Atheria watched in shock as Xander's transformation took hold. His movements were no longer human; he moved with an uncanny speed and agility that defied the limitations of his previous self. It was as if a primal force had been unleashed within him, guided by the dark presence of Bloodhound.Bloodhound's voice echoed in Xander's mind, his instructions clear and commanding. "Dodge left!" Bloodhound's voice urged, and Xander's body responded almost before he consciously registered the command. He gracefully sidestepped a swinging goblin blade that would have otherwise struck him."Strike now!" Bloodhound's guidance was unwavering, and Xander's arm shot out like a viper, his dagger finding its mark in the chest of a goblin who had foolishly left itself exposed. The goblin let out a guttural cry as its life force ebbed away.Atheria was both mesmerized and horrified by the fluidity of Xander's movements. It was a dance of death choreographed by Bloodhound, a sinister partnership that tur

Amidst the crowd, Atheria's voice held authority as she began to weave tales of the Lone Dragon's heroic exploits. "He stood alone against the raging wyrm in the Cursed Woods, its fiery breath no match for his unyielding spirit. Remember the village of Alden? When darkness loomed, he lit the way, quelling the evil that haunted those very streets."Bloodhound's cynical tone cut through within Xander's mind, "She's a master of deceit."Xander, however, was lost in Atheria's words, finding himself taken aback by the truth in her stories. "It doesn't sound like a lie," he mumbled.As Atheria spoke, the villagers' expressions shifted from skepticism to rapt attention. They exchanged glances, slowly beginning to believe in the tales of the Lone Dragon's bravery."He forged through the Blighted Marshes, where the poisoned air threatened even the strongest of us. Remember the lost expedition? His courage brought them back from the edge of despair," Atheria's voice rang clear, and the villager

On the other side of the Duchy of Krovian, Keeran walked down a corridor adorned with lavish decorations. The floor was graced with an intricately designed expensive rug, while the walls boasted a collection of ornate paintings and softly glowing orbs that cast a warm light upon the scene.As he reached a mahogany door, its surface intricately etched with delicate designs, Keeran's hand moved slowly to open it. The door swung open to reveal Velrian and another elderly figure seated within the room. "Lord William," Keeran greeted the old man with a respectful bow. The old man sat regally behind a table of gleaming gold, his attire mirroring the richness of his surroundings. His eyes emanated an air of calm wisdom as his gray hair was neatly combed."Please, take a seat," William replied, gesturing towards a chair beside Velrian."Is everything in order for the upcoming funeral?" William inquired, his gaze attentive."Theo's family is en route to Krovian. The funeral is scheduled for t

Inside the carriage, Xander's heart raced as he felt it come to a halt. He strained his ears to catch snippets of conversation happening outside. He could hear Toya's voice and the excited chatter of the goblins who accompanied him."They say it's the finest ale they've ever tasted," Toya's voice carried a mix of confidence and anticipation."About time we got a decent shipment," a goblin at the gate responded, his excitement palpable."Open it, open it!" another goblin chimed in eagerly."Hold on, Is that really necessery?" Toya's voice took on a cautious tone. "We just have to make sure it's all there. Chief's orders." a goblin said.Xander clenched his fists inside the carriage, his anxiety rising. The goblins' voices echoed around him, making him feel like time was running out. He glanced at the barrels around him, hoping they would be convincing enough."Damn it," Bloodhound hissed within Xander's mind. Xander's heart skipped a beat as the goblins continued their conversation.

Upon learning that he had been consuming Toya's blood, a startled expression overtook Xander's features. Atheria couldn't help but roll her eyes in response to his reaction."You practically guzzled down goblin blood before, so this is definitely an upgrade. Ugh, it sounds pretty disgusting when I say it out loud," Atheria commented, her own words seemingly unsettling her."Drink it and heal your wounds, fool," Bloodhound's voice intruded forcefully into Xander's thoughts.With no better option for healing at hand, Xander drew a deep breath and swallowed the entirety of the blood within the leather pouch. A wave of warmth coursed through his body, swiftly knitting his wounds, easing the pain, and reinvigorating his body.Curious and determined, Xander inquired, "Where's Toya?""Follow me," Atheria gestured, her movements beckoning Xander to join her. With his wounds healed, he stood and moved without the previous discomfort.Guided by Atheria, Xander and Jack made their way toward a s