West Floeroad, Olton Floodlands, Southern Province, The Empire of Stone

"...I may have had my eyes glaze over partway into the conversation," Horizon admits guiltily, "But I got the gist of it. I think."

"It's not really all that important for you," I absolve her, rolling my eyes, "You're already going far away from Meteo, so you aren't being accounted for in their plans. Hopefully, the next time you stop by it'll be far less contentious."

I take out a piece of bread I bought from a Horolt - local word for Priests of the various Gods, not to be confused with the nomenclature of other religious institutions like The Truth of Stars - at the rest stop and chew on it. Slightly fresher than the sawmill rolls I was bulk buying back in Meteo. Still quintessentially cheap fare - I feel a real craving for a good Woodswalker pie, a mix of foraged berries and gamey meat.

Feeling my mouth begin to water, I quell the hunger with another bite of bread, lamenting our relative poverty. As if any old traveller carries around Stone Gold in his coinpurse. Got to say, the early days really didn't shy away from throwing money at players.

"What's with the pitiful look?" Horizon questions, grumbling with one hand to her ear as we pass a narrower stretch of road.

"Wishing for an improvement in my diet!" I inform her, trying to speak over the crashing water, "Tired of cheap trail rations!"

"Suck it up, Silver!" she shouts back, picking up the pace to move past the noisy stretch of road, leaving me to catch up again, "Ugh, I hate this place."

"We're not far off now," I console her, "Maybe another hour's walk. Do you not notice it getting colder?"

"Now that you mention it, yeah," she huffs, "But my skin's basically already gone numb. Hard to tell. Hearing's not far off following suit either."

"We-"

A gushing torrent of air shoots between us, interrupting me and causing Horizon to trip backwards mid-stride. Helping her up, she brushes herself off and rubs her lower back, "What on earth was that?"

"An NPC from the Shrine," I mutter, looking back in the direction we came from, "Specifically, Rea-Horolt Ixilotte. She patrols the Floeroad sporadically to keep it free from threats, like that Viper-of-the-road."

"That was a person?" Horizon blinks, impressed, "Huh. How high must her Agility be for her to be able to run like that?"

"About 10,000, maybe?" I shrug, not really interested in doing any real math to estimate it, "From what I've heard, she's pushing Level 100, if that helps to put it in perspective."

"A hundred? Well. Shit," she chuckles nervously, "Guess I'm glad I only got a bruised ass."

"If she wanted us dead we would be," I shrug, familiar with Ixilotte's habits, since she was sort of an acquaintance of mine in the recent past, following my induction as a Blade, "But the priests at the Shrine are good people. If a...little gungho."

"Gungho? How?"

"Well, if you've been to a bodybuilding gym where the members and instructors are extremely enthusiastic about pursuing the ideal of physical perfection, you'll have some insight into what's ahead," I throw up my hands helplessly, "With some key differences, of course, considering the setting."

"So, you're basically saying that the shrine is a church for gym bros?" she grimaces.

"Depending on which adherents you talk to, yes. It's most pronounced with the leader there and his fellow followers of Eiryu, the God of Strength," I elaborate, digging through my memories, "Add to that The Challengers Pilgrimage, and the result speaks for itself. They even have a pair of arenas for duels and tournaments, though the latter is rare."

"You talk like you've been here before," Horizon eyes me suspiciously, "And not just for a visit."

Perceptive.

"And what if I have?"

She doesn't really have a retort for that, facing forward again.

---

 

Olton Mountain Shrine Plaza, Olton Mountain, Southern Province, The Empire of Stone

The Floeroad converges at an open, paved circular plaza on a huge stone pillar, with its counterpart opposite, and the long, long staircase leading into a covered cave system just beneath the base of the mountain, standing loftily above. Water falls around us in curtains, separated by ancient stone carvings of the deities revered here, with an intimidating, shiny black stone statue taking centre stage atop a platform depicting The Harbinger of The Truth of Stars holding out a four-pointed star as if plucking it from the heavens.

The visage of Lady Jannis, wearing a formal circlet adorned with a single jewel on the forehead, gives the impression that it's looking right at me, and this close to the Shrine, odds aren't low that she actually is observing me through it. I spare a nod for it, and the sense of being watched dissipates, proving my conjecture valid.

I'm expected, it would appear. As if there were any doubt that my movements were being tracked.

Biting her knuckle, Horizon is stood stock still at the same spot, not following behind. I'd say that Olton Mountain Shrine's entrance is pretty high up there when it comes to stunning views. It's far more impressive at night though, when the enchantments on the statues kick in to illuminate the area.

