MM - Chapter 225 - THE GOOD PA-LACE

Entering the Nobles’ District, Raine navigated the throng with effortless grace, enhanced Finesse transforming the press of bodies into a navigable stream. These streets held many differences from the Commoner’s District: more guards, fancier clothes, armor, and weapons, handcarts zipping by in designated fast lanes, and ritzy storefronts instead of shouting peddlers. Raine preferred the quiet bustle of this part of the city, though with his remaining funds, there were few opportunities for him here.

At the last minor checkpoint before the palace, a pair of high-level guards inclined their heads as he passed. Ahead, spires pierced the sky like defiant spears. Raine's path wound through narrower streets. Shadows lengthened from overhanging barracks on either side, each adorned with royal banners. Soldiers were everywhere, clogging the cobblestone paths that were no longer uneven, but perfectly manicured. A motif of a battle long past stretched across the reinforced gate, pillars, and roadway. It was beautifully crafted, impossible to ignore, even though he had seen it countless times. 

Between one step and the next, an overbearing mental pressure slammed into him. Knowing it was coming, he made no effort to resist. Starting off his visit with an act of treason wasn’t part of the plan. The queen's mental ability—pacification—curbed aggressive impulses, making the very idea of violence feel distant and forbidden.

[Negative affliction received (Pacified): Weapons and skills sealed (Duration 59.59 seconds)]

The constantly refreshing debuff locked Raine’s weapons behind an unyielding barrier of mental force. His strides remained deliberate as he crossed into the palace grounds. As though expecting him, a pair of 3rd-tier guards fell into step, maintaining pace ahead of him. Their spears were held at precise angles, footfalls synced on the polished mosaic path. “This way, my lord.”

“Thank you,” Raine inclined his head, grateful for a guide. “I was just wondering how I was going to find Princess Selena.”

“Apologies, my lord. Our orders are to take you to her majesty. She has expressed a desire to extend her appreciation in person.”

Raine’s expression was flat despite his turbulent thoughts. Shit. That complicates things. Was hoping to fly under the radar a little longer.

Entering the palace proper, the corridors unfolded in grandeur. Every few paces, the solid stone walls were interspersed with artistic tapestries depicting ancient sieges against demonic hordes. Golden threads, hanging from ornate sconces, caught the light from stained glass windows. The air carried traces of fine incense and oiled steel, a blend that evoked centuries of preserved authority.

As they rounded a corner in the maze of corridors, one of the escorts—a thin man with a scarred jaw—murmured respectfully. “Princess Selena speaks highly of you—claims you fought as though an ocean storm were sealed within you.”

Raine snorted, amused, and easily picturing her using such a ridiculous analogy. “The princess flatters me. I merely protected her as any dutiful subject of the kingdom would.”

The second guard, younger and more earnest, grinned brightly. “Well spoken, my lord. Is it true you can fly despite your tier?”

A sudden spike of deadly intent slammed into Raine's spine. He halted mid-stride as a figure emerged from a shadowed alcove ahead—a nobleman clad in dark velvet, his face twisted into a sneer of undisguised malice. The man's eyes gleamed with malevolence, his movements hard to track with the speed of significantly superior levels. 

Without a word, the noble sped by the dumbstruck guards to deliver a vicious kick aimed at Raine's midsection, the force behind it amplified by raw power that could demolish even arcane-imbued stone.

There was no time to shrug off the queen’s pacification and summon a weapon. Discipline surged through Raine's limbs, reinforcing his Physique and innate Defense. The Soul Flame of Amanesh ignited, slithering across his forearms and legs in an additional protective layer. The kick connected as Raine's knees and elbows came together. A thunderous impact sounded as the fiery gauntlets shattered into sparks that skittered through the corridor. [-6,981]

Breath exploded from Raine’s lungs when his back smashed into the wall. He fell to the floor, both arms broken and hanging uselessly at his sides. Agony radiated through his ribs, where more bones were undoubtedly turned to dust. Without the soul flame, protections of the second attribute threshold, and near-instant reaction, the surprise blow would have easily killed him. 

