This Third Reincarnation Should Not Be Wasted Chapter 31-40

Chapter 31: The n.o.blesse Is Back

In the open sea, the gentle breeze caressed the surface of the water while the sun was kindly warming the day on this peaceful scenery. It seemed as if nothing could disturb the gentle, almost hypnotic, movement of the waters as there were no birds screaming, no fish jumping out of the surface of the sea... Until two shadows made their way through the surface of the water moving at fast speed, contrasting the otherwise common scene.

One of the shadows belonged to a man wearing a butler attire, he had long blood curly hair that seemed to dance with the breeze. The second shadow belonged to a man dressed on white uniform,if a korean happened to look at him he could have mentioned that it was the uniform of the famous Yeran High School, he had long black hair that did not reach his shoulders.

The two men stopped suddenly and seemed confused. "The defensive runes had changed" said the man in white. The one wearing the butler attired asked in a playful tone. "Master, should we knock?" The man in white looked in front for a moment and said. "We should wait".

A few minutes later a young man with gray hair covering his right eye appeared in front of them and asked as while floating in the air. "Who are you and what brings you to Lukedonia?" Frankenstein seemed a little amused by the question, but man in white responded in a calm voice. "I am Cadis Etrama Di Raizel and this is Frankenstein, my b.u.t.ter. I am coming home."

After a moment of silence, in which the young man seemed to be communicating with someone, he bowed slightly and with his right hand over his hearth said. "Welcome to Lukedonia, n.o.blesse. I am Ludis leader of House Mergas. Please come with me to complete the arrival procedures, our security has been improved as a necessity but it should not take much time".

A few minutes later they were standing in front of the "forbiden land", now without the patrolling knights that were found on this area in the past, Ludis had mentioned that they should visit the Lord at their earlier convenience. Raizel nodded, after all he had come to get information on the family leaders that had betrayed Lukedonia to start his cruel duty.

The mansion was in the same condition as they had left it centuries ago, the traces of visit that Vlad had left more than 200 years ago have vanished already. After finding Ragnarok on his sanctuary and listening to the message of the old Lord, Raizel made his way to throne hall.

The family leaders were gathered, except for Rajak, who have not returned yet from his mission. They were looking with curiosity at this person who was, according to Gejutel, stronger that the Lord until they were interrupted from their curious thoughts by the cold voice of the Lord. "Cadis Etrama Di Raizel, welcome to Lukedonia, its been centuries since the last time we met".

Raziel focused his attention on her and said: "Erga Kenesis Di Raskreia". The family leaders had always though that the Lord was a person of few words, but they realized that this n.o.blesse treated words as diamonds as he said no more filling the throne hall with silence for a few minutes. After Raziel ended his ruminations of the many annoying 'conversations' he had been forced to listen (as he almost never did any talking) by Raskreia's father, the sword Ragnarok appeared in front of Raizel.

The Lord was surprised and angry. "What is the meaning of this?" Raizel seemed undisturbed as he said. "That is what I want to find out". After a moment of silence, the seemingly frustrated Frankenstein said "The previous Lord, your father, left this sword on my Master's sanctuary with a message that he would understand if he visited your father's resting sanctuary".

Vlad was happy as he witnessed this events unfolding, the plot was fixing itself. This time Raizel had not come back to save Gejutel, but to met Kravei Roctis and to get news on the traitors. The relation between the n.o.blesse and the Lord was not as tense as it would have been, they still had their important bonding time through ramen, but he learned of this through Seira as he had no pretext to follow Raskreia around.

Raziel left with Frankenstein, Seira and Regis after learning what he needed. He was not able to speak with Roctis, as they learned from his journal that he had a make a blood contract with an Elder of the Union and they were not willing to lose their advantage by letting the Union and the traitors know they have started to move. But the information on the journal proved to be what he needed, now it was time to hunt.

Chapter 32: Drosia Edian

Vlad was surprised at how powerful the strings of fate were, this time Rael was not forced to use his soul weapon by the RK, but he still had choosen to leave Lukedonia to scape punishment as the Union was making strong demands for explanation for destruction he and Frankenstein caused in Korea.

Vlad planned to stay in Lukedonia, waiting for Rajak, to take part on Edian's rescue. But he made a short visit to Korea to devour negative emotions from Muzaka helping his soul to heal, and more importantly to enjoy time with Seira and the delicious food that she had just learned to make.

During this time, old M-24 made his appearance and Vlad offered to help him getting rid of the side effects of his modifications with the help of Sombra, he was not sure if he could do something like that but he wanted to force the spy to show his true colors as he could not risk the Union learning about Muzaka who was on one of the laboratories below the house.

