Chapter 27: Dark Queen
Aiden raised his hand, cutting off the discussion. "Enough of this strategy talk for now. You all need to rest and enjoy your time in the village before we leave. There's no point in planning until you're at least somewhat refreshed."
Luu Luu opened her mouth to protest, a pout forming on her lips, but Aiden swiftly added, "And no, Luu Luu, I am not going to the forge with you again. The last time nearly burned down the workshop."
Luu Luu sighed dramatically, crossing her arms. "But I was just getting the hang of it!"
Prim chuckled at the banter, her tension from the earlier battle easing. "Honestly, Aiden, you could at least let her have a little fun. It's not every day we're in a place like this."
Celestine nodded in agreement, glancing around the village. "The atmosphere is quite different here. It feels... peaceful. It wouldn't hurt to take some time to enjoy it."
Aiden shrugged, still a bit irritated by the constant strategizing. "Fine. Enjoy yourselves, but keep an eye on each other. The last thing we need is another incident like today's brawl."
Kin adjusted his glasses again, clearly still lost in thought but nodding in agreement. "Perhaps we can split into smaller groups. Some can explore, while others can rest and recover for tomorrow's venture."
Alicia, however, remained skeptical. "And what if we run into trouble while we're out? We can't let our guard down entirely."
"That's what the rest of us are for," Maia interjected, her spirits lifted. "We'll look out for each other. Besides, it could be good to get to know Aiden's village better. Maybe we can even learn something useful."
Aiden nodded, feeling a sense of control returning. "Exactly. Just stay within sight of each other and don't wander off too far. The orcs are still a concern, even in our little paradise here."
As the group began to disperse, Aiden caught Kaguya's eye. "You're staying close, right?"
Kaguya smiled mischievously. "Of course, I want to see what kind of life you've built here."
"Good," Aiden replied, "Just remember, I'm not a guide. I'm not responsible for what you find."
With that, Aiden watched as the others broke off into smaller groups, chatting and laughing, leaving him momentarily alone. He took a deep breath, allowing himself a moment of relaxation before the storm that was sure to come.
As Kin approached the temple of Truth, he marveled at the intricate carvings and the ethereal glow emanating from the various commandments etched into the stone. Each commandment held an air of mystery, but one in particular caught his attention:
"Don't break the laws of Alchemy."
Curiosity piqued, he furrowed his brow and muttered to himself, "What does that mean?"
A goblin nearby, polishing a ceremonial artifact, glanced up at Kin. With a casual shrug, it replied, "We don't know, sir. Only Lord Aiden knows the real meaning behind it. He just says it sometimes, warning us never to do whatever it is."
Kin's interest deepened. "Is it related to the alchemical processes used in the village? Or perhaps something more metaphysical?"
The goblin shook its head. "Not sure, really. Aiden has mentioned it in passing, usually when something goes wrong. It's one of those things we're just meant to accept."
Kin nodded slowly, contemplating the implications. If Aiden held the key to the true meaning of this commandment, it must carry significant weight. Perhaps it was a principle that guided Aiden's actions and decisions, something that shaped the very fabric of his village and its people.
"Is there a specific incident that made him mention it?" Kin pressed further, eager for insight.
The goblin scratched its head, trying to remember. "There was that one time when a group of mages tried to use alchemy to transform the soil into gold. Aiden intervened quickly, but he just muttered about breaking the laws of alchemy afterward. The mages didn't understand the danger they were putting themselves in."
Kin's mind raced at the possibilities. Alchemy was an art steeped in rules and consequences, and to break those laws could have catastrophic results. "Thank you," he said, his voice thoughtful. "I'll have to ask Aiden about it later."
The goblin nodded, then returned to its work, leaving Kin alone with his thoughts. He took a moment to absorb the atmosphere of the temple, the weight of its history hanging in the air. Whatever truths were hidden within these walls, they were bound to have a profound impact on the future of their alliance—and the looming threat of the orcs.
