filtering through the high windows.


    "Compared to life and death?" she said coolly. "This is normal."


    Damian tilted his head, studying her.


    "You know..." he said slowly, "for most people, their first time''s a bit more... emotional."


    She shrugged. "Maybe. But I''ve made crazier decisions than this."


    He barked a short, dark chuckle.


    "Sleeping with me ranks lower on the crazy scale?"


    Lysandra gave him a sharp, almost teasing smile.


    "Sleeping with you is crazy. No question. But not as crazy as standing beside you tonight."


    Damian huffed a laugh under his breath.


    "True."


    He pulled his coat back over his shoulders, adjusting the strap across his chest.


    Before he could stand properly, Lysandra flicked her gaze at him again¡ªthis time sharp. Intent.


    "So," she said, walking toward him without hesitation, "since we''ve... settled our relationship..."


    Damian narrowed his eyes warily. "That''s one way to put it."


    She smirked and extended her hand toward him, palm up.


    "I shall give you my sigils," she announced calmly, like she was offering him a cup of tea.


    Damian blinked. "Wait, what?"


    "The sigil will speak," Lysandra explained, as if it were obvious. "It will say you are one of us¡ªeven though you are not a dragon."


    Damian exhaled, dragging a hand down his face.


    "Right. Because nothing about today has been normal."


    Still, he reached out and took her hand.


    The moment their palms connected, he felt it.


    Mana stirred between them¡ªthick and heavy and ancient.


    The sigil on her forearm¡ªan intricate, glowing pattern of runes and swirling draconic script¡ªshimmered, detached like liquid mercury, and slithered up Damian''s arm like a living serpent.


    He hissed slightly at the sensation¡ªcool and burning at once¡ªas it wove into his mana sigils already etched across his body.


    The new marking settled around his right shoulder, pulsing once with deep, vibrant power before fading to a soft, steady hum against his skin.


    Lysandra withdrew her hand and stepped back, satisfaction flashing across her face.


    "There," she said. "Now if something happens between you and the dragons, just show it. They will recognize you as claimed."


    Damian rolled his shoulder, feeling the new weight in his mana circuits, the slight shift of resonance.


    It felt...


    Odd.


    But not wrong.


    He looked up at her, serious for once.


    "Thank you," he said, voice low.


    Lysandra shrugged. "Don''t need to."


    Then she smirked, folding her arms across her chest, the air between them heating again¡ªthis time not from sex, but something sharper.


    "But just a reminder," she added, her golden gaze pinning him in place, "this is mutual."


    Damian raised an eyebrow, wary again. "Meaning?"


    Lysandra stepped close enough that he could feel her breath ghost against his jaw.


    "I will ask for your love, Warlock," she said, voice a purr.


    Damian''s brain short-circuited for the third time that day.


    "My love?" he repeated, feeling faintly betrayed by the universe.


    Lysandra smiled¡ªnot cruel, not mocking. Just... knowing.


    "I want to understand," she said softly. "What makes you special to them. To the witch. To the vampire queen. To that fae princess. To... that senator."


    She leaned even closer, her lips brushing against his ear, her voice a low, steady hum that vibrated against his skin.


    "I want to know why they look at you the way they do."


    Damian swallowed hard, his brain still stumbling over the list she''d rattled off.


    And then he caught it¡ªthe slight, almost pointed addition.


    He blinked, pulling back slightly to look her in the eye.


    "That senator?" he echoed, voice rough, confused.


    Lysandra smiled faintly, something sharp and secret flashing in her golden gaze.


    "Yeah," she said, like it was obvious. "That senator. Aria."


    Damian stared at her, stunned.


    Aria?


    Aria?!


    The same Aria who spent half their interactions trying to murder him and the other half subtly cleaning up her messes before anyone noticed?


    Lysandra''s smile widened just slightly, catching his disbelief perfectly.


    "I thought she was an enemy too," she said casually, like she wasn''t dropping a mana bomb right into the middle of his world. "So I made a little research. Sent out some... discreet inquiries."


    She stepped back, giving him space to process, her hands sliding easily behind her back.


    "My informants came back just before you arrived," she added, voice maddeningly calm.


    "And?" Damian said, heart thudding, a strange feeling uncurling in his chest.


    Lysandra''s gaze flickered, thoughtful.


    "I found something interesting," she said.


    Damian narrowed his eyes. "Meaning?"


    But Lysandra only shook her head lightly, crossing the room in a slow, deliberate stride.


    "This isn''t something I should say," she said, her back to him now. "It''s not my story to tell."


    Damian frowned, tension tightening across his shoulders.


    "What the hell does that mean?"


    She looked over her shoulder at him, her silver hair catching the light like spun frost.


    "It means," she said slowly, "you should ask her yourself. When she''s ready."


    Damian ground his teeth.


    Cryptic dragon bullshit.


    Of course.

 Chapter 423: Prepare for The Battle

    Warlock Ch 423. Prepare for The Battle


    Damian pulled his hood low, the streets whispering past him as he Shadow Stepped and weaved his way back toward Cassius''s mansion. His heartbeat was steady. His mana flow even. His mind?


    A coiled storm.


    He couldn''t afford second-guessing anymore. Not tonight.


    The barrier perimeter shimmered faintly as he approached, its weave recognizing him¡ªand now, humming even deeper when it touched the dragon sigil branded onto his mana.


    Cassius''s barrier accepted the mark without resistance.


    ''Good,'' Damian thought grimly. ''One less thing to worry about.''


    The moment he stepped inside, he caught it¡ªthe buzz of activity, the faint scent of Evelyn''s potions and freshly charged mana crystals.


    Everyone was moving.


    Preparing.


    Not just him.


    All of them.


    He felt the slight pull of shadow magic and turned his head just in time to see one of his shadow servants emerge briefly from the wall, bowing low before vanishing again.


    ''All clear.''


    Damian exhaled slowly, pulling back his hood.


    The mansion wasn''t silent, but it wasn''t chaotic either.


    It was... focused.


    Cassius leaned against the far wall near the shelves, arms crossed, eyes half-lidded. His long coat looked even more ragged than usual, and the faint flicker of active wards around his wrists said he was ready to fight at a moment''s notice.


    Victoria sat nearby, meticulously sharpening her glaive, the blade catching the lamplight like silver fire. She was humming under her breath¡ªsomething low and lilting and just a little bit bloodthirsty.


    Evelyn was sprawled in an armchair across from her, reading an ancient tome so casually it almost looked lazy¡ªif he ignored the crackling static of pent-up mana dancing around her fingertips.


    And Selena...


    Selena stood by the staircase, dressed in lightweight battle gear, her hair braided tightly down her back, twin short swords strapped at her hips.


    Her face was set.


    Calm.


    Unshakable.


    But when her eyes met his, Damian saw the flicker of worry buried deep behind the steel.


    He smiled slightly at her, nodding once.


    She nodded back, her shoulders relaxing by a hair''s breadth.


    Cassius pushed off the wall and wandered toward him, hands stuffed in his pockets.


    He didn''t ask about the faint bruises on his neck, or the slight limp he hadn''t fully shaken off yet.


    But his sharp gaze dropped briefly to Damian''s shoulder¡ªthe edge of the fresh dragon sigil peeking out from under the collar of his shirt¡ªand one dark eyebrow rose slightly.


    Damian shrugged.


    "Negotiations were... successful," he said dryly.


    Cassius snorted, a sound halfway between amusement and exasperation.


    "Yeah. I figured."


    No judgment.


    Just understanding.


    Because honestly?


    At this point, nothing Damian did surprised Cassius anymore.


    Damian gave him a crooked grin, then rolled his shoulders like he was about to step into a boxing ring.


    "I''ll prepare myself," he said simply, voice low but certain.


    No dramatics. No theatrics.


    Just pure, calm resolve.


    He turned away from Cassius and crossed the room to the main prep table¡ªa long slab of dark oak where they''d laid out everything they had scavenged, stolen, or enchanted over the last two months.


    He moved methodically.


    First the armor¡ªlight, flexible plates woven with mana-infused threads, enough to deflect spells and light blades without weighing him down. He pulled on the chestpiece and secured the buckles at his sides, the familiar pressure settling over his ribs like a second skin.


    Next were the bracers¡ªsleek, black leather reinforced with shadowsteel, enchanted to boost his [Telekinesis] precision for short bursts.


    Damian strapped them tight around his forearms, flexing his fingers experimentally. Mana whispered along the seams, eager, responsive.


    He holstered twin daggers at his thighs¡ªjust in case he got disarmed¡ªand checked the hidden wrist-blades tucked into his sleeves. One flick of the wrist, and they gleamed in the low light. Good. Still sharp enough to shave a demon bald.


    From there, he reached for his utility belt.


    Mana scrolls¡ªthree for offensive bursts, two for shields, and one for summoning a decoy if things got really bad.


    He tucked each one into the specially designed slots across his waist.


    Then, at the end of the table, he grabbed the small leather pouch containing their emergency trump cards.


    Healing potions laced with teleportation magic¡ªone-shot only.


    Drink it, and boom¡ªyou were ejected to the closest safe zone.


    Damian turned the pouch over once in his palm, feeling the weight of it.


    Not heavy.


    Not enough.


    But it would have to do.


    He slid the pouch into the hidden compartment inside his coat, right next to the flask Cassius had jokingly labeled "In case of massive idiocy."


    The last preparations were made quickly.


    Runes.


    Mana scrolls.


    Healing potions laced with emergency teleport runes¡ªone use only, and only if things went really bad.


    Everyone moved with that grim, unspoken synchronization born of people who''d survived the worst nights together.


    And above them all, through the cracked high windows of the mansion¡ª


    The night fell.


    The full moon rose.


    And it wasn''t silver.


    It was red.


    A deep, seething crimson that bled across the clouds like an open wound in the sky.


    The air shifted with it.


    Colder.


    Sharper.


    The kind of night that made even magic vibrate wrong.


    The kind of night where old things woke up.


    Cassius stared up at it for a long moment before muttering, "Well. That''s not ominous at all."


    Victoria snickered darkly. "Maybe it''s a good omen. Blood moon for a bloodbath."


    Evelyn shut her book with a soft thump.


    "Or maybe," she said calmly, "it''s a warning."


    Selena just gripped the hilt of her sword tighter.


    Damian stepped forward, letting the mana of the house wrap around him one last time, feeling every shield rune, every defensive ward, every hidden escape tunnel they''d mapped out.


    Tonight, they wouldn''t be using any of them.


    Tonight, they moved.


    He drew a deep breath and spoke, voice carrying across the room.


    "Everyone knows the plan?"


    Four heads nodded.


    Cassius leaned casually against a pillar, smiling faintly. "Break into the most secured vault in the city. Fight whatever eldritch horror they left guarding it. Find the fae prince before someone stabs him. Try not to die. Very straightforward."


    Damian huffed a short laugh under his breath. "Simplified, but yes."


    Selena stepped closer to him, her voice soft but steady.


    "And if they already moved Cedric?"


    Damian looked at her¡ªreally looked at her.

 Chapter 424: Catastrophic

    Warlock Ch 424. Catastrophic


    The weight of it.


    The cost of it.


    "If they moved him," he said quietly, "we''ll burn down whatever''s between us and wherever they took him."


    She nodded, eyes shining.


    No hesitation.


    No doubt.


    He turned, grabbing his cloak from the rack and tossing it over his shoulders. His coat was already enchanted to resist basic elemental spells, but with the way the air tasted tonight? He wasn''t taking chances.


    Victoria hefted her glaive over her shoulder with a grin.


    "Let''s go ruin someone''s night."


    "Preferably several someones," Evelyn added lightly, slipping a thin black dagger into her boot.


    Cassius just sighed and stretched lazily. "Gods, I miss being a hermit."


    Damian smirked at them¡ªhis people, his crazy, chaotic little warband.


    "Move out," he said simply.


    They slipped into the night like wraiths.


    Silent.


    Deadly.


    The crimson moon lit their path like a bleeding eye.


    [System Update]


    Quest Progression Unlocked: [Infiltrate the Central Archive Vault]


    Objective: Locate Prince Cedric and Sir Alric.


    Secondary Objective: Identify traitor factions.


    Bonus Objective: No fatalities among team members.


    Reward: ???


    Penalty: Catastrophic.


    The city itself felt wrong as they moved through it.


    Too quiet.


    Too tense.


    Even the usual back-alley rats had disappeared.


    The closer they got to the vault district, the thicker the magic became¡ªpressing against Damian''s skin like invisible hands, trying to slow him down, confuse him, make him doubt.


    The defensive spells layered around the Central Archive were insane.


    Even Lysandra had warned him. ''No one gets in clean. Not without paying in blood or favors.''


    Damian''s steps never faltered.


    Behind him, his team moved like shadows.


    Every breath was measured. Every heartbeat counted.


    They reached the outer gates just before midnight.


    And standing by the wrought-iron fence, arms crossed, eyes glowing faintly gold under the blood moon¡ª Was Lysandra.


    Waiting.


    She caught his gaze and smiled¡ªa slow, dangerous baring of teeth.


    "You''re late," she drawled.


    Damian just grinned back at her, heart hammering in his chest.


    "Good," he said. "Wouldn''t want to start the apocalypse early."


    And with that, the warlock, the witch, the vampire queen, the dragon general, and the fae princess stepped together into the dark¡ª


    Toward the vault.


    Toward the blood-red sky.


    Toward whatever hell waited inside.


    Damian''s boots crunched against the old stone path leading up to the outer perimeter of the Central Archive.


    Ancient ivy choked the cracked walls, but the magic here was alive¡ªhumming low and dangerous beneath the surface, like a sleeping beast stirred by their presence.


    The main entrance loomed ahead, towering wrought-iron gates engraved with countless warding runes. Above it, the blood moon glared down, making every edge sharper, every shadow deeper.


    They gathered in the last patch of cover before the open approach¡ªan abandoned merchant''s fountain, long dried up and half collapsed.


    Damian crouched low behind the broken marble lip, cloak brushing the cracked stone, and scanned the terrain with quick, practiced sweeps of his gaze.


    Cassius was already muttering under his breath, weaving small detection spells into the air.


    Victoria leaned casually on her glaive, her eyes half-lidded but watchful.


    Evelyn traced lazy patterns on her thigh with a fingertip, her mana faint but ready.


    Selena stood stiffly, one hand hovering near her sword, the other clenched at her side.


    Lysandra, for her part, stood like she had all the time in the world¡ªarms folded, weight balanced, golden eyes half amused, half calculating.


    Damian exhaled and turned toward her.


    "Alright, General. What are we looking at?"


    Lysandra tilted her head slightly, eyes flicking toward the towering vault structure.


    "The wards were reinforced recently," she said in a low voice. "Old magic. Twisted. Not pure fae work anymore. Something darker mixed in."


    Damian grimaced.


    "Charming."


    "And," she added, glancing sideways at him, "there''s been unusual activity here since yesterday. Increased mana spikes. Movement inside."


    "But Cedric?" Damian pressed, voice tight.


    She shook her head once.


    "Still unknown. He could be inside. Or already moved."


    Damian swore under his breath.


    Behind him, the air shifted.


    The shadows rippled¡ªand one of Damian''s shadow servants emerged, kneeling low with head bowed.


    "My lord," it rasped, its voice a dry whisper that barely disturbed the air.


    Everyone immediately turned toward it, tension snapping taut.


    Damian leaned forward, voice low and sharp.


    "Report."


    The shadow lifted its head slightly, hollow eyes gleaming.


    "I managed to breach the perimeter... undetected."


    Damian''s heart hammered in his chest.


    "And?"


    The shadow paused¡ªthen said words that sent a chill down Damian''s spine:


    "Prince Cedric is inside the vault. He has not been moved."


    Damian let out a slow breath of relief¡ªsmall, bitter, because it wasn''t over.


    But then the shadow continued, its voice dropping even lower.


    "They are preparing a ritual," it said. "They intend to use his blood... to raise something."


    Silence slammed down around them like a dropped blade.


    Damian''s fingers twitched at his side, mana crackling faintly at the edges of his control.


    "What are they raising?" Cassius asked, voice grim.


    The shadow shook its head once.


    "I could not see. But the magic... it reeks of old power. Forbidden things."


    Damian closed his eyes for a second, piecing it together in his mind.


    Fae blood.


    Royal blood.


    Ancient vault magic.


    It wasn''t just about Cedric.


    It was about unleashing something.


    Something old.


    Something they weren''t ready for.


    He opened his eyes, steel hardening in his gut.


    "We move now," he said.


    Victoria''s grin sharpened.


    "Finally."


    Evelyn tucked her book into her coat and flexed her fingers.


    "About time."


    Selena just nodded, her face pale but set like carved stone.


    Lysandra cracked her knuckles, the faint shimmer of dragon magic igniting in her aura.


    Damian stood fully, cloak whipping slightly in the cold night breeze.


    "Formation C," he said crisply. "Cassius, Victoria¡ªfront breach. Evelyn¡ªdisrupt wards. Selena, you''re with me. Lysandra, you¡ª"


    He hesitated a beat.


    "¡ªdo whatever the hell you want."


    Lysandra smirked, pleased.


    "Good boy," she said, patting his shoulder mockingly.


    Damian rolled his eyes but didn''t argue.


    You didn''t order a dragon.


    You unleashed it.


    He turned back to his team.


    "Keep it fast. Keep it dirty. No warnings. No survivors among the enemy."


    Five nods.


    No fear.


    Only resolve.


    Damian drew his weapons¡ªhis short enchanted blade in one hand, his free hand already crackling with gathered mana.


    [Spectral Surge]


    [Shadow Step]


    The world blurred around him, the air distorting slightly as his body surged with temporary speed and sharpness.


    The vault gates loomed ahead, heavy and defiant.


    And with a sharp breath, Damian whispered:


    "Go."


    They moved.

 Chapter 425: The Central Vault

    Warlock Ch 425. The Central Vault


    Their bodies slipped through the shadows like whispers in the wind¡ªsilent, coordinated, surgical. Damian led the charge, his footsteps barely touching the ground as [Spectral Surge] carried him forward. The massive iron gates weren''t their entry point¡ªnot tonight. No, they had scouted the area earlier. There was a crack in the northern wing, high up, where a crumbled stone beam had dislodged one of the secondary maintenance access points. It wasn''t big. It wasn''t stable. But it was unguarded.


    And more importantly? It led to the upper corridors.


    The ones below the vault tower.


    Cassius flicked his wrist mid-run. Shadows burst out of the ground in three directions¡ªhis summons moving fast, chaotic, loud. Screeching like banshees and clashing against barriers, they scattered into the city like wild spirits. From afar, it looked like they were attacking different senatorial safehouses. A calculated misdirection.


    Damian joined him, unleashing his own set of shadow servants. Taller. Hungrier. Built to intimidate, not just confuse. They roared, letting out hellish echoes that spiraled through the alleys like warning bells. Already, wards began to shift. Lights flared in the distance. Guards diverted. Mana flared in angry spikes across rooftops and defensive towers as Ralvek''s forces scrambled to figure out where the real threat was.


    It wasn''t here.


    Not yet.


    "Move!" Damian hissed, cutting into the side path.


    They didn''t need a ladder. They had Victoria. She planted the bottom edge of her glaive into the wall and used the shaft like a makeshift vaulting pole. She leapt, flipped, landed silently on the upper ledge with inhuman grace, then reached down.


    Evelyn blinked next¡ªusing a spell that warped the space just enough to lift her like a gust of wind. She rolled onto the stone ledge and nodded.


    Cassius shadow-stepped halfway and scaled the rest with raw muscle and levitation runes on his boots.


    Selena hesitated. Just a fraction of a second.


    She looked up at the others, then back over her shoulder. The moonlight made her braid shimmer like silver, her breath visibly fogging in the cold night air. Her fingers twitched near her sword.


    Damian landed beside her, watching her.


    "This isn''t your world," he said gently.


    She blinked at him. "I know."


    "But we need you in it. Right now."


    Her lips parted like she wanted to say something¡ªwanted to admit she was scared. Or maybe angry. Or just confused. But instead, she reached out, and he caught her wrist.


    "Hold on," he said.


    Then he launched both of them upward with [Telekinesis], boosting his jump with a burst of mana. They cleared the wall, rolled over the edge together, and landed with a soft thud beside the others.


    "Show off," Cassius muttered.


    "You''re just mad you used your boots," Damian shot back.


    They pressed forward.


    The inside of the vault complex was nothing like the outer perimeter.


    It was older.


    Darker.


    Worse.


    The stone here pulsed with ambient magic¡ªred veins that ran across the walls like something half-alive. The air was thick, and it smelled... wrong. Like burnt incense and blood that had been dried, ground into powder, then scattered into every breath they took.


    Evelyn cast a quick [Mystic Veil] around them, dampening their sounds, cloaking their signatures. It didn''t make them invisible, but it blurred the lines enough that unless someone was staring directly at them, they''d miss the movement.


    They slipped down the first corridor.


    Two guards stood at the next intersection¡ªone reading a half-burned scroll, the other picking at his nails with a dagger. Both wore sigils of Ralvek''s house.


    Cassius nodded to Damian.


    Damian snapped his fingers.


    [Dark Chains]


    The floor split. Blackened tendrils shot upward, wrapping the guards in silence. They didn''t even have time to gasp. The chains crushed their throats and yanked them into the shadows. No sound. No blood. Just gone.


    "Clear," Victoria whispered.


    They kept moving.


    Staircases led upward in a winding pattern, curling around a hollow core that ran the length of the tower like a broken spine. Each level had more guards. More arcane traps.


    Victoria disarmed a mana rune by dragging her glaive''s flat edge across the threshold, diffusing the energy in a single graceful sweep.


    Evelyn used [Dispel] twice to neutralize tripwires made of floating glyphs¡ªtraps that would''ve detonated if touched by anything living.


    Cassius flicked his wrist again and again, creating miniature shadow decoys to lead scouts astray.


    Selena was quiet. Too quiet. Her footsteps made no noise, but she moved like she was walking across broken glass. Every creak of wood or groan of ancient stone made her twitch.


    Damian fell into step beside her during a brief pause.


    "You okay?" he asked, eyes scanning ahead.


    She nodded once. But her voice, when it came, was tight. "This isn''t what I trained for."


    He understood.


    Fae princesses weren''t assassins. They didn''t infiltrate blood towers under cursed moons and silence their enemies in the dark.


    But she was here.


    Because she chose to be.


    "Doesn''t matter what you trained for," Damian said, not unkindly. "You''re doing it now. That counts."


    She looked at him, expression unreadable¡ªthen gave a tiny nod.


    "Thanks."


    More stairs. More blood wards.


    And then¡ª


    One guard turned the corner ahead, eyes wide, sensing something.


    He opened his mouth to shout.


    Selena moved.


    A flash of metal.


    A spray of light.


    He fell, a thin line of blood on his neck. Her twin short swords gleamed in the crimson light as she stepped back into the shadows.


    Victoria raised an eyebrow.


    Evelyn whistled under her breath.


    "Okay, Princess," she murmured. "Didn''t see that coming."


    Selena didn''t smile. But her grip on her blades looked just a little steadier.