As he expected, Sombra was able to interrupt the spy's abilities and forced him to change to his true form while his memories came back forcefuly. He tried to escape but had no chance and he ended confessing under the coercion of Vlad's mental control.

He left after filling his food containers with a few delicacies provided by a blus.h.i.+ng Seira. The three humans seemed surprised watching how different was Seira's behaviour while being around Vlad and could not help to feel a little envy. Vlad still failed to met with the human children, it seemed that fate would not allow him to witness a defeated Raizel, under the antics of children, easily.

One day the warning rune on his bracelet lighted up and he teleported to the side of Rajak. There was no sing of battle and they were on a forest within an unknown island, Vlad felt relieved as he figured why Rajak had called him. "I found them, Edian and Lagus" said Rajak as he proceed to draw a map on the ground. "I have already understood the terrain as I have been observing them for a while. It seems that Edian is indeed controlled but she had moments of lucidity to some degree".

Vlad listened calmly and asked. "Should we capture Edian and proceed to fight Lagus? Or should we retreat after securing Edian? I am confident that Sombra would prevent her to communicate with Lagus without breaking their telepathic link, he should only feel that she is trying to hide from him perhaps after gaining more lucidity that usual".

Rajak considered by a moment and asked. "Are you proposing to capture Edian and leave?" Vlad smiled and said "Yes, I am confident on my strength and I would not hesitate to trust my life to you. But we are facing a monster that was already old before your father was born. I am afraid that a traitorous old demon like him will be too much for us to deal, and if he escapes we will lose our advantage against the Union."

Rajak closed his eyes and after a moment he said. "Very well. Lagus enters a secure room for several hours every day, this would be the time to move." "What about the behavior of Edian? Does she have a routine?" asked Vlad thinking if he could take advantage of previously well placed runes. Rajak did not disappointed him and as he had understood what Vlad was looking for, said. "She moves rather mechanically doing sh.o.r.es and there a couple of places that she visit only once a day but never fail to do so". Vlad smiled as their chances of completing their mission successfully were quite high.

Three days later, Edian entered a storage room wearing a expressionless face and half empty eyes, suddenly the floor brightened as runes seemed to froze the s.p.a.ce around her and what looked like an angel of death appeared in front of her, she felt her mind froze as she looked at his s.h.i.+nning red eyes. Before knowing anything else, her eyes started to close as she was binded by dark blood chains that also pierced her shoulders. She was already unconscious as a shadow extended below her feet and she started slowly sink into it.

A few hours later, and an angry Lagus realized that his servant had not brought him tea as she did everyday, only then did he find that his telepathic link was blurred. He released his aura in anger as he was thinking that Edian had another moment of lucidity and he would have to spent a few months looking for her.

Chapter 33: War Is Coming

There was a solemn environment on the Lukedonia's Throne Hall as the Lord and the family leaders watched a chained Edian slowly rise from Vlad's eerie shadow. Raskreia felt anger burning her chest as looked at Edian, was she really under Lagus's control? or had she betrayed her along with the others? She didn't know wich case would be worst, and she could only wait for Rajak and Vlad to report.

"Lord, Edian and Lagus were found on an island near Italy. After observing them for days I contacted Vlad to proceed with her capture" said Rajak while bowing to the Lord. Raskreia kept her eyes on Edian as she asked. "Lagus?" Vlad took a deep breath and said. "He should not know Edian was captured by us, Sombra can blur their telepathic link to make it seem as if Edian is hiding from him, and he did not appear during Edian's capture. We were not sure of our ability to prevent Lagus from escaping if we had confronted him."

Raskreia looked at them and said. "Well done. At this moment we shall keep the Union thinking that we do not know of them harboring our enemies". Then her eyes became sharp and asked. "How is she?"

Vlad closed his eyes as he started communicating with Sombra and diagnose Edian's condition through his soul weapon, after a few minutes he said. "Her soul is full of desperation and unwillingness, as well as guilt. Sombra found some estrange substances flowing through her blood, I can get rid of them without any consequences but it may affect her telepathic link with Lagus. I would recommend to try treatment only when the Lord deems the time to confront the Union has come."

Without taking her eyes from Edian she asked in a colder tone than usual. "Has she been insulted?" Raskreia put a special intonation on that last word. A long and heavy silence filled the room as Vlad closed his eyes again to concentrate on his telepathic link with Sombra. After what seemed hours, he said. "No, she is under Lagus control, but he did not succeeded in turning her completely into a puppet. If something goes beyond her most basic boundaries his control over her would become unstable, thus she had never killed or been subject to that kind of humiliation. And it seems that she has never been forced into unconsciousness, until she met me, perhaps Lagus's pride was above such things or he simply had no interest on that."

