Polymath Redux

Chapter 18: The line between gaining everything or losing everything

"The deal does not seem like a bad one, and as you say you can make use of the adventurer network through us and we can become stronger through your guidance. But we would like some time to think about it."

Leona answered on everyone's behalf. Morialia smiles.

"Of course, if you have decided on an answer please use this."

Morialia threw a small token at them, it was a [communication token], a one-time-use model. She then turned towards the dragon king.

"I would also like to extend a hand of alliance to the dragon king. As an apology, I will lend you my strength if the time comes for the need."

Out of everyone here, the dragon king himself was the most well versed with her powers. However the dragon king was not merely known for his strength but also his wisdom, instantly recognizing her ruse.

"You want to make use of my influence for more information too?"

Morialia paused for a bit before laughing it off.

"Haha... I guess that was too obvious?"

"Indeed. Well, I don't mind, but under one condition."

"Oh~? Do tell."

"You'll have to spar with me from time to time. It had been too long since I've had a good match like this."

To 'fight', for the first time Mordred's life he had gotten serious in a fight. Not even when playing his character had he been that serious, but this one time exhilarated him. To the point where he almost lost himself in the ecstasy of it all, if not for this [song of clarity] clearing his mind.

However he had also 'enjoyed' it.

"I guess I wouldn't mind."

"Excellent. Then you have my full permission to make use of my territory. I welcome you as a special guest from the dragon king, Aurendra Sinclair."

"Most appreciated."

...

A knock on the door to the empty Vardis inn, Rena perked up, wondering who it was. It certainly could not have been Morgana's group or Mordred and it was too early for Irina to return. Perhaps a new customer?

"Yes, coming."

Rena opened the door in anticipation, it had been years since she had so much company. However once she opened the door she had almost immediately regretted that decision for she knew the kind of men that were standing at her entrance wasn't the kind ones.

She had seen the hatred in their eyes, and in their hands weapons that did not look like the ones used for adventuring purposes. Tools made especially to harm another being like herself. Was it time already? Had the revolution to finally rid the city for the neutral demons come? If there was one regret, it would be that she was unable to see Mordred once more before her time. That kind man who had shown her what it means to be cared for.

The men standing at the door were numerous, perhaps around 6 or 7, each in hand with a weapon. They pushed aside the demoness matron and entered the inn. Started breaking things, making a mess of things, as though they were letting out their pent up stress they destroyed the interior of the inn.

"Please stop!"

Rena cried, but the men ignored her... no they did not ignore her, they stabbed her. A sword through the chest, she bled from the mouth. Her voice no longer came out, but she still struggled to stop their rampaging but they did not listen to her. Tears rushed down past her face, she wanted to know what she did wrong to have this happen to her.

She cursed the fact that she was born a demon, but at the same time was thankful, because without it she would never have met that kind man. Still, this situation wouldn't do, if she died here she would never meet him again. 'I have to... clean up before they come...' such thoughts ran through her head but she became unable to move.

If she knew she was going to die like this, then she should've at least told him her feelings. It was strange, she had only met the man for a few days but to her those few days were much happier than all of her days combined.

"I... don't want to... die..."

She spoke, chocking on her own blood. Her vision becoming hazy.

Would Mordred be sad that she was gone? Would he mourn for her? Or did he just see her as another demon; a monster? At the very least, she wanted for her last thoughts to be about him.

Cold...

Dark...

Lonely...

'Help...' she thought just as her mind went dim.