    They reached the third floor¡ªnearly at the vault antechamber.


    Here, the walls changed.


    Old inscriptions covered the stone, written in ancient fae and something far darker. The letters pulsed faintly, like veins beneath thin skin.


    Cassius growled under his breath. "Whatever they''re waking up in here... it doesn''t want to sleep."


    "Let''s not give it a reason to fully wake up," Damian muttered.


    They encountered two more guards near the central stairs. These ones were tougher¡ªenchanted armor, glowing weapons.


    Victoria stepped forward this time.

 Chapter 426: Blood Moon Ritual [Part 1]

    Warlock Ch 426. Blood Moon Ritual [Part 1]


    "Silent?" she asked.


    Damian nodded.


    She disappeared in a blur.


    Then¡ªnothing.


    Then¡ªtwo soft thumps.


    Both guards dropped, their throats pierced with hair-thin punctures that barely bled. Victoria reappeared, licking a drop of blood from her glove.


    "Clean," she whispered.


    No alarms.


    No bodies left behind.


    Only the quiet hum of death.


    They were close now.


    The top of the tower loomed just above.


    The last stretch.


    Damian could feel it.


    The ritual magic was stronger here¡ªthicker. Like walking through syrup laced with screams.


    The blood moon''s light seeped through a broken window, casting everything in rust-red.


    He raised a hand.


    Everyone stopped.


    He turned back to them¡ªhis team, his family, his chaos.


    "We hit hard. We hit fast," he said. "Protect Cedric at all costs. Whatever they''re raising¡ªstop it."


    Cassius tapped his knuckles against his temple. "Got it."


    Victoria spun her glaive once, eyes glittering.


    Evelyn pulled out her final mana scroll and grinned.


    Selena exhaled slowly, steady now.


    Lysandra cracked her neck, then her knuckles. "Let''s wreck the bastards."


    And with that, they ascended the final steps¡ª


    Into the belly of the vault.


    Into the storm.


    [System Announcement]


    Warning: Ritual Initiation Detected ¨C Blood Moon Protocol Stage I


    Time Remaining: 10 minutes until Phase I Completion


    Objective Updated: Stop the Blood Moon Ritual before the first offering is consumed.


    Damian''s pupils shrank. The system''s alert flashed across his vision like a war horn in his mind. Ten minutes. That was all they had left before this entire tower turned into a bloody altar.


    The Blood Moon Ritual. Ancient, forbidden, and sickeningly effective. An arcane construct designed to tether the soul of a powerful bloodline¡ªlike a fae prince¡ªto an ancient magical anchor. Once completed, the victim''s life force wouldn''t just power the summoning. It would become the spell''s core. There''d be no reversing it. Cedric wouldn''t die. He''d exist¡ªtrapped, twisted, as a living conduit of something not meant to walk this world.


    "Damn it," he muttered, hands clenching at his sides. "It''s starting."


    Cassius turned slightly, brows lifting under his hood. "So much for the stealth approach."


    "Ten minutes," Damian said. "Tops."


    Victoria stretched her arms with a grin, her glaive already humming with eager mana. "Then I say we stop knocking and start kicking down doors."


    "Didn''t you say that last time?" Evelyn murmured, her eyes glowing faintly behind her mask as sparks of arcane energy danced around her wrists.


    "That''s because I''m always right," Victoria shot back with a wink.


    But even through the banter, the mood turned razor-sharp. The Blood Moon Ritual wasn''t just a name¡ªit was an old, horrible process. Banned in nearly every known realm. Used only by the most desperate, or the most insane.


    Once it started? There was no undoing it. Not unless they shattered the ritual and everyone involved.


    Which meant they had to move.


    They sprinted down the next corridor¡ªbut then the stone floor under them shifted.


    Cassius cursed. "Trap."


    Too late.


    The floor gave way¡ªnot entirely, but enough. Stone segments collapsed inward, revealing a pit of twitching, cursed thorns. Damian reacted instantly.


    [Telekinesis]


    He yanked Evelyn and Selena toward him mid-air as the collapse completed, planting his boots against the opposite wall and flipping them to safety.


    Victoria just leapt over it like a dancer.


    Cassius shadow-stepped and reappeared beside them with an annoyed grunt.


    "A floor trap? Really? Who are we fighting, an angsty dungeon designer?"


    Damian landed hard, his coat billowing as he growled, "I guess one of them."


    They didn''t have time to recover.


    The next chamber opened up ahead¡ªround, vaulted ceilings, glowing glyphs burning along the walls.


    And then the enemies came.


    From the darkness¡ªshambling forward with purpose¡ªundead. Dozens of them.


    [System Notification]


    Enemy Detected: Hollow Dreadknights (A-Rank Undead Legion)


    Level: 165¨C178


    Type: Constructed Revenants, Death Magic Infused


    Weakness: Fire, Holy, Severed Limbs


    Threat: High in groups


    And at the center¡ªtaller, cloaked in rotting robes, eyes glowing like lanterns made of hatred¡ª


    Arch-Necromancer Zurel, Herald of Bone <Lv 228>


    Type: Undead Spellcaster, Bloodmoon Affiliated


    "Oh, come on," Damian muttered. "Who names themselves Herald of Bone? Is there a starter pack for edgy necromancers?"


    Zurel didn''t waste time talking. He raised his hand.


    Bone spires erupted from the ground, smashing upward.


    "Scatter!" Damian shouted.


    [Shadow Step]


    He blinked sideways, narrowly dodging a spike that would''ve skewered his spine.


    Selena twisted mid-air, flipping to safety. Evelyn threw up a shield around herself as shards peppered her like spectral bullets. Victoria grunted as she deflected an entire spike with the flat of her glaive, but it still knocked her back three steps.


    The undead surged forward.


    Hollow Dreadknights wore remnants of ancient armor fused to their rotting bodies, dragging rusted weapons that reeked of cursed mana. But they were fast¡ªfaster than normal A-rank undead. Each one moved like a trained soldier that had forgotten how to die.


    Damian didn''t hesitate.


    [Hellfire Spear]


    He spun once, hurling a blazing spear into the center of the horde.


    -Boom!


    The explosion seared a dozen of them instantly, fire and corrosion tearing through their armor. Two disintegrated on impact, but the others staggered forward¡ªstill moving, still fighting.


    Cassius stepped up beside him, eyes narrowing.


    "Guess it''s time for crowd control."


    He extended both hands.


    [Summon: Abyss Howlers]


    Three massive shadow beasts formed around him, snapping and growling. Each one surged into the mob, ripping into bones with black jaws and glowing eyes. They didn''t just kill¡ªthey consumed. Every bite disintegrated parts of the undead permanently.


    "Victoria!" Damian called.


    "On it."


    She charged into the thickest part of the horde.


    Her glaive became a blur of motion¡ªslicing, sweeping, spinning. Heads flew. Limbs crashed to the floor. Every time her weapon connected, a blast of mana followed, shattering multiple enemies at once.


    Selena moved behind her, darting through shadows. She didn''t swing wide like Victoria¡ªshe went precise. Surgical. Her twin blades struck necks, tendons, joints. One slash. One kill. Her face was pale but focused.


    Evelyn hung back near the pillar and raised her hands.


    [Arcane Bolt]

 Chapter 427: Blood Moon Ritual [Part 2]

    Warlock Ch 427. Blood Moon Ritual [Part 2]


    Chain lightning surged through the front row, bouncing off armor and ricocheting into skulls. She followed it with [Curse of Agony], slowing the remaining horde just enough for Victoria to mow through them like wheat.


    But it wasn''t enough.


    Zurel raised his hand again¡ªand the dead rose once more.


    "You''ve gotta be kidding me," Cassius growled. "He''s respawning the damn trash mobs!"


    "Focus on the necromancer!" Damian snapped.


    He moved. Fast.


    [Shadow Step]


    [Spectral Surge]


    His speed spiked as he tore across the chamber, dodging Bone Spikes and ducking under a clawed undead general that tried to rip his throat out. He slid low and hurled three [Infernal Javelins] mid-spin.


    Zurel blocked the first.


    The second cracked his barrier.


    The third hit him square in the chest.


    He staggered, coughing black mist¡ªbut didn''t fall.


    "Persistent bastard," Damian muttered.


    Zurel raised his staff and pointed at him.


    [Death Wave]


    The air collapsed. A wave of green, sickly energy exploded outward.


    [Shadow Barrier]


    Damian braced as the wave hit him like a freight train. His shield cracked¡ªalmost broke¡ªbut held. He skidded back ten meters, boots tearing lines in the blood-soaked floor.


    "Status?" he called out.


    Cassius teleported beside him. "Three Howlers down. More coming. Evelyn''s burning through mana faster than she likes."


    "Victoria?"


    "Grinning like a maniac. So... same as usual."


    "Selena?"


    Cassius paused. "Holding up. But she''s too close to the Arch-Knight," he announced.


    Damian turned sharply.


    One of the highest-level undead¡ªtaller than the rest, with black armor fused to its skin and wielding a massive cleaver¡ªhad zeroed in on Selena. Its level hovered around 211.


    "Damn it," he muttered.


    He reached for his trump card.


    [Blood Manipulation]


    He extended his hand¡ªand clenched.


    The blood inside the nearby undead twisted, slowed, then constricted violently.


    -Boom!


    Three exploded into gore.


    He surged toward Selena. Fast.


    The Arch-Knight swung its cleaver¡ªonce, twice, missing by inches.


    Selena ducked, rolled, but she was slowing.


    Damian leapt between them.


    [Shadow Inferno Strike]


    The corridor erupted.


    A wave of black flame and void surged behind him as he dashed forward, slicing through the air with a thunderous impact.


    The Arch-Knight reeled as the attack struck its chest, armor cracking like dry stone. It let out a screech¡ªand then crumbled to its knees. Selena finished it with a clean slash across its cracked helm.


    She looked at him, breathless. "Thanks."


    "Try not to die," Damian said, panting. "It''s not in the plan," he reminded her.


    From behind, Zurel screamed in rage.


    The undead kept coming¡ªwave after wave.


    "We can''t hold this line forever," Cassius barked. "We need to hit the source!"


    "Then we take the bastard down¡ªnow," Damian snarled.


    He raised both hands.


    [Void Rift]


    A massive tear in reality opened behind Zurel, sucking air and shrieking like a dying god.


    The necromancer screamed as the vortex began to pull him in, robes flailing.


    Evelyn boosted the effect with a delayed [Nova Burst], and Cassius hurled his last two Abyss Blades straight into Zurel''s chest.


    The combination shattered his barrier.


    Victoria launched her glaive like a missile.


    It hit.


    Straight through his skull.


    Zurel collapsed with a crack of arcane backlash, and his body melted into ash.


    Silence fell. For a moment.


    Then the remaining undead began to shake... then collapse.


    One by one.


    Damian lowered his hands, panting, ignoring the train of his system announcement.


    "Status?"


    Cassius checked. "All good. Except Selena. She is shaken, but standing."


    Lysandra finally reappeared from the far corridor¡ªcovered in dust and blood.


    "Ran into a small detour," she said with a grin. "Crushed it."


    Damian nodded, wiping blood off his lips. "Then move. We still haven''t reached the vault chamber. And we''ve got less than¡ª"


    [System Update]


    Blood Moon Ascension Ritual Activation: 2 Minutes 13 Seconds


    "¡ªtwo minutes," he finished grimly.


    Cassius groaned. "And I thought today was going to be boring."


    "Shut up and move."


    They pushed forward. Into the dark. Toward the chamber where a prince bled, and a god waited.


    Damian cursed under his breath as they sprinted down another corridor. Every inch of the tower groaned with activity now. Whatever stealth they had was dead and buried under a mountain of explosions, undead ash, and shattered bones.


    "They know we''re here," Cassius muttered, his voice strained. "The whole damn tower''s awake."


    "No shit," Victoria snapped, spinning mid-step to bisect a sprinting undead that had leapt from the wall. "These freaks are crawling out of the damn ceiling now."


    "And they''re getting stronger," Evelyn added, eyes narrowed as she flicked a volatile glyph into the air that incinerated another trio of skeletal mages.


    Selena didn''t say anything. She didn''t need to. The look on her face¡ªtight jaw, haunted eyes, blades twitching in her hands¡ªsaid enough.


    The corridors ahead were starting to split again, twisting upward into several steep, spiral paths. The vault chamber had to be close.


    But they weren''t alone.


    Dozens¡ªno, hundreds¡ªof enemies were converging on their location, drawn by the noise, the mana flares, the dying screams of their own.


    [System Notification]


    Enemy Forces Mobilizing: Estimated Hostiles - 200+


    Units: A-Rank Undead, War Constructs, Mana Wraiths


    Elite Units Detected: 3


    Reinforcements Recommended


    Victoria growled, pulling off one of her earrings and muttering a quick incantation into it. The small, blood-red gem shimmered before bursting into a swarm of crimson bats that vanished into the air.


    "Calling my kin," she said through gritted teeth. "They can fly fast¡ªshould be here in a few minutes. I had Henry prep my soldiers earlier, just in case I''d need them tonight."


    She scoffed under her breath. "Never thought it''d actually come to that."


    "We don''t have much time," Damian growled, already raising his hand. "But we can clear a path now."


    He clenched his fist and dragged his hand through the air.


    [Summon: Crimson Devourer]


    The floor beneath them cracked.


    A deep, guttural roar echoed through the stone as a massive, monstrous shape surged from the blood-soaked ground. Fangs. Wings. Eyes like burning coals.

 Chapter 428 428: Blood Moon Ritual [Part 3]

    Warlock Ch 428. Blood Moon Ritual [Part 3]


    Varak¡ªthe Crimson Devourer¡ªburst into the corridor, his massive form barely fitting inside. A vampiric abomination with muscle like steel, claws dripping with acidic ichor, and a mouth big enough to bite a wyvern in half.


    "Feast," Damian commanded.


    Varak roared and charged forward, barreling through the corridor, smashing stone and enemy alike.


    Cassius cracked his neck. "Alright, big guy. Your turn."


    [Summon: Valorian the Guardian]


    The shadows behind him twisted, deepened, then exploded outward as a knight of pure void emerged, over nine feet tall, clad in obsidian armor pulsing with runes. His greatsword shimmered like a dying star.


    Valorian raised his blade in silent salute¡ªand charged.


    With two monsters like that on the field, it became a slaughter.


    Walls cracked. Blood splattered the ceilings. Enemies screamed and scattered. Some tried to fight, but most were simply crushed under Varak''s charge or torn in half by Valorian''s blade.


    The team surged behind them, following in the destruction''s wake.


    And then¡ª The air changed.


    Not just thick. Not just dark. It curled. Bent inward. Like something ancient had just turned its gaze directly on them.


    A slow, deliberate clap echoed through the broken archway ahead.


    And there he stood.


    Marenvell stood calmly in the center of the corridor, flanked by creeping vines and the eerie glow of the blood moon filtering through the shattered skylight above. His silver-etched armor gleamed with enchantments, and his staff pulsed with old, twisted fae magic.


    His eyes found Damian first. Cold. Calculating. A little too confident.


    "So you''re the infamous warlock," he said, voice smooth like poisoned wine. "I wondered when you''d crawl out from whatever pit spat you out."


    Damian didn''t stop walking until the team fanned out behind him, forming a half-circle of quiet fury. His voice was cool, laced with disdain.


    "You must be Marenvell," Damian said, eyes narrowing. "I imagined you taller. Or competent."


    Marenvell''s smirk twitched. "And here I thought you would have better manners."


    "Yeah, well..." Damian''s hand sparked with dark energy. "I ran out of patience. And time. So unless you''re about to drop dead, move."


    Marenvell chuckled. "Oh, I''m not the one who''ll be bleeding tonight."


    "Guess we''ll fix that," Damian said coldly, already raising his hand. "No time to waste. Save your yapping for later."


    Then he struck.


    [Dark Bolt]


    [Terror Boost Active]


    The blast screamed across the chamber, tearing through the air like a reaper''s scythe.


    But it never hit.


    Marenvell lifted his staff, and the floor pulsed. Roots exploded upward, forming a shield of bark and stone that absorbed the magic.


    "Did you think it''d be that easy?" he said, smiling


    He raised his staff high¡ªand the glyphs etched into it blazed.


    Something cracked. Loud. Like wood splitting, but deeper. Older.


    The far wall behind him split open. Vines tore the stone apart. A roar¡ªearthy, thunderous¡ªechoed from the rift.


    And then it stepped through.


    [System Notification]


    Royal Trent of Witherroot <Lv 240>


    Type: Ancient Fae Construct, Nature Magic Infused, Royal Blood Catalyst


    Threat: Legendary


    Abilities: Root Cage, Thornstorm, Rebirth Bark, Mana Drain Aura


    Selena''s breath caught. Her swords dropped slightly. "No..."


    Damian''s head snapped toward her. "What is it?"


    She pointed at the Trent, horror dawning in her voice. "That''s not just a Trent. That''s a royal bond-creature. From my family''s vault. Only someone with royal blood could unlock it¡ª"


    She stopped. Then whispered, "Cedric''s blood..."


    Cassius snarled. "He stole your family''s scroll. Used Cedric to unlock it."


    Marenvell didn''t deny it. "The prince is more useful than you think."


    The Trent stepped forward, shaking the stone beneath their feet. Roots dragged along the floor like chains, and its eyes glowed with ancient green fury.


    "Damian," Cassius barked. "This thing''ll take time. You don''t have time."


    "Tell me something I don''t know!"


    "I''ll hold them."


    "What?" Damian turned, shocked.


    "You, Evelyn, Victoria, Selena, and Lysandra¡ªget to Cedric."


    "Cassius¡ª"


    "We''ll hold this."


    Valorian stepped forward beside his summoner, sword raised again, his obsidian armor humming with contained energy.


    "I''m not asking," Cassius said sharply. "Go."


    Varak let out a guttural howl, smashing his claw into the stone floor. Crimson veins lit beneath his skin as his body hunched forward, fully ready to hold the line with raw brutality.


    Damian clenched his jaw and raised his hand. The shadows around him rippled like a disturbed pond¡ªthen erupted outward.


    "Support them," he commanded.


    From the warped air emerged his loyal servants.


    Fenrith, the hulking Three-Headed Wolf, prowled out first. Each head snarled independently¡ªone growled, one barked, one laughed like a hyena. Flames dripped from their fangs.


    Bloodwing Raven screeched as it dived in, red feathers trailing streaks of mana. It circled above, ready to rain piercing blood-laced feathers upon enemies from the air.


    Stoneback Golem thudded into view next, massive and slow, its back armored in jagged boulders. The earth cracked with each step as it moved to stand beside Valorian like an immovable wall.


    Then came the Spectral Serpent, slithering silently along the floor, half-phased into the spirit realm. Its ghostly body shimmered with eerie blue light, eyes glowing with malice as it hissed around Cassius''s feet like a guardian shadow.


    "All of you," Damian growled, "hold this corridor. Let nothing through."


    His servants didn''t hesitate. They knew the weight of their master''s words.


    Victoria cursed under her breath, frustration etched in every movement. Her vampiric eyes flared crimson as she turned toward the deeper hall.


    "Fine. He''s right. Let''s move!"


    Evelyn stepped beside Damian, grabbing his wrist to anchor him.


    "Damian," she said, voice tight, "we can''t fight that and still stop the ritual in time."


    Selena stared at the Trent with betrayal still raw in her eyes¡ªthen steeled herself. "He dies after. Cedric comes first."


    "Fine," Damian growled. "Cassius¡ª"


    "Go," Cassius said again, turning away and already forming another spell. "I''ll keep your dumb ass alive from here."


    Damian nodded once¡ªthen turned.


    "Move!"


    They broke left, sprinting through the side corridor while Valorian and Varak crashed into the Trent, trying to hold it back.

 Chapter 429 429: Blood Moon Ritual [Part 4]

    Warlock Ch 429. Blood Moon Ritual [Part 4]


    Marenvell''s laughter echoed behind them as roots lashed out, and the floor shook under the battle.


    But Damian didn''t look back.


    He couldn''t.


    Because Cedric''s time was almost up.


    And the price of failure was the end of everything.


    [System Notification]


    Blood Moon Ascension Ritual: 1 Minute Remaining


    Damian could feel the seconds bleeding out of the sky.


    His boots slammed against the ancient stone, shadows streaking past him in blurs as [Spectral Surge] flared through his veins¡ªand this time, he wasn''t running alone.


    Selena ran beside him, her lithe frame moving fast, low, her breath sharp and uneven. Her usually elegant stride was frantic now, boots barely touching the ground. She wasn''t just running with him. She was running for Cedric.


    Behind them, chaos reigned.


    A ranked magus leapt from the corridor above¡ªhis robes a blur of midnight blue, sigils glowing along his arms.


    Arch Magus Belthorn <Lv 190>


    Rank A+


    Abilities: Arcane Burst, Gravity Field, Mirror Veil


    He raised his hands, mouth opening to cast¡ª


    But Lysandra was already in the air.


    She slammed into him like a meteor, a shockwave of frost exploding outward from her glaive.


    His barrier cracked.


    Then shattered.


    Then he screamed as Lysandra drove her ice-forged weapon straight through his gut and pinned him to the wall, where frost surged outward, consuming his body in seconds.


    She ripped the glaive free, snarling, "Try that shit again, I dare you."


    Another monster¡ªthis one a hulking construct with a molten core¡ªburst from a side wall, screaming like a tortured furnace.


    [System Notification]


    Corebound Colossus <Lv 183>


    Abilities: Magma Slam, Flame Breath, Elemental Detonation


    It didn''t even make it ten steps.


    Victoria threw her glaive like a spinning sawblade¡ªit sliced through the construct''s neck, embedding halfway into its molten chest. The beast roared, turned¡ª


    And Evelyn struck.


    [Arcane Bolt]


    [Curse of Agony]


    The combination tore through its mana flow like acid. One final burst from Victoria, a charged impact with both hands, split the construct wide open in a geyser of flame and oil.


    They didn''t pause.


    Because more were coming.


    Evelyn hurled two explosive scrolls into the hallway behind them, setting a wall of magic fire as a barricade. Victoria hacked through another spectral swordsman trying to flank them, twisting the blade mid-slash with a flourish that severed the creature clean in two.


    And Lysandra?


    She was a storm. A blur of silver frost and death, her glaive dancing in the air as she ripped through wave after wave. One demon tried to blindside her¡ªshe froze his legs mid-air, spun, and cleaved through his skull. Her scales shimmered with residual energy, her golden eyes blazing.


    But even as they pushed forward, the panic in their breathing couldn''t be ignored.


    "I can''t keep this pace," Evelyn panted, mana flickering.


    "You don''t have to!" Damian''s voice echoed back. "Just buy us one more minute!"


    [System Notification]


    Blood Moon Ascension Ritual: 0:45 Seconds Remaining


    He grabbed Selena''s wrist.


    "We go now."


    She nodded, teeth clenched.


    [Shadow Step]


    [Shadow Step]


    [Shadow Step]


    Three flashes of movement.


    Stone warped. Air screamed.


    They appeared at the massive door.