Raskreia was visibly calmer and released a sigh. Edian was taken into a prison-like infirmary, with runes that sealed her body and mind. She would be treated when the conflict with the Union became known or when Lagus was dealt with. But she was safe and she was home.

The following days were calm, Vlad concentrated on practicing runes to be used on battle and he was making progress. Currently he was only able to use runes to lay traps, but he was not skilled enough to will them with blood projection and use them for attack or defence as Rossaria would. If he managed to achieve that level of proficiency, his combat repertory would reach another level and perhaps it would be enough to hold himself without disadvantage against monsters like Gradeus.

His victories over Roctis and Edian had depended entirely on the advantage provided by the surprise attack and he was well aware of it. Sombra's ability to hide his presence was uncanny and, combined with the practical rune traps he had mastered, made him into a perfect stalker... but that was not very n.o.ble and he longed for the day when he could battle as a respectable n.o.ble should.

By this time, they received news that the two Elders of the Union who were investigating the elimination of the Cerverus unit and the death of an Elder on Korea, were killed by the n.o.blesse. One of this 3 Elders was the one who had a blood contract with Roctis, so the time for his eternal sleep had arrived and his daughter would join him on this last adventure.

Roctis had a resigned and unwilling appearance but he did not resist and accepted his punishment. Ignes on the other hand went crazy, well a little more crazy from what she already was, she will never get her greatest desire, she was denied of the possibility of inheriting a soul weapon as she died along with her father.

Things were going as planned. Seira and Regis were undergoing training along with the RK being couched by Frankenstein and even Rajak partic.i.p.ated form time to time.

Seira had joined the RK team and she confessed to Vlad in her letters, that she liked the mask and joining the RK gave her the justification to wear it without feeling awkward, Vlad had to smile at this childish side of his fiancé and was tempted to rush to Korea just to have a good look on how she looked with her RK uniform.

One day while he was reading on his library he felt the change on the rescue-rune of his bracelet. Seira was in danger, without a second though he looked toward his mother who was reading near him and while a blood-rune-arc started to rotate around him, he ask her to inform the Lord that he was going to the aid of Seira.

Chapter 34: Battling The Union Elders

Seira was wounded, but the anger she felt did not allow her to feel the pain. She was facing four Elders of the Union, one of them was female warrior of the werewolf clan, another was half human half machine creature and the two traitors. One of those traitors was the murderer who destroyed her clan.

When she had come to stop their destruction of the city, she had thought that she only need to delay enough time for Frankenstein to arrive, but she had lost her mind slightly after realizing she was facing Siriana Jarga. Now that her wounds have cleared her mind, she understood the danger and activated the rune on her pendant. A couple of seconds later a blood-rune-arc appeared next to her causing the Union Elders to stop their attacks.

The Elders looked cautiously at this unknown phenomenon as they watched the girl, they were toying with a moment ago, regaining her confidence as the estrange arc started rotating slowly to reveal a young man with short black hair wearing Lukedonia's traditional attire. This young man turned to look at the girl and noticed the wounds on her body, then directed his angry eyes at them and without hesitation yelled "COME FORTH SOMBRA!".

They felt their battle instincts warning them as the clouds gathered in the sky instantly and thick black lightning descended from them covering the newly arrived youth. A second later, the lightning disappeared revealing an eerie view to them.

The young man was now wearing a dark coat with red patterns, a hood obscured his face highlighting the red glow of his eyes. He had 2 meter black long wings growing from his back and two dark red swords floated on each side of him. What especially disturbed the 6th and 7th Elders was that energy that formed the coat and the wings was too similar to the weapon of that hated Frankenstein.

Urokai looked at this angel of death with a scowl and asked. "Who are you? what relations.h.i.+p do you have with Frankenstein?" The young man ignored his question, a traitor had no need to know his name. He would only tell Jarga that he was killing him on behalf of the Loyard clan. He observed the four enemies in front of him and decided that it was for the best to incapacitate one of them as quickly as possible.

Urokai was angry at been ignored and was about to attack when the red eyes of the youth in front of them seemed to brighten even more for a moment and he felt his body froze by the surprise mental attack. Urokai was not the only one affected and all four of them lost their bearings for a second and when they got rid of Vlad's influence, they noticed that the 8th Elder was already made into a porcupine by many dark red swords and chains and was half way swallowed by the shadow under their feet.

They instinctively jumped away from the shadowed area and lost the opportunity to save him and they witnessed as the 8th Elder, with soulless empty eyes, was devoured by shadows. The eerie impact of this scene created a shadow on their hearths, this looked so diabolical that even that demon Frankenstein seemed kind in comparison.