"If you want, I can go on ahead," I offer, walking back, "Since we've basically arrived, you're free to do as you please."

"Mm. I'll stick around here for a little while. Would you mind getting me a room while you're at it, Silver?" she doesn't break eye contact with The Harbinger's statue, but does stop chewing her knuckle, folding her arms instead as if trying to restrain her hands from reaching for a non-existent paintbrush and easel.

"I'll tell them you're with me," Shouldn't be an issue, they have a lot of rooms to accommodate travellers and pilgrims, "We can catch up when we log off, or for the evening meal in the dining hall if you'd prefer."

That gets her attention, "Oh? Real food?"

"My stew isn't that bad," I pull a face.

"It's not, but it's incredibly bland sweetie," she complains, not for the first time either.

"I'm no Chef," Not like I have access to many spices either. Most common varieties need to be imported, so they're pricy.

"Mhm. Now, shoo, I'm busy," she waves me away dismissively with the back of one hand.

"Sure. I'd advise you to move out of the road before Rea-Horolt Ixilotte returns, though, unless you want to be bowled over again," I warn her, turning around.

"I'll take it under advisement."

Leaving Horizon behind, I stroll slowly towards the steps, not sparing much attention to the splendour of my surroundings. It's a sight I'm accustomed to. One of the few areas that wasn't massively changed over the years, at least on the surface. CIGs learned the hard way that pissing off the Gods wasn't a wise move, and handled the temples of the world - major ones at least - with kid gloves. Didn't stop them from turning the plaza into a tourist attraction and populating it with food stalls...but they had the Shrine's cooperation and approval to do business, and in a way the Shrine already is one, so no serious harm was done, I suppose.

The last time I climbed these steps, however, I was a much more powerful man. Even physically hale now, half-way up I feel my bones starting to ache and my breath catching in my throat. I don't stop, pushing through the discomfort as my Stamina dwindles, chugging water heartily to keep my strength up.

A blast of wind at my back makes me turn around to see a curious Kon woman staring up at me from a lower step, dressed in a mix of blue cloth and chain and no obvious weapon, though I know from first-hand experience that she's armed. She sniffs the air, her stubby nose wrinkling, "I had thought myself mistaken at first, but you stink of demon, boy. Explain."

"Suppose I should have expected some lingering effects," I mutter, turning around bowing respectfully, "I had the displeasure of encountering an Archdemon Count recently. Though I survived, after a fashion, thanks to Lady Jannis'....grace. I'm here to answer a summons from her, as it happens."

"Ah, I had heard whispers of a demon appearing in Meteo City," she nods sagely, ascending the steps so as to meet me at eye-level, "That would make you...a member of Truthseekers, was it?"

"Correct. I am Lord Silver Nosster, leader of Truthseekers, and Blessed Blade of Lady Jannis," I introduce myself formally, "A pleasure to make your acquaintance Rea-Horolt."

"My reputation precedes me," she smiles knowingly, "But still, a Blade of Lady Jannis, you say? A pity that Tern is absent, then - verifying it will be difficult without him...and for your sake, you'd best not be lying."

"The Ahtni Rea-Horolt can perform the same duty, surely?" I ask tentatively.

"Possibly," she admits, "However, he's busy today with the Nenthue-ka preparations. He might not agree to see you."

"...I only need the use of the private altar room on the second floor dedicated to her, is such a measure strictly necessary?"

Ixilotte nods with grave seriousness, "You cannot retract the claim you have made, serte. We are duty-bound to ascertain the truth of the matter."

Groaning inwardly, I field a question, "I'm assuming that Rea-Horolt Tern is trying, once again, to gain access to The Buried World through The Narrows?"

"Yes. Are you acquainted with him?" she blinks, surprised by my intimate knowledge.

"After a fashion. It's a complicated story I shan't repeat," I demur, "But the stairs isn't a very suitable venue for conversation. Shall we continue within the comfort of the Shrine?"

"So be it," Ixilotte agrees, "Walk ahead. No sudden moves."

---

 

Main Entrance, Olton Mountain Shrine

The doors to the shrine are appropriately grand, matching the style of stonework in the plaza perfectly. Carved from stone, they rise in an arch 18ft high, with extremely elaborate engravings depicting, symbolically, The Path and The Truth. Flanking either side are long, lavish banners in green, blue and grey, representing The Empire of Stone, Olton Mountain Shrine, and of course, a stylised star.

