Chapter 206: Ambitions of a Warlord
In the dimly lit office, Haido's quarters felt more like a sanctuary for a man devoted to his own vision of salvation. The walls were lined with ancient scrolls, relics from their homeland, and various stone fragments – remnants of their long journey across continents in pursuit of the elusive Vein of Gelel. Haido sat at a large, imposing desk made of dark mahogany, fingers steepled as he looked thoughtfully at Temujin, who stood before him, finishing up his report on the latest mission.
Temujin's recounting was interrupted as Haido lifted a hand, signaling him to pause. Temujin obeyed immediately, straightening his stance. Haido's eyes glinted with a calculating sharpness as he changed the subject.
"Tell me, Temujin," Haido began, his voice smooth and measured, "what do you make of our newest 'guests'—Malik and his so-called bodyguard, Kiyomi?"
Temujin hesitated for a brief moment, thinking carefully before responding. "Malik... he's certainly unusual. A civilian, or so he claims, yet he carries himself with a confidence that's uncommon. He's charismatic, and his influence on those around him is undeniable. The knights were already drawn to his charms. As for Kiyomi… she's formidable. Her abilities are real, and from the brief interaction with the knights, it's clear she's capable of holding her own. But if you find them a threat, Lord Haido, I won't hesitate to deal with them."
Haido chuckled softly, waving a dismissive hand. "Your loyalty is unwavering, Temujin, but I haven't allowed them entry merely out of ignorance or whimsy. I know you wonder why I trusted them so quickly."
Temujin nodded. "I assumed you had a purpose, though I admit it surprised me, Lord Haido. You're typically more cautious."
Haido's gaze turned distant, thoughtful, as he leaned back in his chair. "In truth, I don't trust Malik or Kiyomi any more than I trust a stray dog. But I see their potential usefulness. You see, Temujin, we're in a foreign land—one with customs, histories, and secrets that we are not yet privy to. A local who claims to know the knowledge we seek might indeed save us time and resources."
He paused, allowing the gravity of his words to settle. "Do you remember the villages we attacked?" Haido's voice grew softer, almost reflective, as he continued. "The way the people looked at us with fear and confusion? I realized that not a single one of those villages knew about Gelel. We were chasing shadows, Temujin, destroying what was ultimately meaningless."
Temujin frowned slightly, his loyalty unwavering but his curiosity piqued. "But Lord Haido, that didn't deter us before. We've always searched without question."
"Ah, but the wastage of resources here, Temujin. It's inefficient. We're hunting for a treasure hidden among these lands, but the locals are unaware of its value. Even in the lands we come from, Gelel was more of a legend than fact. It's the reason we journeyed halfway around the world in the first place." Haido's eyes gleamed with fervor, his fingers brushing the dark stone embedded in his glove—the Stone of Gelel.
Temujin followed Haido's gaze to the stone, watching the light play across its surface. The artifact seemed to pulse faintly, as if feeding off Haido's determination. Haido's words took on a reverent tone, his voice filling with what bordered on zealotry.
"Malik's arrival may be a suspicious coincidence, but I choose to see it as destiny," Haido said, his voice growing softer, almost whispering as though he were sharing a sacred truth. "I have been searching for the Vein of Gelel for what feels like an eternity, Temujin. Small stones are plentiful enough, but the vein… it holds unimaginable power."
"For our utopia," Temujin said, his eyes shining with devotion. "For world peace."
"Yes," Haido nodded, his expression softening as he looked at his most loyal knight. "For world peace, for our utopia." But a glint of something darker flared in his eyes as he continued, "With the power of the Vein, we won't just bring peace. We will bring enlightenment. We will show the people of this world the light of truth, the promise of unity. There are so many people, Temujin, so many who live in ignorance and chaos. I will be their salvation."
Temujin's face filled with awe, drinking in Haido's words like a disciple hearing the gospel. "They'll see your vision, Lord Haido. They'll come to understand your wisdom. The world will change under your guidance."
Haido rose from his chair, walking over to a map pinned to the wall—a map littered with markings that tracked the locations of every raid, every expedition, every battle fought in pursuit of Gelel. His fingers traced along the routes they had taken, his expression almost tender.