During the time they lost by escaping that harmless shadow, that to them seemed so dangerous, the youth had already projected a blood rune in front of him that shot a blood-la.s.ser that almost hit Urokai chest. Urokai was surprised and scared, but he managed to scape death as he moved at the last moment. He survived but the price he had to paid was his whole left arm.

By now the three Elders were on guard and a feeling of dread was filling their hearts, in just a moment one of them was death and another had lost half his fighting power. All this caused by an unkown enemy that the female werewolf could only describe as a demonic n.o.ble, wasn't n.o.bles supposed to behave with honor? Why was he attacking without even saying his name?

Things were already bad but today seemed that their day would keep on the worst possible trend as they realized that a blond man wearing a butler outfit had appeared behind them. It was at this moment that the youth spook again. "Oh... our favorite combat butler has arrived. Hopefully you will not blame me to starting the party without you, I was a little emotional to find my wife being bullied".

Seira seemed to wake up from her anger and, half shy half angry, muttered. "Who is your wife?" The young man looked unperturbed by this and said with confidence. "You are".

Urokai's brow started to twitch as he saw that the kid was flirthing while ignoring the fact that he had destroyed his left arm without even directing a word to him. He was about to yell in frustration but at this moment he become aware that he have also turned into a porcupine by several of Frankenstein's dark spears and before everything turned black he heard the youth saying with a blank voice "Frankenstein, you have the most curious ways of greeting people". Urokai last though on this world, as Seira suddenly appeared in front of him severing his head from his shoulders, was that he could not yell to that annoying brat that he was just as bad as the hateful Frankenstein.

Chapter 35: I'm Back

Urokai died cursing his luck without knowing that while Vlad was criticizing Frankenstein, he also had attacked Jarga in a similar way as if copying him causing Seira, who had already jumped back to Vlad's side, to sigh in a similar way that Raizel would have done while watching the antics of Frankenstein. She seemed surprised that she herself had attacked Urokai following the opportunity that Frankenstein and Vlad had created.

Vlad's attack did not cause great damage Jarga but it provided the opportunity for Seira to act, and the effect of his blood energy warranted a complete capture as the werewolf warrior will not have a way to help him while facing three enemies on her own. As Jarga started to lose consciousness, the female werewolf Lunark was falling into panic as she had never felt death closing on her as clearly as she did tonight.

Frankenstein looked at Vlad and Seira with a proud expression as if looking at his own students, but before he could comment on it, he heard the voice of his Master. "Do not encourage them" the voice sounded half tired and half exasperated. Then Raizel appeared next to Jarga and said. "I want to talk to him".

After hearing the n.o.blesse, Vlad concentrated on his telepathic link with Sombra to allow Jarga to regain consciousness but without giving him any change to use his powers or soul weapon. After a moment Jarga opened his eyes and looked surprised at the man who was standing in front of him. "No way. Cadis Etrama Di Raizel?" It took a moment for him to realize his situation and said. "Forgive me as I am in no condition to greet you as I should".

Raizel looked sad but distant as he said. "Where are Lagus, Gradeus and Edian?" Jarga had a sudden realization and said. "You have already killed Roctis..." seeing that Raizel did not answer he said. "Please forgive me Lord Raizel as I am not able to answer you question."

Raizel released a sigh and said. "Siriana Jarga, I as the n.o.blesse will put you into eternal sleep". Then a pair giant blood wings appeared on his back and he pointed his extended arm at Jarga. A moment later everyone could see as Jarga was starting to disintegrate into red dust-like particles. It only took a couple of seconds and Siriana Jarga was no longer on this world.

After a moment of grieving Raizel looked at Lunark and said. "Go back and tell your friends that I'm back". After Lunark left, Vlad used his telekinesis to repair Seira's cloths and help her heal. He was happy that as Seira was not heavily wounded and the n.o.blesse had not used much of his power. There were only 2 traitors left, but then the Union was not an easy foe and the things happening within the territory where the werewolves lived were quite disturbing as well. But there was nothing he could do to fix the world, he can only support Lukedonia to the best of his ability.

Vlad was again surprised as how fate fixed things to keep the original path, he learned that the human children were poisoned by Crombel's people and saved by Rael and the RK team. There seemed to be no repercution to his actions of interfering with fate and for that he was thankful.

Rael was surprised and a little apprehensive when he met Vlad. Vlad smiled to him and said, "Rael, Rajak will be proud when he learns that you helped these kids. By the way, as of today we can say to be in open conflict with the Union, so you dont need to worry too much about the previous incident. However you can also stay here if you wish so, it might be a good thing". Rajak actually arrived at that moment, so Vlad smiled and left the two brothers alone.