Stood in front of the entrance are 6 Horolts belonging to the Shrine's Guard squadron, with a very muscular Firm woman, with messy shoulder-length hair, stood in the centre, clad in extremely well-made red crystal plate armour - the work of a Master - her forearms wrapped with spiked Dornite chains. Her equipment, if sold, would be enough to buy the land rights of almost every property in a 1-Star Town. Known throughout the continent as the Chain of Olton, Yanse Vazlenore is the resident Rea-Horolt of Khire, the Revelling Axe, the Captain of the Guard and an old friend.

Though, when I met her it was on a job in the Enlightened Kingdom out east back in, what, 2113? A sect of her fellow believers in Khire were taking their worship a little too far - Khire worship is heavily rooted in combat to the death, so they got it into their heads to start a war in his honour - and needed to be put down. Yanse was the leader of the suppression force, and I went along for the ride, catching the eye of my former employer in the process.

Eventually, Yanse disappeared along with Ahtni Rea-Horolt Djash Milltinson, and nobody saw them again. Presumably dead in some far-flung ruin or dungeon, which for people as strong as them is cause for concern. They are amongst the most skilled melee combatants in the world for their Levels, without a doubt. All of the Rea-Horolt at the Shrines on The Challengers Pilgrimage have to be, just to qualify for their posts.

"Yanse," Ixilotte greets her colleague bluntly.

"Ohaha! Ixi, you're back early," the wild woman shouts, "Picked up yourself a new t...hm..?"

Struck dumb for a moment, Yanse raises her arm, and the chains around her wrists start to unravel, falling heavily to the floor, a bloodthirsty Presence slowly revealing itself, "You. You look like fun."

"Yanse...no," Ixilotte holds her hand up in rejection.

"It's fine," I cut in, "I don't mind sparring with you...but it'll have to be later. I don't want to keep Lady Jannis waiting any longer than you would."

Stiffening, Yanse leans down, her head swaying this way and that, trying to discern some falsehood or the like, "Tch, fine. But that's a promise."

In many ways, Yanse is quite similar to Lady Jannis in temperament. She's exceptionally enthusiastic about seeking out 'interesting' people and helping them to grow their skills. Though at first glance, you could be forgiven for mistaking it for merely wanting to fight people for her own amusement - and you wouldn't be wrong exactly - she's nowhere near as simple-minded as she likes people to believe. It's another case of missing the context for what's presented in front of you. As Rea-Horolt, Yanse needs a certain degree of Scholarly chops in order to properly minister ceremonies in service of Khire and administrate the local worshippers.

Yes, she's still a bloodthirsty lunatic - but that's a side of herself she reserves for the battlefield whenever duty calls her away from the Shrine.

That I caught her attention is a mixed blessing. While my skills and experience might not match the outward appearance of my Vessel, something she likely took notice of with her own, I am still incredibly mediocre, and the last time I fought her I lost handily. Though, granted, this was way before Lady Jannis picked me up, but as things stand right now, I don't hold any expectation of avenging my past self.

Still, I won't turn down the opportunity to spar with some I acknowledge as strong. It promises to be entertaining, if not enlightening.

"Good, great, FANTASTIC! WONDERFUL!" Yanse claps her hands together enthusiastically, small shockwaves leaving her palms every time they meet, "Well, be sure to seek me out before you leave! If not, well, I'll be coming to you~"

Ignoring the facepalm of Ixilotte, I bow slightly in acknowledgement of her words, "I will be sure to do so. Could I trouble you to ensure we have the use of one of the Duelling Halls?"

"Consider it done!" she grins toothily, baring sharp fangs in place of regular Firm teeth. A side-effect of her racial evolution as a Feralheart Firm. Or side-benefit, if you're the kind of person to choose that option, thinking about it. It's popular with berserkers that don't want to deal with the stigma against Beastblood Firm after all.

Moving past her, and through the doors, Ixilotte sighs heavily, "For your sake, I hope you don't honestly believe you can defeat her..."

"I know my limits," I smile gratefully, "That doesn't mean I shouldn't push them further and further."

"Spoken like a true follower of the Lady of Steel's Ambition," she nods appreciatively, "Even so, as much as I can trust Rea-Horolt Yanse to hold back, forgive me for worrying that you've quaffed more than you can swallow."

"That's why I asked for the use of a Duelling Hall," A 2-Star Training Hall variant for reference, "There's a roughly 80 Level difference between us, after all."

"...You're remarkably well-informed," she frowns.

"You forget how well-known she is," I reply blandly, "Besides which, Feralheart is the continuation of the Wildblood strain. By that logic, she's at least past a hundred."

"I'm surprised you could tell the difference," she snorts, "Never mind. Follow."

