Chereads / The Sorcerer's Last Wish / Chapter 18 - The Riddle iii

Chapter 18 - The Riddle iii

Orin stood before the keeper of the temple, his heart racing with both excitement and fear. The keeper of the temple looked at him with piercing eyes, his expression unreadable.

"Since when did you know the true trial?" the keeper asked, his voice echoing through the chamber.

Orin took a deep breath, trying to steady his nerves.

"I've always suspected there was something more to the temple and its trials. I came here for the artefact, the Ring of Necromancer," he replied.

The keeper of the temple nodded.

"I know why you're here and what you want to use the artefact for. But do you understand the danger of the demon lord and his army?"

Orin frowned, confusion crossing his face.

"I do. And that's is why I want the ring."

The keeper of the temple sighed, shaking his head.

"That demon was just a mere pawn. The demon lord and his commander are a much greater threat. They are the threat. They are too dangerous even for the Ancient One, and that is why the seal were created. And even with the seal, the demon powerful."

Orin's heart sank at the keeper's words. But he was not one to back down from a challenge. He only has one wish. It is to die while battle with the stronger one.

"Stop them, is the world work. As I do not work with anyone except myself. I will achieve what I wanted." Orin explain, determination in his voice.

The keeper of the temple regarded him for a moment, a small smile playing at the corners of his mouth.

"You must use the Ring of Necromancer wisely, and with caution. It has the power to summon and control the spirits of the dead. But it is also a double-edged sword, for it can just as easily turn on its user, consuming them with dark magic."

Orin nodded, taking in the keeper's words. He knew that he must be careful with the Ring.

The keeper of the temple handed Orin the Ring, his eyes shining with pride and respect. "May the spirits guide and protect you," he said.

"I don't need any spirit or even god Himself to protect me." Orin reply arrogantly.

Orin then look the keeper deeply.

"And for some reason, I do feel like you're not like us. You look a human but you're not."

The keeper of the temple sighed deeply, a sadness evident in his voice as he spoke.

"Yes, Orin. I was once one of the Ancient Races. Our world was a place of peace and harmony, where we lived in harmony with each other and all the creatures that inhabited it. But that all changed when the demon lord and his army arrived."

"The demon lord was a being of immense power and cruelty, who sought to conquer and destroy everything in his path. His army was relentless and his power was unmatched. And despite our best efforts, we were no match for him."

"But we did not give up. We knew that if we did not stop the demon lord, then all would be lost. So, we created the Ring of Necromancer, a powerful artefact that could control the dead and turn the tide of battle. But the price for its use was steep."

"I was chosen to be the keeper of the temple, tasked with guarding the ring and ensuring that it was only used for good forever."

"And for many years, I did just that. But over time, I began to feel the pull of the ring's power. I couldn't resist its lure and I used it, even though I knew I shouldn't have."

"Because of that, I killed everyone I loved. And that is why I am here now, warning you of the dangers of the demon lord and his army."

"For if the ring were to fall into his hands, then all would be lost. So, I ask you, Orin. What is it that you seek the ring for?"

Orin silent but he faces look determined.

"To end the eternity curse that bind me forever."

The keeper looked at Orin with understanding, nodding his head slightly.

"I too know the pain of living forever," he said in a soft voice.

"To be separated from those we love, to watch as they age and pass on while we remain unchanged. It is a burden that no one should have to bear."

Orin sighed heavily, feeling a sense of empathy with the keeper.

"Yes, that is why I seek the artefacts. To end the curse that binds me and allow me to find peace."

"And what of the demon lord?" the keeper asked, his voice becoming stern once more.

"What if the seal was broken and unleash his wrath upon the world?"

Orin looked up, determination in his eyes.

"That is a risk I am willing to take. If I am successful, then I can finally find peace. And if I fail, then it will not matter, he's just another toys for my amusement then. But if I do not try, then I will be bound to this curse forever."

The keeper studied Orin for a moment, weighing his words.

"Very well," he said finally.

"I cannot stop you from seeking the artefacts, but I will warn you of the dangers that lie ahead."

"The demon lord is not to be underestimated. He is powerful and cunning, and he will stop at nothing to get what he wants. You must be prepared for the worst."

Orin nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation.

"Thank you for your warning, keeper. I too am powerful and cunning."

"And be safe, Orin," the keeper added, a hint of sadness in his voice.

"For the world needs more brave souls like you."

"World doesn't need me as I do not them." Orin reply.