He sent a message to Lukedonia reporting that Seira was fine and the deaths of Urokai and Jarga under the hands of Seira and the n.o.blesse with a detailed description of the battle. This time he wanted to stay a little longer as he wanted to see the kids and chances were that opportunities in the near future will not allow it.

So he went to met Frankenstein sho was checking on their poison treatment, The n.o.blesse was standing next to him and he seemed troubled that these children were put in danger again just for been friends with him.

Chapter 36: Seira's Fiance

"How are they?" The voice distracted Raizel from his guilt as he heard Frankenstein reply. "The treatment is working and soon they will be out of danger, Tao's treatment was timely and effective".

Vlad considered a moment thinking that these children were important for Seira and Regis. He also remembered that he had broken into Raizel's mansion and 'borrowed' his family heritage, feeling guilty and noticing the still concerned look on the n.o.blesse, he said.

"My soul weapon Sombra has the ability to devour harmful things for the body, mind or soul. You might remember that I used this ability to diminish the negative emotions that blinded Muzaka into hatred. If you allow it, I would like to try removing the poison in them. It might help speeding their recovery and in the worst case nothing will happen."

This made Frankenstein curious, he was sure that Sombra and his Dark Spear may have similar origins but he would never dare to use his Dark Spear to help treating poisoning, unless he was trying to torture the victim that is. Raizel was looking at Frankenstein waiting for his opinion.

"Well I think it will not hurt to try". With Frankenstein's approval, a dark tendril or dark energy slowly extended from Vlad's hand and slowly made his way in a serpent-like fas.h.i.+on to the red-haired boy, it might be a blessing that the child was unconscious and did not witnessed this creepy scene. The tendril reached the child's chest and gently made contact, Vlad had his eyes closed concentrating on his telepathic link with Sombra and after a few moments he said.

"This child has many bone fractures and muscle strains that did not heal well, he seems to have undergone heavy training or abuse. I cannot directly fix that, but Sombra can eat the impurities on his blood marrow wich may help to improve his condition. The poisoning itself is easy to fix..."

Vlad spent nearly an hour with the red-haired kid while only 10 minutes were needed for each of the three other children. Vlad was happy with the results and felt that his debt to house Cadis was less heavy now.

They wake up after 15 minutes and were surprised to find themselves in a hospital, but relaxed when they saw their friend Rai and the headmaster were in front of them. They were curious of the black haired kid that seemed no much older than them but before they had a chance to ask, the door opened to reveal Regis pus.h.i.+ng a food car while Seira walked by his side.

Seira smiled when she saw Vlad and walked next to him extending her hand to hold his coat as she usually did, she even forgot to help Regis with the food she had made for the children. The four children have sparkling eyes by now, but for different reasons. The two boys were drooling while waiting for the food while the two girls looked trilled as they saw Seira in her own world ignoring their existence, they both have many questions and could wait to kidnap Seira and get her to confess everything there is to know.

Seira was startled awake when Regis introduced Vlad as Seira's fiancé causing her to blush and looked at him accusingly, while the two girls could wait no more and started bombarding her with questions in an excited manner producing a short both happy chaos on the room.

The thing that Vlad found most funny was that Raizel seemed to be out of most of the exchange while holding a banana as if waiting for it to reveal him the secrets of the universe and the meaning for the existence while Frankenstein seemed worried that his Master do not know what to do with the fruit in his hand.

After meeting the children and spending a few moments with Seira he made his way back to Lukedonia. He did not have pressing business, but he wanted to improve his rune skills. He had managed to use them successfully in battle and pressing the breakthrough seemed the right thing to do.

Chapter 37: The Diabolical n.o.ble

When Vlad returned to Lukedonia, he realized that his portable prison had an unwilling resident and suddenly didn't know what to do with the robot-like Union Elder. So after thinking about it and not finding a good answer, he decided to throw this problem to the Lord.

Raskreia looked at him with a mixture of amus.e.m.e.nt and exasperation. Why was it than whenever this kid went out, he brought her chained souvenirs and looked at her expectantly as if waiting for praise. She was even wondering if Frankenstein had entered Lukedonia to 'educate' him on his early years without anyone realizing.

Vlad stood there confused as the Lord was pondering something unknown. At the end of the day, the Union had attacked them so this Elder was imprisoned and sealed by runes to avoid further complications and Vlad returned to his research on application of runes with Rossaria and other rune masters motivated by his earlier success.

He was well aware that all his battles had depended heavily, if not entirely, in surprise, deception and being underestimated for his youthful appearance. If the four Elders had not hesitated giving him the opportunity to take the initiative, he would have been reduced into a defensive stance to protect Seira and himself waiting for rescue. He suspected that the paralysing and devouring effects of his blood energy would have allow him to support for a long time and even turn the battle around. But not all enemies will blindly attack him after noticing the effects of his blood energy on their bodies.

