Chapter 49: The Chasm

The sky was overcast, with sporadic snowflakes falling. Though it was nearly noon, the light was as dim as at dawn. The migration group now faced the most serious threat since their eastward journey—over 800 Stonebeast creatures were blocking the temporary camp, and a full-scale battle could erupt at any moment. More concerning to Valentina, however, was the fact that Neo had not returned yet.

With Neo absent and such a dire situation at hand, she felt worried, longing, gloomy, and listless—similar to how she had felt after her father left home years ago, though somewhat different.

Clang! Clang! Rajef, clad in armor, strode over quickly.

“Greetings, my lords!” Rajef gave a brief bow to the three men led by Xavier.

Xavier, his face stern and showing no particular emotions, was also armored. He gave Rajef a slight nod and asked, “What’s the situation?”

“Three battles to determine the winner—that’s the Stonebeast creatures’ final demand.”

“Good! We should have no problem with that!” The speaker was a blond young man standing to Xavier’s right—he was the lord of Baron Bafas, Quip Brain.

Valentina cast a cold glance at Quip over Xavier’s shoulder. She wanted to say something but ultimately stayed silent. Deep down, she despised this handsome, tall man who was all appearance with no substance. If not for him secretly sending his subordinates back to Watzburg to retrieve the lord’s seal, the Stonebeast creatures might not have been able to block the migration group. Even now, with the enemy at the city’s gates, Quip refused to admit fault, instead blaming his subordinates for being foolish and attracting pursuers.

Xavier understood Quip’s desire to take risks to get the seal, but he also disdained his character. Yet, in keeping with his usual style, even if he wanted to kill the other man, Xavier would not scold him harshly or engage in verbal battles. Instead, he said in his usual serious and rigid tone, “Baron Brain, we don’t have enough strong fighters.”

Quip was stunned at first, then thought he understood the trick. Smiling slightly, he said, “My lord, this is precisely the time to use people. Please send the best fighters from your Wind Squad into battle. I promise to cover all the expenses of the Wind Squad’s eastward journey as a small token of my gratitude.”

Valentina could no longer hold back and snapped, “What’s the big deal about having some money? Why didn’t you buy your life from Cordim back then?”

Quip shamelessly raised his eyebrows and said in what he thought was a gentlemanly tone, “Ah! Our legendary knight, Saeferongma, has so many responsibilities throughout the year that he’s away most of the time.”

Valentina naturally understood Quip’s implication—that Saeferongma was often absent, leaving his children unattended, which was why she spoke so rudely. Her anger grew even more, and she was about to argue when Xavier stopped her with a look and gesture. Still solemn, Xavier said to Quip, “Baron Brain, the Wind Squad is just a cover. Without it, with me seriously injured and unconscious, the order to migrate eastward cannot be carried out. After all, our Frey Alliance has the freest people in all of Aemera. Do you understand what I mean?”

Quip was truly stunned this time, cursing in his heart, “You old bastard, act like your mother then! If you had told the truth from the start, I would have waited until we reached the territory of Hylfanis before sending someone back for the seal. You really put me through hell!”
It turned out that the mighty Windstorm Squad within the migration group was nothing but a complete lie. Quip counted on his fingers and said with a fake smile, “Lord, you truly are wise and skilled in leadership. Although I haven’t been in the migration group for long, I can clearly feel the people’s support for you. And Miss Srod, your prestige is also something I envy greatly—valkyrie, truly!”
A look of arrogance and wealth appeared on Quip’s face once again. In a tone that sounded almost like charity, he said, “How about this! I’m willing to go the extra mile and give 20,000 dinars to Lord and Miss Srod. Moreover, I have a small proposal: a cooperation agreement for post-disaster reconstruction. As subordinates of Viscount Edrith, we should strengthen our ties and work closely together.”
Quip stroked his gleaming magic pocket watch and said smugly, “My transport fleet may not be as large as the viscount’s, but its carrying capacity is much better. They happened to head to Asia and were not damaged. Once this disaster subsides, my fleet can charge only the cost to help Thures and Mathuya transport reconstruction supplies. And this is just a small part of the cooperation agreement. I wonder if my sincerity can earn me the support of both lords to send their warriors into battle? Miss Srod, you are the pride of the entire Edrith territory. Lord Xavier, I’ve heard that your people speak highly of a hero’s bravery—I think his name is Zhanza, Zhanza Pierouser, the head instructor of the guard!”
Xavier and Valentina both smiled bitterly. “Zhanza… Quip really knows how to choose people…”
Instead of fighting right away, they came up with some ridiculous three-form battle to determine a winner, and the biggest contributor to this was the Woodfolk Beasts.
The Woodfolk Beasts were the most mysterious faction among the Cordim in Monstoke. Unlike the tribal structures of ordinary beastmen, they maintained an ancient clan system. They were said to be direct descendants of the ancestors of all Cordim tribes in Monstoke. There was no solid evidence for this claim, nor did the Woodfolk Beasts ever admit it publicly. But one thing was certain: the priests of all Cordim tribes had studied at the Woodfolk tribe or were even trained there. Although the younger generations had taken control over time and the primitive religious system had declined due to the influence of life and culture in Edrith territory, everyone still showed some respect to the Woodfolk Beasts before those highly respected elders passed away. It was the Bloodbone tribe, with their constant raiding and internal purges, who had no scruples and even dared to sell Woodfolk people to humans. Given the long-standing enmity between the Sandstones and the Bloodbones, the leaders of the Sandstones would naturally be happy to see the victims of the Woodfolk tribe return to Monstoke—imagine, the Bloodbones must be in trouble.