Olton Mountain Shrine is a very, very old structure. Not the original, as it happens, the ruins of the original have fallen through The Narrows and there's no telling how old they are. This iteration is still around a thousand years old, not accounting for maintenance work in the interim, and like Voinete Mansion, the age of the place bleeds into the atmosphere from every brick, every piece of artwork and even the smell.

We walk down a long, long corridor, with doors on either side almost randomly placed. If memory serves, we're headed to the reflection rooms on the southeast corner, where people can meditate and train in peaceful isolation. Meditation Rooms are another type of structure, similar to Training Halls, and can have a number of modifiers for different purposes, such as the fabled...what was it Klein called it? Hyperactive Time Chamber?

Whatever it was. Something to do with an old Japanese comic book. That kind of time compression functionality would definitely be on the high-end, easily 4-Star at a minimum with a great many constraints attached even at 5-Star for safety reasons. Mostly, Meditation Rooms are used to simulate certain types and concentrations of ambient magical energy or have persistent buff enchantments applied that increase concentration and so on. All-in-all, they're basically just Training Halls but far smaller and focused on accommodating a small handful of people at a time. They're not very cost-efficient at low ratings, and the effect is often negligible unless you're willing to go the extra mile.

For Truthseekers, my take is that it's better to make a Training Hall where many people can benefit and consider Meditation Rooms later on when a number of special talents are identified and slated for specialised nurturing.

"Wait here," Ixilotte orders, stopping in front of the door to one of these rooms, knocking twice, thrice then once and entering, closing the door behind her. Stood a few steps away, I feel my heart lurch when the little mana that escaped washes over me, carrying the musty stench of a freshly opened subterranean cave.

The Ahtni Rea-Horolt must be in there. His class makes heavy use of earth magic.

A few minutes pass. The door opens abruptly, just a crack, and the balding head of Djash pokes through, his face tired and pale. Doesn't have the beard yet, it seems. He liked to joke that his hair migrated from his scalp to his chin.

"Hrn," he squints, then opens it all the way and walks out, paying no heed to any sense of personal space as he paws over my chest and head with sweat-soaked hands. I shiver in discomfort, but he doesn't seem to care, muttering a series of spells under his breath that stinks of old alcohol.

After running through a dozen Spells, the last one causes something in my chest to tighten, robbing me of air. His hands stop roaming, a single finger pokes the area over my crystal heart, "Ah. No wonder I couldn't find it. So this is the cause of the strange divine Presence I felt from the south. It's almost completely sublimated into your soul...intriguing. Not at all like the bestowal ceremony Tern was honoured with."

I cough into my hand, "I take it you're satisfied I'm who I say I am?"

"No. On the contrary, I have many more questions," he frowns deeply, "You...how are you still alive?"

"A question I intend to ask Lady Jannis, as soon as you stop wasting my time," I reply pointedly, "You can save your curiosity for after, Ahtni Rea-Horolt."

Djash sighs, reluctant to let me go, "Very well, very well. Come to my office after the evening meal, if you would."

"You'll have to fight Yanse for my time, I'm afraid," I smirk, and his face twitches.

"Because of course that bloodhungry fool sensed something off," Djash groans, "I'll...see if I can't convince her to let me have a word with you before she smears the dust of your jawbone across the walls of the arena."

"That would be best, Ahtni," Ixilotte concurs, walking out of the room, "I'll take him upstairs."

"If you would," he nods, then offers a handshake, "Djash."

"Silver," I take it and shake his limp hand - if he put any force into his grip he'd crush mine into a thin raw sausage, "One of my subordinates is admiring the plaza at the moment, a Panoplast woman - could I trouble you to set us both up with separate rooms?"

"Consider it done," he agrees easily.

---

 

Altar of Steel's Ambition, Second Floor, Northwestern Wing, Olton Mountain Shrine

The room is small and well-lit by a translucent blue crystal hanging from the ceiling with the help of some bronze chains and a doughnut-ring receptacle. Incense burns from gold crucibles on either side of the room, filling the air with the smell of trees and the sourness of burning iron. The altar, opposite the door, is carved from wood and topped with polished stone, upon which sits the hilt of a sword encased in a gemfrost disc, propped up by a wire stand.

I tried asking around for the story behind it, but the most I got was that it belonged to one of my predecessors as a Blade of Lady Jannis. The details she kept to herself, and at the time, I chose to respect her wishes.

However...

"Jannis," I step further into the room, "We need to talk. Now."

I feel a twinge in my chest, then abruptly collapse to my knees. My consciousness drains away to...somewhere else.