So he went looking for Kei to ask for advice and sparring. Kei was happy to help with the advice part, but he was not looking forward to engage in battle training with him. Vlad's blood energy was the nemesis of his battle style. But he was game for it when Vlad mentioned that he would also ask Karias to join them, he wanted to improve this defense while been attacked by both close and long-range combatants at he same time. So his h.e.l.lish days started with a serious committed Kai and a smiling yet unforgiven Karias.

The Union was not feeling any better, they have realized by now that they had lost 7 Elders in just a few months and apparently all of them in the hands of n.o.bles. They learned that Roctis had been dead for a while without anyone knowing. There was no evidence that he was felled by the n.o.blesse, as he had not admitted to it when asked, but they suspected it to be the case.

The 9th Elder had suspected that Maduke and the werewolves had killed the Kravei duo as he visited the island only to find it ravaged by what looked werewolf attacks, but he was afraid of them learning of his involvement on the experiments performed on Muzaka and only reported the events to the main circle of the Union.

Maduke was angry because Vlad hat deleted all data from the labs and he gained nothing while raiding the place where the werewolf warrior was taken by that hateful Kravei Ignes. He felt used now that he knew that the Kravei duo was dead. The n.o.blesse had clearly used him as a cleaning service! That was the only reason that the captured werewolf warrior survived! But he could not say anything as he had attacked another faction of the Union without informing the council of Elders.

The Union Elders were concerned when they learn that the n.o.blesse was alive, this alone was enough to force them to treat Lukedonia with caution and reconsider their plans. The human Elders were scared by the disappearance of Muzaka, this was a terrifying danger as they feared his revenge.

But they were more confused about the mysterious diabolical young n.o.ble who almost wiped out the four Elders in an instant. Concerned by his power as they were, they though that the Elders were caught unprepared. But they were terrified by his battle skills of manifesting energy weapons out of thin air, his ability to use shadows to devour his enemies and most important was his ability to teleport unimpeded.

They imagined a diabolical youth that could suddenly appear by their side and before they knew what had happened, they would find themselves turned into a porcupine, by energy weapons, that was already halfway eaten by the shadows under their foot. If Vlad knew this he would be happy that his theatrical skills were recognized...

By this time, Raskreia decided to send Karias to support the n.o.blesse and guard Seira, Regis and Rael as the conflict with the Union had grown into open warfare. She decided to wait for Edian's treatment, as they do not want to spook Lagus and cause him to go into hiding.

Another important event was that Muzaka was awake, he was confused and angry but he listened to Raizel's explanation without starting a battle. Perhaps it was due to Sombra eating away enough of his negative emotions that allowed him to stay calm. Thus, another battle that would have drained Raizel's life was avoided. Muzaka was undergoing the treatment prescribed by Frankenstein and it will take a few months to heal completely, but he was stable and without danger... only he felt restless, he seemed eager to leave and be alone with his pain.

Chapter 38: Ragnarok

The dim environment accentuated the bored expression on the beautiful woman that was sitting on the throne while resting her head on her hand. The usual presence of the family leaders that would normally be on attendance was missing today, she liked to be alone in this throne room while thinking of her father and how he had made things more difficult than needed.

The reason for her meditation was her soul weapon Ragnarok. Why did her father divide Ragnarok? Why didn't he tell her? Why did he had to make everything into an enigma? It would had been so easy to tell her what did he expect her to do with this situation, but he liked his tests and riddles.

She had spent time comparing the two Ragnaroks and was sure of what she was expected to do, but she was upset with her father. She was not upset of the fact that he had divided the soul weapon and intended to give part of it to Raizel, it was his soul weapon at the time and he could do as he pleased with it. But why did he leave a test for her? She was tempted to deny his intentions, but she was better than that. What there any point of fighting her father's will when he was no longer around just for her pride?

So she decided to visit the n.o.blesse and summoned Gejutel and Vlad to travel. That kid Vlad was an enigma, she could not understand his motivation and found herself surprised as she witnessed his training with Kei and Rossaria, it seemed more like abuse that training. Why was he working so hard? To protect Seira? To protect Lukedonia? There was no doubt on her mind that he was on Lukedonia's side, she only wished to understand to be able to guide him, she did not want to make more mistakes that might hurt her people... she released a sigh while thinking of what Edian had suffered and new determination sprout in her hearth.

Frankenstein house was not as lively as usual, it was late at night and a calm Raizel drinked his tea while reading a book t.i.tled "How to Play Video Games – For Beginers". As he put the book down and reach for his tea, a blood-rune-arc appeared outside the house and revealed three people after completing a full revolution.

