Chereads / Netorare: Consequences of Choice / Chapter 24 - Disciple

Chapter 24 - Disciple

The Death Flower Party, a diverse assembly of intrepid adventurers that includes debtors and prisoners, embarks on a perilous journey into the Accursed Forest in search of a rare Chrysanthemum for the Grandmaster's daughter.

Each month, the Grandmaster offers a substantial reward to any party willing to undertake this treacherous quest, but only a select few possess the skills and courage to accept the challenge.

Tragically, the majority of these brave souls meet their demise, with a mere few returning alive, their parties decimated or entirely wiped out.

The Death Flower Party features prominently in Events I through IV, their exploits shaping the story's progression.

In the game's narrative, the fate of the Grandmaster's daughter is sealed, her death an inescapable certainty.

As the years pass and the Grandmaster's daughter is lost, the grief-stricken Grandmaster transforms into a formidable mini-boss, driven by sorrow and rage.

Within the Accursed Forest, players will face a pivotal decision: to part ways with the Death Flower Party and venture forth alone in pursuit of a [Secret Ending]. This solo journey will test their mettle and determination, ultimately revealing hidden truths and altering the course of the game's narrative.

***

Kalinski's eyes flickered with unease as he registered the mention of the Accursed Forest. "That…" he began, observing the unwavering determination in Sucura's gaze, a telltale sign that his decision was irrevocable and impervious to any attempts at dissuasion.

With a resigned sigh, Kalinski inquired, "Do you truly comprehend the perils that lie in wait?" He continued, "These abominable creatures have grown increasingly erratic and unpredictable this year, for reasons yet unknown."

Sucura pondered the implications of Kalinski's words. 'They've become more erratic?'

After a few moments of contemplation, he responded with measured calm, "I am well aware of the dangers that lurk within, even though their presence remains shrouded in mystery. Nonetheless, I am resolved to proceed."

Kalinski chose not to press further, offering a subtle nod of acceptance.

He couldn't help but wonder, 'Is this man courting death after his exile? Yet, there's a resolute determination in his eyes, as if he's on a mission to vanquish a formidable monster.'

Kalinski's thoughts then turned to his niece, 'When I last saw the Grandmaster's daughter, she was barely recognizable, her body grotesquely disfigured and tinged with an unnatural green hue. The repugnant odor of yellow pus emanating from her wounds was unbearable. She may not survive more than a few months.'

Sucura changed the topic and added serenely, "And Vyn is hot on my trail."

Kalinski paused for a moment before placing his hands behind his back. "The recent altercation between you and Vyn has caught the attention of the higher-ups. Are you aware of why you're still alive and haven't been captured by the Marquis's men, even though you lack power and connections here in the Kingdom?"

Sucura merely looked at Kalinski, curiosity evident in his eyes. Kalinski explained, "From what I understand, it's because of King Chamethyirios, who is a firm believer in omens. He likely doesn't want a hero to die within his domain, fallen or not, as it could bring misfortune upon his kingdom. It's possible that you're being observed by the King's Shadows or the High Divination Practitioners."

The corner of Sucura's mouth twitched inadvertently. 'I find myself loathing this world. There's no such thing as privacy when you're weaker than those around you. Yet, in some twisted way, their presence offers a semblance of protection.'

He pondered for a moment, considering Charmaine, who had nearly slit his throat. 'Do they believe we're engaged in some snu snu, granting us a moment of privacy?' His fist slightly trembled at the thought, causing Kalinski to arch an eyebrow in curiosity.

"That's the first time I've heard such a thing," Sucura mused aloud, allowing his prior thoughts to dissipate into the ether.

He couldn't help but ponder, 'Could that be the reason behind Sucura's untimely demise upon departing the kingdom? Why do I have this nagging feeling that something terrible will happen if I remain here for more than a month?'

"Are you still willing to become my disciple?" Kalinski inquired, his voice composed and deliberate.

Sucura studied him for a brief moment before responding, "Would that be acceptable? I'm only here for two weeks," to which Kalinski conveyed his assent with a discreet nod.

"Is there a fee involved?" Sucura inquired, his thoughts meandering to the contemporary world where remuneration was frequently demanded for the acquisition of knowledge. 'My cache of gold coins have dwindled significantly in just a few days, now totaling less than 2200 gold dai coins.'

Kalinski's mouth twitched almost imperceptibly before he responded, "No."

"Really?" Sucura sought confirmation.

In an instant, Kalinski exuded a dangerous aura that just as quickly dissipated. His eyes turned cold as he reiterated, "No."

Sucura couldn't help but muse, 'Take it easy, old man. I merely sought clarification, and I suspect you're concealing some nefarious intentions I'm not privy to.' He maintained a composed demeanor.

"What of Conrad Marquis? If you were to accept me as your disciple, there might be a chance that they would become your adversaries," Sucura inquired with an air of composure.

"You need not concern yourself with such matters," Kalinski responded. As Yura finished tending to Sucura's wounds, she handed an object to Kalinski.

"Very well. If you insist, Master Kalinski." Upon hearing Sucura's words, Kalinski offered a faint, enigmatic smile and casually tossed something in his direction.

Sucura caught the items and examined them: a map and an insignia bearing the image of an owl.

"Pack your belongings at your inn and proceed to the location indicated on the map," Kalinski instructed meticulously. "Upon your arrival, present the owl insignia, and you shall be granted entry." Sucura nodded in acknowledgment of his directive.

Kalinski and Yura departed from the secluded training ground. As Sucura examined the map more closely, he noticed a marked indication of Kalinski's residence.

Intriguingly, there were five resplendent orbs, emitting a soft glow, scattered across the map. He couldn't help but wonder about the significance of these mysterious lights.

***

Yura's brow furrowed in consternation as she inquired, "Master, why do you offer aid to that man? Venturing into the Accursed Forest would surely seal his fate."

Kalinski contemplated for a moment before responding, "I perceived Sucura could be a valuable asset to fight against Vyn. He possesses untapped potential that, if nurtured, could prove beneficial. However, his eyes betray an unyielding determination that refuses to be deterred. I suspect that within the enigmatic depths of the Accursed Forest, we may uncover something truly captivating."

Yura offered a subtle nod, her facial expression remaining neutral.

In an instant, both Yura and Kalinski dematerialized without a trace, as if they had never been there at all.