"Your grip earlier... even I, a D- ranker myself, cannot exert that level of force. You seem to surpass the strength of even D rankers—almost on par with the strength of a D+ ranker. How did you manage that?"
Bowen's mind raced, surprised by Luther's observation. [What? I'm just an E- ranker though] he thought to himself.
Seeing Bowen lost in thought, Luther continued, assessing him. "Could you possibly be from one of those bloodlines with extraordinary strength?"
Shrugging nonchalantly, Bowen replied, "Who knows?" and began strolling toward the bookshelves.
Luther picked up on Bowen's reluctance to share, deciding to let his curiosity go. "Alright, I won't pry into your secrets. However, I'd like to discuss something with you—something that could be an opportunity for you."
"An opportunity?" Bowen halted, turning to Luther with a questioning gaze.
"Yes, indeed. It's a matter of confidentiality. Could we move to the reading corner?" Luther pointed to a secluded area where tables and chairs were arranged for comfortable perusal of books. Most of the readers were concentrated on the ground and first floors, making the second floor, where Luther and Bowen stood, relatively empty. It was an ideal spot for private conversations.
Bowen nodded, hoping that Luther had something worthwhile to share. He was growing tired of being pestered about Lydia, and he was determined to make it clear if this was going down the same path.
"Let's make it quick," Bowen urged once they were seated, away from prying ears.
Luther leaned in and began, "Have you ever heard of the Kingdom of Findre?"
"No, never heard of it," Bowen responded after a moment's contemplation.
You must be aware that the Yuria continent is ruled by three predominant kingdoms, encompassing the Valkymn in the eastern region, Rafia in the southern territories, and Starfall to the north. These principal kingdoms exercise authority over numerous minor realms that fall within their jurisdiction. Following the aftermath of the second great war, a coalition of independent Yurian kingdoms united to establish these prominent powers. This is how the trio of influential major kingdoms came into existence. However, not all regions consented to this amalgamation. Certain smaller provinces chose to remain defiantly neutral. Despite their reluctance, most of these provinces were eventually coerced into aligning with one of the major kingdoms.
The major kingdoms concentrated their efforts on compelling the provinces that could offer them strategic advantages, while some less significant ones were left untouched. An illustration of such an untouched province is the Kingdom of Findre. Nestled near the treacherous Blood Mountain Valley in the west, Findre maintained its status as a diminutive independent kingdom. Its perilous location discouraged any major kingdom from attempting annexation due to the exorbitant costs associated with maintaining control over the region. Nevertheless, the circumstances have recently taken a turn.
"Two months ago, it appeared as though..." Luther's voice trailed off with uncertainty.
"What happened ?" Bowen's curiosity was piqued.
"Bowen, this is a matter of confidentiality. I believe you possess a maturity beyond your years, which is why I'm confiding in you," Luther's tone turned solemn.
"But you were planning on telling me anyway. Why the change of heart now? Don't worry, I don't have the habit of spreading rumours.," Bowen reassured.
"Very well, as I mentioned, two months ago, a trace of a mineral vein was discovered in Findre."
"And? What's so special about that?" Bowen inquired.
"It's a mana vein," Luther whispered.
"Wait, did you say mana vein?"
"Yes, precisely. It's a pure mana vein from which mana ores can be extracted. This has put them in grave danger. They may just be torn apart among the three major kingdoms.
Bowen's mind started connecting the dots, but something still didn't quite add up. "Hold on, there must be other mana veins within Yuria, under the rule of the major kingdoms. What sets this one apart? If it's just a small vein, couldn't they establish trade with Findre..... hold on a second..."
"How long is this vein we're talking about?" Bowen interjected.
Luther scratched his head in contemplation and let out a long sigh. Bowen was intelligent he couldn't hide this from him after saying all this. "Well, it's been detected that there's a possibility for the vein to stretch all the way through the Blood Mountains, spanning several hundred miles. Yes, only a possibility. nothing is confirmed, but still...."
SEV…SEVERAL HUNDRED MILES ????!!!!! Bowen interrupted with wide eyes before Luther can finish.
"Hey, Luther," Bowen began, his voice trembling a little, "did you just share information that could potentially trigger a third world war?"