    A towering gate carved from blackened fae wood and arcane crystal. Wards shimmered across the surface like threads of starlight¡ªtwisting and writhing.


    Selena didn''t hesitate.


    She drew a blade across her palm and slammed her hand onto the central crest.


    Blood ran down the grooves¡ªfilling the inlaid lines.


    The gate shuddered.


    [System Notification]


    [Royal Signature Confirmed: Delyanis Lineage]


    [Access Granted]


    The gate opened.


    And the world dropped.


    They stepped into the top of the tower¡ª


    And everything burned.


    Above, the tower''s ceiling was gone¡ªblown apart or torn open, revealing the blood moon in full. It glared down like a watching god, its crimson light soaking everything in unnatural hues.


    And in the center¡ª Prince Cedric.


    Strapped to an obsidian altar, vines laced with glowing runes wrapped around his wrists and throat. His eyes fluttered weakly. Blood ran from his chest in rhythmic pulses into the massive circle carved into the floor below.


    A magic formation¡ªno, a forbidden array. Larger than the tower itself, carved into multiple layers and glowing with ancient, angry light.


    At each of the five points of the circle¡ª


    Damian stopped.


    No.


    No, no, no¡ª


    He knew what they were.


    The moment he saw the items embedded at each cardinal direction of the summoning circle, his heart dropped like a stone through his stomach.


    Selena''s breath left her in a strangled gasp.


    "What... what is this?"


    At the northern point¡ª The Scales of the Molten Sky Serpent. Dragon Tribe.


    He remembered that.


    That was the day they exiled him.


    Claimed he had stolen it.


    It was here.


    At the east¡ª Tears of the Moonborn Oracle.


    He remembered the whispers. "He made her cry."


    Lies. He had never even met her.


    The south¡ª The Eldertree''s Mana Core.


    Burned. He''d been blamed for it.


    His name¡ªKaelan¡ªbranded across the death of a sacred entity.


    The west¡ª The Bone Mask of the Wailing Ancestor.


    He was accused of desecrating it. That one hurt most.


    And at the final point¡ª His breath caught.


    A twisted, desiccated body, blackened and still faintly glowing with infernal power.


    Corpse of Demon King Velgrath.


    The soul inside Damian screamed.


    ''You DARE¡ª?!''


    Pain slammed through Damian''s mind. His vision blurred with red static as the demon king''s rage exploded from within.


    ''THEY USE MY BODY LIKE A TOY?! A RITUAL TOOL?! I WILL BURN THEM TO ASH¡ª!''


    Damian staggered, nearly dropped to one knee. He clutched his temple, snarling through gritted teeth.


    "Shut up... shut up¡ªNot now!"


    "Damian!" Selena grabbed his arm, shaking him. "What is this?!"


    He didn''t answer. He couldn''t. His vision spun.


    Ralvek''s voice echoed from the far end of the platform.


    "Beautiful, isn''t it?" the senator said calmly, stepping forward in robes laced with every tribe''s insignia. "Each tribe''s symbol. Each sin laid at your feet. The perfect offering to summon something beyond gods."


    Damian''s eyes snapped up.


    Ralvek smiled. "They hated you, Kaelan. Blamed you. Banished you. So I used you. And now... you get to watch the world burn in your name."


    Selena''s hand went to her blade. "You monster¡ª"


    "Ah ah," Ralvek raised a finger. "Not until the ritual ends."


    [System Notification]


    Blood Moon Ascension Ritual: 0:10 Seconds Remaining.

 Chapter 430: Demon Kings Vessel

    Warlock Ch 430. Demon King''s Vessel


    Evelyn and the others burst through the gate behind them¡ªbloodied, limping, weapons glowing.


    Victoria looked around once, and her mouth dropped open.


    "What the hell is this?" she breathed.


    "Not hell," Lysandra growled, weapon rising. "Worse."


    The circle began to spin.


    Cedric screamed.


    The ritual had begun.


    And the war for the future of the realm had seconds left before the abyss cracked wide open.


    [System Notification]


    Warning: Catalyst (Prince Cedric) reaching threshold


    Barrier Detected: Legendary Seal ¨C Rank SSS Arcane Lock


    Status: Indestructible under normal conditions


    They moved as one.


    Lysandra roared and charged. Evelyn flared her hands with an array of glowing spells. Victoria surged forward, fangs bared. Selena was right beside Damian, swords drawn. And Damian himself pushed through the raw buzzing of his own rage.


    But the moment they stepped over the edge of the summoning circle¡ª The seal hit.


    It wasn''t a physical wall.


    It was pressure.


    A weight that slammed down from all directions. Magic flared red, gold, black¡ªancient glyphs twisted in the air, then descended and snapped shut like jaws around them.


    Everything locked.


    Mana seized in their veins. Air went cold. Muscles trembled under arcane pressure that felt like it was grinding down their very souls.


    [System Notification]


    You have triggered: [Imperial Seal of the Black Scribe]


    Rank: Legendary


    Tier: SSS


    Effect: Absolute Suppression of All Mana Outside Ritual Authority


    Duration: Until Ritual Completion or Seal Destruction


    Warning: Your magic output has been reduced by 90%


    They were stuck.


    Victoria snarled, slamming her weapon into the barrier. "Break, damn you!"


    The impact echoed, but the seal shimmered, absorbed the hit¡ªand laughed.


    No, not the seal.


    Ralvek.


    He stood beyond it, robes swirling, blood-red tattoos now glowing across his arms and neck. The bastard actually laughed.


    "Oh, this is precious." He clasped his hands like he was watching a comedy. "Even together, even with your little dragon and vampire queen¡ªyou''re still pathetic."


    Damian gritted his teeth. The barrier burned against his mana. Like needles under his skin. His [Spectral Surge] couldn''t even flare. Even [Dispel]¡ªcompletely snuffed out.


    "Don''t even try, boy," Ralvek said. "This seal was designed to hold off empresses. You think a disgraced warlock and his harem can break it?"


    Lysandra hissed. "You''ll choke on your arrogance, rat."


    Ralvek only smiled wider. "Didn''t they tell you, Warlock? That all those crimes you were blamed for? That the world turned on you because of things you never did?"


    He stepped closer, arms wide. "I did them. I used your name, Kaelan. Every blood signature, every whisper, every stolen relic. It was me."


    Damian''s heart stopped for half a beat.


    "You..."


    "Oh yes," Ralvek nodded. "And when I saw you at that S-Rank exam, I knew." His voice dropped to a snarl. "That same spark. That same presence. You can change your face, Kaelan. But not your soul."


    Damian''s hands clenched. He wanted to rip the bastard apart.


    But Ralvek just kept going, cruel and smug.


    "And now look at you. Not even an SSS-ranked anymore. What a joke."


    He gestured to Cedric¡ªscreaming again, blood pouring faster into the runes.


    "You can''t even save him. You''re weak."


    And... he was right.


    Damian wasn''t SSS-ranked.


    He was SS. Barely holding it together with hybrid spellcasting, stolen time, and sheer spite.


    The seal pulsed again¡ªtightening.


    Inside him, the demon king''s voice boiled.


    ''I WILL NOT BE USED. I WILL NOT BE A TOOL FOR WORMS.''


    "Shut up," Damian muttered under his breath. "Shut up, I know¡ª"


    ''YOU WANT TO BREAK THIS SEAL?'' the demon king roared. ''THEN LET ME GIVE YOU WHAT IS MINE.''


    His core flared, wild and unstable.


    ''MY POWER. MY MANA. MY BODY¡ªTAKE IT BACK.''


    Damian flinched. "You''re talking about full release¡ª"


    ''YES. AND I DON''T CARE IF IT CORRUPTS YOU. TEAR. THEM. APART.''


    [System Alert!]


    Your Mana Core has been forcefully synchronized with the [Demon King''s Residual Soul].


    Unique Path Evolution Available


    Evolve into: [Dark Warlock ¨C Demon King''s Vessel]


    Rank Increase: SS -> SSS


    Warning: Corruption Level Will Rise Significantly


    You will lose partial control during combat


    Accept Evolution?


    [YES] | [NO]


    Damian stared at it.


    Evelyn was gasping on one knee, blood dripping from her lip. Lysandra was still throwing herself at the barrier. Victoria had a hand on Selena''s shoulder¡ªtrying to keep her calm even as tears streamed down her face watching Cedric suffer.


    Damian didn''t hesitate.


    [YES]


    [System Notification]


    Evolution Confirmed


    Class Evolved: [Dark Warlock ¨C Demon King''s Vessel]


    Rank: SSS


    Perks Unlocked: Wrathwell Core, Eternal Binding, Shadowflame Overload


    Skill Upgrade: All current abilities enhanced


    New Signature Skill Unlocked: [Hell''s Throne Unleashed]


    Everything broke.


    The pressure snapped off him like chains exploding outward. The seal groaned¡ªcracked¡ªthen shattered in a flare of black and crimson energy.


    Damian rose, back arched, cloak billowing, hair lifting like static. His veins glowed faintly red beneath his skin. His aura howled with dark power.


    Eyes locked on Ralvek.


    "Oh," Ralvek said, backing up a step. "That''s¡ª"


    Too late.


    [Shadow Step]


    Damian appeared in front of him.


    [Shadow Inferno Strike ¨C Overloaded]


    He launched forward with enough force to break the floor under him. The blast knocked Ralvek clean off his feet, slamming him into the summoning wall. The runes on the floor flickered.


    Cedric screamed again.


    Damian''s voice echoed like thunder. "Nobody. Uses. Me."


    Ralvek coughed blood, barely raising a hand. "Y-You... you''ll fall to it. That power. It''s not yours."


    Damian grinned. A dark, corrupted grin.


    "Guess we''ll see who falls first."


    Behind him, the others blinked¡ªstaring at him like he wasn''t entirely Damian anymore.


    "Okay," Victoria muttered. "That''s hot but terrifying."


    Evelyn whispered, "His mana just quadrupled. That''s not even normal SSS..."


    Selena''s lip trembled. "Damian...?"


    He didn''t turn back. He raised a hand.


    [Void Rift] ¡ª doubled in radius.


    [Crimson Dominion] ¡ª now drained everything within 30 meters.


    [Blood Manipulation] ¡ª exploded four cultists hiding behind the altar with one squeeze.


    "Help Cedric," he growled. "I''ll kill this bastard and destroy the array."


    Aria burst through the gate at that moment¡ªher body glowing with divine magic. "Damian!" she cried. "We''re out of time¡ª"


    "I know..."

 Chapter 431: Threat Tier: Mythic Calamity Class

    Warlock Ch 431. Threat Tier: Mythic Calamity Class


    They had seconds left.


    And Damian had just become the nightmare they never expected.


    Selena didn''t argue.


    The divine glow from her halo pulsed outward as she slammed her hands down on the binding vines wrapping Cedric. Holy magic laced through the demonic runes, burning them away like acid against rot.


    Selena and Damian moved to Cedric''s side, eyes narrowing as she slashed through the remaining bindings with a flick of telekinesis-enhanced force.


    [Telekinesis ¨C Amplified]


    [Dispel ¨C Corruption Override Variant]


    The final seal cracked with a scream.


    Cedric collapsed into Selena''s arms, pale, bloodied, eyes barely open. "S...Selena?" he rasped.


    "I got you, brother," Selena cried. "You''re safe. It''s over¡ª"


    But it wasn''t.


    Because behind them, the summoning circle roared to life.


    [System Notification]


    Ritual Core Detected: 100% Completion Achieved


    Summoning Triggered


    Forbidden Entity Manifesting: Binding Layer Shattered


    From the center of the formation, a fissure tore open in the floor. It didn''t crack¡ªit ripped, like paper torn through space itself.


    Black mist poured out, followed by a low, guttural growl that shook every bone in Damian''s body.


    Then... it rose.


    A massive figure¡ªtowering over what remained of the chamber, flesh carved from molten obsidian and bone-wrapped limbs forged from ancient beasts. Eyes like twin burning eclipses. Horns spiraling upward. A body covered in shifting runes and jagged wings unfurling to blot out the sky.


    [System Notification]


    Entity Summoned: Xhar''Thul, the World-Chain Ravager


    Level: ???


    Threat Tier: Mythic Calamity Class


    Known Abilities: ???


    Status: Incomplete Stabilization ¨C Core Link Not Secured


    "What the hell is that?!" Evelyn gasped, clutching the wall to keep from falling over.


    "A god?" Lysandra whispered, stunned. "No... worse."


    "Shit," Victoria muttered. "Ralvek summoned a World-Ender."


    But Ralvek¡ªstill bleeding, staggering, face twisted with triumph¡ªlaughed. "You think I summoned him for himself?"


    He raised his arms¡ªbloody, cracked¡ªand chanted a forbidden spell.


    No one could react in time.


    [System Notification]


    Forbidden Spell Cast: [Core Transfusion: Self-Sync ¨C Entity Override]


    Warning: User Ralvek is forcibly merging with Xhar''Thul''s mana core


    Synchronization Progress: 89%... 91%... 96%...


    "He''s fusing with it?" Aria breathed. "He''s going to become it!"


    "I''LL TAKE THIS POWER!" Ralvek screamed, as black tendrils wrapped around him, piercing his flesh and tethering him to the entity''s core. "ALL OF IT! I''LL BE MORE THAN GODS!"


    Then¡ª


    Everything exploded.


    The tower¡ªalready weakened¡ªshattered from the inside out. The blood moon above pulsed once¡ªand the top of the tower blew apart in a hellish spiral of crimson light, bone, magic, and debris.


    [System Notification]


    Vault Tower Destroyed ¨C Stability Lost


    Catastrophic Collapse Detected ¨C Initiating Emergency Anti-Fall Countermeasures


    Everyone was flung outward like ragdolls.


    Stone, steel, books, corpses¡ªspiraling into the air.


    Damian twisted mid-air, roaring.


    [Wind Step]


    [Arcane Platform]


    [Telekinesis Burst ¨C Stabilize]


    He managed to float¡ªbarely¡ªcreating a spiraling wave of wind and shadow to stop himself from falling. Aria too¡ªher wings spread wide, glowing, divine wind rippling around her as she hovered next to him.


    But below¡ªchaos.


    Hell had broken loose.


    The sky over Haven City was on fire.


    Vampire soldiers had arrived. Hundreds. Scarlet armor reflecting the blood moon as they engaged Ralvek''s remaining cult forces on the ground. Blasts of red magic, blades flashing in the smoke.


    But that wasn''t the worst of it.


    Because civilians were running.


    Soldiers of Haven''s guard were also fighting. Some thought the vampires were attackers. Others were already corrupted.


    It was full-on civil war.


    And in the midst of it¡ª


    Alric.


    Wounded, bleeding from his side, dragged a shield wall of Fae soldiers with him. Some elite guard. Others¡ªveteran chiefs from the southern branch.


    Cedric had been the sacrifice.


    Alric had been the decoy.


    They fought beside the vampires now, back-to-back in the streets as soldiers loyal to Ralvek''s faction bombarded the square.


    But Ralvek¡ªif he could call him Ralvek anymore¡ªwas above them all.


    The creature¡ªXhar''Thul¡ªtwisted and mutated, now shaped by Ralvek''s will.


    A dark colossus looming over the city.


    A god puppeted by hate.


    "...No," Damian muttered.


    His hands were shaking.


    "No," he said again, softer. "This... this can''t be happening again."


    The sky burned.


    Soldiers screamed.


    The tower was gone.


    The vampire soldiers¡ªthe Fae¡ªthe chaos.


    It was exactly like fifty years ago.


    Back when everything was taken from him. Back when his name¡ªKaelan¡ªwas buried in lies and rage.


    "Why is it happening again..."


    His voice broke.


    His knuckles whitened.


    Aria looked out over the burning city, then back to him. "Then let''s end it this time."


    Damian stared at her for a second¡ªhovering in midair, wind magic swirling around his boots, his corrupted aura flickering like a storm barely restrained.


    "You say that like it''s easy," he said flatly. "We''ve got a god-puppet stomping through Haven, vampire soldiers clashing with civilians, and a literal world-ending spell still active below us."


    She didn''t waver. "This time you aren''t alone. You have your friends. You have me. I''m on your side now."


    He laughed¡ªbitter and raw. "And that''s supposed to make me feel better?"


    Her eyes didn''t leave his. "You never know."


    His corrupted aura flared again¡ªflames and shadows coiling together like serpents hungry for war. The demon king inside him said nothing this time. Only watched. Waiting.


    Then Damian growled, twisting midair to face the abomination still towering over the city.


    "Fine," he muttered. "Let''s see how long it takes me to break a god."


    He raised his hand.


    The sky cracked.


    [Skill Activation: Hell''s Throne Unleashed]


    [Status: FULL MANA DUMP ¨C DARK DOMINION AMPLIFIED]


    [Effect: Summon the Warlock''s Throne of Destruction. All Dark and Fire Spells boosted by 300%. Duration: 90 seconds. Corruption Surge: +15%]


    The air tore open behind him, and a massive throne forged from black stone and burning chains slammed into the sky. At its base¡ªblazing lava. Above it¡ªcrowns of bone and blood spinning in the air like orbiting runes. The entire sky bent around it.


    Damian floated above it, eyes glowing red, hands clenched into fists as the throne poured waves of power into his body. His voice was layered now, both his and the demon king''s¡ªfused into one.


    "Guys¡ªfocus fire on the abomination''s legs!" he roared. "We bring it down before it tears the city in half!"


    Below, the battlefield was hell.

 Chapter 432: Drained

    Warlock Ch 432. Drained


    Screams echoed between buildings. Smoke rose in choking plumes. Magic detonations cracked the air as vampire soldiers clashed with Haven guards still under Ralvek''s control. Fae soldiers formed tight formations, trying to cover civilians as they fled in all directions.


    Xhar''Thul roared.


    Its breath was like a hurricane of dark magic. Buildings shattered under the shockwave. Blood exploded from anyone too close, their lifeforce drained instantly.


    Then it moved.


    One step¡ªand a shockwave shattered the closest plaza, sending carts, bodies, and stone flying.


    Another step¡ªand a vampiric commander was crushed under its foot.


    Aria surged forward¡ªspinning in the air like a falling comet.


    [Skill Activation: Elemental Convergence ¨C Meteor Lance]


    She conjured a massive lance of blazing magma and hurled it down, piercing Xhar''Thul''s upper shoulder. Lava exploded on impact, the beast''s corrupted flesh boiling. It roared again, twisting its claw toward her.


    [Infernal Javelins¨C Enhanced]


    A hundred spears of fire and corrosion spiraled into the air around Damian and launched as one, homing in with screaming force. They impacted the beast''s face and upper chest¡ªexploding in waves of searing flame. Chunks of corrupted flesh flew in every direction.


    "Keep hitting it!" he shouted. "We crack the armor!"


    [Shadow Step]


    [Hellfire Spear ¨C Manifest Weapon Mode]


    In a blink, Damian was on the beast''s back¡ªhis new weapon in hand. It was less a spear and more a polearm of pure rage¡ªblack metal shaft, burning red blade, and heat that made the air scream.


    He drove it into Xhar''Thul''s nape.


    Sparks flew.


    Black blood sprayed across his face, hissing as it hit his corrupted armor.


    [Bloodwell Surge]


    Energy flowed into him from the wound, the warlock gritting his teeth as it poured into his veins like molten fire.


    But the creature bucked¡ªhard.


    Damian flew, barely catching himself with wind magic before hitting a collapsing tower.


    Aria followed up with a series of sharp elemental attacks¡ªice spears, thunderous slashes, a tempest that tried to throw the creature off balance. It worked¡ªbarely. They were holding it, keeping it from advancing deeper into the city.


    But they were bleeding mana.


    "Where the hell are the reinforcements?!" Victoria shouted as she cut through another cultist leaping from a rooftop. "I can''t tank a sky-sized tentacle monster all night!"


    "They''re coming!" Selena called back, flinging fae blades into the air, which burst into beams of searing green mana. "The vanguard said five minutes!"


    "WE DON''T HAVE FIVE MINUTES!"


    Another explosion rocked the square. A vampire mage screamed as they were flung against a wall and exploded from inside¡ªsome kind of curse activated by Ralvek''s residual magic.


    Then Xhar''Thul extended its arms wide¡ªand the runes across its chest began to burn white.


    [System Notification]


    World-Chain Compression Spell Charging


    Effect: Reality Collapse Pulse


    Estimated Casualties: 92% within radius


    Time to Detonation: 18 seconds


    "Oh, hell no," Damian snarled.


    He shot back into the sky, flames and shadow trailing behind him.


    [Eternal Shadow Nova ¨C Enhanced by Hell''s Throne]


    A burst of pure darkness exploded from his hands. A dome of shadow enveloped the area around the beast''s chest¡ªsapping its spell, disrupting the runes, choking out the ritual mid-cast.


    The spell failed. The light dimmed.


    But the cost¡ªhis vision spun. His body shook. Blood leaked from his nose.


    [System Alert]


    Corruption Level: 49% ¨C Warning: Mana Sync Overheating


    He dropped to one knee midair.


    Aria caught him with a rush of wind. "Damian!"


    "I''m fine," he coughed. "Just¡ªjust keep pressure on it."


    They dove again, side by side¡ªDamian wielding his Hellfire Spear like a scythe, Aria conjuring a blade of wind and frost.


    They slashed through one of Xhar''Thul''s tendons.


    It screamed¡ªa sound that made the ground crack and windows explode for blocks.


    From below, Evelyn launched a barrage of arcane chains upward. Lysandra dove from a broken rooftop and plunged her sword into its ankle, twisting until black fluid sprayed like a geyser. Victoria hurled her glaive again, pinning the beast''s right arm.


    It staggered.


    It reeled.


    But it didn''t fall.


    Its body¡ªthough battered and gushing cursed ichor¡ªstill moved with rage. Its eyes locked on Damian again, and its chest flared.


    Not another spell.


    A beam.


    A raw, reality-tearing beam charged from the center of its core.


    [System Notification]


    Cataclysm Breath Charging: 10 Seconds


    Aria''s eyes widened. "It''s going to¡ª"


    "I KNOW!" Damian shouted.


    He raised both hands.


    Every spell he had.


    Every drop of mana he could drain.


    Every rage the demon king had ever bottled.


    [Skill Combo Activation]


    [Shadow Barrier ]


    [Bloodforge Aura]


    [Void Rift ]


    [Mystic Veil ]


    He threw it all at the incoming energy¡ªlayered shields, distortions, blood-absorbing walls, nullification fields. The light from Xhar''Thul''s beam slammed into it¡ª And it held.


    Just barely.


    Screams rang out below. Fire spiraled through the streets. Even more buildings crumbled as the shockwave rippled across the city.


    But they weren''t dead.


    Damian''s armor was cracked. His spear flickered. But he was still flying.


    So was Aria.


    "Still think you''re alone?" she said, panting, bruised, but smiling.


    Damian spat blood.


    "No. Not this time."


    And they dove again, into the chaos. Into the war.


    Wind screamed past Damian''s ears as his body sliced through the air. Blood¡ªhis blood¡ªleft a jagged red trail behind him. His armor was cracked, pieces missing along the shoulder and side. His left gauntlet hung by a strap, the plating melted by one of Xhar''Thul''s last dark flame pulses. The pain was constant now¡ªdeep, gnawing, and relentless¡ªbut he didn''t stop.