"It is my duty," he murmured, more to himself than to Temujin. "To bring order to this fractured world. To end the suffering caused by humanity's endless divisions. Imagine a world without war, without hunger. A world where everyone knows their place, under a single, guiding hand. My hand."
Temujin nodded, his admiration evident. "With the power of the Vein of Gelel, no one will dare oppose you. They'll have no choice but to accept your vision. You'll be the beacon that the world needs."
Haido's lips curled into a smile, his gaze darkening. "Yes, they will. I will show them the truth of peace. And those who resist… will find themselves swept away in the tides of change."
He turned back to Temujin, his face alight with a feverish fervor. "Malik may have come to us with his own motives, but as long as he remains useful, he is welcome here. If he indeed knows the way to the Vein, he could be our most valuable asset. But if he proves to be a threat, Temujin…" His voice hardened, his tone deadly. "You know what to do."
Temujin nodded, his resolve unshaken. "Of course, Lord Haido. If Malik betrays us, I will not hesitate to strike him down. No one will stand in the way of your vision."
Haido rested a hand on Temujin's shoulder, giving him a fatherly squeeze. "Good. Your loyalty is always appreciated, Temujin. I have complete faith in your dedication."
Temujin's chest swelled with pride, feeling the weight of Haido's trust settle over him. "I'll do whatever it takes to help you realize your dream. For the sake of our future. For peace."
Haido's expression softened, his tone almost gentle. "Then go, my loyal knight. Rest. Prepare yourself. The path ahead will be treacherous, but together, we will achieve greatness."
Temujin bowed deeply, leaving Haido's office with renewed determination, his mind racing with thoughts of the coming days. Haido watched him go, his expression unreadable as he traced the outline of the Gelel Stone on his glove once more.
As the door closed, Haido's face twisted into a sly, satisfied smile, his eyes gleaming with the fervor of a man who saw himself as a god in the making. The Vein of Gelel was within his grasp, and with it, he would bring the world to its knees. His mind filled with visions of conquest and glory, Haido turned back to his desk, his fingers drumming rhythmically as he planned his next move.
With the Vein of Gelel so close within reach, Haido's ambitions had reached a fever pitch. He would be a savior, a conqueror, a ruler—and with Malik and Kiyomi unknowingly falling deeper into his plans, he was confident that his vision of peace, however twisted, was soon to become reality.
=
The three knights—Fugai, Kamira, and Ranke—climbed the grand spiral staircase, its polished marble steps winding elegantly upward to the higher levels of Haido's castle. The air was filled with the soft hum of enchantments woven into the stone, and the gentle clang of their armor echoed faintly in the vast, silent halls. Each step was a moment to reflect on the new arrivals, particularly Malik and his bodyguard, Kiyomi.
Kamira broke the silence first, glancing sidelong at her companions. "So," she began, her voice laced with curiosity, "what do you two think about Malik and Kiyomi?"
Fugai crossed her arms and scowled slightly. "Malik's a smooth talker, that's for sure. Has the kind of charm that makes you want to punch him and laugh with him all at once," she said grudgingly, then added, "but there's something about him. Something… I don't trust."
Ranke raised an eyebrow, smirking. "Oh, and here I thought you didn't trust anyone, Fugai." She shrugged, her blonde curls bouncing as they ascended. "But I'll admit he's… different. There's an aura about him, something disarming. For a short, chubby guy, he's got charisma. I don't know if it's because he's used to being underestimated, but there's a confidence to him that makes you think he might be more dangerous than he looks."
Kamira nodded, her lips curling into a slight smile. "He's the first man we've talked to in… what, twenty years? And he's not a target or an enemy we're ordered to torture or kill." She glanced down the stairs behind them, where the echoes of Malik and Kiyomi's footsteps had faded as they'd headed to their own quarters. "It's refreshing, don't you think?"
Ranke laughed, a sharp sound that bounced off the walls. "Refreshing? Sure. But let's be honest, Kamira. He's still probably just here as a pawn in whatever scheme Haido's cooking up. And besides, I wouldn't get too attached to him if I were you. Haido doesn't keep people around for long if they don't prove themselves useful."