The guards hesitated, their spears lowering uncertainly. “Earl Lichforde?! What is the meaning of—”

“My apologies, dear guest.” The earl’s voice cut like a drawn blade, his sneer no less violent than the kick. “It’s been so long since I slipped. Your efforts to catch my fall shall not be forgotten.” The noble advanced with fists clenched, the guards not daring to interrupt or impede one so far above them.

The queen’s mental ability crashed into the hall like a falling mountain, sending both guards and the noble to their knees. Thankfully, the pressure on Raine was less severe, though not by much. Through great effort, the earl stood and resumed stalking toward the still-downed Raine. He was grasped roughly by his broken arms and jerked to his feet. The earl’s breath was rancid, tinged with hate. “Impressive reaction, I’ll bear it in mind when next we meet.”

With that promise hanging in the air, the earl released him and continued on his way. Raine slumped against the wall, arms throbbing horribly with each beat of his heart. Relief flooded him that he hadn’t needed to unleash the desperate plan he’d braced for while downed. The second the earl was out of sight, the younger guard rushed to Raine’s side. “Lord Alaric! My deepest apologies!”

It took all of his focus to channel the Celestial Power correctly: begging for aid. Healing Burst rippled through him, snapping bones back into place and halting the severe internal bleeding. [+3,782]

[Healing Burst: (Completion - 49% Adept) Lay hands upon a target to restore health equal to 500% > 245% CP. Additional 500% > 245% CP health restored over 80 > 119 seconds - stacks 3 times - each stack refreshes timer (Cost: 50 > 75 CP) (Cooldown: 45 > 67 seconds)]

Raine wasn’t entirely disappointed with the results; his best so far was a 52% completion. With 1,544 Celestial Power, the heal over time (HOT) would restore him to full within two minutes. If he were more proficient, his misery would have ended much sooner. He brushed off the guard’s concern, straightening the collar of his tunic and cracking his neck. “It’s fine. Can’t expect everyone to love being invaded by outsiders. Who was that?”

The veteran guard swallowed, pitching his voice low, “Earl Ramsin Lichforde—patriarch of the Lichfordes. You should know his nephew well, Lyale Lichforde.”

All the pieces snapped into place. After betraying Selena to the Dantinians, Lyale’s family had to be under extreme scrutiny, and likely several executions had already taken place. Considering Raine didn’t know them from the past, there was a good chance the Lichforde's betrayal ended with the extinction of their entire line. If the earl knew his time was measured in days, it made sense that he took a passing shot at Raine.

I’m lucky to be alive. The queen knew he would attack and let it happen. She was testing me. Ugh, nobles. At least she didn’t let him use weapons or skills. Still, I think a little compensation is in order…

Raine buried his fury deep, steadying himself as the rest of his bones popped into place. Pacify urged a state of calmness, flushing adrenaline from his system but failing to dislodge his annoyance. He motioned to the guards, voice level. “Shall we continue?”

The Vaaterrans eyed him critically, sharing a subtle glance. “As you say, Lord Alaric.”

Despite moving on, the encounter lingered in Raine's mind; a vivid reminder that any political ascent was bound to breed enemies in high places. Enemies who were, for now, still far more powerful than himself.

They arrived at a set of six-meter-tall ornate double doors, the kingdom's crest—a majestic bird clutching a scepter and shield—was etched deeply into enchanted wood. His guides, mere ants before the immensity of the doors, left him in the care of six more who were of even higher level and wore much more ornate armor. They stood at attention, expressions impassive. After a perfectly coordinated and crisp salute, two turned to push open the massive barriers.

Beyond, sunlight streamed through arched windows, illuminating marble floors veined with sparkling gold. The queen was seated, winged by two 4th-tier royal guards. The trio dwarfed everyone else in size; Raine barely rose to her knee. Her status as a Monarch—above even a Hierarch—granted her and her Princely Wardens Physiques that defied common sense. She wore a white and gold dress that cascaded over her like molten moonlight. An intricate silver crown rested regally atop pure white hair.