    He couldn''t.


    Because below him, Evelyn''s body was pinned beneath the rubble of a collapsed tower. Lysandra was on one knee, her wings burned and tattered from the last impact. Selena was breathing heavily, her aura flickering, and Victoria¡ªVictoria was still standing, barely, covered in ash and ichor, blade arm trembling as she shielded a collapsed group of vampire soldiers who had sworn to follow her.


    Damian couldn''t let them die.


    He wouldn''t.


    Even as the creature roared again¡ªXhar''Thul''s corrupted, fused voice echoing from across the torn battlefield like a broken cathedral bell. Every word it spoke now had Ralvek''s mocking undertone twisted into it.

 Chapter 433: You’re Not Even a God

    Warlock Ch 433. You''re Not Even a God


    "Little warlock... burning yourself alive to protect them?"


    The beast''s chest pulsed with sickly light. "You''re not a king. You''re not even a god. You''re just a broken thing wearing a dead man''s rage."


    Damian coughed violently, black-red blood hitting the back of his hand. His vision flickered. Mana crackled¡ªbut barely. His reserve was low. Too low.


    [System Alert]


    Mana Reserve: 7%


    Status: Internal Bleeding Detected


    Warning: You are under the effect of [Soul Burn] and [Crimson Drain]


    He floated in place¡ªhovering above the shattered skyline, watching the destruction unfold. Haven was dying. Fires lit every street. Screams, explosions, the stench of charred bone and shattered stone. Magic residue clung to every surface, tasting like copper and dust. It was suffocating.


    "I don''t care..." he muttered, low and hoarse. "Say what you want. Just... don''t touch them."


    Xhar''Thul laughed. The sound split the sky. "And yet you bleed for them. Weak."


    The creature lunged.


    Its arm, now twisted into a claw of dark bone and molten crystal, shot toward Aria¡ªwho was casting a healing barrier over Evelyn.


    Damian didn''t think.


    He moved.


    [Telekinesis ¨C Full Burst]


    [Shadow Step]


    [Emergency Boost Triggered ¨C Corrupted Reserves Accessed]


    He flashed in front of her, shoulder-first, body arching as the claw struck him instead.


    Bone cracked. Flesh tore. His body slammed into the pavement like a meteor.


    Everything went dark.


    The pain that came next was too much to scream. His ribs¡ªgone. Left side¡ªcrushed. Vision¡ªflickering. Blood filled his mouth.


    And he smiled through it.


    Because Aria was still standing. Evelyn, breathing. The others¡ªstill fighting.


    [System Notification]


    Critical Injury: Chest Plate Shattered. Internal Trauma Detected.


    You are now in [Last Stand] mode


    Skill Available: [Demon King''s Wrath: Absolute Sacrifice]


    Use at your own risk. Life Force will be consumed.


    Damian blinked through blood. Something hot trailed down his cheek. He wasn''t sure if it was a tear or his own body giving out. Somewhere above him, the throne flickered¡ªits power waning.


    He looked up. The beast loomed. Its core glowed again¡ªcharging another world-ending pulse.


    It was going to kill them.


    Unless he stood.


    His arm twitched.


    Then another.


    And then, his fingers dug into the broken earth. He pushed. Slow. Agonizing.


    Blood dripped from his chin, but his voice came out low, guttural.


    "...you don''t... get to win."


    [Shadow Step]


    [Override: Physical Threshold Ignored ¨C Demon King''s Core Engaged]


    [Shadow Step Successful]


    He blinked from the crater¡ªstraight into the sky again.


    Rising like smoke. Glowing like a dying star.


    Victoria saw him first. Her eyes widened. "Damian?!"


    Aria gasped. "No¡ªhe''s too¡ª"


    "I''m fine," he grunted, voice shaking. "One more shot. I''ve got one more left in me."


    Selena''s eyes welled up. "Damian, stop! Please!"


    He looked at her¡ªreally looked. The panic. The desperation. The love.


    And still¡ªhe smiled.


    "I''m not dying until I make that bastard suffer."


    He raised his weapon¡ªwhat was left of the Hellfire Spear.


    It was cracked now, burning wild. Too much power.


    Good.


    [Infernal Javelins ¨C Overloaded ¨C All Remaining Mana Injected]


    [Shadow Inferno Strike ¨C Final Tier Variant]


    [Custom Spell Triggered: Blood Oath Burst]


    He flew.


    The world twisted behind him.


    Xhar''Thul turned to face him just as he slammed the burning weapon into its chest.


    There was a moment.


    A brief silence.


    Then¡ª


    The sky detonated.


    An explosion of fire, darkness, and raw soul energy engulfed the beast. The shockwave leveled buildings. Streets split. Magic rippled outward, igniting the entire skyline in a dome of destruction.


    Every soldier on the field was knocked off their feet.


    Even Aria had to raise a holy shield to survive the backdraft.


    When the smoke cleared¡ª Damian floated.


    Barely.


    His body... broken. His armor¡ªgone in places. One eye swollen shut. Blood leaking from his ears. His mouth was a line of red.


    But he still held his weapon.


    He still stood.


    The creature¡ªXhar''Thul¡ªreeled. Its chest gaping. Its right arm gone.


    But it wasn''t dead.


    It screamed. A sound that made the clouds tear open.


    And then it lunged.


    Straight for Damian.


    The world slowed.


    He couldn''t move.


    His body was done.


    No more mana.


    No more strength.


    He closed his eyes.


    "Guess this is it..."


    But then¡ª


    Something grabbed him.


    Aria.


    Her arms around his waist. Her wind spells howled around them.


    "I''ve got you."


    He blinked, dazed. "You''re... insane."


    "I know," she whispered. "But you''re not allowed to die yet."


    Below, Lysandra threw herself into the creature''s path, roaring, unleashing a wave of frost strong enough to crack its legs. Victoria followed, hurling her glaive into its eye. Evelyn¡ªbloodied and barely conscious¡ªcast a pulse of energy to knock back the monsters crawling from the ruins.


    Even Selena ran¡ªscreaming his name¡ªtoward him.


    It was chaos. A storm of flame, blood, love, and war.


    And Damian¡ªbroken, shattered, and barely alive¡ªwatched his people fight.


    Not for power.


    Not for glory.


    But for him.


    Tears burned down his cheek.


    He laughed, broken and cracked.


    "Look at this..." he rasped bitterly, the taste of iron heavy in his mouth. "After all this... we''re still gonna lose."


    Xhar''Thul towered above him, its twisted form pulsing with chaotic dark mana. The monstrous entity''s chest heaved, black ichor dripping from countless wounds inflicted by his desperate, battered allies. Yet, still, it stood.


    Its eyes¡ªtwo burning eclipses filled with hate¡ªfocused entirely on him now. Damian was its primary target, its true threat. He was the only one who ever truly hurt it.


    And now, with nothing left¡ªno mana, no strength¡ªDamian knew exactly how this would end.


    Or so he thought.


    As the creature surged forward again, a shadow flashed across his vision. A familiar, ragged cloak fluttered wildly through the air.


    "Cassius...?" Damian breathed, heart seizing in panic. "What are you doing?!"


    Cassius¡ªbattered, bloodied, and shaking¡ªstood defiant in the monster''s path, his dark magic sparking around him. His eyes, narrowed with a tired, resigned fury, glinted under his tangled hair.


    His voice echoed over the chaos, firm despite the exhaustion.


    "Keeping you alive, idiot!" he shouted. "You can''t have all the glory!"

 Chapter 434: Soul Sacrifice

    Warlock Ch 434. Soul Sacrifice


    At his command, Valorian¡ªhis mighty Guardian¡ªsurged forward. Valorian, once proud and strong, charged with his blade shimmering like obsidian fire. But the battle had taken its toll; the Guardian''s armor shattered, his form fading, flickering in and out of existence.


    Cassius shouted, voice raw with emotion, "Go, Valorian!"


    Valorian roared, slamming into Xhar''Thul with a force that sent tremors throughout the shattered battlefield. Damian could only watch helplessly as the Guardian swung his weapon wildly, striking the creature''s colossal form again and again¡ªeach blow less powerful, each strike dimmer, until finally...


    Valorian shattered.


    His massive, proud form burst into a cloud of ash and embers. Damian''s chest tightened painfully at the sight.


    Cassius staggered, coughing violently. Blood splattered from his lips, staining the cracked ground. He swayed, but his eyes never left Damian.


    "You better win now," he growled weakly. "Don''t you dare let this be for nothing."


    Damian''s heart clenched as he saw Cassius crumble to his knees, the stubborn bastard refusing to fall completely. Cassius still knelt defiantly, mana flickering weakly around his trembling form.


    Nearby, Varak, Damian''s monstrous Crimson Devourer, let out one last haunting roar¡ªonly to disintegrate slowly into a storm of crimson dust that scattered helplessly in the wind.


    Damian''s breath hitched. His summoned beast¡ªone of his most powerful servants¡ªgone.


    He forced his gaze across what was left of Haven City. Half the city was gone. Buildings were flattened, reduced to piles of rubble and ash. Fire blazed everywhere, devouring everything in sight. Bodies littered the streets, twisted and broken. The stench of burnt flesh and blood choked the air, making every breath feel like glass shredding his lungs.


    Then Damian''s eyes fell on Alric, desperately dragging Cedric''s unconscious body away from the chaos, his steps faltering, limping badly, eyes wild with desperation.


    But deep down, Damian knew there was nowhere left. Haven was crumbling. Safety was a forgotten dream. And still, Alric pressed forward, refusing to let go of Cedric.


    Damian''s grip on his spear tightened. The weapon was dimmed, almost shattered, its fiery glow nothing more than a dying ember now.


    And that creature¡ªXhar''Thul, its form writhing and monstrous¡ªloomed over them, unstoppable. Damian''s jaw clenched, anger and helplessness boiling inside him.


    He refused to accept this.


    He refused to lose.


    In a moment of clarity, he remembered. One final desperate act he could make. One last forbidden skill, locked deep in the darkest recesses of his soul.


    [Soul Sacrifice ¨C Skill Available]


    Damian felt the truth of it, cold and certain. He knew the cost¡ªhis very soul¡ªand yet he felt no fear, no hesitation.


    Just resignation.


    He raised his shattered Hellfire Spear, his bloodied hand gripping the weapon so tightly the edges dug painfully into his palm. Mana¡ªpure, raw, corrupted¡ªpulsed through him one final time, ignited by the power of his own soul, burning hotter than ever.


    Damian''s body no longer ached. The pain, exhaustion, the bleeding¡ªeverything faded, replaced by eerie stillness. He stood tall, straight, steady. His heartbeat slowed, calm and determined.


    The Hellfire Spear pulsed once, twice, and ignited into brilliant golden-red flames, reborn as a god-tier weapon, radiating destructive power.


    [Hellfire Spear: God-tier Mode Activated]


    [Countdown Initiated: 60 seconds]


    Xhar''Thul roared defiantly, sensing the sudden, impossible shift in Damian''s aura. The beast lunged, its massive limbs sweeping through the air, aimed to crush him once and for all.


    Damian moved with unnatural speed, dodging the blow effortlessly, the spear cutting through the beast''s claw like hot steel through butter. Black blood sprayed, sizzling upon contact with Damian''s blazing aura.


    Another strike came, faster and more furious. Damian countered it again, parrying and weaving through every brutal attack. They danced around each other, a blur of motion¡ªgod versus warlock, titan versus man.


    30 seconds.


    Damian thrust the spear deep into the monster''s flank, flames exploding outwards, searing the corrupted flesh. Xhar''Thul screamed¡ªa deep, furious roar that shook the ground.


    But it wouldn''t stop. Couldn''t stop. Both combatants fought with savage desperation, exchanging brutal blows that sent shockwaves rippling across the battlefield.


    15 seconds.


    Damian lunged again, a searing arc of flame carving through the creature''s shoulder, tearing through bone and muscle. Yet the beast''s other limb slammed into him, sending him crashing into a half-ruined building. He burst from the rubble, barely slowing, surging forward again.


    10 seconds.


    Xhar''Thul lashed out violently, slamming Damian again and again. Each blow fractured bones, but Damian felt no pain, no hesitation¡ªhe was beyond that now. His spear flashed through the air, cleaving deep into the monster''s torso.


    5 seconds.


    He saw it then¡ªthe core. Deep within the monster''s chest, glowing, pulsing¡ªa twisted knot of energy where Ralvek''s mana core was merging with Xhar''Thul''s ancient core.


    Damian launched himself forward, everything he had left poured into this final attack. His voice roared across the battlefield.


    "This ends now!"


    3...


    His spear burst forward like a comet.


    2...


    He sliced through the beast''s chest, cleaving flesh and bone.


    1...


    His weapon pierced the twin cores, skewering them, erupting in blinding white fire that shattered the darkness.


    0...


    An explosion of raw energy flung Damian backward, crashing him brutally against the earth. He lay there, gasping, vision flickering between blackness and painful bursts of light.


    Yet despite his effort, despite sacrificing his very soul, he had only managed to destroy Ralvek''s mana core¡ªnot the creature''s.


    Xhar''Thul still stood, staggering, weakened, but alive. Its roar filled the sky, shaking the ruins of Haven City.


    He had destroyed Ralvek, shattered his corrupted mana core, but the monster remained. It also had its own consciousness.


    Damian''s hand twitched weakly at his side, fingers brushing against the broken shards of his once mighty Hellfire Spear. The weapon¡ªnow little more than dull fragments of twisted metal and flickering embers¡ªfelt cold against his bloodied skin.


    His mana was depleted. His body broken beyond measure.


    But there was still one thing left...


    "Soul... Seal," he rasped the forbidden spell''s name, bitter on his tongue. It was the same incantation he had used decades ago to lock away the Demon King''s soul deep within his own mana core. A spell that tore the soul apart, bound it, contained it in a cage of pure mana and sheer willpower.


    A spell that nearly killed him last time.

 Chapter 435: Soul Seal

    Warlock Ch 435. Soul Seal


    Damian''s cracked lips twisted into a bitter, broken smile.


    "Yeah... why not," he muttered darkly. "What''s one more monster?"


    With a final surge of defiance, he dug deep¡ªdeeper than ever before¡ªand touched that wellspring of corrupted mana still coiled inside him. The Demon King''s trapped soul hissed angrily within, but even it recoiled from what Damian was about to do.


    With a shuddering breath, he forced himself upright, bones grinding painfully. Blood spilled fresh from reopened wounds, staining the ground. He staggered forward, each step agony. But he didn''t stop. He couldn''t.


    Xhar''Thul, sensing Damian''s intent, twisted its broken form toward him. The creature''s molten eyes narrowed with a mocking glare.


    Damian didn''t answer. He didn''t have the breath to waste on words.


    Instead, he lunged, blood and pain forgotten for a single, reckless heartbeat. His hand outstretched, clawing forward into the swirling dark energy emanating from the gaping wound in Xhar''Thul''s chest. The world dissolved around him into searing agony as he reached directly for the creature''s exposed mana core.


    His fingers made contact.


    And his world erupted in torment.


    The mana core flared violently, its monstrous power pouring directly into Damian''s battered form, flooding him in a torrent of chaotic, brutal magic. It felt like molten steel pouring through his veins, burning him from the inside out.


    Damian screamed¡ªraw, primal, the sound tearing free from his throat. Every nerve in his body lit up in unbearable agony, every fiber of his being crying out in protest. The Demon King''s trapped soul writhed in his core, its rage eclipsed only by its desperation to escape this new, monstrous power flooding their shared cage.


    "Damian!" someone cried out¡ªEvelyn, distant yet somehow crystal-clear through the pain.


    He didn''t respond, couldn''t even acknowledge her voice as he focused everything he had left on the spell.


    "[Soul Seal]!" Damian roared again, voice breaking, tears of blood streaming down his cheeks.


    [Soul Sacrifice Triggered]


    You have used 95% of your soul essence to invoke [Soul Seal] on a Mythic Entity.


    WARNING: Irreversible backlash imminent.


    Target: [Xhar''Thul ¨C The World-Chain Ravager]


    Status: RESTRAINED (87%) ¨C RESISTING (Aggressive)


    [Soul Seal ¨C Phase III Initiated...]


    Binding the Myth Core...


    [WARNING: Host body integrity below 12%]


    Proceeding with Forced Imprint.


    The creature''s mana core pulsed violently once more, resisting. Damian felt it push back, wave after crushing wave, each blow threatening to tear him apart at the seams. His vision blackened, edges fading, consciousness barely holding.


    But still, he gripped it. Held it. Refused to let go.


    "You¡ª" Xhar''Thul''s voice distorted, weaker, confused, enraged. "What... are you¡ª"


    Damian screamed again, louder, rawer, voice echoing through the sky as he forced the core into submission. His mana surged one final, desperate time, the remains of his shattered core flaring brightly.


    "I''m taking you with me, bastard!" he roared.


    With a final, desperate surge, Damian locked the creature''s core inside his own.


    A deafening silence fell.


    Xhar''Thul froze, its monstrous form suddenly still. The fires consuming it dimmed, sputtered, and then vanished entirely. The towering beast teetered precariously, its massive form swaying drunkenly. And then, without ceremony, it collapsed. The earth trembled violently beneath the impact, dust and ash clouding the air, choking everything in a haze of smoke.


    Damian''s body crumpled like a puppet with its strings severed, falling limply from the sky. He hit the broken ground hard, rolling painfully, coming to rest amidst the shattered ruins. Dust settled slowly around him, soft, quiet.


    Pain pulsed through every fiber of his being¡ªagony so intense it felt surreal, distant. Blood pooled rapidly beneath him, warm and thick.


    Yet somehow, impossibly, he was still alive.


    [System Notification]


    [Soul Seal Successful]


    [Legendary Creature: Xhar''Thul, World-Chain Ravager ¨C Soul Locked Successfully]


    [Your Soul and Mana Core Have Merged and Stabilized]


    [Level MAX Achieved ¨C All Attributes Enhanced to SSS]


    [Warning: Severe Physical Damage Detected ¨C Recovery Urgently Required]


    Damian felt the raw power still churning within him, burning him slowly from the inside. His heart thudded weakly in his chest, each beat slower, more painful.


    Around him, the chaos slowly dispersed. Enemy forces fled, broken and scattered. Allies stumbled, dazed, confused, but victorious. The battle was won¡ªbut at what cost?


    "Damian!" Evelyn''s voice broke the silence, frantic, terrified.


    She appeared through the dust, sprinting desperately toward him, tripping over debris. Her pale face streaked with blood and soot, her violet eyes wide, frantic. She collapsed beside him, trembling hands clutching at his broken form.


    "Please¡ªDamian!" she begged, voice trembling violently, tears streaming unchecked down her face. "Don''t¡ªdon''t leave me! Drink this, please!"


    She pressed a healing potion desperately against his cracked, bloodied lips. Damian tried¡ªhe tried so hard¡ªbut instead he coughed, choking weakly on blood and potion alike. It dribbled uselessly down his chin, mingling with blood and ash.


    "Can''t... can''t swallow...,"Damian rasped, barely audible.


    "Stop talking!" she sobbed, panic rising. Her eyes darted around, frantic, searching for someone, anyone, who could help. "Someone¡ªplease¡ª!"


    But Damian''s eyes were already glazing over, distant and unfocused. His chest barely rose and fell with shallow, ragged breaths. Each inhale was weaker, shallower, a fragile promise that the next breath might never come.


    Evelyn held him close, panic screaming through every muscle, every vein. Her hands trembled violently, covered in his blood and her tears, mingling together, staining the ruined earth around them.


    "Damian..." she whispered brokenly, pleading desperately as if her voice could tether him to the living world. "Please, don''t go... You promised me¡ªyou promised us..."


    Damian heard her distantly, her voice barely breaking through the deepening silence inside him. He felt like he was sinking, drifting further from reality, slipping deeper into darkness, memories blurring with the present. It was getting harder to hold on, each heartbeat weaker than the last.


    "Move," came a sharp, commanding voice behind her. Victoria knelt swiftly at Damian''s other side, her once-pristine gown torn and bloodstained, her normally fierce eyes now wide and panicked. Without hesitation, she bit deep into her wrist, her fangs tearing open pale flesh, crimson blood spilling forth.


    "Damian, you''re not dying here. Not today," she growled fiercely, pressing her bleeding wrist against his lips. "[Well of Blood]¡ªtake it, Damian. Take my strength. Take everything!"

 Chapter 436: Immortality

    Warlock Ch 436. Immortality


    Blood, potent and rich with vampire vitality, seeped past Damian''s cracked lips. But he coughed weakly, choking again. His body refused even this last lifeline, spilling Victoria''s precious blood uselessly down his chin.


    "No!" Victoria cried out in frustration and panic, her eyes wild. "Why won''t you just drink, damn it! Don''t do this to us!"


    "It''s... not working," Evelyn whispered, her voice quivering, empty and hollow as hope slipped through her fingers.


    Selena burst through the smoke, hair disheveled, eyes frantic and desperate. She stumbled to Damian''s side, dropping to her knees as she fumbled for the vial hidden deep in her robes. The glass shimmered with a silvery-blue glow, her trembling hands nearly dropping it as she uncorked it swiftly.


    "This is... the strongest elixir of the Fae," Selena gasped breathlessly, her voice a shaking whisper as tears spilled unchecked down her cheeks. "My father kept it hidden for emergencies... I stole it. It¡ªit has to work... it has to!"


    She poured it carefully, desperately, into Damian''s mouth, every last precious drop. But the potion simply trickled uselessly down his throat, his body too weak to accept even this. He convulsed once, sharply, then lay still again, eyes dimming further.


    Lysandra arrived, landing heavily beside them, wings battered and broken, scales stained black with smoke and soot. Her eyes shone with quiet devastation. She kneeled down slowly, her normally steady hands trembling slightly. But she had nothing¡ªno miracle potion, no healing skill¡ªto offer. Only her silent, unwavering grief.


    "Damian..." Lysandra whispered softly, voice thick and rough. "You stubborn, reckless fool..."


    Aria staggered forward next, her white robes now filthy, torn, smeared with blood and grime. Her pale hands glowed softly with pure, elemental magic. But as she reached out, the glow flickered, sputtered, and died instantly.


    Her breath hitched sharply, pain flashing across her face. She gasped, falling to one knee, clutching at her chest as the mana violently rejected her.


    "No... not now," Aria whispered, tears streaming freely down her cheeks. "Not now! Please... Damian, I¡ªI''m sorry, my power... I can''t¡ª" She broke into quiet, painful sobs, shaking with guilt and helpless frustration.


    Damian lay unmoving, distant. Their voices faded away, melting into a distant hum as his mind wandered further back, beyond this battlefield, beyond this world of magic and monsters.


    He thought about his life, so distant now it felt like someone else''s dream. A small, dimly lit bar tucked away in a quiet corner of the city. He remembered the gentle clink of glasses, the comforting hum of quiet conversation, the low laughter of familiar customers. The smell of his freshly made cocktails, the soft murmur of his coworkers trading jokes behind the counter.