Kamira shrugged, a spark of mischief lighting up her eyes. "Maybe, but if he's half the cook he claims to be… well, I might just have to get to know him better." Her smile turned wicked. "Short, chubby, with those kind eyes… he's got a certain charm, don't you think?"
Fugai shook her head, her lips twisting into a frown. "Don't tell me you're getting ideas, Kamira. We're here to find the Vein of Gelel, not start some little romance with the local charmers."
"Oh, come on," Kamira scoffed, rolling her eyes. "It's not like we're getting any closer to the Vein. Twenty years, and we're still wandering through this godforsaken land, hunting down legends and myths. And let's face it, Lord Haido's never exactly been interested in… well, any of us in that way, thankfully. And as for Temujin…" she let out a derisive laugh, "he's a loyal puppy. Admirable, but not exactly my type."
Ranke snorted, her laughter a touch more genuine. "Ha! I'd pay to see you even try with Temujin. Kid's got Haido wrapped around his brainwashed little mind. There's no chance he'd even notice if you tried to flirt with him. Malik, though… he might be a bit more fun to play with."
Fugai sighed, crossing her arms as they continued their climb. "Let's not get carried away here. If Lord Haido decides Malik isn't useful to him, then he's as good as dead. Just remember that before you go swooning over his sweet-talking and cooking skills."
Kamira gave an exaggerated pout, though there was a glimmer of seriousness behind her expression. "Well, yes, obviously. But that doesn't mean we can't have a little fun in the meantime. Besides, I don't see you two complaining about having a bit of… male company for once."
Fugai and Ranke exchanged glances, a subtle acknowledgement passing between them. Despite their gruff exteriors, the idea of having someone as entertaining as Malik around—someone who wasn't a mindless follower like Temujin—did have a certain appeal.
Kamira stretched her arms, looking as if she'd already made up her mind. "Well, I'm calling dibs. If Malik can cook as well as he boasts, I might just have to see what else he's good at." Her voice took on a playful, almost seductive edge, a teasing glint in her eye. "I'm tired of this dry spell, and I don't see the harm in breaking it with a little… harmless fun."
Fugai rolled her eyes, though she couldn't suppress a small smirk. "If that's what you need to keep yourself entertained, Kamira, be my guest. But don't think for a second that I'll be joining you in your little games."
Kamira grinned. "Oh, don't be so high and mighty, Fugai. You know you're just as curious as I am. I mean, what's the harm? If he's here to help us find the Vein, then a little encouragement couldn't hurt."
Ranke shrugged, leaning against the banister as they reached the top of the staircase. "I say, go for it. Just don't get too attached. And remember, there's still Kiyomi to deal with. She's no pushover, and I don't think she's going to sit by and watch while we try to cozy up to her precious boss."
Kamira's expression soured at the mention of Kiyomi. "Yes, well, she's a bit of a… complication, isn't she? Sticking to Malik like a shadow. We tried splitting them up, but she's clearly not going anywhere."
Fugai grunted in agreement. "Kiyomi's a tough one. I'll give her that. But she's also got a chip on her shoulder. She's protective, possessive even. We'll need patience if we're going to get close to Malik without her breathing down our necks."
Kamira's mischievous smile returned, this time with a hint of challenge. "Then we just have to be smarter about it. Play the long game. A little subtlety goes a long way. Besides, who says we have to jump all over him immediately? A little cat-and-mouse never hurt anyone."
Ranke smirked, crossing her arms. "So, who's going first, then? If we're really going to do this, someone has to make the initial move. Who's it going to be?"
Kamira's eyes sparkled as she turned to them both. "I'll start. After all, I'm the one who called dibs. I'll see just how good Malik's charm really is—and if he's as interesting as he seems, well, then we might have some fun on our hands."
The three women exchanged knowing glances, a silent agreement passing between them. Whatever came next, they would make the most of Malik's presence, especially if he could truly live up to his claims. And if Kiyomi turned out to be a problem… well, they were well-versed in the art of sidestepping obstacles when necessary.
With a shared smile, they turned down the hallway, each of them with their own ideas on how to handle Malik and his intriguing bodyguard. Kamira led the way, her thoughts already spinning with ideas on how to test Malik's charms and, perhaps, push a few of his boundaries. The game had begun, and each of them was ready to play in their own way.
