Free Web NovelChapter 114: First Quest: Blade Of Shadows (1)
The air was thick with tension inside the grand hall of the Phoenixes’ headquarters as Shinon stood before the formidable leaders of the settlement. However, he wasn’t alone.
The settlers, who had hailed him as their hero, eagerly awaited Marcus’s reply to their request.
"Shinon," Marcus began, his voice carrying a note of caution, "the settlers are grateful for your heroic deeds. They believe you deserve a reward. So, you may ask for one demand, and we will fulfil it if it’s within our power to do so."
Shinon raised an eyebrow, a smirk playing on his lips. He had been waiting for this moment, knowing he had the settlers’ support and that Marcus couldn’t refuse their wishes without painting the Phoenixes in a negative light. freeωebnovēl.c૦m
’Of course, you had to add a condition there,’ Shinon thought. ’However, it doesn’t matter as you will have to grant my wish regardless of how you feel about it.’
Shinon knew if he wanted to complete the Ascension quests, he would need some sort of freedom from the Phoenixes, and that’s when he decided to use the most obvious trick in the book to attain his goal.
Ever since dealing with the horde, the settlers saw Shinon in a favourable light. His influence over them had grown. Hence he could get away with a little bit of power shift between the Phoenixes and him.
But if that wasn’t enough, Selena went above and beyond to him. As the settlers knew and loved her, it didn’t take her long to plant a seed in their head and manipulate them into asking the Phoenixes to reward Shinon in some way or form for his bravery.
Shinon’s eyes sparkled with a mischievous glint as he contemplated his request. He knew this was his chance to secure something significant for himself, something that would aid him in his personal quest. He looked Marcus straight in the eye.
"Marcus, I appreciate the settlers’ gratitude and their belief in my actions," Shinon said firmly. "My demand is simple yet important to me. I request the right to move freely within the settlement without any restrictions or constant surveillance."
Marcus’s eyebrows shot up in surprise, and his expression turned slightly incredulous. He hadn’t anticipated such a request from Shinon, considering the control the Phoenixes exerted over the settlement. But he wasn’t the only one who felt that way.
Sable also blinked in surprise, taken aback by the unexpected request. She knew granting Shinon such freedom would only make him stronger, and that was not something the Phoenixes desired.
But the weight of the settlers’ expectations pressed upon them, leaving them with little choice.
"Well, Shinon, that’s quite a demand," Marcus replied, his tone filled with surprise and reluctance. "Allowing unrestricted movement is not a decision we take lightly. It would mean loosening our grip on the settlement’s security."
Shinon met Marcus’s gaze unwaveringly, his resolve unshaken. He understood the implications of his request and the potential resistance he might face from the Phoenixes.
However, the settlers’ support and his growing influence couldn’t be ignored any longer by them. Shinon knew why granting him his request drove them in a pinch, unlike the settlers, who didn’t know the big issue with his request.
That said, Shinon also knew he had the Phoenixes by the balls and wouldn’t let go until he got what he was there for.
"I believe it’s only fair, Marcus. After all, I am the hero here. Heroes deserve a little freedom, don’t you think?"
Sable crossed her arms and raised an eyebrow. "Oh, so now you’re the hero, huh? Just because you swung a sword around a bit?"
"Well, it did save all your pretty faces, didn’t it?" Shinon tilted his head, a playful glint in his eyes.
Lova couldn’t help but join in. "I must admit, Shinon, your arrogance is rather entertaining."
"What’s the problem here? I mean, it’s not that bad of a request that we can’t fulfil." Nova, the ever-so-friendly figure, chuckled, breaking the tension.
Marcus sighed, realising the weight of the situation. The settlers had grown restless, questioning the Phoenixes’ actions and favouring Shinon’s cause. Denying his request now could lead to further unrest and potential discord within the settlement.
"Enough banter. Shinon, your request will be granted. You will have the right to come and go as you please. But remember, with great freedom comes great responsibility."
Shinon nodded, his grin widening. "Of course, Marcus. You can trust me to use this newfound freedom wisely."
Marcus sighed, his gaze drifting to the settlers eagerly watching the exchange.
"However, know that I will be watching you closely, Shinon. Any misuse of this privilege, and you will face the consequences."
Shinon mockingly saluted, unable to contain his amusement. "Noted, Marcus. But don’t worry, I’ll stay out of trouble. Mostly."
The room erupted into laughter, the tension finally dissipating as the settlers joined in the jovial atmosphere. Marcus took a step forward as the laughter died down, his expression grave again.
"Before you go, remember this, Shinon. Our alliance is not unconditional. We have our secrets, and you have yours. Let us hope this newfound freedom doesn’t lead to the unravelling of our delicate balance."
Shinon nodded solemnly, a flicker of determination in his eyes. "I understand, Marcus. I will respect the boundaries of our... alliance, as you call it."
~~~
Leaving the grand hall behind, Shinon felt a sense of relief wash over him as the heavy doors closed with a soft thud. Selena, her warm smile unwavering, reached out to him, her voice filled with curiosity.
"I heard they agreed to your terms," she said, a hint of admiration in her voice.
Shrugging nonchalantly, Shinon replied, "Well, it wasn’t too difficult with your assistance."
Selena’s eyes sparkled with anticipation. "So, what’s the next step? What do we do now?"
Shinon hesitated for a moment, a flicker of doubt crossing his mind. Although Selena had proven her loyalty, he still needed to be cautious in case it was all an act from her. He decided to keep his true intentions hidden for now.
"Well," he began, feigning a casual tone, "I think it’s time for me to take a break and clear my mind. The past few days have been intense, and I need some time alone."
Selena nodded, her expression understanding. She didn’t press for further details, either trusting his words completely or simply not wanting to pry.
"I understand, Shinon," she said, her voice gentle. "You deserve some time to yourself. Just remember, I’m here if you ever need someone to talk to or if you change your mind."