Vlad took the lead and called on the door, a few moments later a proud Raizel managed to open the door. Vlad could not help but smile, as he remembered how funny it had been to read about Raizel distress as he did not know how to open the door without breaking it.

"Erga Kenesis Di Raskreia, come in" A few moments later Raizel was sitting on his usual place while Raskreia was sitting in the armchair in front of him, Vlad and Gejutel stood behind her waiting calmly until Raskreia bored voice broke the silence in the room.

"Cadis Etrama Di Raizel, do you intent to destroy the traitors even while it would reduce your life span? I can tell that you are close to your limit, Lukedonia is not so weak that you need to die for it."

Raizel took a moment to drink his tea and said "It is my duty". It was a short sentence but Vlad thought he understand a little more, due to his duty Raizel had killed his own brother. Stopping now would be denying his previous commitment, he had not hesitated to fight his own brother how could he stop now just to live a few more years.

While Vlad was indulging on his thoughts he came back to his senses to find that Raskreia was already stabbing Ragnarok into a surprised Raizel, this could only reaffirm Vlad's idea that this woman would remain single forever.

Frankenstein suddenly appeared in the room but before he could start asking anything or take any action, Vlad was next to him. "Wait, I think that she is trying to help him... but honestly, I think that I will be reluctant to ask for her help in the future". This comment earned at cold look from Gejutel, but while the three of them were digesting the events The Ragnarok that was piercing Raizel's chest started to s.h.i.+ne and seemed to transform into energy that was absorbed by Raizel.

This followed by the appearance of the previous Lord and his weird antics making the already uncomfortable environment even more unbearable. Vlad muttered in a low voice without noticing that he was thinking aloud. "After this I will not be able to think of my father as anything but a dignified and wise Elder, seriously...".

This caused Raskreia's blush to reach a new level, but she was saved from her discomfort by the sound of battle that came from two different parts of the city.

Chapter 39: He Is Alive!

Taking the opportunity to scape the embarra.s.sment of the situation and considering that Raizel had yet to completely absorb the energy provided by Ragnarok, Raskreia commanded Gejutel and Vlad to go the battle site that seemed less lively while she took it to herself to check on the other one.

Traveling through the night seemed to calm his nerves, a moment ago he was just thinking that the most destructive and dangerous battles were not that far away, he can only work hard to reduce the damage to Lukedonia and its allies.

When Vlad and Gejutel arrived to the battle site, they found a werewolf warrior tras.h.i.+ng the three human members of the RK. This werewolf was still muttering on how boring the fight was when he realized that he two people have appeared blocking his retreat. He was surprised as he recognized Gejutel, he had never met him before, but he knew of the family leader that had remained from the previous generation as a consultant for Lukedonia's new Lord. The other person sent s.h.i.+vers through his soul, he looked like the demoniac young n.o.ble that Lunark had described.

He released a sigh and said. "It seems it will be a difficult battle". Gejutel smiled and said. "There will be no battle, you are completely outmatched and resistance is futile". Vlad also provided a smile that looked harmless to people and animals as if he was about to have a pleasant conversation, but 10 dark blood swords appeared around him and turned to point to the werewolf warrior causing him to felt cold sweet as he waited for the battle to start.

"I have heard tales describing the warriors of the werewolf clan as people who are proud of their fighting prowess and their honorable battles. I must say that the first time that I met a werewolf that idea was shaken as she was attacking a young n.o.ble with the help of three Union Elders, and now I came to witness another werewolf warrior bullying humans just for the fun of it". Vlad mocking voice made his disregard and anger clear. Gejutel seemed a little thoughtful and added.

"Well, I must said that I am surprised that the proud werewolf clan joined the Union. Your people had always show disregard and contempt for humans, perhaps as the times change it will be not to difficult to find werewolves modify their bodies as humans of the Union would do. But that will be a topic to discuss another time, Vlad let finish this".

If was at this moment that another voice sounded, it had a bit of amus.e.m.e.nt but brimmed with confidence. "Now Gejutel, dont take things to far. It seems to me that this was a conflict between children and no real damage was done. Why dont you let the kid go? I dont want to see a child of my clan being bullied in front of me".

The werewolf was stupefied, the man that had just appeared behind him was the legendary Muzaka, the traitor of the werewolf clan, he looked calm and healthy while wearing human clothes. He could not form thoughts or words as he kept listening to the conversation. "Well, as a matter of fact that does not sound like a bad idea, dont you think?" The diabolical youth said with his harmless smile. "I really dont want to hear two old men discussing on how to educated children, especially when both of you old monsters think of me as one."