For various reasons, the Pebblebeastmen agreed to this ancient method of determining victory through three rounds of combat. Although the druids of the Forestwood tribe were grateful to Neo and Valentina for saving their lives, they felt they had done enough. After all, they also believed in the principle of survival of the fittest— the reason the Pebblebeastmen could intimidate others was largely due to their own strength. If the migration group didn’t have even three capable fighters, there was nothing to complain about if they became food or slaves.

In the forest and behind the fences, countless eyes watched the snow-covered wasteland. The expressions in those eyes ranged from anger to calmness, optimism to worry, bravery to fearfulness… but without exception, they were all highly focused on the impending duel.

On the snowy field, the Pebblebeastmen showed their best side—disciplined and organized. They came from the most disciplined Codium tribe in Monstoke, and they also had a slave army skilled in blacksmithing. After two days of rest, almost all of them were now clad in armor and armed with sharp weapons. Their combat strength was no less than that of human cavalry. With just one order, they were confident they could destroy the humans’ temporary camp in the forest. Even though there were over 3,000 humans, at least 2,500 of them were considered weak, and the rest were just unskilled scoundrels!

Three rounds to two wins, with no restrictions. The rules of this duel followed the rough and direct customs of the various tribes in Monstoke.

“You may send someone out now!” Perhaps due to living among mountains and forests for years, or maybe out of a general dislike for humans, the Forestwood druid who came to announce this used stiff wording and tone. Without waiting for a response, he left right away.

“Lord, should we cancel this duel? If a large battle breaks out, the Forestwood tribe might…”
Xavier raised a hand to interrupt Ebut’s words. Tilting his head slightly, he said, “Haven’t you realized it yet? These druids actually have principles. It’s those principles that led to this duel. For the same reason, no matter what we choose, they won’t offer any further help.”

Valentina let out a long sigh. She agreed with Xavier. These druids seemed unfriendly, but they were very principled. They had already told her before: You and your companions saved our lives; we owe you and your companions one favor each. Delivering the people of Watzburg to the temporary camp counted as one, and this would be another. From now on, we’re even.

“I’ll take on the first round!” Valentina’s gaze became resolute and bright. With Neo absent, she felt she should take on his share of the burden as well.

Xavier didn’t respond but said to Ebut, “Have the guard troops prepare for a bloody battle.”

“Yes!” Ebut left with a solemn expression.

Xavier then called over Dave. “Layte and Jeff will be your guards. Once the battle starts, take Melian and Dorothy and leave.”

Dave’s eyes reddened. “Father, I…”
Xavier glared at him and cut him off sharply, “I thought you had grown up already!”

Dive bit his lower lip, his expression quickly shifting from on the verge of tears to one of sorrowful determination. He raised his head and said, “Father, rest assured. I will take good care of my sister.” Then he turned to Valentina and added, “As long as I am still alive, Dorothy won’t be harmed.”

A relieved smile appeared on Valentina’s face. “I believe you.”

“Hey! What are you guys doing?” Quip, seeing this somber scene of preparing for battle, grew anxious and forced a smile. “Are you joking? How could we lose to those beasts? Miss Srod, you’ll definitely win first, and that Rooted one should be fine too. How much does he need as a fee to fight?”