    Funny... After everything he''d faced¡ªthe wars, the monsters, the impossible battles¡ªthis quiet, mundane life was what he missed the most.


    He smiled faintly, wistful and sad.


    If this was the end, maybe that wouldn''t be so bad. Maybe he could finally rest.


    "Damian!"


    The voice snapped him back, pulling him sharply from memories into harsh reality. Alric appeared, bloodied and battered, dragging Cedric alongside him. The Fae prince looked ragged, pale, barely conscious¡ªbut alive, thanks to a rapidly consumed elixir.


    Alric stumbled forward, eyes wide and frantic, then sank to his knees, gasping raggedly.


    Cedric stepped forward, unsteady, but resolute. His gaze was firm, clear despite his injuries.


    "I never thought... I''d have to use this on you," Cedric whispered hoarsely, pulling something carefully from inside his torn robes. A scroll. The scroll Damian had seen in his vision when he tracked down Cedric.


    Cedric''s fingers shook slightly as he unrolled the parchment carefully. "Ralvek intended to use this scroll to make that creature immortal," he explained quietly. "I stole it. Swapped it with a fake. That''s why it never became truly immortal. Now..."


    His voice trailed off. Cedric''s pale hand hovered briefly over the scroll, his gaze settling on Damian with fierce determination. "Now... I''ll use it for someone who deserves it."


    Cedric sliced open his palm, spilling royal fae blood onto the ancient parchment. The scroll glowed brightly, golden magic rising like a gentle sunburst.


    "[Elysian Rebirth]," Cedric intoned firmly, voice shaking slightly as he focused all his remaining strength. "Let life return anew, boundless, undying. Give immortality to he who deserves it!"


    Magic surged violently from the scroll, golden light exploding outward. Evelyn, Victoria, Selena, Lysandra, and Aria shielded their eyes against its intensity, gasping as the wave of warmth and power surged through the air.


    The glow enveloped Damian gently, lifting him slightly from the ground. His shattered form bathed in light, the raw power infusing every broken bone, every torn muscle, every fading heartbeat.


    For a moment, silence filled the battlefield. Time itself paused, holding its breath.


    [System Notification]


    [Unique Soul Detected: Royal Fae Blood Imprint Verified]


    [Ancient Scroll ¨C "Elysian Rebirth" Activated]


    [Target: Damian Blackthorn]


    [Effect: Immortality Granted , Soul Restoration , Full Body Regeneration]


    [Warning: This effect is irreversible. New status: Immortal Vessel ¨C Bound to Fate]


    [Congratulations. You are no longer bound by time.]


    Then Damian gasped, his body arching sharply off the ground as immortality surged fiercely through him, knitting flesh and bone back together. His wounds slowly closed, the ragged, gaping injuries fading. The pale, deathly pallor vanished, replaced by healthy warmth.


    The light faded slowly, leaving Damian lying gently upon the ruined earth, his breathing steady again, his heart beating strong.


    Evelyn sobbed openly, laughing through her tears, clutching desperately at his now-healed hand. "You¡ªyou idiot! You stupid, reckless, idiot..."


    Victoria''s face crumpled with relief, her trembling hands pressing against her lips to stop her own tears. Selena wept quietly, smiling softly. Lysandra let out a slow, deep breath, closing her eyes in silent gratitude.


    Aria simply smiled, quiet tears streaming unchecked down her face.


    Cedric sank slowly to his knees, smiling faintly. "I guess... it was worth stealing that scroll after all."


    Damian opened his eyes slowly, blinking against the faint haze. Faces hovered above him, blurred but quickly sharpening into focus. Familiar, beloved faces. Relief. Love. Gratitude.

 Chapter 437: Perfect Scapegoat

    Warlock Ch 437. Perfect Scapegoat


    Evelyn''s worried eyes locked onto his, her trembling lips breaking into a radiant, relieved smile.


    "Damian... you¡ªyou''re here. You''re back."


    Damian exhaled slowly, feeling warmth, feeling life again. His lips curled gently upward, a faint smile¡ªreal, genuine, and finally free of pain.


    "Hey..." he whispered softly, voice rough but clear. "Guess... I''m not allowed to die after all, huh?"


    Evelyn laughed tearfully, pressing her forehead gently to his. "No. Never again."


    Damian squeezed her hand gently, warmth and gratitude radiating through him.


    He was alive. Truly, impossibly alive.


    And for the first time in far too long, Damian let himself believe he might actually deserve it.


    His breathing had evened out, the pain finally faded, and the world¡ªstill scorched, broken, burning¡ªfelt strangely quiet in this one fragile moment. Around him, his friends had gathered, clinging to the hope they thought they''d lost.


    But then¡ª


    A sharp, metallic screech cut through the silence.


    Boots stomped against cracked stone. Armor clinked in unison. A deep, controlled voice barked commands from the distance. The sound grew louder. Closer.


    The backup had arrived.


    Damian''s hand instinctively went to his side, where his weapon should''ve been. But his Hellfire Spear had shattered, and his limbs still trembled from the soul-sealing agony. He wasn''t ready for another fight.


    The air thickened again, and not from smoke this time.


    Evelyn turned sharply. "What the hell now?"


    From the thick dust emerged at least a dozen figures¡ªarmored, glowing, powerful. Reinforcements. Or so they should''ve been.


    But their eyes locked not on the ruined battlefield. Not on the fallen creature.


    They locked on him.


    "That''s him," one of them spat, voice laced with venom. "Kaelan."


    Damian''s heart sank.


    Another senator stepped forward, flanked by mages in dark red ceremonial robes. They pointed directly at him, faces twisted in a mix of awe, fear, and deep-rooted hatred.


    "It''s true then," one of the robed men hissed. "He survived. The Evil One still walks."


    Evelyn''s body shifted protectively in front of Damian before he could even move. "The hell he does," she snapped. "He just saved all your damn lives."


    But they didn''t listen.


    "You dare defend him?" barked the first senator. "This man, this Kaelan, committed unspeakable crimes. He stole sacred artifacts. Desecrated relics. Brought death to royal lines. Now you shield him?"


    Damian slowly pulled himself to a seated position, his eyes dull. There was no fire left in them. Only something old. Tired.


    He opened his mouth. "I didn''t do those things," he said quietly. "You know I didn''t."


    But they didn''t care.


    "You''ll speak for yourself before the Grand Tribunal," the lead senator said coldly. "You will be bound. Stripped of your mana. And judged."


    Damian let out a soft laugh.


    Not angry. Not even bitter.


    Just... ironic.


    "Even with rebirth," he whispered to himself, "it''s the same again..."


    Same shadows. Same pointed fingers. Same fate. He saved them, and still¡ªstill¡ªthey wanted to drag him in chains.


    Aria stepped forward, her white robes torn, her silver hair tangled and bloodied, but her stance unshaken.


    "That''s enough."


    The senators stiffened.


    Aria walked directly in front of Damian, placing herself between him and the encroaching soldiers.


    "You point your blades at a man who just sealed a god-tier threat with his soul. You know who he is¡ªand yet you still lie."


    The older senator sneered. "You are no longer one of us, Aria. You lost that right when you decided to help him."


    Aria''s lips tightened. "I stand where I should stand. And Damian is not your villain."


    The soldiers began to spread out, surrounding them. Hands went to weapons. Mana flared again.


    "This is bad," Selena murmured.


    "I know," Victoria said, baring her fangs, her fingers twitching near her glaive. "I really didn''t want to kill anyone else today. But they''re asking for it."


    "I got a record rune," Evelyn suddenly shouted, raising a shimmering orb from her satchel. "Ralvek''s confession is all here. His voice. His face. Him admitting it. He used Kaelan''s name to commit those crimes."


    She tossed the rune forward. It hovered midair, flickering. Ralvek''s voice filled the air, grainy but unmistakable:


    "Kaelan''s name... perfect scapegoat. The world already hates him. Blame everything on a ghost. No one will ever know."


    The senators went still.


    "Fabrication," one of them spat. "You forged that."


    "I dare you to test it," Evelyn snapped.


    Then Cedric stepped forward, standing taller despite the weakness still in his limbs. "This man saved me. And my sister. If you dare lay hands on him... the fae will consider it a declaration of war."


    Selena stood beside him, blades drawn, eyes cold as steel. "You won''t take him. Not after everything."


    Victoria stepped into their line, her red eyes glowing faintly. "He has my blessing," she said calmly. "He risked his life for the vampire tribe. You call him a villain? We call him a hero."


    "And don''t forget this," Lysandra growled, stepping beside them and gripping Damian''s shoulder. She pulled his shirt aside, revealing the gleaming silver-blue sigil etched into his skin.


    A dragon''s mark.


    "The Dragon Tribe already welcomed him. This man bears our crest. You so much as touch him, and you''ll see how dragons hold grudges."


    The air trembled. The ground seemed to quake beneath their combined mana.


    But the senators stood firm.


    "You''re all compromised," one muttered. "You''ve lost your objectivity."


    Aria''s voice rang sharp as crystal. "And you''ve lost your humanity."


    Silence fell.


    Tension crackled like a drawn blade.


    The fae soldiers behind Selena began to raise their hands.


    The vampire vanguard positioned behind Victoria began to fan out, claws extended, fangs bared.


    Even the few dragonkin scouts left with Lysandra started to growl.


    This wasn''t a negotiation anymore.


    This was a standoff.


    "This is madness," one of the younger mages behind the senators whispered nervously.


    "It''s war," someone else murmured back.


    Damian stood slowly. The glow of the Elysian Rebirth still lingered faintly on his skin. His clothes were scorched. His body exhausted. But he stood.


    He looked at the crowd¡ªat the people who wanted to chain him again, judge him again, destroy him again¡ªand then at his friends who stood ready to fight beside him.


    Even now.


    Even here.


    "I never wanted to be your hero," he said quietly. "I just didn''t want to be your scapegoat."


    He took a breath.


    "I fought. I bled. I died to protect this city. And now you call me a monster again."

 Chapter 438: A Monster

    Warlock Ch 438. A Monster


    Damian''s voice rang clear through the cracked ruins of Haven City. His body stood still, but the weight behind those words made the air shift.


    For a moment, there was only silence¡ªthick, suffocating silence that pressed on every chest in the plaza.


    Then the oldest senator, a sharp-eyed woman wrapped in pristine azure robes, scoffed. "A hero?" she spat like the word tasted foul. "You sealed a god-tier creature with forbidden magic. Your soul is tainted. Corrupted."


    Another senator stepped forward, younger, but with just as much arrogance gleaming in his eyes. "You think that makes you noble? You''ve bound that monster''s power to your core. You''re a time bomb, nothing more."


    "If you truly care about the world," a third chimed in, voice low and cold, "you''ll come willingly. Let the Tribunal decide your fate."


    "The Tribunal already failed him once!" Evelyn shouted, stepping forward. "And now you want to do it again? After all he''s done?"


    Victoria growled. "He nearly died saving you cowards. And the first thing you do when you crawl out from your clean towers is try to chain him?"


    But they weren''t listening.


    The lead senator raised his staff. "Damian Blackthorn, or Kaelan¡ªwhatever name you now hide behind¡ªyou are hereby ordered to surrender your mana and stand trial for your crimes against the Tribes and the Grand Tribunal."


    And then¡ª


    A voice rang out from the crowd.


    "No," it said. Low, firm, unshakable.


    Everyone turned.


    It was an older woman, her apron still stained from ash and soot, her face lined with exhaustion but glowing with resolve.


    "If you want to take him," she said, stepping forward, "you''ll have to go through me."


    Then another voice. A younger man¡ªrobes torn, one arm in a makeshift sling, a spellbook strapped across his chest.


    "He saved my brother. Held back the beast when we couldn''t. If he''s guilty, then so are we."


    Dozens of murmurs turned into dozens of voices.


    "I saw him fight."


    "He didn''t hesitate when others ran."


    "He''s the reason we''re still alive."


    And then¡ª


    A crowd began to gather. Civilians, students from the Arcane Academy, battle magi, healers, guild members. The same people who had watched Damian rise again. Who had seen the impossible.


    They came.


    Tattered, bleeding, dirt-smeared¡ªbut they came. Standing in front of the soldiers, the senators. Forming a living wall of defiance.


    "You call him a monster?" a grizzled combat mage, clutching a broken sword. "Then you weren''t down here in the dirt when the sky was falling."


    "You weren''t here!" a beastkin woman growled, her fangs bared.


    "You want to take him?" a young girl whispered from the front, her tiny hand in her mother''s. "You''ll have to kill us all."


    The crowd swelled. Their mana flared, wild and untrained, but real.


    The senators shifted uneasily.


    "This is treason," the elder senator hissed. "You would oppose the will of the Tribunal?"


    "You want the Tribunal?" the old woman in the apron said. "Then fine. But we''ll all testify."


    The man with the broken arm lifted his spellbook. "Record runes are still active. I got five hours'' worth of battlefield footage. You think the Tribunal won''t want to see how this ''monster'' held the line better than any highborn magus?"


    "You think we''ll stay silent again?" a guildmaster added. "No. Not this time. You want to drag him away? Then know the city will follow him."


    The senators looked like they''d swallowed poison.


    "You''re all compromised," the younger one growled.


    Evelyn took a step forward, her violet eyes glowing. "Then maybe we are the Tribunal now."


    Damian didn''t move.


    He just stood there.


    Watching them.


    All of them.


    The people who once whispered behind his back. The people who once looked away when he entered a room. The people who once feared him.


    And now?


    They stood between him and the very people who called for his execution.


    He blinked.


    The world swam.


    He didn''t even notice the tear sliding down his cheek until it hit his lips.


    Aria was at his side, silent. She looked over at him.


    "They see you now," she whispered.


    "I..." he choked softly, a raw sound breaking from his throat. "I didn''t think they would."


    Victoria''s arm slung around his shoulder like a sister''s.


    "Get used to it," she said gruffly. "You''re kind of a big deal now."


    Selena stood to his left, blades still drawn, but her expression soft. "You''re not alone anymore."


    Even Lysandra, arms crossed, looked down at him with that same proud glint she once reserved only for battlefield victories. "Took you long enough to notice."


    He laughed. It was broken, hoarse¡ªbut real.


    "Is this what redemption feels like?" he asked.


    "No," Aria said, reaching for his hand. "This is what truth feels like."


    The lead senator looked at the civilians, then at the warriors, and finally back to Damian.


    "You expect us to ignore protocol?" he snapped. "To let a man with a demon king sealed in his chest walk free? With the soul of a god-tier beast trapped inside him?"


    "I expect you to shut up," Cassius finally said, stepping into view with a fresh bandage around his ribs. "You showed up late, nearly got us killed, and now you''re here trying to play judge after we saved the damn city?"


    He narrowed his eyes. "And I don''t see you sealing any world-ending monsters today. So maybe shut up and sit down."


    The senators hesitated.


    The crowd wasn''t backing down.


    Aria turned her gaze on them, one final time.


    "We''re not enemies," she said, softly. "But if you make him your enemy... then yes. This city will fight."


    The senators looked between each other.


    And slowly, stiffly¡ªperhaps sensing the winds had shifted¡ªthey stepped back.


    One by one.


    No apology. No thanks.


    Just silence.


    But it was enough.


    They didn''t reach for chains.


    They didn''t raise accusations.


    They simply turned, gathering their soldiers.


    Retreating, for now.


    The moment they were gone, the entire crowd let out a breath. Some collapsed to their knees. Others started to cry. A few even laughed in disbelief.


    But Damian?


    He stood there, breathing, watching the sun break through the ash-filled sky for the first time in what felt like forever.


    Warm.


    Golden.


    Real.


    And finally¡ªfinally¡ªhe let himself believe...


    He wasn''t the villain anymore.

 Chapter 439: Surrender or Face Justice

    Warlock Ch 439. Surrender or Face Justice


    Damian let out a long breath. He swayed, just slightly, the adrenaline leaving his system and reminding him of every injury he''d sustained. But his friends were there.


    "You okay?" Evelyn whispered softly, her voice still trembling with relief.


    "Never better," he said quietly, a faint smile ghosting over his lips.


    Cassius snorted lightly. "Liar."


    Damian huffed, laughing quietly through the pain, the stress, and the disbelief. "Maybe."


    Yet just as he dared let himself relax, the air around them shifted again, charged and heavy. Damian''s instincts screamed at him, mana pulsing through his veins as he snapped his gaze upward.


    A cluster of senators¡ªRalvek''s loyalists, still stubbornly clinging to the now-exposed lies¡ªhad rallied together, their eyes dark with fury and fear. It was clear they''d been cornered; desperate men and women who refused to accept defeat. Their hands sparked with raw mana, powerful yet dangerously uncontrolled.


    A younger senator, barely older than Damian himself, stepped forward. His robes were immaculate, the silver trim catching the fading sunlight sharply. His eyes glowed with barely restrained anger, jaw clenched tight.


    "You think this is over?" the young senator snarled. "You believe you can humiliate the Grand Tribunal and walk free, Kaelan?"


    "I never humiliated anyone," Damian said quietly, his voice steady despite his exhaustion. "All I did was show you the truth."


    "Lies!" the senator shouted, rage blazing brighter in his eyes. He lifted his hands sharply, and raw mana crackled between his fingers, unstable and volatile. "I won''t let you deceive them again!"


    Before anyone could react, mana surged forward, a torrent of wild, crackling lightning hurtling toward Damian and the exhausted group behind him.


    Time slowed. Damian could feel the mana racing towards him, see every spark and twist of energy. He raised his hands, using his skills.


    But before he could do it.


    A sudden rush of wind.


    A blur of gold and blue.


    And a massive shadow slammed down in front of Damian, blocking the attack completely. The lightning dispersed harmlessly, fizzling out against solid, gleaming scales.


    Lysandra stood tall, arms spread wide, her eyes glowing dangerously. The smoke and dust settled around her, revealing her in full dragon form, armor shining, scales glinting like precious gems under the twilight sky.


    "I thought we made ourselves clear," she growled, her voice resonating deep and powerful, carrying across the ruined plaza. "Damian Blackthorn is under the protection of the Dragon Tribe."


    The senator''s expression shifted from fury to fear, stumbling backward. "Y-you... You shouldn''t be interfering, General Frostfang. The dragons¡ª"


    She narrowed her eyes, wings flaring slightly, each scale glinting like polished steel. "The dragons have already joined this war," Lysandra said firmly. "We bled alongside vampires and fae to defend Haven. And now, we will end it. Stand down."


    But the senator refused to back off, his pride outweighing his common sense. "Your interference is against the accords¡ª"


    Lysandra''s eyes flashed with dangerous amusement. She tilted her head slightly, and a faint, sharp whistle slipped from her lips, echoing eerily over the broken ruins.


    A powerful wind stirred, sweeping away the dust and smoke.


    The crowd froze, eyes widening as the shadows overhead darkened rapidly, growing larger, louder, heavier. The faint fluttering of wings became a thunderous roar, shaking the ground beneath their feet. Then dragons¡ªreal, magnificent, massive dragons¡ªdescended from the sky, landing heavily around Lysandra, their scales gleaming vividly in the fading sun.


    They towered over the senators, wings stretched wide, fangs bared threateningly.


    "General Frostfang," one of the dragon captains, a massive red-scaled beast named Barek, rumbled deeply, bowing his horned head respectfully. "We''re at your command."


    Lysandra smiled slightly, eyes locked firmly on Ralvek''s loyalists. "Secure the perimeter," she ordered calmly. "Ensure these traitors don''t escape. It''s time we cleared up the confusion they''ve sown."


    Barek nodded sharply, barking orders to his fellow dragons. The senators paled visibly, several stepping back in instinctive fear.


    "W-wait!" the young senator stammered, panic rising rapidly in his voice. "This is a misunderstanding!"


    Lysandra narrowed her eyes coldly. "A misunderstanding? You spread lies that vampires and fae attacked this city. You manipulated innocent civilians into believing Damian was the enemy. You created chaos to mask your crimes. And now you have the gall to claim misunderstanding?"


    Another senator, older but no less defiant, stepped forward with forced bravado. "You have no proof¡ª"


    Barek stepped forward, his massive foot shaking the ground as it crashed down, cutting the senator''s bravado short. His deep, rumbling voice echoed through the city ruins.


    "We watched from above. We saw who unleashed that monstrosity. Who endangered this city. It was not vampires or fae."


    He turned his burning amber gaze to the gathered crowd of civilians behind Damian.


    "And it was the dragons who straightened the misunderstanding¡ªwho warned the people not to turn their blades on the warlock who fought for them. If we hadn''t, you would''ve attacked your own savior the moment he fell."


    Murmurs rippled through the crowd. Heads turned. Some people looked down in shame. Others stared at Damian, wide-eyed, finally realizing the narrow line between salvation and disaster they had walked.


    Barek''s voice dropped into something deeper, quieter, but even more dangerous.


    "We bore witness to everything. And we will bear witness to your judgment."


    "It was you," Lysandra finished coldly, her gaze piercing them like blades. "You and your fellow conspirators."


    The air was thick with tension. Soldiers of the Tribunal hesitated, uncertain. Whispers ran through the crowd of civilians. Those who had once doubted Damian began murmuring amongst themselves, questioning, their trust shifting with every word Lysandra spoke.


    The younger senator visibly trembled, his voice faltering. "We¡ªwe only followed orders. Ralvek promised¡ª"


    Lysandra''s gaze sharpened fiercely. "Ralvek was a traitor. You willingly followed his orders. You are no better."


    The senators visibly wilted beneath the dragons'' overwhelming presence. Even their strongest mages and warriors were no match for dragons ready for battle.


    Lysandra straightened, authority radiating from every scale. "I offer you one chance: surrender peacefully or face justice here and now."

 Chapter 440: After The War

    Warlock Ch 440. After The War


    The senators exchanged uneasy glances. Fear shadowed their faces, but beneath that fear burned an even darker emotion¡ªresentment. Damian recognized it immediately. People who lost power rarely surrendered gracefully.


    One of them, a middle-aged woman with raven-black hair, stepped forward. Her robes fluttered softly in the dusty wind, her gaze hard with prideful defiance.


    "We will never bow to traitors and monsters," she spat venomously.


    Before Lysandra could even respond, the senator''s hand flicked upwards. A blinding flash of white erupted from her palm, exploding like a miniature sun.


    Damian shielded his eyes instinctively, blinded by searing light. Shouts and screams echoed from every direction, disoriented chaos briefly overwhelming everyone.


    "Cowards!" Lysandra roared, her voice echoing through the blinding void of white.


    Damian tried to regain his bearings, squinting painfully through spots of afterimage dancing in front of his eyes. He saw blurred figures¡ªthe senators¡ªscrambling toward a hastily conjured teleportation portal, the edges of the magical gateway shimmering violet and blue.


    "No!" Evelyn shouted.


    The portal collapsed, leaving nothing but a faint shimmer of mana in the ruined plaza.


    "Damn it," Lysandra growled, eyes fierce with anger. Her scales shimmered dangerously, the dragon blood within her clearly calling for retribution.


    Cassius placed a hand on her shoulder, gently but firmly. "We''ll deal with them later. We have bigger problems right now."


