(A few hours after Xander killed the mage) Enshrouded in an impenetrable darkness. Yet, in a designated clearing, a long carriage stood, surrounded by a cluster of soldiers bearing torches. The wind howled through the trees, causing the torch flames to dance erratically. Suddenly, a figure broke through the stormy night sky as a pegasus descended gracefully through the canopy. Its pristine, pearl-white wings contrasted against the obsidian darkness. The fluttering flames of the torches cast eerie shadows on the scene, revealing several armored soldiers gathered around the carriage. Their solemn demeanor shifted as they recognized the significance of the newcomer's arrival. "A mage hunter," one soldier muttered in hushed tones, a mix of awe and trepidation in their voice. The rider who dismounted the pegasus was a tall, distinguished man sporting a black goatee. His wavy hair cascaded over his shoulders, and his dark brown robes almost blended into the night. His countenance exuded

Unaware of the mage hunters' proximity, Xander stood in a secluded corner of the courtyard, his gaze fixed unwaveringly on Celina, the Duke's enchanting daughter. She epitomized the concept of beauty, her wavy, golden hair dancing gracefully in the wind and accentuating her perfect hourglass figure."That was a narrow escape," Bloodhound's voice jolted Xander from his reverie."Perhaps luck was on my side," Xander replied, though his own words seemed hard to believe."Luck? Ha! You were on the brink of discovery. If it weren't for that girl, you'd be caught by now," Bloodhound retorted.Xander still marveled at his good fortune. The red-haired man had been perilously close to unraveling his facade as a noble. But, serendipitously, Celina, the Duke's daughter, had intervened at the opportune moment, allowing Xander to slip away from the man's scrutiny. Since then, he had seamlessly blended into the bustling crowd, biding his time for the gala to commence.As Xander lingered in the shad

Keeran's astonishment at Xander's request was palpable. The very fact that Xander, someone who seemed to have little background in magic, was aware of the existence of a lie-detecting array intrigued Keeran. The situation was becoming more intricate than Keeran had anticipated.“Quit wasting my time, Xander. The evidence points to your guilt,” Keeran retorted.Xander's determination, however, remained unwavering. "Then there should be no issue in taking me to the lie-detecting array. But I insist that either the king or the duke, along with the adventurers guild, be present. I killed the mage in self-defense. If anything, the mage guild should answer to the adventurers guild for the death of their members at the hands of that mage," Xander stated firmly.Keeran hadn't expected Xander to be so astute. He had underestimated the resourcefulness that an orphan like Xander had developed to survive.“Are you a dark mage, yes or no?” Keeran pressed coldly.“I wasn't initially, but someone fo

On the vast expanse of the ocean surrounding Veremond prison, a ship with two expansive white masts sailed purposefully toward its destination. Within the dimly lit captain's cabin, three figures huddled around a meticulously crafted mahogany table. Each of them was draped in dark robes, their presence marked by an air of secrecy."We must intervene to rescue the prince from the clutches of the mages," declared the tall and robust man among them. As he spoke, his graying hair and beard came into view, his muscular hands revealing his strength."Carl, what information have you managed to gather from your contacts within the mage guild?" inquired the gray-haired figure, seeking insights."Based on the details shared by an insider close to the old mage Velrian, it seems the mages have sinister plans for the prince. Even if he were to clear his name through the lie detecting array, there's an intention to eliminate him," revealed Carl. The flickering candlelight accentuated his goatee and

As night descended upon Emberlyn, the mages made their move, transporting Xander in a black carriage from Veremond prison. Inside the carriage, Xander's mind was a whirlwind of plans, his thoughts consumed by the impending confrontation with the lie detecting array."Quit overthinking, you fool. They're going to kill you," Bloodhound's voice echoed within Xander's mind. The carriage rumbled forward along a lengthy path, flanked by two blue-armored soldiers, one at the front and one at the rear."No, you're wrong. The duke is here. They won't dare to do something drastic," Xander countered mentally."You're naive. The mages haven't gained power by playing nice," Bloodhound's growl carried a hint of truth that Xander couldn't ignore.Xander shook his head, trying to distance himself from the deranged personality within him. "Why am I even talking to you like you're a separate entity?" he wondered aloud."Because you're a fool, rejecting the very powers you've been granted. Such power be