The morning sun cast its faint light through the narrow windows of Haido's fortress as Temujin led Malik and Kiyomi through the vast, winding halls. The air was cool and silent, carrying with it an aura of isolation. Temujin was careful to keep them away from more secure areas, steering the pair through the more mundane spaces within the castle.
As they walked, Temujin spoke in a measured tone, his voice echoing softly against the stone walls. "Lord Haido's vision is one of peace and unity. He believes that with the power of the Vein of Gelel, we can create a utopia where suffering and conflict are things of the past." His words were rehearsed, spoken like a mantra he had recited many times before.
The first room they entered was a spacious swimming pool, surrounded by marble pillars. The water shimmered under soft lights, but it looked untouched, the surface smooth and still. "This is our pool," Temujin explained. "It's mostly unused, though. There isn't much time for leisure here." Malik nodded thoughtfully, his eyes scanning the room. He noted how everything, though elegant, felt cold and devoid of life.
Next, they moved to a modest indoor garden, an area set up with small plots of soil and trellises for vines. A few herbs and vegetables grew under artificial lights. "We grow some of our food here, though it's more for supplementing supplies than for self-sufficiency," Temujin commented. The plants looked healthy enough, but they seemed out of place in such a sterile, militaristic environment.
Temujin continued the tour, leading them through various other rooms. They passed a small library, its shelves filled with carefully curated volumes on history and strategy. Temujin mentioned that the books served as a resource for learning and that they often discussed strategy and philosophy there. Malik noted the lack of personal touches; it felt more like a collection than a space for leisure.
The next room was a meditation chamber, sparsely decorated with simple cushions on the floor and soft, dim lighting. "This is where we focus our minds, centering ourselves on the purpose Lord Haido has given us," Temujin explained. His tone hinted at the rigidity of discipline, a reflection of the controlled environment Haido seemed to cultivate within his fortress.
They passed by a room with various mechanical parts and tools strewn across workbenches. "The workshop," Temujin said. "Our knights make necessary repairs and adjustments here. Not that it's used often—we're expected to keep everything in pristine condition."
Finally, they reached the last room on the tour, a spacious lounge with sturdy furniture and an assortment of maps and charts spread across a large table. Temujin explained that it served as a planning and strategy room, where they met before missions. It was an area reserved for tactical discussions, devoid of any homely atmosphere. Malik got the impression that, like everything else, it was functional but entirely impersonal.
As they continued walking down the hallway, Temujin's eyes darted subtly towards Malik and Kiyomi, observing them carefully. He tried to gauge the pair's intentions, though their expressions betrayed nothing. Malik's easygoing smile was as calm as ever, and Kiyomi's piercing gaze remained unwavering.
The hallway eventually opened into a large dining room and adjacent kitchen. Temujin paused by the door, gesturing around the space. "This is the dining area and kitchen. It seemed fitting to show you this room; after all, you did offer to cook."
Malik's face lit up as he took in the kitchen, clearly eager to explore its capabilities. "Ah, now this is a place I can work with," he said with a grin. He immediately began inspecting the supplies, hands moving deftly as he familiarized himself with the tools and ingredients at his disposal.
Temujin, meanwhile, looked to Kiyomi. "We also have an entire floor dedicated to training," he offered. "Most of us use it to stay in shape, though we avoid using our more… destructive abilities there."
Kiyomi's gaze hardened slightly as she glanced back at Malik, clearly reluctant to leave his side. She didn't answer immediately, and Temujin, though outwardly unfazed, seemed to take note of her hesitation.
"Go on, Kiyomi," Malik spoke up from across the kitchen, his voice gentle yet persuasive. "You should get a workout in. It's a good way to see what these people are all about."
Through their mental connection, Kiyomi's voice echoed in Malik's mind. "My mission is to protect you, not to work out."
"And I appreciate that," he replied silently, "but if we're going to gain their trust, it'll help if we show them we're willing to split up now and then. Besides, a bit of separation will make them underestimate us."
Kiyomi's resolve softened slightly, though she remained visibly tense. "Fine. I'll go. But remember, if anything goes wrong, call me immediately."