With newfound determination, Kin turned and headed back toward the village, ready to rejoin his companions and continue their discussions about strategy and the challenges that lay ahead. As he walked, he couldn't shake the feeling that understanding the laws of alchemy might be crucial to navigating the complexities of their world and the enemies they faced.
Kin made his way to Aiden, After a while he arrived and looked at Aiden and then spoke.
Aiden looked at him. "Have you ever try and brought someone back from life".
Kin approached Aiden, his expression serious as he considered the weight of the question. "Have you ever tried to bring someone back to life?" he echoed, curiosity mixed with concern.
Aiden studied him for a moment, his yellow hair swaying slightly in the breeze. "It's a delicate topic," he replied, his tone reflective. "In theory, alchemy can allow for the manipulation of life and death, but it's fraught with dangers and consequences that can ripple through the fabric of reality."
Kin felt a chill run down his spine. "You've attempted it, then? What happened?"
Aiden sighed, his gaze drifting to the horizon as if searching for memories buried in the distance. "I once tried to resurrect someone important to me. The cost was far greater than I anticipated. It wasn't just about the energy or resources; it was about what it meant for the balance of life and death. I learned that some souls are meant to rest, and pulling them back can lead to unforeseen repercussions."
Kin's brow furrowed, the gravity of Aiden's words sinking in. "So you're saying there are rules, limits? It's not just about the desire to bring someone back?"
"Exactly," Aiden confirmed, his voice steady. "Breaking the laws of alchemy can lead to more harm than good. It can disrupt the natural order, create abominations, or even attract the ire of entities far beyond our comprehension."
Kin nodded, contemplating the implications. "It sounds like you speak from experience. It must have been a heavy burden to bear."
Aiden met Kin's gaze, a flicker of pain evident in his eyes. "It was. I've seen what happens when someone tries to play god. I'd rather find a way to honor the dead than disturb their peace."
The weight of the conversation hung between them, a shared understanding forged in the depths of their dialogue. Kin felt the urge to delve deeper into the complexities of alchemy, to grasp the rules that governed their existence.
"What if we need to bring someone back for a greater purpose?" Kin asked cautiously. "In the face of the impending orc threat, if it could help us..."
Aiden shook his head, his expression resolute. "We have to find other ways. There are enough risks without adding to them by attempting something as dangerous as resurrection. We need to focus on the living and strengthening our forces instead."
Kin contemplated Aiden's words, realizing that while the allure of such power was tempting, the risks were far too great. He appreciated Aiden's wisdom and the burden he carried, recognizing that true strength lay not in defying the laws of nature, but in respecting them.
"Thank you for your honesty, Aiden," Kin said earnestly. "I'll heed your warning."
"Good," Aiden replied, a hint of relief washing over his features. "Now, let's discuss our strategy for dealing with the orcs. We need to work together if we're going to protect our people."
With that, the conversation shifted from the weighty matters of life and death to the urgent threats they faced, both men ready to face the challenges ahead with newfound clarity.
Aiden's gaze intensified as he added, "Also, our god doesn't like it at all." His voice held a firmness that left no room for misinterpretation.
Kin raised an eyebrow, curiosity piqued. "What do you mean by that? Does your god have a say in matters of life and death?"
Aiden nodded. "Yes, the deity we serve has strict rules about the cycle of life. Attempting to disrupt it—like trying to resurrect the dead—can provoke their wrath. It's not just about the physical consequences; it's also about the spiritual and cosmic balance we must maintain."
Kin considered this, the implications of Aiden's words weighing heavily on him. "So, there's a divine oversight in all of this? I didn't realize the stakes were so high."
Aiden crossed his arms, his expression serious. "Every action we take has consequences, especially when it comes to matters as profound as life and death. Our god watches over us, and any attempts to usurp that power could lead to dire consequences—not just for us, but for our entire realm."