    Damian nodded wearily, eyes scanning the broken remains of Haven City around them. Fires still burned in scattered clusters, smoke curling lazily into the clouded sky. Buildings lay shattered, homes reduced to rubble. The once-bustling streets were now silent save for the occasional groan or cry for help.


    "Cassius is right," Damian murmured. "We have people to save."


    The words felt heavy, the responsibility crushing, but it was clear what needed to be done.


    Cassius''s manor¡ªdespite everything¡ªhad survived better than the rest of the city. Half-ruined but stubbornly standing, it became their refuge. The wounded and displaced gathered there, guided by Damian and Cassius''s servants. Shadow minions moved quietly among the injured, bringing healing supplies and fresh bandages.


    The main hall, once an elegant reception room, now resembled a makeshift hospital. Tables, chairs, even plush couches had been repurposed into makeshift beds. The air was thick with the scent of antiseptics and healing potions. Soft murmurs of comfort and quiet sobs filled every corner.


    Damian stood silently in the midst of it all, watching. He wanted to collapse, wanted to simply let the weight of his injuries carry him into blissful unconsciousness. But he forced himself to stay upright. These people¡ªhis people¡ªneeded to see him standing strong.


    Evelyn moved beside him, her gentle fingers brushing against his arm. "You need rest, Damian. You''re barely standing."


    "I can''t," he whispered hoarsely. "Not yet."


    Victoria approached slowly, her crimson eyes weary but steady. Her armor was scratched, stained with blood and dirt, yet she carried herself with dignified calm. "I''ve lost a commander today," she said softly, eyes distant and pained. "Many of my soldiers are gravely wounded. I should be there with them..."


    "You''ve done enough," Damian said quietly, reaching out to grip her shoulder gently. "You''re still their queen. Your people need your strength."


    She nodded slowly, gratitude briefly warming her tired gaze. "I know."


    Across the room, Selena sat beside Cedric, who was carefully crafting another magical message, his fingers trembling slightly from exhaustion.


    "Cedric?" Damian called softly.


    Cedric looked up, his face pale but determined. "Alric told me what happened. Our messages never reached Father."


    Selena''s expression hardened. "They sabotaged us. Marenvell and Ralvek''s people were thorough. Alric barely survived the journey to our territory."


    Alric, standing nearby with heavy bandages wrapped around his torso, gave a tired, crooked smile. "I ran all night¡ªinjured, bleeding, burning through speed runes just to stay upright. But I made it. I got to the capital, told the king everything. He sent what troops he could right away. And once he finishes dealing with the traitors in his own court... he''s coming here himself."


    "Good," Damian breathed. "We need all the help we can get."


    He turned his attention to Lysandra, who had not yet relaxed. The dragon general stood near the shattered window, eyes fixed vigilantly on the horizon. Her dragons flew high above Haven City, scanning meticulously through the wreckage, searching for any sign of life still hidden beneath rubble or debris.


    "You should rest too," Damian suggested softly, stepping toward her.


    Lysandra shook her head. "A general doesn''t rest until the battle is truly done. We don''t know if more threats are waiting to strike. I can''t afford to be careless."


    Damian admired her resolve, understanding her deeply. "Thank you, Lysandra."


    She looked at him briefly, a faint smile softening her harsh features. "Thank me when this is all over."


    Finally, feeling his strength waning dangerously, Damian slowly lowered himself to the floor at the center of the hall. The world swam slightly as exhaustion clawed at him, dragging him down into darkness. Yet even now, he refused to give in completely.


    The quiet murmur of wounded soldiers and softly crackling wards faded into the background. The chaos of Haven, the memory of fire, screams, steel clashing on steel¡ªit all dissolved.


    Damian closed his eyes.


    And in the next breath, he wasn''t in the manor anymore.


    He was inside the void.


    His mana core.


    Darkness stretched in every direction, infinite and heavy. The kind of space that made his thoughts echo louder than his heartbeat. But Damian knew this place well now. He walked through the shadowy mist like a ghost moving through memory.


    And there it was.


    His artifact.


    No longer cracked or raw like before.


    It hovered in the center of the void, spinning slowly in place¡ªan obsidian-black sphere ringed with new glowing sigils, etched in silver and deep red. Pulses of raw, divine-level mana throbbed from it with each slow rotation, like a heartbeat made of stars.


    Damian stared at it, lips parting slightly. "Of course," he muttered. "I absorbed that thing''s mana core..."


    "Surprised it didn''t explode," rumbled a voice behind him, low and lazy like distant thunder.

 Chapter 441: God-tier Warlock

    Warlock Ch 441. God-tier Warlock


    Damian turned¡ªand there, lounging like he owned the place. Because, well, technically he kinda did, sat the demon king. Wrapped in living shadows, his horns faintly glowing, his grin wide and unapologetic.


    But that wasn''t what drew Damian''s attention.


    No.


    It was the presence slumped beside the demon king. Not dead. Not entirely alive either. Just... dormant. A massive, coiled force of chaos and magic, wrapped in thick chains of abyssal magic. The creature''s consciousness¡ªwhat little remained of it¡ªlay sealed inside a cocoon of Damian''s own making, guarded by the demon king like a bored babysitter.


    Damian blinked. "I see you''ve got company now."


    The demon king tilted his head. "Is that a compliment or what?"


    "Both."


    The king chuckled, leaning back against a shadowy outcropping that hadn''t been there a moment ago. "It fell asleep when it got caught. Didn''t even protest. Like a grumpy old god who got woken up from his nap."


    Damian raised a brow. "Honestly? Same."


    "Well," the demon king said, crossing one leg over the other, "good to see you back, and, more importantly, that we both survived."


    "We both nearly died," Damian muttered bitterly.


    "Yet here we are," the king said, his grin softening with something bordering on actual respect. "And now you hold power even gods might envy."


    "It almost destroyed me."


    The words came out in a hoarse whisper. He remembered the burn in his lungs. The scream that never ended. The way his body tried to tear itself apart just to hold the creature''s magic in.


    "Then why are you here?" the demon king asked knowingly.


    Damian stared at the void, hands clenching at his sides. "Because we''re not finished yet. The senators escaped. Ralvek''s loyalists are still out there. This isn''t over."


    The demon king studied him with piercing eyes. "And you think I can help you."


    "No," Damian said quietly. Then, after a beat... "But you understand power. You know how to control it. Survive it."


    A long pause.


    Then the demon king laughed¡ªreally laughed. Not mocking. Not cruel. Just deeply, knowingly.


    "You learn fast, Damian."


    Damian let out a breath, shaking his head. "I never asked for any of this."


    "No one does," the demon king replied. "But fate doesn''t care. You accept it... or you fight it."


    Damian''s voice dropped. "Then help me. Help me master this power. If we don''t... Haven''s not going to survive the next one."


    The king was quiet for a moment, watching him. The swirling shadows at his feet curled upward, as if sensing the gravity of Damian''s words.


    Then, finally, he nodded.


    "You''ve proven worthy of my aid. So..." His tone shifted, curious. "What do you want to do?"


    Damian exhaled slowly. "I need two things. A mass healing spell. Something that can help everyone in the city."


    The king lifted a brow.


    "And the second?"


    "A Fix spell," Damian continued. "One that can rebuild everything we lost. Homes. Walls. Wards. Something that can fix... everything."


    The demon king stared at him.


    Then blinked.


    Then stared harder. "You''re insane," he said flatly. "Even kings can''t do that."


    Damian grinned faintly. "I''m not a king."


    He stepped forward, resting his hand gently on the artifact. The mana pulsed immediately, recognizing him.


    "I''m a god-tier warlock now. I can."


    The demon king tilted his head, expression somewhere between amusement and disbelief. "Well damn. Let''s see if you can draw from that thing''s mana core... Just don''t wake him up."


    "No promises," Damian muttered and pressed his palm against the artifact.


    And everything exploded.


    Power surged through him¡ªviolent, raw, endless. It wasn''t a stream. It was a tidal wave.


    His muscles locked. His breath vanished. He screamed in silence as mana raced through his veins, devouring every wound, every scar, every trace of fatigue. The artifact glowed with impossible brilliance, sigils expanding outward, spinning faster.


    And then...


    [System Notification]


    [You have gained a new skill: Grand Restoration (Mass)]


    Restores HP, stamina, minor status effects, and mana to all allies within 300 meters.


    Cooldown: 5 minutes. Mana cost: Dynamic (based on number of targets).


    [You have gained a new skill: Fix ¨C Worldweaver Edition (Unique)]


    Fixes, restores, and reconstructs structures, artifacts, and environments based on caster''s mental blueprint and mana capacity. Can rebuild entire city blocks in hours. Scales with Intent + Mana Affinity.


    [Health fully restored.]


    [All wounds repaired.]


    [Stamina fully restored.]


    [Max Mana Regenerated.]


    Damian staggered backward from the artifact, eyes wide. His chest rose and fell rapidly, but he felt... solid.


    Strong.


    He was whole again.


    He opened his eyes¡ªand blinked into the real world. Back inside the manor''s ruined hall.


    The air was still heavy with pain and exhaustion. But not for long.


    Damian stood slowly, cracking his neck, a strange calm washing over him.


    Evelyn turned to him first, eyes widening. "Wait¡ªhow are you¡ª?"


    "Don''t ask," Damian said. "Just... clear the center of the room."


    She did.


    Damian raised his hand, palm open toward the sky.


    "[Grand Restoration.]"


    Light bloomed from his hand. Not just light¡ªwarmth. Mana. Life.


    It poured from him like a river bursting through a dam. And everywhere it touched¡ªthe groaning wounded, the bleeding warriors, the unconscious civilians¡ªthey stirred. Healed. Wounds sealed, pain vanished, energy surged back.


    Gasps and cries filled the room. People stood up, eyes wide with disbelief. Tears streamed down cheeks. Even Cassius, mid-potion-sorting, froze.


    "What in the actual hell..."


    But Damian wasn''t done.


    He stepped outside.


    The manor courtyard was still partially in ruins.


    He closed his eyes.


    Visualized it¡ªevery stone, every corridor, every damaged hall.


    "[Fix]"


    The air crackled. Magic rushed out like a storm, sweeping across the stone. Cracks sealed. Walls lifted. Rubble vanished. Windows restored. The manor breathed again, restored in seconds as if it had never suffered.


    The city beyond still needed more. Much more.


    But it was a start.


    A real one.


    Damian exhaled slowly.


    And then¡ªhe smiled.


    Cassius stomped into the hall, eyes narrowed, coat trailing ash and heat like a pissed-off storm. His boots practically cracked the floor. "What the hell happened?" he snapped, grabbing Damian''s arm like he wasn''t glowing with barely-contained god-tier mana.


    "You were dying. DYING. And now you''re¡ªwhat¡ªthe miracle contractor of Haven?!"

 Chapter 442: Grand Restoration

    Warlock Ch 442. Grand Restoration


    Damian didn''t even flinch. His voice was calm. Almost too calm.


    "I borrowed that creature''s mana core."


    Cassius blinked.


    Then blinked again.


    "You what."


    "I absorbed it," Damian said simply. "Its power. I took it."


    "Like a smoothie?"


    "Cassius."


    "Sorry. I''m having a moment." Cassius took a step back and gestured to all of Damian. "You realize what this means, right? You''re like... a walking bomb. You''re gonna burn out."


    "I know."


    Cassius looked like he wanted to hit him. Or hug him. Or both.


    "Wait¡ªare you gonna¡ª"


    "I''m going to rebuild the city," Damian said softly, turning away. "Tonight."


    "Are you serious right now¡ª"


    "Yes."


    Victoria appeared in the hall''s ruined archway, a strip of cloth still tied tightly around her bleeding bicep. "You''re pushing yourself too hard."


    "I know," Damian repeated, walking.


    "Then don''t do it."


    "I have to," he said. "Let me do this."


    And with a single breath, he vanished.


    [Shadow Step]


    The world collapsed into ink, then snapped back into focus.


    Damian stood at the very center of the ruined Haven City.


    The wind howled through broken towers. Embered leaves spiraled down from blackened trees. Shattered cobblestones groaned beneath his feet. Smoke still curled from broken chimneys. The smell of death lingered, thick and metallic.


    Damian looked around.


    The city was a graveyard.


    Children sat beside broken carts. Survivors clung to each other near fallen statues. Soldiers limped with makeshift splints. Corpses lined the edges of half-collapsed streets.


    His heart twisted.


    He knelt.


    Placed his palm to the fractured earth.


    [Fix ¨C Worldweaver]


    Mana surged. A pulse so massive it trembled through the bedrock.


    The city held its breath.


    And then the ground moved.


    Stone shattered¡ªthen reformed. Cracks sealed with glowing blue light. Walls rebuilt from the dust. Beams snapped into place. Brick by brick, board by board, homes lifted themselves out of ruin like phoenixes from the ash.


    Balconies. Chimneys. Roof tiles.


    Everything returned.


    Market stalls unfolded like origami, still with their signs swinging gently in the magic-infused breeze. Street lanterns re-lit with a warm golden glow. Roads cobbled themselves anew, layered with shimmering runes.


    People stared.


    Mouths open.


    Civilians stepped back from the growing pulse of reconstruction, watching as entire blocks¡ªentire districts¡ªwere reborn.


    Then the spell began pulling survivors from the rubble.


    Gently. Carefully.


    Trapped soldiers. Children. Even the dead¡ªlaid respectfully in neat lines beneath white-veiled magic. No one forgotten. No one ignored.


    It was like the city remembered itself.


    Damian didn''t stop.


    Even when the clock tower reformed with a loud clang, or when the massive library spire stitched itself together window by enchanted window.


    He just kept going.


    His body didn''t shake. His breath didn''t shorten. His skin didn''t sweat.


    Because something deeper had taken hold.


    The creature''s mana core wasn''t draining him.


    It was fueling him.


    He lifted his hand.


    Spun.


    And a wave of silver-blue mana cascaded across the city in a massive arc.


    Homes restored. Inns repaired. Blacksmith shops rebuilt. Even the cemetery''s fallen gravestones stood upright once more, clean and untouched.


    An old woman sobbed beside her door, watching it mend itself entirely.


    A baker fell to his knees as his oven reassembled from broken stone.


    Children ran into newly reformed plazas like it was a dream.


    And the tower¡ªthe one that had once been the center of the nightmare¡ªwas now just a hollowed-out crater. Silent. Harmless. Empty.


    Hours passed.


    But Damian never stopped.


    Even when Victoria arrived behind him with her soldiers, stunned to silence.


    Even when Cassius stood slack-jawed in disbelief.


    Even when Evelyn whispered, "It''s impossible..."


    He just worked.


    Until the night sky turned from red to blue.


    Until the stars faded.


    Until the first light of dawn touched the city that had died, and now¡ªlived again.


    And Damian?


    He just stood in the middle of it all.


    Silent.


    Tired.


    Not from magic.


    But from everything that had led him here.


    And yet, he still didn''t regret it.


    Not a second of it.


    Damian stood in the middle of the city he just pulled out of the grave.


    And yet...


    He didn''t stop.


    He couldn''t.


    Not when there were still so many lying on the streets, broken. Wounded. Clinging to their lives beneath makeshift bandages and whispered prayers.


    The ruins were rebuilt, yes. But the people?


    They were still bleeding.


    Still dying.


    Damian raised his hand again.


    His breath was steady now. Not from strength. But from something else entirely.


    Conviction.


    Mana pulsed behind his eyes. His artifact¡ªnow permanently bonded with the slumbering core of the creature he''d sealed¡ªflared like a second sun in his chest.


    He whispered it, almost like a prayer.


    [Grand Restoration]


    The sky answered.


    A pulse of radiant magic surged upward from him and burst into a rain of shimmering mana.


    It fell like snowflakes kissed by starlight.


    Gentle.


    Silent.


    But powerful.


    Wherever it touched, wounds closed. Broken bones reknitted. Scars vanished as if rewritten by time itself. The cries of the injured turned into gasps of disbelief. Of awe. Of hope.


    A child missing half his arm blinked¡ªonly to see it whole again.


    A burned woman wept as her skin healed beneath the glowing mist.


    Soldiers who had collapsed under rubble rose again, blinking, whole.


    Even the dead¡ªthose who hadn''t crossed over fully, whose souls clung to shattered bodies¡ªtook one last peaceful breath before slipping away in warmth and light.


    Even Aria, standing atop the restored bell tower, shielded her eyes as the final cascade of mana swept across the skyline.


    And when it ended¡ªwhen the last drop of miracle fell to the earth¡ªthe city was silent.


    Whole.


    Alive.


    Damian dropped his hand slowly. His cloak fluttered in the morning wind, edges trailing golden particles.


    His face, though pale and drawn, held no pain.


    Just quiet. Just weight.


    He didn''t turn when Aria landed softly beside him, her divine aura dimmed. No light show, no flare of wings or halos.


    Just her.


    The woman who had once been his enemy.


    Now... something else entirely.


    She didn''t speak right away.


    Didn''t need to.


    She watched the people¡ªthe children, the soldiers, the healers gathering with expressions of stunned wonder¡ªand then turned to him.

 Chapter 443: The Fae King

    Warlock Ch 443. The Fae King


    "You did well," she said simply.


    Damian exhaled through his nose. Not a laugh. Not quite.


    He nodded. "They''re safe. For now."


    A beat of silence.


    Then his eyes darkened. "But the senators..."


    Aria''s lips pressed into a thin line. Her hair shifted slightly in the wind, and when she turned to face him fully, her eyes were sharp again. Focused.


    "I know," she said. "They escaped. And they''ll come back. But we''ll handle them. One way or another."


    Damian didn''t move.


    Aria stepped closer.


    "But before that," she continued softly, "we need to spread the truth. About what they did. Ralvek. Marenvell. The ritual. The creature. The seal."


    She paused. "Everything."


    Damian looked away for a long moment. His gaze traveled across the cityscape.


    What was once ash was now stone.


    What was once ruin was now home.


    People moved again¡ªnot in panic, but rebuilding.


    And above it all, Lysandra circled overhead on a draconic wind current¡ªguarding, watching. A dragon sentinel in twilight armor.


    "They''ll deny it," Damian said finally. "They''ll twist the story. Just like they did with Kaelan."


    "We won''t let them," Aria said firmly.


    He turned toward her, eyes shadowed but not defeated.


    "You sure you''re ready to go against them?"


    Aria didn''t flinch.


    "I''m not standing against them," she said. "I''m standing where I should stand."


    Damian blinked.


    And for the first time in days¡ªmaybe longer¡ªhe smiled.


    A small thing.


    But real.


    All around the city, the magic was still settling. Buildings creaked like they were stretching for the first time in years. Mana drifted off rooftops like mist rising from cold stone. Even the air tasted different¡ªcleaner, lighter. Like hope.


    And somewhere behind him, Damian could hear laughter.


    Children''s laughter.


    It hit harder than anything else.


    Cassius approached a few minutes later, arms crossed, his usual snark muted by the weight of what he''d witnessed.


    "You''re insane," he said without preamble. "Like, proper batshit."


    Damian side-eyed him. "Thanks."


    "I mean it. You just rewrote a city like it was a draft essay. And healed a population with literal magic rain. You''re not a warlock anymore. You''re¡ªwhat? A legend? A myth? A god?"


    Damian chuckled tiredly. "A janitor, apparently."


    Cassius snorted. "Well, if gods do clean-up duty now, maybe we''ve been worshipping the wrong ones."


    Then his smirk faded, replaced with something quieter. More honest.


    "I''m glad you''re alive."


    Damian didn''t say anything for a second.


    Then... "Me too."


    Cassius nodded, the silence between them no longer heavy. Just... shared.


    He looked down, fingers trailing along the stone he''d just mended.


    "I never thought I''d be the one fixing anything," he admitted.


    Victoria gave him a look. "Darling, you''ve been fixing things since the moment I met you. You just finally have the mana for it now."


    He laughed. Just once.


    It was rough.


    But real.


    That morning, Damian would walk the quiet streets of Haven City alone.


    No guards.


    No weapons.


    No armor.


    Just him.


    And for once?


    That was enough.


    The air was crisp¡ªcool in the way mornings felt after a long, hellish night. The streets were still damp from the mana rain. He could see the light fog clinging low to the cobblestones, curling around his boots as he walked past restored bakeries, smithies, and homes that still smelled faintly of scorched stone and new magic.


    Kids peeked out windows. Some waved. Some just watched, wide-eyed. They didn''t cheer. Not yet. But their eyes didn''t hold fear anymore. That was enough for now.


    The bells hadn''t rung yet. Too early. Too heavy. There was a silence over the city that felt sacred. Not haunted. Just... respectful.


    Because today wasn''t for rebuilding.


    Today was for remembering.


    And burying.


    Damian stopped by the front of the old chapel-turned-hospital. The priests and priestesses had already begun their chants, low and melodic. The kind of sound that vibrated in his bones and made his chest ache without knowing why. He took a breath, eyes scanning the row of white sheets laid out on the side of the street, all of them lined with fresh lavender and glowing embers.


    He didn''t look away.


    He forced himself to see them.


    All of them.


    Some were soldiers. Some were civilians. Some... were too young to even be classified as either. Their faces were peaceful, like they were just sleeping, but the weight in Damian''s gut didn''t let him pretend.


    "Sir?"


    A soft voice.


    One of the young healers approached him, barely more than a teen, holding a mana lantern. "We''re taking them to the east cemetery. For the rites."


    Damian just nodded and walked with them.


    No speech. No spell. No system prompt.


    Just footsteps.


    The east cemetery lay on the hillside past the outer gate. It had been untouched during the battle¡ªtoo far, too sacred even for Ralvek''s madness. The path was lined with soft mana lights now, glowing with pale gold fireflies.


    Damian could hear the slow grind of stone wheels as carts were pulled along, each body carefully placed inside carved biowood caskets with faint enchantments to preserve dignity and mana essence.


    It took hours.


    Cassius was there. Silent. For once, not cracking a single joke. Victoria stood tall and composed beside her remaining soldiers, each of them saluting the dead with honor. Evelyn walked beside the caskets, her hand brushing them gently, lips moving in quiet prayers.


    And then...


    Just as the last casket reached the burial slope¡ª


    A gust of wind.


    Sharp, fresh, sweet.


    Petals danced through the air. Not conjured. Not summoned. Real.


    The Fae had arrived.


    Their convoy didn''t march. It glided. Literally. A dozen pale steeds, almost translucent, with manes that shimmered like northern lights. Silver carriages carved from living oak drifted behind them, wheels not even touching the road. Fae warriors flanked the group, silent and proud, their armor gleaming like dew over moonlight.


    At their center... the Fae King.


    He was tall¡ªof course he was. Elegant to the point of looking carved from an artist''s daydream. Robes spun from stormcloud silk draped his frame, and his crown wasn''t gold or silver but woven branches blooming with tiny, glowing blossoms. His eyes... They were old. Tired. Not weak. Just heavy with years.

 Chapter 444: Rites of The Death

    Warlock Ch 444. Rites of The Death


    Alric stepped forward first. "My king," he bowed.