The Blood Mountains stretched across nearly a quarter of the Yuria continent. If this vein traverses the entirety of those mountains, it wouldn't just be the three major kingdoms that scramble for it; even other continents with advanced magic and technology wouldn't remain passive in their pursuit. In comparison, Yuria would seem like a mere child. There's no guarantee that the Dark Empire could still maintain control over everyone. Moverover what if the dark empire itself decide to join this fuss. We're talking about mana ores here—the very source of mana stones. A mana stone the size of a thumb can fetch at least 2-3 golds. Now imagine an entire mana vein, potentially stretching for miles upon miles, yielding hundreds of billions of mana stones.
"Are you serious?" Bowen exclaimed, rising from his seat. He was already overwhelmed with the responsibilities of saving the world from the God of Wishes; he didn't need to be pulled into a potential world war as well. At this rate, he might even prefer to eliminate his targets and leave this world as soon as possible.
"Bowen, please, just hear me out," Luther implored, reaching for Bowen's hand and gently coaxing him to sit once more.
Sighing in resignation, Bowen gave in. "Fine, go ahead and tell me."
"Here's the thing—the King of Findre is a genuinely good person and someone I'm close to. His top priority is his daughter's safety. They approached me to find someone who could act as her bodyguard."
"And that someone is me?" Bowen raised an eyebrow.
"Well, they asked me to recommend someone young, someone around their daughter's age."
"But why? Can't they hire experienced rankers for this?" Bowen questioned.
"They have, and those experts are operating in shadows. However, they want someone with her at all times. Moreover, his daughter—she has a unique condition called Strangerbane Ailment like a phobia towards strangers especially adults. She's even afraid of her own parents at times. That's why they need someone her age."
[What the hell, isn't that just social anxiety?] Thought bowen.
Bowen all i want is for you to be with her as a slave. Luther threw another bombshell.
What????? Asked Bowen shocked.
Just acting. Yeah just acting as a slave. " Luther quickly assured.
"Don't stress too much. As for the matter of the mana vein, only the King of Findre is aware of it, and it hasn't reached the ears of any major kingdoms yet. Besides, he's planning to align with a major kingdom soon. Until then, his concern is solely his daughter's safety. And for you, there are benefits too. You'll receive a share of mana stones as a reward, and there might be individuals willing to train you in combat. With that kind of strength, becoming a warrior—whether awakened or unawakened—will be far easier."
Bowen's mind continued to race, weighing the pros and cons. Although the task seemed straightforward, there was an inherent risk. The reward of few mana stones is not enticing enough for him to take such a dangerous task.if this thing is leaked out those power houses outside yuria only need to flick a finger to eradicate the whole of Findre. And bowen doesn't want to drop dead just for few mana stones.
"I'm sorry, but I don't..." Bowen started to decline but was abruptly interrupted by the system.
*****Ting***** Hidden mission activated: "Ruler of the Blood Mountains"
The vast Blood mountain valley is intertwined with mana veins, stretching a massive 3535 kilometers. Become the ruler of the mountain to claim the entire mana vein.
Rewards: Full control over the mana vein throughout the Blood mountains,
1000 DP,
+10 to all stats,
a special privilege VIP coupon for one free purchase from the God's Mall (no level restrictions up to level 10).
*****Ting***** Side mission activated: "Guardian of the King's Daughter"
The King of Findre seeks to protect his beloved daughter. Become her bodyguard and ensure her safety until the Kingdom of Findre aligns with a major kingdom.
Reward: 50 DP, one passive divine skill (unique grade).
Bowen felt as if he would faint by any minute. The system confirmed it for him. It's really true that there is a mana vein all over the blood mountain valley. No Doubt about this. And guess what, the mission is to acquire them whole.
[Are you guys kidding me? Control all of the Blood Mountains? Do you understand why no one has done that yet? Even the Dark Empire failed. They sent influential S and SS rankers to unveil the mountains' secrets, but none of them returned. Infiltrating the Blood Mountains was deemed impossible—an untouched land by great powers. And now you want me to rule it? Seriously? I'm just an E-ranker for now. Maybe in the future, but now?] Bowen's inner turmoil raged. The rewards were tempting, particularly the VIP coupon for the God's Mall. But the mission seemed ludicrous, even for him.
As Bowen drooled over the idea of possessing such an enormous mana vein, he realized that the system wouldn't assign an impossible task. There must be a way. Something other's haven't taken account of.
With resolute determination, Bowen's voice cut through the uncertainty, "Fine, I'll do it."
Why not give it a shot? If any of the nations were to get their hands on this mana vein, they could potentially become formidable adversaries in the future. It was best not to grant them that opportunity.
Luther felt a mix of happiness and relief. He was able to repay the King of Findre's kindness, and he trusted that Bowen would take care of his daughter.