She was a being above all others in the kingdom, a Monarch, a goddess among mortals.

Raine didn’t dare attempt to inspect any of the nobles present. In the past, many would-be politicos from Earth had seen their ambitions ground to a halt for such an insult. A bevy of male concubines stood rigidly to the queen’s side, sheer robes revealing more than he wanted to see. The one nearest the queen was armed and stood at high alert, hand hovering near a jeweled sword's hilt. Officials lingered out of sight, half shadowed in numerous alcoves, expressions veiled in practiced indifference. It was readily apparent that Raine was intruding on a meeting of significant import.

Well, this just got more complicated… fuck it. Punch through or respawn in shame.

A herald stepped forward, chin held high as his voice broke the silence. “Presenting Alaric of the Earth Realm to Her Majesty, the Savior of Rendition, the Upholder of Halecynth, the Shield of Serenity, the Vanquisher of Celestials, may she rule eternal, Queen Analice Celendine.”

Raine hurriedly advanced halfway to the dais and knelt with deliberate poise. “Your Majesty.”

The queen's voice echoed through the chamber, commanding yet fluid. “This Monarch has been eager to meet the one named Alaric. You safeguarded our borders from a demonic invasion, proving the Travelers more than mere locusts. You escorted my daughter through her Girding and protected her from traitors most vile. You have earned the right to stand in my presence. Pledge your fealty, and let the kingdom bear witness.”

Raine pressed his palm to the marble floor, bowing lower. “I, Alaric, swear loyalty to Her Majesty and the Silvergate Kingdom, to shield its frontiers from threats, to uphold its crown with every drawn breath, through blood and toil, I shall serve.”

An amused smile played at her lips, not that Raine could see it while staring at the floor. “A unique oath for a unique people. This Monarch accepts your fealty, guardian of Silvergate. Stand. In recognition of your bravery and future service, you shall select a boon from the vault's second floor—an artifact suited to your exploits.”

Here we go. Time to roll the dice.

Raine rose steadily, locking eyes with a monster in Vaaterran flesh that could pound him flat with a thought. “I wish to refuse your graciousness, Your Majesty.” More than a few heads nodded with approval. By refusing, Raine was implying he was unworthy of the praise being heaped upon him. If his rise continued at such an astronomical pace, he would soon become a political threat. In the eyes of the attending officials, backing down was the prudent play.

That wasn’t Raine’s intent in the least. He continued, “If possible, instead of a fiscal reward, I would humbly request the title of Baron, expanding my influence beyond its current confines.”

Gasps reverberated like fracturing crystal, officials reeling with apoplectic fury. The armed concubine half-drew his blade, face reddening as spittle flew from his lips. “Rejecting Her Majesty’s benevolence to reach so far beyond your station?! An execution would be too kind!”

An advisor, reed-thin and vehement, stepped from the shadows, pointing an accusing finger. “Arrogant whelp! Does your body and soul reject the kindness shown to a lesser life form?!”

The queen quelled the uproar with a single raised hand large enough to scoop Raine up and squeeze the life from him. Her face was impassive save for a spark of curiosity in her lifted brow, “To advance from common noble to Baron is not done without considerable demonstrated merit—often achieved over the course of several generations. Ranks preserve our hierarchy; bestowing them so casually would breed disorder. Your request is denied… Unless you wish to expend the favor bestowed upon you by this Monarch?”

Raine shook his head. “That was not my intent, Your Majesty.” He sustained their scrutiny with a straight back, tone firm as tempered alloy. “During her Girding, I offered to instruct Princess Selena in a hidden and much more powerful method for utilizing her Cannon Thrust. I was made aware that to do so, I would need an official title, and I sought the lowest position possible to achieve that end. My sincere apologies for overstepping.”