While Muzake chuckled at that, Gejutel brow twitched and released a sigh, he understood Vlad intention. The Lord went to another battlefield and increasing the conflict with a monster like Musaka will not give them any advantage. But couldn't he speak with more elegance? Why is it that this annoying brat reminded him so much of the hateful Frankenstein? "Go" he said.

Before the werewolf reacted he was alone, Muzaka, the two n.o.bles and the three modified humans were no-where to be found. He stood there for a moment as if asking himself it this had really happened, he then came to his senses and started his way back. He had to report to his Lord that Muzaka was alive and well, the traitor seemed to be living in comfort without a concern for the world or his crimes.

He found Lunark a few moments later who seemed to be running from something along with the third Elder so he joined them, he had forgotten that he was supposed to remain hiding but his mind was not working properly at this moment, he didn't even find out the angry look that Lunark was directing at him.

Chapter 40: Now All Makes Sense

At one of the infirmary-like facilities below Frankenstein's house, the three members of the RK were still unconscious but out of danger. Vlad was still trying to control his mood and avoid laughing at a disheveled Karias who was complaining of how much his but hurted.

It seemed that fate was fixing the main events of the plot again, the hunt will begin shortly now that the werewolf clan knew about Muzaka. This was important for the future events and he was curious as how things would progress. Raskreia decided to stay for a few days curious about Raizel's life among humans... so more bonding through ramen for them, Vlad thought.

An hour later in the living room, Raskreia and Raizel were drinking tea and apparently competing on who could spend more time without saying anything. Gejutel, who was still ruffled and annoyed at Vlad's lack of elegance, could not help to complain after reporting his conversation with Muzaka. "Seriously, I do not understand. Where do your lack of elegance and devious nature comes from? I cannot think of anything in Lukedonia that may have influence on someone to such degree."

Raskreia was curious as well and she asked "I am sure that there is no one on Lukedonia who might have molded you this way and there would be no book on the library that may produce help developing your particular personality. Did anyone come to teach you in secret when you were a child?" She was looking at Frankenstein as she asked her last question.

Vlad though for a moment and decided to have some fun. He pretended to look pensive and said. "Hmm... if I have to mention something that did not belong to the library or the teachings of Lukedonia... I guess only that diary that I found as a child. I could not understand most of what was written on it, but I figured that it must be very fun as the author dedicated an entire page to his/her laughter from time to time. So I studied topics that would allow me to understand the joke on that dairy but I ended forgetting about it after a couple of decades. I have no idea who wrote it, as no name was recorded on it, but every page at bottom right corner had engraved a letter 'F' encased on a rectangle".

At this moment Frankenstein was sporting black lines on his forehead and felt cold sweat on his back as the looks of both Raizel and Raskreia focused on him. While Raizel's look contained disappointment and guilt, Raskreia's look contained murder and accusation. Gejutel seemed to think that everything made sense now, it was the fault of the hateful Frankenstein, he needed to speak to Regis and make sure he was not influenced by this monster.

The following day, Raskreia decided to visit the school and Vlad went to find Muzaka to ask for a sparring match, it was a rare opportunity and he felt that Muzaka would not deny him as he had complied with his request to let the werewolf free.

He knew it was a mistake as he had never experience what it was to be at the complete mercy of others. Nothing he did had any effect on the old monster, while he received a comprehensive tras.h.i.+ng that only stopped until he was unconscious. Now he knew how far he was from the true peak powers of this world and more than afraid, he was trilled at the thought of becoming stronger.

He had a little regret for not seen the interactions of Raskreia and the children at cla.s.s, but he appeared while they were heading to the video room center. He was wearing jeans and a white long-sleeve neckless t-s.h.i.+rt as he approached them. "h.e.l.lo, I was hoping you wouldn't mind that I steal Seira from you tonight. I was just realizing that we haven't had a proper date in a while" he said as he smiled.

Seira was curious and looked at Raskreia expectantly, she nodded with a light smile and left with the others. After waiting for the group to be out of sight, Vlad smiled and said as he started his teleportation runes. "Would you like some breakfast?"

The next moment they were on France at the side of the lake where they became a couple, next to an already prepared picnick. "I figure we could use a little time away from everything even if it is just a short one". Seira was smiling lightly, the food was simple sandwiches and red wine, the morning in France was still young and the slightly cold air helped to provide a calm and quite atmosphere.

They didn't talk much, just spending time together while watching the lake and enjoying the calm of the escenery, there were a couple of small fis.h.i.+ng boats in the distance and the sound of the birds singing. Vlad released a sigh, in the next months it will be difficult to enjoy moments like this. But they will have centuries ahead together, he would make sure they do.