Now, Xavier could no longer hold back. He grunted irritably and said, “I have very good reasons to believe that Rooted won’t fight to the death for us, and he’s just a Level 4 warrior. On our side, aside from Miss Srod, who is a newly promoted Level 7 knight, none of the other professionals are above Level 5. Meanwhile, our enemies—just one of their centurions has a strength of Level 6–7, and there are two leaders who are Level 9–10 fighters. You should be well aware of this.”

Quip stood there like he’d been struck by petrification for five full seconds before finally saying in a strange tone, “You escaped from the control of the Dark Claws, fought against them several times and won, even killing hundreds of man-beasts. Without strong combat power, how did you do it?”

Valentina replied irritably, “Surely not with money.”

Quip glanced at Valentina, then at Xavier, sniffled, and pouted. “Well! I have to admit that you’re all tactical geniuses, excellent commanders. The achievements you’ve made would make even the top military generals in the alliance feel ashamed. I’m incredibly honored to work with such colleagues. But suddenly, I feel a strong connection with Dive, and I think we need someone more reliable to handle certain matters, whether on the road or in Asia.” As he spoke, he pointed at himself. “So, I’ve decided to return to camp first to get ready. I’ll set off with Dive later to lead the migration party.”

After saying that, Quip bowed elegantly, then left quickly without looking back.

“A disgrace among nobles!” Valentina didn’t even deign to glance at Quip again.

Xavier smiled bitterly. “Comparatively speaking, we have too many things we’re reluctant to give up…”

While this conversation was taking place, the Pebble Man-Beasts had already sent out a duelist. Clad in black iron armor, he looked as mighty as a heavy knight. The two weapons in his hands were nothing short of giant scythes used for cutting hay, each weighing nearly a hundred pounds. Yet he wielded them with such speed that the swirling blades and gusts of wind he created were terrifying to behold.

Even before the battle began, Valentina felt despair. Judging from this man-beast’s aura and movements, it likely had a strength close to Level 9. It would be extremely difficult for Valentina to defeat it, not to mention that the two leaders of the Pebble Men-Beasts hadn’t shown up yet. How could they win such a duel?

Although Xavier knew nothing about warfare, he had seen enough to realize that defeating those stone-human beasts in the field would not be easy for Valentina. He warned her, “Save some of your strength; in the upcoming battle, you’ll be our symbol.”

Valentina was well aware of the principle that when the leader falls, the followers scatter. She thought to herself, “Even if I give it my all, I might not be able to delay them for long. Saving strength is simply seeking death.”

Ahow……

The stone-human beasts raised their swords and roared in the field.

Ahow……

The beasts joined in, their voices shaking the snowy landscape with such force that the snow on the branches fell apart.

The people from the three towns, feeling their morale slump, began shouting slogans, which soon merged into one unified cry: Victory! Victory! Victory!

No matter how loud the beasts were, how could they compare to the combined shouts of over 3,000 people? Moreover, many townsfolk remembered the hardships they had faced on their journey eastward—hadn’t they overcome them all? They had also killed many beasts, as proven by the piles of dried meat and provisions in their temporary camp. All these victories had filled the people with confidence in their own strength, especially those from Tures and Mathuya, who were full of vigor. Some even thought the druids of the Senmu tribe were meddling, believing that with a small cost, those 800 beasts were just more food. Thus, everyone was energetic and loud, their combined voices instantly silencing the beasts’ roars.

Xavier closed his eyes in pain. After all the hardships to regain the people’s support, seeing it gradually come together—only to fail here!

Valentina felt equally sorrowful. She couldn’t help but think of Neo. “If only Neo were here!” she sighed.

Hearing this, Xavier nodded slightly.

Neo didn’t possess extraordinary strength, but he had an ability beyond ordinary people. No matter how difficult a task, with him around, things seemed to make sense, and the best solution could be found. In his presence, people were unconsciously inspired, their morale lifted, emotions stabilized, and they became positive and optimistic. More than once, even Xavier had thought that Neo’s ability to create miracles probably began with this subtle influence.

Valentina knew they could no longer delay. Even if they lost, they had to show some sort of resolve to inspire the people to fight on. Moreover, the Self-Defense Force needed more time to prepare for the battle. From any perspective, she had to fight—and fight with dignity, even in defeat.

One of her assistants, Danny, led over Valentina’s beloved horse, Black Boot. She stroked Black Boot’s nose, took the reins, and mounted the horse skillfully. Then she took her battle helmet and put it on firmly. By now, not a trace of hesitation remained on her face or in her eyes; she had become a true knight.