Despite his 'apology,' Indignation surged anew. The entire hall erupted in heated objections. A sharp-voiced official surged forward, fists pounding together and releasing a shockwave that caused Raine to slide back three paces. “How dare you profess to hold a deeper insight into my royal techniques?! This borders on sedition! You will die by my hands this day, outsider!”

The concubine’s knees bent, sword fully unsheathed and shedding radiant light as he prepared to lunge. “Enough of this mockery! Through blood you will serve indeed!”

A terrific boom shook the hall as a figure appeared in a bolt of lightning. Selena was clad in a billowing gown, standing before Raine with her arms held wide, daring anyone to strike. Her gaze passed from concubine to royal instructor, brimming with defiance.

The queen inclined forward marginally. Her fingers drummed loudly on the gilded armrest. She completely ignored the sudden appearance of her daughter, addressing Raine with more curiosity than spite. “Your jest has unraveled the tranquility of this court. Bravery must be tempered by prudence, Alaric of the Earth Realm. Or are such niceties an alien concept to your people?”

Raine remained steadfast as he stepped around Selena to bear their hatred alone. He sent her an appreciative nod; she had grown so much since their first meeting that she was hardly recognizable. “I would never jest before this court. My people believe in the truth, and above all, in the power of our fists. To us, law favors strength alone. As I am weak in this realm, my words mean little. Yet the truth remains, the princess's skill, in its current form, is lacking; not in execution, for she clearly had a fine mentor, but in the fundamental understanding of what Cannon Thrust was always meant to be. To appease my betters, I propose a wager: I shall instruct Selena before you now. Should she fail to impress, take my head. If triumphant, award me a provisional permit of barony for a cycle, so your laws may remain intact.”

The officials clamored, voices intertwining in frenzied discord, but there were no additional threats to his life. To them, this was a perfect opportunity to remove a growing thorn before it became entrenched. And now, thanks to his many insults, they would have that chance whether he won or lost.

Jorull Marsen—an aged councilor well known for his bigotry, struck his staff against the floor, features contorted in wrath. “Do not concede to this outsider’s absurdity! A death means nothing to his ilk! He seeks to undermine the crown's prestige through trickery!”

Raine held in a snarl and the condemnation that came with it. Damn that shifty old bastard. I’ll be sure to repay this... kindness.

The queen contemplated quietly, large eyes pinning Selena, who stood taut, knuckles paling as she clutched her dress. The atmosphere thickened with each passing second, heavy with expectancy for Raine’s blood. Finally, Analice nodded deliberately, her verdict impossible to deny. “This Monarch concedes. Substantiate this truth of yours within a knuckle, Alaric of the Earth Realm, or face imprisonment for no less than one cycle, be stripped of your current title, and suffer five deaths.”

Selena drew breath through clenched teeth. Her complexion paled, hands visibly shaking as she rounded on Raine. He smiled reassuringly, expression serene. He could see the burden of guilt weighing on her after everything he’d done for her. The officials subsided into restless whispers, glances darting among themselves and the queen. The concubine temporarily sheathed his weapon with a grudging scowl. His vicious gaze held a vow of reprisal, no matter the outcome.

Raine bowed low to the queen, “I accept.” Standing, he leaned close to Selena, voice light as though this were a day like any other. “Princess, it’s a pleasure to see you again.”

Her eye twitched until she recalled watching from distant bushes as he alone battled the patriarch of the Primal Realm. The fight had been unlike any she’d ever witnessed, nor likely ever would again. At that time, the man before her had become something larger than life: a hero, just like the ones from her favorite novels. She sighed wearily, tension bleeding away. “You never change, do you? Causing trouble wherever your feet take you.”

“Only for my enemies.” Raine flashed a shit-eating grin, glad she’d calmed so easily. The Cannon Thrust he intended to teach her couldn’t be achieved without a calm heart and serene mental state. Even then, her chances of pulling it off within a knuckle—twenty minutes—were less than 10%. He had long ago thrown caution to the wind. Now, it was time to act. Leaning right next to her ear, he whispered conspiratorially, “So, Princess, do you still trust me?”