    Cedric and Selena flanked him. The prince gave a much deeper bow, stiff but practiced. Selena did a traditional court greeting¡ªhand over heart, chin dipped, posture dignified.


    The king didn''t return the gesture immediately. His eyes... were locked on Damian.


    A quiet hum rolled from him as he walked closer, guards stepping back instinctively. The earth seemed to respond to his steps, grass sprouting and curling gently in his wake.


    "You," the Fae King said softly. "You are the one."


    Damian nodded slightly, not sure what that meant exactly. "I am... someone. Yes."


    Alric coughed. "Your Majesty, allow me to explain¡ª"


    "No need." The king raised a hand. "I can feel the creature''s presence. Dormant. Sealed. But alive." He studied Damian''s face, eyes narrowing. "You used the ancient scroll, didn''t you?"


    Cedric stepped forward quickly. "He didn''t ask for it. I made that choice. I used it on him. Because he¡ªhe saved us."


    The king arched a brow. "Do you understand what that scroll does?"


    "I do now," Cedric said, eyes firm. "I gave him the right to carry our flame. To command the bond. I know I was just a prince¡ª"


    "Not anymore," the king cut in, looking at him quietly. "You claimed a title, Cedric. And a duty." He looked to Selena. "You agreed with this?"


    Selena nodded. "I saw what he did. What he still does. No Fae would''ve survived without him."


    Alric added with a weary grin, "He rebuilt the city, Your Majesty. Not metaphorically. Like. Actually rebuilt it. With magic. From the ground up."


    The king''s expression didn''t shift much, but his gaze softened a little. He turned back to Damian. "So. You''re the one who took in that... abomination."


    "I sealed it," Damian corrected. "Its power is under my control."


    "Is it?" the king asked, tone unreadable.


    Damian hesitated. "Mostly."


    That earned a faint smirk. "Well, you''re still breathing. That''s proof enough."


    One of the fae priests approached, reverent. "My King... the rites await. We can''t let them wait much longer."


    The king nodded slowly. "Yes. Let''s begin."


    The burial ceremony of the Fae was... a thing of beauty.


    No caskets were lowered. Instead, each one was set atop a raised stone pedestal carved from enchanted crystal, one by one. Petals and crushed herbs were placed around the base¡ªlavender, sage, moonblossoms. Then, a song.


    Not a chant.


    Not a hymn.


    A song.


    The fae began to sing¡ªnot in unison, not exactly. More like a thousand tiny harmonies, layered in echoing threads of magic. The sound wrapped around the wind, carried through the trees, brushed against the skin like a memory.


    Magic danced in the air, soft and silver.


    The caskets began to glow. One by one, the bodies inside shimmered and slowly¡ªpeacefully¡ªturned into dust. Sparkling, glowing dust. Not burnt. Not destroyed. Just... returned.


    Returned to the land.


    The glowing ash rose gently into the sky like the souls were being carried off by the wind. A soft wind. The kind that didn''t sting, only reminded you something had passed through.


    Tears didn''t fall loudly. They rolled in silence. Even Victoria wiped her eyes, jaw clenched.


    Damian stood at the back, watching.


    And then the king approached him again.


    "I understand," he said. "What Cedric did. What you did."


    Damian said nothing.


    "You gave everything you had. Not for power. Not for glory. But to protect what remained."


    "I didn''t save everyone," Damian whispered.


    "No one ever does," the king said. "But you saved enough. More than anyone else could''ve."


    He looked out at the now-quiet crowd. "You have my thanks, Warlock of Haven. And you have our alliance."


    Damian blinked. Then smiled, just slightly.


    The king wasn''t done. He leaned in. "Just keep that thing inside you asleep. For all our sakes."


    "I''ll try."


    The king laughed, just once. "You''re worse than your reputation."


    "I know."


    The ceremony ended with the planting of a new tree. A moonwood sapling, rooted in soil soaked with old blood and new magic.


    It sparkled.


    Just a little.


    And as the crowd dispersed, the sun finally rose properly over Haven.


    Warm. Bright. Unyielding.


    Hope bloomed in the ruins.


    And Damian walked away from the graves, silent, knowing full well that peace never lasted long.


    But still¡ªhe hoped.


    And that, somehow, was enough.


    Until the dragons roared.


    It wasn''t a gentle call.


    No aerial flourish. No sky dance.


    It was a warning. A sound that split the clouds and echoed down to the bone.


    Damian stopped in his tracks, breath catching as he turned toward the horizon. The others froze too. Cassius glanced up sharply. Evelyn''s hands curled instinctively near her dagger.


    The dragons circled tighter. Their calls growing sharper, deeper.


    And Lysandra¡ªGeneral Frostfang, battle-forged, unshakable¡ªnarrowed her eyes and said grimly, "They''re coming."


    From behind, Victoria stepped forward, her crimson eyes flashing beneath the veil of her hooded cloak. "Who?"


    Damian didn''t even look back. He just muttered, "The senators."


    Aria landed softly beside him, the magic around her wings dispersing with a faint shimmer. "They don''t like to waste time, huh?" she said dryly, scanning the far treeline. "Barely finished a funeral and already back for round two."


    What came next wasn''t subtle.


    The convoy didn''t arrive quietly.


    No.


    It descended¡ªlike a small-scale invasion.


    Arcane carriages floated just above the dirt path, flanked by armored soldiers on shimmering steeds and spellcasters with glowing staves. Wards glimmered in the air, pulsing with detection magic, defensive runes, and probably a dozen kill spells layered just beneath the surface.


    They came as if Haven was already guilty.


    The fae king stood still, lips thinning as the ground trembled softly under their advance. The light around him dimmed slightly¡ªnot from fear. From disappointment.


    Victoria''s fingers twitched toward her sword hilt. "So much for diplomacy."


    Lysandra''s scales gleamed in the sun as she strode forward. "They come bearing swords and chains to a place of mourning," she said flatly. "Let me guess. They want to talk."

 Chapter 445: Not a Good Day to Get Cocky

    Warlock Ch 445. Not a Good Day to Get Cocky


    Damian didn''t speak. He didn''t need to. The sick, familiar weight that pressed against his chest already told him everything. He could see it in the posture of the lead mages, the puffed-up shoulders of the armored knights, the arrogance dripping from their aura like spoiled wine.


    They weren''t here for negotiation.


    They were here to accuse.


    The convoy halted just a few paces from the ceremonial grounds.


    A voice rang out. Clear. Commanding. A woman in flowing emerald robes, adorned with the sigil of the Grand Tribunal¡ªa balanced scale entwined with burning vines. Her expression was tight. Her eyes cold.


    "Damian Blackthorn," she called, "You are hereby summoned to stand trial for your crimes against the Magus Accord, the Tribunal, and all sanctified peoples of the allied territories. Surrender yourself peacefully and you will be granted an unbiased trial."


    Damian raised a brow. "Unbiased. Right."


    Another man stepped forward, older, heavyset, with silver pauldrons and a mage seal tattooed directly into his skin. "You are also accused of summoning forbidden entities, conspiring with dark races, and aiding the destruction of classified Tribunal structures. And you, Aria Brightlight¡ª"


    Aria sighed. Loudly.


    "¡ªyou are charged with betrayal of the Magus Order and unlawful allegiance to Kaelan Voidweaver, now deceased, and his successor. Which would be him." He jabbed a finger in Damian''s direction like it offended him to do so.


    Cassius made a sound halfway between a cough and a growl. "They''re doing it again..."


    Evelyn''s fists clenched. "Fifty years. They''re still using the same damn playbook."


    Victoria stepped in, tone sharpened like a blade on glass. "You interrupt a funeral to accuse a man who just saved this city?" She gestured to the still-glowing tree behind them, to the half-settled ash, to the crowd of mourning civilians and fae warriors. "This is a sacred rite."


    The Tribunal mage woman didn''t flinch. "Which could easily have been a distraction. Blackthorn is known for manipulation."


    The fae king narrowed his glowing eyes. "You dare speak like this in front of the tree of passage? You insult the dead with your presence."


    The woman turned slightly. "And yet the living are in danger so long as he walks free."


    Lysandra gave a low, dangerous chuckle. "Dangerous?" She stepped forward slowly, each footfall heavy, deliberate, armored claws biting the stone beneath her. "You mistake power for threat. You mistake truth for sedition. And most importantly..."


    She smiled, a predator''s grin, her wings flaring just slightly. "You mistake who should be running."


    A few of the Tribunal guards stepped back instinctively.


    Still, the leading woman remained steady. "We have orders. We will enforce them."


    Damian finally moved. Just one step forward. Calm. Composed. The wind lifted his coat slightly, brushing past the ash-stained ground.


    "You can deliver your threats later," he said, voice quiet. "We haven''t finished the rites."


    "You''ve had enough time," one of the tribunal knights snapped. "This is delaying justice."


    Aria stepped beside Damian, her expression unreadable. "We honor the dead. Even those you don''t see fit to remember."


    "Refusal to comply will be considered hostile," the emerald-robed woman said flatly. "You must face the Grand Tribunal now."


    Selena stepped forward, mouth drawn in a hard line. "You think dragging chains to a graveyard will make your case stronger?"


    Cedric added, voice low but firm, "He rebuilt this city. We stand with him."


    The Tribunal mages didn''t move.


    The silence that followed wasn''t peaceful.


    It was the silence before a match struck fire.


    Lysandra let out a long breath. "Tell me one thing. Before I break every ward in your convoy. Do you actually think we''d let you take him?"


    The mage hesitated.


    And Damian lifted a hand¡ªcalm, still¡ªnot for violence. Just a small motion.


    "Not yet," he said softly. "Let them posture. Let them write their warnings."


    He turned to the tree. To the ashes beneath.


    "We finish this rite first. Then they can try their luck."


    Aria nodded beside him, voice as calm and radiant as ever. "We honor our dead. And if you truly believe in justice... you''ll wait."


    The Tribunal members shifted uncomfortably.


    Finally, the emerald-robed mage spoke again. Her tone less commanding now. More cautious.


    "You will come with us when this ends?"


    Damian didn''t answer. He didn''t have to.


    His silence, surrounded by dragons, fae, vampires, and the people of Haven who now knew the truth¡ªthat silence said enough.


    Cassius crossed his arms, muttering just loud enough, "They came looking for a villain. I hope they brought a mirror."


    Victoria smiled faintly.


    And the final petals fell from the tree.


    The rite was done.


    And next?


    Well...


    The moment hung heavy like the last drop of rain before a storm.


    The wind had quieted. The graveyard shimmered faintly from residual mana, and the silence that followed was the kind that didn''t belong in cemeteries¡ªit belonged in courtrooms. In wars. In turning points.


    Damian didn''t move right away. Neither did Aria. They stood side by side beneath the glowing moonwood tree, watching as the tribunal mages slowly stepped forward with that same smug air of authority. The kind that made him want to punch something, or someone, preferably in the mouth.


    "We appreciate your cooperation," the lead tribunal mage said, like her words weren''t dipped in ice and superiority. "Now, if you would kindly present yourselves for binding¡ª"


    "No," Damian said. Just like that.


    The wind shifted, subtle but sharp.


    Aria tilted her head slightly, expression still calm but her aura tightening like a bowstring. "We''ll go. But not in chains."


    The tribunal woman blinked. "That''s not negotiable¡ª"


    "We''re not fugitives," Damian cut in, voice low but firm. "We go of our own will. Try to bind me, and you''ll see how fast that peace collapses."


    The tribunal mage opened her mouth like she had a rebuttal queued up¡ªonly for her eyes to flick nervously toward Lysandra''s massive, armored frame.


    Yeah. Not a good day to get cocky.

 Chapter 446: They Want a Target

    Warlock Ch 446. They Want a Target


    From behind them, Evelyn''s voice cracked through the tension. "Damian, no¡ª"


    He turned to look at her, and the moment their eyes met, it all just hit again. The way she held herself¡ªhalf angry, half terrified. She had seen him taken away. She wasn''t ready to gamble again


    "You can''t go," she said, stepping closer. "Not without knowing if you''ll come back. They don''t want truth¡ªthey want a target."


    He gave a tired smile. "I know."


    "Then why are you doing this?" Her voice shook. "You just saved a city, rebuilt an entire damn district, and now you''re going to walk into their den and hope they listen?"


    "I''m not hoping," Damian said softly. "I''m making sure they see. They don''t get to rewrite this story again."


    "I just got you back," she whispered.


    His fingers brushed hers briefly, his touch warm despite the cold wind. "And I''m not going anywhere permanent. Promise."


    The tribunal mage cleared her throat loudly. "If we''re done¡ª"


    "No. You''re not," came the sharp voice of the fae king.


    Every head turned.


    He stepped forward. "If this is a Grand Tribunal matter, then I will attend. As ruler of the Western Glades and guardian of fae interests, I need answers."


    "You''re not invited," the tribunal man grunted.


    "Too bad." The fae king''s voice sharpened. "There was an attempted assassination of Selena Delyanis during your S-Rank exam. A sanctioned Tribunal test, if I recall correctly. And that''s not even counting the fact that my son, Cedric, was captured, nearly sacrificed in a demonic ritual, and not one of your agents noticed until after he was bleeding on the altar."


    "I''m fine, by the way," Cedric muttered.


    "Your permission is irrelevant," the fae king went on, ignoring the tribunal''s tight-lipped fury. "I''m coming."


    Selena stepped forward beside him, arms crossed. "Same here."


    Alric grinned faintly. "Oh, definitely not letting Damian go alone."


    Cedric adjusted his coat and gave the tribunal mages a calm, composed nod. "As a prince of the fae, it is my duty to ensure that the truth is heard. I will accompany them."


    The lead tribunal woman''s eye twitched. "This is unnecessary¡ª"


    "And yet," Victoria said, gliding down from her perch on the ruined chapel balcony, "it''s happening. As queen of the Scarlet Dominion and witness to this farce, I will accompany Damian as well."


    The tribunal mage''s expression was now drifting somewhere between constipation and seething rage.


    Lysandra grinned, arms crossed. "You think I''m letting you walk him into a courtroom without dragon protection? Please. I''ll bring the whole flight if I have to."


    "You''re all violating inter-faction protocol¡ª"


    Cassius clapped his hands loudly, cutting her off. "And I''m going because someone needs to document this train wreck when it crashes."


    Evelyn nodded fiercely, standing her ground beside Damian. "And I''m going because if any of you even try to pull what you did fifty years ago, I will turn every single one of you into ugly frogs."


    Another tribunal knight coughed awkwardly.


    The lead mage glared at them all, fists clenched tight. "This isn''t how the Tribunal operates."


    "No," Damian said quietly. "But maybe it''s how it should have."


    There was a long silence.


    Then the tribunal reluctantly nodded. "Very well. You may accompany the accused. But any aggression will be grounds for¡ª"


    "Yeah, yeah," Cassius waved her off. "Just point us to your ugly airship already."


    Turns out, the Tribunal didn''t ride carriages or cars.


    No.


    They used flying constructs that looked like floating cathedrals crossed with giant armored beetles. It hovered just above the eastern ridge, humming with old magic and judgmental vibes.


    As they walked toward it, Damian couldn''t help but glance back.


    The tree.


    The graves.


    The people.


    They''d barely begun to rebuild. And here he was¡ªleaving again.


    Aria must''ve caught the hesitation. She bumped his shoulder lightly. "They''ll be okay."


    "Are you sure?"


    "No." She smiled faintly. "But I believe in them. Just like I believe in you."


    Damian nodded once.


    And stepped into the beast.


    The airship doors sealed shut behind them with a deep thud, and the light shifted.


    The Tribunal hadn''t even started asking questions yet.


    But the trial had already begun.


    The inside of the Tribunal transport was exactly what Damian expected¡ªcold, sterile, and way too self-important.


    Stone and gold paneling lined the walls like it was trying too hard to look sacred, but all it really did was remind him of the waiting room before a bad surgery. Rows of narrow, high-backed seats bolted to the floor, arcane sigils glowing softly at the base. Defensive wards pulsed gently above them, casting a faint bluish sheen across the curved ceiling, like the whole place was made of frostbitten glass. Everything smelled faintly of old parchment and incense burned out hours ago. Even the air felt recycled¡ªclean but... empty. Like it''d been filtered through too many lies.


    The thing moved fast. It barely made a sound, gliding through the sky on invisible ley currents like a floating court summons wrapped in divine bureaucracy.


    It only took an hour. Which was honestly kind of funny, considering they could''ve teleported them in seconds.


    Damian leaned his head back against the seat, arms crossed, staring up at the ceiling with that half-lazy, half-suspicious look he wore like second skin. The others had taken up various spots in the chamber. Victoria sat regal and quiet, her presence a calm storm. Lysandra stood, arms folded, too large for the seats and too proud to sit anyway. Her armor gleamed like she was daring the walls to try something. Cassius had fallen asleep sideways in two chairs like a cat with attitude, and Evelyn sat cross-legged beside him, sharpening a dagger she wouldn''t need unless someone got really stupid.


    Aria sat beside Damian, her face unreadable, posture perfect. But he noticed her right hand resting on her thigh¡ªtwo fingers rhythmically tapping against her leg. A subtle nervous tic.


    Outside, through the open rune-screens, dragons flew in formation alongside the transport. Majestic and impossible to ignore. Silver scales, bronze wings, some red as burning dusk. The wind whipped around them like thunder. The sky cracked with the force of their wingbeats, shaking the light clouds that dared to drift too close.

 Chapter 447: Apex Predators

    Warlock Ch 447. Apex Predators


    Damian chuckled softly, the sound low, dry.


    "What?" Aria asked without turning her head.


    He tilted his chin toward the viewport. "They could''ve teleported us."


    She nodded slowly. "I know."


    "But they didn''t," he said.


    "No," she agreed, voice quiet.


    He exhaled through his nose. "You think they planned to ''lose'' us in transit?" His voice sounded bitter.


    "Probably," she said flatly. "Until they realized we brought half the damn realm''s powerhouses with us."


    Damian let the silence stretch, but he chuckled internally.


    Truth was, he could feel it¡ªthe tension in the walls, the unfinished spell arrays humming quietly underfoot. Hidden ones. Probably designed to bind, subdue, or erase if they felt like it. He didn''t need [Observation] to know. He could feel the pressure. It was like sitting inside a held breath.


    They wanted to test them. Hurt them. Break them down on the way there.


    But between Victoria''s cold death-stare, the fae king''s unimpressed silence, Lysandra''s dragonborn authority, and the literal swarm of flying apex predators around them...


    They hadn''t even tried.


    They just flew. Straight. Silent. No trap. No games. Just cold professionalism now.


    Because now they were cornered too.


    The Tribunal couldn''t touch him¡ªnot yet.


    Damian turned his gaze toward the horizon.


    Through the thick runed glass, the distant outline of the capital came into view¡ªMagus Sanctum.


    The city was carved into the mountain range like a crown atop a god''s skull. A thousand spires rose high, woven with magical light. Bridges of crystal and gold laced the sky between towers like strands of an ancient web. The air around the city shimmered faintly, protected by layers and layers of magical shielding. There were floating wards the size of ships orbiting the upper sanctum, scanning everything within range. And at the very center¡ª The Grand Tribunal Tower.


    A black spire. Impossibly tall. Surrounded by six coiling rings of stone and arcane glass, suspended in the air by divine anchors. The Tower of Judgment.


    Damian''s stomach twisted. Just slightly.


    The last time he saw it, he had been chained. His wrists bound with soulsteel. A crowd of smug faces watching from marble balconies. His name wasn''t "Damian" then.


    It was Kaelan Voidweaver.


    Villain. War criminal. The man who broke the Accord.


    The memory surfaced uninvited¡ªtoo vivid. Boots scraping against stone. Shackles cold against his skin. The whisper of a crowd wanting a monster, and the tribunal that gave them one. They paraded him like a trophy.


    And he let them.


    Because back then, he still believed someone would speak up. That maybe, just maybe, someone would say, "This isn''t right."


    No one did.


    But that wasn''t going to happen this time.


    He wasn''t Kaelan anymore. He wasn''t a tragic hero. And he sure as hell wasn''t some misunderstood villain. He wasn''t walking into that tower with chains.


    He was walking in with an army.


    No, scratch that¡ªwith proof.


    The transport began its slow descent, the whirring of embedded mana-turbines vibrating through the floor.


    The city below them gleamed like a sharpened blade, beautiful and cold and absolutely indifferent.


    "Last chance to jump," Cassius muttered, cracking one eye open.


    Damian didn''t answer. He didn''t need to.


    He watched as the tower grew larger. The entrance plaza expanded below, lined with glowing runes and cloaked tribunal agents waiting in formation. The moment the construct touched the landing pad, defensive enchantments locked in like prison bars across the deck. A soft chime sounded. The door hissed.


    "Showtime," Evelyn muttered.


    The door groaned open.


    No chains. No escort spells. No binding glyphs. Just a long, polished bridge leading into the cold heart of the city. Lined with people who''d already decided their roles in the story.


    Damian stepped forward first.


    He didn''t flinch. Didn''t lower his eyes.


    The air smelled like stone dust and sanctimony. Like expensive robes and old blood covered up by scented oils.


    The air outside the Tribunal airship was cold. Crisp. Like the city itself had held its breath the moment it saw them arrive.


    Stone flags flapped sharply along the skybridge leading to the Tower of Judgment, and the first thing Damian noticed when he stepped out¡ªwas the silence. Not the comfortable kind. Not reverent.


    It was the kind that crackled with judgment.


    Hundreds¡ªno, thousands¡ªof people were gathered across the open plaza and winding staircases built into the terraces of the Magus Citadel. Civilians. Nobles. Students from the magic academies. Tribunal supporters. Fae emissaries. Gossiping aristocrats. Even a few masked judges in their ceremonial robes stood motionless, their gaze sharp beneath heavy hoods.


    Damian''s boots hit the stone with a soft thud. One step. Then another.


    He wasn''t in chains.


    He wasn''t escorted by guards.


    He wasn''t dragged in, bloody and beaten like a lesson to be made.


    He just walked.


    Calm. Composed. Quiet.


    As if he belonged here.


    As if he was just a guest.


    And that¡ªmore than anything else¡ªthrew them off.


    He could feel the stares. The hush ripple across the crowd like someone had turned down the world''s volume knob.


    People leaned in. Whispered.


    "Is that him?"


    "Where are the chains?"


    "Why''s he not restrained?"


    "Did they forget the suppression collar¡ª?"


    But then came the others. And that''s when the hush became stunned silence.


    First out was Lysandra, draconic armor gleaming under the afternoon sun like forged lightning, her wings tucked but still casting an impossible silhouette behind her. Four of her officers followed¡ªmassive dragonborn soldiers with gold-rimmed pauldrons and burning eyes that dared anyone to speak out of turn.


    Then Cassius stepped out like he was entering a stage, loose cloak tossed back, runes glowing lazily across his shoulders. SSS Rank. One of the only independent contractors powerful enough to tell the Tribunal to go shove it.


    And beside him, Evelyn. The witch they said had once hexed an entire council because they interrupted her breakfast. Her long coat fluttered around her, and her eyes scanned the crowd like she was already memorizing who needed to be cursed first.