Just as Valentina was about to spur her horse into battle, Liz blocked her path. “Let me fight this first battle.”

Many of those present, including the leaders of the guard forces such as blacksmith McKenn, Woodrow, and butcher York, were extremely astonished—not only because of what Liz said but also for another crucial reason: no one knew how Liz had appeared there, as if by some magic, suddenly right before their eyes.

“Liz, step back! This isn’t the time for jokes,” butcher York shouted anxiously, lowering his voice. In Tures, Liz had killed a man, and he had lost his wife; he had always had an interest in Liz. Moreover, York was one of the few who didn’t believe there was any romantic relationship between Neo and Liz.

Xavier, however, wasn’t in a hurry to react. With greater intelligence and experience than York, he immediately realized this woman was no ordinary person. But soon, he realized he had underestimated Liz after all.

Whoosh! A bright purple flame appeared in Liz’s palm. The light was extremely dynamic, as if an invisible hand was shaping and manipulating it, and soon it took the form of a lifelike human figure. Those who knew Neo well, such as Valentina and Xavier, could immediately recognize that this tiny figure was Neo.

Both York and Xavier were so surprised that they lost their composure. Creating such a realistic shape through energy manipulation was a skill typically reserved for professionals at level 10 or above. Who would have thought that the owner of a small town inn, a young widow under 25, was actually a powerhouse above level 10—level 10! Even Viscount Edrith would treat her with respect if he were here, especially given her youth. It was certain that unless something unfortunate happened, someone like her would inevitably become a master (level 15), and perhaps even reach the realm of the sacred. With such potential, she was enough to attract the attention of various nobles and factions. Lords and barons like Xavier didn’t even have the right to interfere. Now that such a hidden powerhouse was willing to fight for their side, Xavier felt even the cold air he inhaled was sweet.

Valentina was equally surprised. While strength was important, what mattered more was that she recognized that bright purple light. “Sis Liz, it was you who saved me and Neo that early morning in Watzburg?”

Hiss…

A wave of gasps filled the air. What had happened at dawn—Neo and Valentina sneaking in to fight, and then battling desperately against the Dark Claws—had been witnessed by few people. But Liz intercepting Gladith and the Dark Claws had been seen by many Watzburg refugees. After returning to camp, they naturally exaggerated the details of the battle and spread the story far and wide. Now that Valentina recognized Liz as that mysterious powerhouse, everyone was even more delighted.

“No wonder… No wonder we couldn’t find you when we left camp early that morning and headed here. Later, it was said you got lost in the woods…”

With York’s reminder, many people remembered. They had set out early and traveled a long distance, yet they couldn’t find the beautiful and highly skilled female medical officer Liz. After the group had moved on for a while, Liz caught up from behind, claiming she had gone to gather herbs but got lost. The guards had searched the entire area around for miles, shouting until their voices were hoarse, yet they found no one—so her excuse of getting lost seemed far too flimsy. Now, everything had a reasonable explanation.

There was not a trace of pride in Liz’s expression; on the contrary, her gaze was somewhat sad. With a gentle wave of her hand, an object flew straight toward Valentina. Valentina instinctively caught it and saw it was a letter. After a brief thought, she understood. Given the special circumstances, Liz had no choice but to reveal her identity, but she could no longer stay in this migration group. Likely, after this battle, she would leave right away.

In just that short time, Liz’s expression had turned solemn, even cold. She glanced at everyone, and many who met her gaze couldn’t help but shiver. Her gaze finally settled on Xavier. In a tone that struck everyone as unfamiliar and authoritative, she said, “If it weren’t for my brother’s concern, what difference would it make if you all died? I hope you’ll remember what gratitude means, especially you, Xavier. It’s best not to show me any more malicious intentions, or you and your family will cry bitterly for not dying quickly enough.”

After saying this, leaving the embarrassed crowd behind, Liz was enveloped in bright purple flames as she soared into the sky, then rushed toward the battlefield like a meteor. With a thunderous crash, mud and snow flew everywhere, creating a crater 10 meters in diameter and 3 meters deep. With her hands behind her back, Liz coldly watched the terrified people and beasts, some of whom could barely hold their axes steady. “You wretched thing, how dare you show off?” Her voice wasn’t loud, but it could be heard clearly hundreds of meters away.

Behind a pine tree, Gladith had unconsciously torn a piece out of the trunk. Her eyes, fixed on Liz, held both resentment and jealousy. Gritting her teeth, she muttered, “She’s upgraded again. Who exactly is the host of your soul? Who is it?”……