Kin took a deep breath, understanding the gravity of their situation. "I see. So, it's not just about alchemy; it's about respecting the divine order. We must tread carefully."
"Exactly," Aiden confirmed. "We need to work within the framework set by our god. Our focus should be on finding solutions that align with that order, not attempting to manipulate it for our own desires."
Kin felt a newfound respect for Aiden, recognizing the wisdom in his words. "Thank you for sharing this with me. It's important that we all understand the limits we must operate within, especially with the threats we face."
"Remember," Aiden said, his tone softer but still resolute, "it's not just about the power we wield; it's about how we choose to wield it. We have the potential to protect our people, but we must do so responsibly."
With their conversation having deepened their understanding of each other, Kin felt a stronger bond forming between them. They both knew that the challenges ahead would test their resolve, but they were determined to face them together, guided by respect for both the laws of alchemy and the divine.
Later that day, as Aiden was spending time with Radomira something happened, he was ready for a fight then he saw who it was it was a mirror or a magic one, as on the other side was Dark Queen Olga, she was going to speak before Aiden stopped
Aiden's eyes narrowed as he studied the reflection of Dark Queen Olga in the magic mirror. Her dark aura emanated even through the enchanted surface, and he could feel the tension in the air.
"Orc problems, and you are here for help," he said, cutting her off before she could speak. "So what do I get from this?"
Olga's lips curled into a smirk, her confidence palpable. "You're quite perceptive, Aiden. I do have a proposal for you. The orcs are becoming a nuisance, even to me. Their constant raids disrupt my plans, and I need someone like you to rein them in."
Aiden crossed his arms, unimpressed. "And why would I help you? You've always had your own agenda, and I doubt you'd share the spoils with me."
Olga leaned closer to the mirror, her eyes gleaming with mischief. "Because, my dear Aiden, there's more at stake here than just your little village. If you assist me, I can provide you with valuable resources, and even information about your enemies that you won't find anywhere else."
Aiden raised an eyebrow, intrigued but cautious. "Information about who, exactly?"
"About the Seven Kingdoms," Olga replied smoothly. "Their weaknesses, their secrets. You want to protect your village, don't you? Knowledge is power, and I can give you that power."
He weighed her words carefully. "And what's the catch? I know you well enough to sense there's always a price."
A sly smile spread across Olga's face. "Just a simple favor in return, Aiden. You won't have to lift a finger for me—at least, not yet. I need you to sow some discord among the orcs, just enough to let me move my pieces on the board without them getting in the way."
Aiden considered this, his mind racing through the potential consequences. "So you want me to create chaos for you? What if it backfires and threatens my village?"
Olga waved her hand dismissively. "I assure you, it won't. The orcs are too busy fighting among themselves to focus on you. Trust me; it's a mutually beneficial arrangement."
He felt the weight of her proposal, the allure of knowledge, and the potential for power tugging at him. "And if I refuse?"
Her expression turned cold, the playful tone shifting to one of warning. "Then you might find yourself facing the very orcs you wish to control without any guidance. I have my ways of making things… inconvenient for you."
Aiden met her gaze, unwavering. "You're playing a dangerous game, Olga. But if I decide to take you up on this offer, I'll expect full transparency and a guarantee that you won't double-cross me."
Her smile returned, a glimmer of respect in her eyes. "Agreed. Just remember, Aiden, this is a partnership. We both have much to gain."
He nodded slowly, his mind made up. "Alright, I'll help you, but the moment I feel this is going south, I'm out. I have my priorities."
"Very well," Olga said, her tone lighter. "Then let's discuss the details, shall we?"
As they continued their conversation, Aiden felt the weight of his decision settle over him. He had agreed to walk a fine line between ally and enemy, knowing that any misstep could lead to disaster for himself and his village. But in the ever-shifting landscape of power and alliances, he understood that sometimes, the best way to protect what mattered was to play the game.
To be continued