Two weeks later.
They spent nearly half of their waking hours together. Both of them found themselves enjoying each other's company greatly. Their conversations ranged widely covering topics ranging from the latest gossip to philosophical discussions about the meaning of existence itself.
Sometimes, they shared meals and drinks together. They enjoyed discussing the finer points of fine wines and spirits.
During this time Zell hadn't broken through again but he could feel he that was close. Soon enough, he'd reach a breakthrough. With luck, success would soon follow. It was just a matter of waiting patiently. He knew he couldn't rush things; otherwise, he risked losing track of important details. All he had to do was continue doing precisely what he already knew best. Concentrate hard. Be thorough. Keep his senses sharp. Remain vigilant. Wait. Watch carefully. Observe everything. Learn from his failures.
One morning, Zell woke early feeling unusually restless. He rose from the bed and dressed quickly.
He did what he usually did and started meditating.
The red sun was double the size of him now.
Zell started pulling smaller stars into the red star and after an hour of doing so, the red sun imploded and doubled in size.
He had finally achieved another breakthrough.
He woke up exhausted and sweaty.
He had gained a new ability.
─Blood Slave Marking - Mark targets with this ability, marked people will be obsessed with the caster. The caster can use hypnosis on marked people over distances. The caster can possess the marked. The user has to win a battle of will to mark people.─
The moment he got this skill he thought of Elisa, he wanted to mark her, he wanted her to be his.
***
An entire week went by since Zell obtained Blood Slaves marking. During these seven days, he trained using the newly acquired ability. Every night he practiced hypnotizing individuals whom he could easily capture. While in trance, he whispered suggestions directly into their minds. The results were astonishing.
Most subjects became obedient servants following his every command without hesitation. Those who resisted were unable to break free from the spell. The effects lasted anywhere between five minutes and twenty-four hours depending on the strength of the individual.
He felt guilty over doing this but he needed to do it to become stronger.
He decided to build an army. One filled with loyal followers who would gladly obey anything he commanded. Once they were all gathered together, he planned on attacking a nearby town to test his abilities. He imagined capturing its leaders and forcing them to serve him. By doing so, he hoped to gain access to their treasury and discover secret locations hidden throughout the region. These secrets might prove useful in future battles against superior forces.
This plan required great care and preparation. He needed to gather allies and prepare defenses. Furthermore, he also wished to acquire additional slaves which could act as bodyguards.
He might be getting over his head since he was still weak but he wanted to try. Besides, Elisabeth was confident that she could protect him while he performed his duties. Otherwise, she wouldn't have agreed to accompany him on such a dangerous mission.
Of course, Zell understood that she was concerned for his safety and well-being. However, he was certain that he would emerge victorious regardless of whether or not Elisabeth joined him. His power was growing rapidly—he was sure of it. Moreover, he had been practicing his sword skills and magical techniques daily.
He also was meditating every day and was certain that he was going to break through in two weeks. Or maybe less. Regardless, he would need to spend those last few nights preparing for the upcoming conflict.
After making plans with Elisabeth, he left the castle for the neighboring village. Since it lay within easy distance, he decided to visit it today. He made preparations beforehand to ensure that nothing unexpected occurred. First, he took a horse and rode towards the nearest gate. There he met a guard named Arminius. In spite of having only recently arrived, Zell had learned that the man was trustworthy and reliable. Therefore, he gave him directions leading toward the outskirts of the settlement. This way, he could move around freely without drawing suspicion.
Arminius looked somewhat nervous when he saw Zell approaching. Apparently, the young nobleman scared everyone. He had no idea what had happened during the months he's been in this world to make people fear him.
"Good morning, sir," Arminius greeted politely.
"Morning," Zell responded equally formally. "Can you direct me to the inn?"
"Certainly," Arminius answered. "But please call me Arminius. We aren't nobility here."
"All right, Arminius."
As promised, Arminius led him to the tavern.
"Welcome to the Red Dragon Inn!"
Upon entering the building, Zell noticed that it appeared more run-down than most other places in this area. Most likely due to the recent economic downturn. Still, despite the appearance of neglect, it seemed fairly clean
There weren't any customers present except for one rather large fellow sitting alone near the fireplace drinking ale. The barkeep stood next to him smiling cheerfully. A woman wearing a black dress accompanied him. She served drinks to whoever requested them.
"Howdy! Can I get you something to drink?"
"Yes, thank you," Zell said calmly. "And may I ask where is the owner of this establishment?"
"Right over there," The woman pointed to the corner of the room. "I'm afraid she hasn't come down yet this morning."
Zell glanced over at the proprietor. She was a short, plump looking woman with dark hair and brown skin. She wore a simple white tunic over loose fitting pants. Despite her obvious lack of wealth, she carried herself proudly and confidently.
Her eyes gleamed brightly when she spotted Zell enter the place. Without saying a word, she walked over to meet him. She placed a small bag onto the countertop and began counting out coins. After paying her bill, she turned her gaze upon the handsome young man standing across from her.
"You look like someone who knows his business," she stated bluntly.
"Thank you," Zell replied respectfully. "What brings you here?"
She smiled knowingly. "Aye…that sounds suspicious. Well, I'll tell you anyway. My name is Lisa and I've heard rumors about your exploits lately. You're becoming quite famous among the commoners, my friend."
"It's nice to hear," Zell replied honestly.
Lisa eyed him curiously. "Are you always so polite?"
"Not normally," Zell admitted. "But I don't wish to offend anyone."
"Fair enough," Lisa nodded. "So let me guess. Your intentions are honorable ones, correct?"
"Absolutely."
"Then why else would you seek me out? Are you planning on asking for advice regarding magic or some other topic related to this trade?"
Zell shook his head. "No, I'm merely passing by."
***
Zell slept in the in for the night and then went back home where Elisabeth stood outside to greet him.
She jumped on him and showed her neck, she was looking at his face with anticipation "Please..." she had longed for the feeling of getting her blood sucked for too long.
He smiled while slowly moving his head toward her neck, Zell licked her neck before sinking his fangs into it.