Malik gave her a reassuring smile before adding playfully, "Oh, and work up a good sweat for me, would you?" Kiyomi shot him a look, but there was a faint smirk on her lips as she turned to follow Temujin.
With Kiyomi gone, Malik refocused on the kitchen, feeling a sense of satisfaction at the opportunity to make an impression through his cooking. He pulled out a few ingredients and got to work, intending to create something memorable for everyone in the fortress. He knew that a well-crafted meal was a good way to soften even the most hardened warriors.
As he worked, Malik prepared a variety of dishes with intricate flavors, each chosen carefully to appeal to different tastes. He envisioned Fugai, Kamira, and Ranke, each of them with unique preferences he had noted from their earlier interactions. He wanted to leave a lasting impression, something that would make them view him as more than just an outsider.
Time passed swiftly as Malik mixed, stirred, and seasoned, filling the kitchen with the mouthwatering aroma of his creations. He crafted dishes with care, giving special attention to each plate, infusing them with subtle spices and layers of flavor. When the dishes were ready, he arranged them on a large tray and set them on the table, admiring his work.
Soon, the three knights entered the dining room, drawn by the delicious scent. Fugai, Kamira, and Ranke each took a seat, eyeing Malik's spread with a mixture of curiosity and appreciation. Kamira, the first to speak, smirked as she took in the colorful array of food. "Well, you weren't lying, were you? I didn't think you'd actually make something so… fancy."
Malik chuckled, bowing his head with a playful grin. "I'm a man of my word, after all. Only the best for such esteemed knights."
He served each of them personally, lingering just long enough to flash a charming smile as he handed them their plates. He complimented each one, delivering flirtatious remarks tailored to each woman, and kissed each of their hands as he set down their meals.
Kamira laughed, clearly amused by his smooth demeanor. "You're quite the charmer, aren't you, Malik?" She raised an eyebrow, giving him a long, appraising look. "It's been a while since we've had someone like you around here. Most men don't last long enough to make an impression."
Ranke leaned back, a faint smirk on her lips. "Yes, but don't get too comfortable. We're not exactly the sentimental type, if you hadn't noticed."
Malik nodded, his smile never faltering. "I'd expect nothing less. But I believe actions speak louder than words, so allow me to win you over with more than just flattery."
Fugai, who had been studying him with a skeptical look, took a bite of her meal, her expression softening as she savored the flavors. She didn't say much, but there was a flicker of approval in her eyes, a small sign that he was making progress.
Kamira, ever the bold one, leaned forward with a mischievous grin. "If you can keep this up, Malik, you might just find yourself with a few new… friends. And if you're as good at everything else as you are at cooking, well…" She let the sentence hang, her flirtation as thick as the savory aroma filling the room.
Malik raised his glass, offering a toast to them. "To new alliances and delightful company," he said, his gaze lingering on each of them with an appreciative warmth.
As they clinked glasses and dug into their food, Malik couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction. This was the first step in gaining their trust—or at least, planting a seed of doubt about his true intentions.
The meal ended on a pleasant note, and the three knights seemed to soften, if only slightly, in their rigid demeanor. As they prepared to leave, Malik watched as Kiyomi re-entered the dining room, her expression unreadable but her stance strong and imposing.
Kamira, Ranke, and Fugai exchanged glances, their amusement evident. They took one last look at Malik, lingering on his chubby, yet confident form, and Kamira gave him a lingering smile. "Well, Malik, let's see if you can keep up with all of us. Something tells me you're going to need more than charm to handle this crowd."
Malik flashed them a playful wink, his confidence unwavering. "I'm looking forward to the challenge."
With that, the three knights departed, leaving Malik and Kiyomi alone. Kiyomi crossed her arms, watching them leave with a wary gaze before turning to Malik with a deadpan expression.
"I don't like them," she muttered bluntly.
Malik laughed, shrugging with a carefree grin. "Who said you had to? But, let's just say this is part of the plan. If they like us, they'll underestimate us."
Kiyomi rolled her eyes, but there was a faint hint of a smile tugging at her lips as she shook her head. Malik's charm was impossible to ignore, even when she knew it was all part of his scheme.