 Chapter 448: Procession?

    Warlock Ch 448. Procession?


    A few gasps broke through.


    "The famous witch..."


    "She''s here?"


    "And him¡ªhe''s Cassius, that warlock¡ªwhat the hell is going on¡ª"


    But it didn''t stop there.


    Next came Victoria.


    Not in armor.


    In a regal crimson dress that flowed behind her like spilled wine across marble, flanked by three vampire knights clad in black and red. Her mere presence pulled heat from the air. People stepped back instinctively, unsure if they should bow, run, or just not breathe.


    Then the fae king stepped out.


    Golden circlet. Robes of woven moonlight. His silver-white hair trailing behind him like a comet''s tail. Selena followed, her hand near her hip, eyes cold and calculating, and Cedric... well, Cedric wore that polished, princely smirk that practically dared someone to tell him he didn''t belong.


    And behind them¡ªa handful of royal guards from the glades, dressed in layered leather armor marked with floral sigils glowing faintly under the sun.


    The crowd didn''t know what to do anymore.


    Whispers turned to murmurs. Murmurs into confusion.


    Was this... a procession?


    Were they under arrest?


    Or were they invited?


    Someone up front shouted, "What''s going on?!"


    Someone else yelled, "He''s a traitor!"


    A third voice added, "Isn''t that Kaelan Voidweaver?!"


    And just like that, the tension started to boil again.


    The noise rising.


    The crowd edging toward fury.


    And then¡ª


    Evelyn moved.


    She stepped forward, calm as she please, and pulled something out of her coat pocket.


    A recording rune.


    Not just any rune¡ªa high-fidelity recording device marked with the seal of the College of Scribes. Certified. Unalterable. Embedded with truth verification magic.


    She held it up like it was nothing, fingers glowing briefly as she activated it.


    And the moment the projection shimmered to life, a Tribunal guard stepped forward to intercept her.


    "Cease immediately!" he barked. "You are not authorized to display private media¡ª"


    Cassius''s hand lifted lazily. A dome of shimmering violet light expanded out from him in all directions, forming a perfect protective barrier between them and the Tribunal guards. The magic hummed, thick and solid, warded to hell and back.


    Cassius tilted his head with a half-grin. "You were saying?"


    The guard scowled, clearly debating if his life insurance covered incineration.


    Inside the barrier, the rune flared brighter¡ªand the vision formed.


    Hazy at first. Then crisp. Clear. Loud.


    A ruined hall. Firelight flickering. Shadows shifting.


    Then came the voice.


    Ralvek.


    Snarling. Desperate.


    He spilled out his entire plan and the confession that he once also did the same to Kaelan.


    The crowd went dead quiet.


    The vision played on.


    Flashes of the battle. The creature. The shield collapsing. Damian standing over the seal, his body breaking under the strain. Victoria screaming. Lysandra roaring.


    Every second painted the Tribunal into a corner.


    Every line, every frame, was a hammer.


    And then came the final moment...


    The rune dimmed. The projection faded.


    Silence.


    Real silence.


    Even the guards outside the barrier were frozen, unsure of what to do now.


    And Damian just stood there.


    Not triumphant. Not gloating.


    Just... real.


    Solid. Still breathing.


    Still standing.


    Evelyn turned to the crowd. Her voice soft but firm.


    "You all came to judge," she said. "But maybe you need to see why things fell apart. Maybe you need to question who told you to hate him in the first place."


    The barrier dropped.


    Not one guard moved.


    Not one senator dared speak.


    Because for the first time, the people saw what really happened.


    And Damian?


    He didn''t need to defend himself.


    The truth did it for him.


    He exhaled slowly and looked up at the tower.


    This time, he wasn''t walking in as a prisoner.


    He was walking in as the damn reckoning.


    The crowd murmured.


    Soft, uncertain waves of whispers that rippled across the courtyard like a hesitant tide.


    Not hate.


    Not awe.


    Just... confusion.


    The kind that twists in your gut when everything you believed¡ªeverything you were told¡ªsuddenly doesn''t add up.


    Faces in the plaza shifted. Some turned away. Some stared harder. Some looked down, maybe in shame. Others just blinked, like their brains were still buffering.


    Because they didn''t know who to trust anymore.


    Damian didn''t stop to correct them. Didn''t need to. He just kept walking forward, straight toward the Tower of Judgment. The giant double-doors of obsidian and enchanted marble loomed in front of him, etched with golden runes and surrounded by spiraling pillars.


    The silence followed him like a second shadow.


    This wasn''t the kind of silence Kaelan had gotten back then.


    When Kaelan had walked this path, the guards hadn''t even looked at him like a person. They spat at his feet. Sneered behind helmets. Called him "monster" under their breath loud enough for everyone to hear. Chains clinked with every step he took. The collar around his neck burned with suppression sigils.


    That walk was meant to humiliate him.


    This walk?


    This one meant something else entirely.


    Because Damian wasn''t walking in alone.


    He walked beside Aria Brightlight¡ªonce a revered daughter of the Magus Order, now branded a traitor like him. Her steps were firm, expression unreadable, but he caught the quick breath she drew as they approached the doors.


    She remembered too.


    Behind them moved the rest.


    Not just followers. Not just friends.


    Power. Influence. Proof.


    The doors opened.


    Slowly.


    No welcoming party. No escort.


    Just that long, cold hallway.


    White marble floors with inlaid gold. Arched ceilings covered in runic glyphs older than most countries. Stained-glass windows depicting the founding of the Tribunal¡ªmages and warriors binding demons, casting out ''monsters,'' raising their banners of peace.


    It looked grand. Sacred. Important.


    But to Damian, it felt sterile.


    Like a courtroom pretending to be a temple.


    He remembered this place too well.


    The moment his boots touched the black sun-shaped symbol at the center of the entrance hall, something in his chest twisted.


    Because this was where they first shackled Kaelan''s legs, before he broke all the chains.


    Right here. On this exact spot.


    He could still hear the chants. "Voidweaver! Villain!"


    He could still smell the burnt blood from where his trial had turned into a sentence.


    But now?


    No one dared move.

 Chapter 449: The Tribunal Chamber

    Warlock Ch 449. The Tribunal Chamber


    The guards stood stiff at their posts, hands near weapons but not drawing. Tribunal clerks stared from upper balconies, their enchanted pens hovering mid-air, unsure if they should continue writing or start praying.


    And the look in their eyes wasn''t anger this time.


    It was fear.


    It was uncertainty.


    Because this wasn''t a boy in chains.


    This was Damian Blackthorn walking in with half a royal entourage and the kind of backup that could cause a civil war if anyone so much as sneezed wrong.


    They reached the inner gate.


    The Grand Tribunal doors.


    Tall. Towering. Covered in radiant blue sigils and a pressure that made everyone''s skin crawl if they weren''t welcome.


    Two Magus Knights stood on either side, fully armored, their halberds resting on the floor. Their faces were unreadable behind polished helmets, but the subtle twitch in one of their gauntlets said enough.


    "You may enter," one of them said, voice slightly cracked.


    Damian just nodded. No thank-you. No acknowledgment. Just forward motion.


    The doors groaned open.


    Inside was the heart of it all.


    The Tribunal Chamber.


    A massive circular room, domed high above with skylights that filtered pure sunlight through magical prisms. The floor was polished obsidian¡ªdark, reflective, like walking on still water. The council seats rose along the walls like a theater, each tier representing a different branch of magical authority.


    War Council, Healing Order, Elemental Division, The Faithful, and of course, the Core Council of Senators.


    And above all, at the far end¡ªsix high-backed thrones. The Grand Six. The judges who had the final word on any ruling passed in this chamber.


    They were already there.


    Old. Powerful. Enigmatic.


    Wearing white and gold robes layered with silver threads, faces veiled by magic, eyes glowing faintly beneath the hoods. Some had wands. Others staves. One just floated mid-air, legs crossed like he hadn''t moved in a decade.


    The chamber was deathly still when Damian walked in.


    But they all watched.


    He could feel it.


    No one interrupted. No one cleared their throat. No one reminded him he wasn''t welcome.


    Because they didn''t know if they could.


    He didn''t walk to the center alone.


    Aria walked with him.


    And the rest followed. They didn''t stand along the edges like guests¡ªthey took positions beside him. Behind him. Around him.


    Victoria with her hands clasped, regal and unreadable. Lysandra with her arms crossed, daring anyone to challenge the balance. The fae king simply stood and stared, the weight of ancient magic behind his gaze.


    And Evelyn?


    She didn''t smile.


    She just raised her chin slightly. Like this was her house, not theirs.


    Cassius popped his neck and looked up toward the judges.


    "Nice chairs," he said casually. "Real comfy looking. Ever think about adding cushions? Bit stiff in here."


    No one laughed.


    But Damian did let out the faintest exhale through his nose. Not quite amusement.


    Just... remembering what it felt like to not walk into this place alone.


    He stopped in the center of the obsidian circle.


    Lifted his eyes toward the Grand Six.


    And waited.


    No chains.


    No collar.


    No kneeling.


    They''d have to speak first.


    Because this time?


    He wasn''t here to defend himself.


    He was here to speak.


    And they were going to listen.


    The chamber was too quiet.


    The kind of quiet that followed explosions. Or preceded bloodbaths.


    Damian stood in the center of the obsidian floor, the echoes of their entrance still lingering in the massive space. The light filtering through the runed skylights above painted silver rings on the floor around him¡ªlike targets.


    The Tribunal''s silence stretched. Taut. Measured. Then, finally, one of the six judges spoke¡ªhis voice magically amplified, crisp and slow like someone reading the terms of an execution.


    "Guests are to be seated in the witness galleries," he said, gesturing toward the arc of tiered platforms behind Damian.


    Victoria arched one elegant brow. "Guests?" Her voice cut through the chamber like the edge of a polished blade. "We are not guests."


    She stepped forward, her crimson dress swaying softly with each controlled step. Her gaze burned into the judge''s cowl.


    "We are witnesses," she continued. "Same as Damian Blackthorn. And we will stand with him."


    The judge''s glow-dimmed face didn''t shift, but the pause after her words was telling. A flicker of hesitation.


    Then a second voice spoke¡ªthis one female, colder, older. "Damian Blackthorn is... a criminal."


    Evelyn snorted, loud and rude enough to make at least one clerk gasp from the balconies above. "Seriously? You''re still on that?"


    She reached into her coat, her fingers tapping lightly against another recording rune, this one gleaming with an amber tint. "I''ve got more. Tons more. You want Ralvek explaining the entire cover-up while crying into his own blood? Or maybe the part where a Tribunal-aligned senator tried to sacrifice a prince?"


    The third judge spoke, this one calm and resigned. "We saw it."


    "Then why," Aria''s voice cut in sharply, "is he still being branded as a criminal?"


    She stepped to Damian''s right, posture straight, chin raised¡ªnot proud, not defiant. Just... done. Done with games. Done with half-truths.


    "You saw what he did," she continued. "You saw him save the city. Rebuild it. Heal it. You saw Ralvek''s confession. You saw the creature. And yet here we are."


    She glanced at Damian, then back to the Tribunal. "He should be cleared. Released. Honored."


    The first judge¡ªthe old magus with the floating staff¡ªleaned forward slightly. His voice was heavy with old disappointment.


    "And yet here you are," he said slowly, "Aria Brightlight. A daughter of the Order. Chosen for leadership. Meant to stand among us. And you walk beside him."


    She smiled, sharp and bitter. "Shocking, isn''t it?"


    The word rang in the room like a blade being drawn.


    The pause that followed wasn''t long¡ªbut it was dangerous.


    Then one of the tribunal judges lifted a hand, magic gathering like frost in the air. A binding spell. Elegant. Old. Designed to wrap around Aria''s limbs like silk and freeze her in place.


    He never finished it.


    The spell barely left his fingertips before it shattered mid-air like brittle glass.


    A pulse had stopped it.


    But no one had seen the caster move.

 Chapter 450: Testimony

    Warlock Ch 450. Testimony


    Damian didn''t lift a hand. Didn''t blink. It was his [Dispel] skill.


    He just looked at the judge.


    And the spell broke.


    The silence that followed felt heavier than the stone in the walls.


    "We," Damian said slowly, clearly, "are going to give our testimony."


    His voice wasn''t angry.


    It was anchored.


    One of the Tribunal responded, voice clipped. "We remember. But you also need to remember¡ªyou are the one who took the Demon King''s mana core. And that... thing''s core. Both. Without authorization."


    A second judge chimed in, tone sharpening. "Do you understand what that means, Blackthorn? Absorbing another magus''s core¡ªespecially one as powerful as a Demon King¡ªgoes against every tenet of the Accord. You''ve committed a crime. Two, in fact."


    "I didn''t take them," Damian replied, jaw tight. "I contained them."


    "Semantic tricks," one of the older voices snapped. "You hold power that does not belong to you. You wield energy that should have been archived or sealed under Tribunal custody!"


    Damian''s eyes narrowed. "I defeated them and saved the city."


    "And in doing so, you became too dangerous," the judge fired back. "That is why the law exists¡ªto keep power from corrupting¡ª"


    "No," Damian said flatly, voice cutting the judge off mid-sentence. "The law exists to serve the people. And you forgot that."


    The room tensed. Even the walls felt like they were holding their breath.


    Another judge hissed, "Don''t you dare lecture this council on the law, Blackthorn."


    "I''m not lecturing," Damian said, stepping forward slightly. His tone dropped, colder now. "I''m reminding you. Of everything you claim to protect. But maybe that''s the problem, isn''t it? You protect a system. Not the people."


    The words hung like thunderclouds. Too loud. Too true.


    The judge with the floating staff leaned forward again. "And you think you''re better? You think you can decide what laws to break? What power to claim? How long until you stop asking permission for anything at all?"


    Damian''s hands clenched at his sides.


    Evelyn moved, but Aria gently stopped her with a hand on the arm.


    He didn''t need rescuing.


    Not anymore.


    "I didn''t want this power," Damian said. "It burned me from the inside out. Nearly killed me. I didn''t steal it. I survived it. I stopped it."


    "And now you think survival makes you righteous?"


    "No," Damian said. "But I know I''m right because I did this not out of greed."


    He raised his head fully now, staring directly at the Tribunal. And then... just slightly... he let it out.


    Not all of it.


    Not even most.


    Just a taste of his aura.


    The air shifted.


    Mana thickened. The marble floor beneath his boots shimmered faintly, and dust from the ceiling sifted down like the building had flinched. Even the light through the windows dimmed¡ªnot blocked, just recoiled.


    And Damian''s eyes¡ªburning violet, flecked with infernal crimson¡ªlocked onto the central judge like a blade pressing against skin.


    "Now... Stop flipping the truth," he said quietly. "I am restraining myself here. Because if I don''t¡ª"


    The floor cracked beneath him. Not from force.


    From pressure.


    He didn''t move. He didn''t cast.


    The building just felt it.


    "I can flatten this place," Damian continued, voice low, sharp, unflinching, "with a single snap."


    No one spoke.


    No one could.


    Even the Tribunal¡ªfor all their power, for all their arrogance¡ªknew it.


    He wasn''t bluffing.


    The only sound in the room was the faint tremor of the air trying to remember how to breathe.


    And then Damian pulled his aura back in.


    The pressure vanished like a lifted storm. The light returned. The stone stopped groaning.


    But the warning stayed.


    Not a threat.


    A fact.


    He exhaled slowly and stepped back beside Aria.


    Then, quietly, calmly, he said¡ª


    "Now. Are you going to let us testify... or are we skipping straight to the part where I really become your problem?"


    The silence cracked.


    Not with words. Not right away.


    But with murmurs¡ªsoft at first, like distant thunder rolling through the rafters. The kind of uncertainty that spreads like ink in water. No shouts. No objections. Just the sound of people¡ªmages, nobles, aides, guards¡ªrealizing the room had shifted.


    The Tribunal''s head judge, the one whose eyes glowed the faintest gold beneath his veil, leaned back. His hands folded.


    "We will let you testify," he said.


    Damian smiled, just a little.


    "Great."


    He stepped forward, the center of the obsidian floor cold under his boots. His gaze flicked briefly upward¡ªto the high thrones, the light cutting through stained-glass sigils, the shadowed balconies above where scribes etched every word with spells that shimmered faintly in the air.


    Everyone was watching.


    He didn''t speak like a politician. Not like a noble. Not like someone rehearsing lines. He just told the truth. His truth.


    He began from the start, not with anger but with the cold clarity of someone who had bled for a truth no one wanted to hear. He told them of the reports, the trial logs, the accusations¡ªevery twisted word used to paint him a villain. He laid bare the reality they had buried, the silencing, the tampered records, the convenient omissions that reshaped a man into a monster for the sake of order.


    He gestured to Aria, his former enemy turned ally, who had been there to see it all¡ªthe betrayals, the erasures, the rewritten narratives. She didn''t speak, but her presence was proof enough. And then Damian told them why he had taken the creature''s mana core, why he had bonded with something no sane magus would dare touch. Not for power. Not for glory. But because no one else could, and because Haven would have fallen into fire and death if he hadn''t.


    A projection rune flared to life beside Evelyn, revealing the monstrous entity as it had been¡ªunleashed and uncontainable. It had taken everything he had to survive it, and more to keep it from destroying the world. He didn''t plead. He didn''t excuse. He simply laid out the cost, a decision no one else had the strength¡ªor madness¡ªto make.

 Chapter 451: Consent?

    Warlock Ch 451. Consent?


    Then Cedric stepped forward. The prince revealed the truth behind his disappearancem He had been taken¡ªabducted by imposters dressed as fae soldiers, men who moved too precisely and spoke with tongues too polished. Ritual scars marked his skin, and Evelyn''s projections showed him bound in a summoning circle.


    Selena followed. Her voice didn''t shake, but her eyes did. She recounted the exam¡ªhow it turned into a slaughter, how every participant but her and Damian was dead as a test. How each kill had fed something dark. And how, in the end, it was Damian who pulled her out.


    The Fae King then turned the accusation on its head. He exposed the S-rank examination''s rules for what they were: legalized bloodsport that had allowed ritual killings under the guise of trial by combat. The Tribunal had nothing to say to that.


    Lysandra then explained how the Dragon King had sensed the anomaly¡ªnot from Damian, but from Haven''s vault, and how that led her not to Blackthorn, but to Ralvek.


    Then Cassius described the assassinations¡ªnine in total within a month, each aimed at Damian. Assassins, poisons, mimics. All of it a pattern. A warning. A purge in progress.


    The crowd of mages around the upper rings murmured again. This time, deeper. Uneasier.


    Because the pattern was becoming clear.


    One of the younger senators¡ªone of Ralvek''s old allies¡ªfinally spoke, trying to redirect.


    "We do not dispute these... events," he said. "But the fact remains that Damian Blackthorn absorbed a creature''s core. A core beyond any classification we''ve ever seen. That is a crime under Article¡ª"


    "¡ªFourteen, Section Eight, Clause Three," Damian finished for him, his voice flat. "Which refers to theft between magi. Not containment of eldritch-level catastrophic entities. Try again."


    Another senator, more clever than the first, leaned forward.


    "But what if containment becomes corruption?" she asked. "You have power now, beyond anything we can verify. What''s to stop you from becoming the threat?"


    Damian smiled. Cold. Thin.


    "What stopped me last time?"


    She didn''t answer.


    "Don''t pretend you care about risk," he said. "What you care about is control."


    The words were like glass across the floor.


    The Tribunal remained quiet.


    Because he was right.


    They didn''t fear him because he was unstable.


    They feared him because he wasn''t theirs.


    Because the power he now held¡ªgod-tier, divine-adjacent, able to heal cities or level mountains¡ªwas something every Magus Council had dreamed of, theorized about, and tried to manufacture for centuries.


    The power to construct, to destroy, to restore. To bend the world''s weave to your will.


    And Damian had it.


    Not because he took it.


    But because no one else survived holding it.


    He turned back to the Tribunal slowly.


    "I know what this is," he said. "This trial. This performance."


    He pointed upward¡ªtoward the balconies of spectators, senators, scribes.


    "It''s not about guilt or innocence anymore. You''re just buying time. Looking for a loophole. A clause. Something, anything, to trap me again. To wrap this up in legislation and call it justice."


    He took one step forward, and the echo rang sharp.


    "But here''s the truth," he said, eyes glowing faintly now. "There''s no loophole. No missing context. I lived. They didn''t. I carry the power now."


    He let his gaze sweep across them.


    "And I didn''t come here to plead."


    He looked to Aria, then Victoria, then Lysandra and Cassius.


    "I came here to testify."


    He turned back to the council. His voice dropped.


    "And if you twist that... if you try to brand me again... know this."


    A flicker of his aura bled through¡ªlike a god''s heartbeat underneath his skin.


    "I won''t destroy the Tribunal," he said.


    "But I''ll make sure no one ever believes a word from your mouths again."


    The chamber was silent.


    Utterly, absolutely silent.


    Because the truth had been laid bare.


    And not even magic could rewrite it.


    The silence after Damian''s final words wasn''t just silence.


    It was surrender.


    Not the kind where banners dropped and swords clattered to the ground. No. This was the kind of surrender made of clenched jaws and sweaty palms. Of Tribunal members who realized¡ªtruly realized¡ªthat they''d lost control of the room the moment Damian walked in unshackled.


    One of the younger judges¡ªperhaps hoping to salvage some kind of upper ground¡ªcleared his throat and leaned forward, fingers steepled tightly.


    "Let us be... clear," he began, voice trembling slightly under the weight of every pair of eyes in the chamber. "We are not denying the contributions Damian Blackthorn made during the Haven Crisis."


    Victoria snorted delicately. "Crisis. That''s what you''re calling it?"


    The judge ignored her.


    "But we must weigh the long-term consequences of his... actions. The containment of such power, the absorption of unstable cores, especially without consent¡ª"


    "Consent?" Aria''s voice cut in like a lash. "Was the creature supposed to sign a contract before trying to annihilate an entire city?"


    "I''m not finished," the judge snapped, temper fraying. "There are protocols for magical containment. Emergency channels that were bypassed. And above all¡ª"


    He turned back to Damian. "You made a decision. Alone. Without counsel. Without oversight."


    "Because there wasn''t time," Damian said flatly. "If I waited for you to finish filling out forms, the entire southern quarter would''ve been a crater."


    "You don''t get to decide that."


    "But I did," Damian replied. "And I''d do it again."


    The words landed with finality. Honest. Unapologetic.


    Another judge, this one older and more composed, leaned forward.


    "And if you lose control?" he asked softly. "What then?"


    Damian didn''t flinch. "I don''t plan to."


    "That''s not an answer."


    "No," Cassius drawled from the side, leaning against one of the pillars with his arms crossed, "but it''s a hell of a better plan than the ones you''ve been throwing around."


    The judge''s mouth twitched.


    Aria stepped forward again, her voice softer this time.


    "If you''re asking whether we have a contingency for Damian, the answer is yes. Me."


    She looked over her shoulder at Damian¡ªbrief, trusting¡ªand then returned her gaze to the Tribunal.


    "If he loses control, I stop him."


    That made several brows rise.