After successfully gaining the attention of Alaric's loyal follower, Raven sat in a luxurious tavern in the center of the elite market. The man he was targeting, who turned out to be named Felix, sat across from him with a serious expression. Around them, other patrons seemed busy with their own affairs, making this place perfect for a discussion that no one else should overhear.
"So, you say you have information about the upcoming tournament," Felix said, turning the teacup in his hand. His sharp eyes scrutinized Raven with suspicion. "What makes you think that information is worth Prince Alaric's attention?"
Raven smiled warmly, trying to play his role as an experienced merchant. "Of course, Mr. Felix. This tournament is not just a showcase of strength. Behind it, there are many political interests and rivalries among the nobles. Prince Alaric has certainly prepared himself well, but there are some participants who have cunning tactics that may not have been anticipated."
Felix raised an eyebrow. "Oh? Like what, for example?"
Raven pretended to sigh for a moment, as if considering whether he should reveal the information. "For instance, the family of Marquis Geronimo. They're sending their eldest son, Valen, who is no match for Alaric in terms of magical strength. However, I've heard they plan to use a forbidden potion that temporarily enhances physical abilities. The potion is hard to detect and could give a significant advantage in a short duel."
Felix listened intently, clearly becoming interested. "A forbidden potion, huh? If that's true, we'll need to be on guard. Especially if they involve a hired alchemist."
Raven nodded. "Exactly. And that's just one of many tactics being employed. Some other participants also have close ties with a magic guild known for its dirty tricks. They might not win fairly, but they'll certainly find ways to disrupt Alaric's focus, whether through mental interference or even binding spells."
"Interesting information," Felix murmured, contemplating what he had just heard. "Prince Alaric is indeed prepared to face anyone, but this additional information could refine his plans. I'll need to inform his advisors."
Raven smiled inwardly. His strategy was working. By providing the right information, he had gained Felix's trust, which meant he was one step closer to Alaric. However, before ending this meeting, Raven decided to probe further about the tournament and how he could infiltrate the inner circle.
"There's one more thing, Mr. Felix," Raven continued. "This tournament, besides being about physical and magical combat, also seems to be a political event. I've heard that many nobles want to use this as an opportunity to strengthen alliances. Is that true?"
Felix nodded. "You're smart to realize that. Yes, this tournament isn't just about strength. Young nobles will be showcasing their talents in front of potential allies, and of course, some are hoping to catch the attention of the royal family. In fact, some participants are already planning to offer their loyalty to Prince Alaric, hoping to secure positions in the court."
"Interesting," Raven thought. "In that case, this is the perfect moment for me to approach Alaric from another angle not just through strength, but also through political alliances."
Raven nodded with a smile. "I understand. Thank you for the explanation, Mr. Felix. I'm sure Prince Alaric will be the center of attention at this event, and I hope to assist even more."
Felix stood up and patted Raven on the shoulder. "I'll make sure this information reaches the prince. If it proves useful, perhaps we can work together further. See you at the tournament."
After Felix left, Raven sat back, reflecting on their conversation. The information he had gathered opened up many opportunities. If he could play his cards right, this tournament could be his gateway into the palace, and from there, taking over Alaric's body would become much easier.
Satisfied with the outcome of the meeting, Raven decided to check on his status. He felt his power had grown significantly after defeating the Titan and acquiring various new skills. In a quiet corner of the tavern, Raven focused his mind and summoned the evolution system that had been aiding him all this time.
...[Status]...
...Name: Raven...
...Current Host: Merchant (Mid-Level)...
...Total Evolution Points: 150...
...[Active Skills]...
...Slither Movement...
...Poisonous Mist...
..Berserk Roar...
...Dark Binding...
...Titan's Wrath...
...Soul Fortress...
...[Passive Skills]...
...Physical Adaptation...
...Low Magic Resistance...
...[Available Evolution Options]...
...Upgrade skills to advanced level...
...Access high magic potential host options...
...Unlock specific elemental magic paths...
Raven smiled as he saw the number of evolution points. He knew that each of these points could be the key to further strengthening himself. However, before he decided how to use them, a notification appeared before him.
...[New Quest Available]...
...Title: "Approaching the Heir to the Throne"...
...Description: Infiltrate the inner circle of the Veloria palace and take control of Crown Prince Alaric's body. Use a combination of political power and magic to conquer Veloria from within...
...Reward: Special Skill - Domination (Ability to manipulate and control the minds of multiple people simultaneously)...
Raven carefully read the quest description. The Domination skill was clearly a highly valuable tool if he wanted to gain full control over this world. With that ability, he could control key figures all at once without having to infect them one by one. But to gain that skill, he would have to successfully infiltrate the palace and take over Alaric's body.
"An interesting challenge," Raven muttered with a grin. "If I can complete this, the path to world domination will be wide open."
However, Raven knew that this wouldn't be an easy task. Alaric was a highly valuable target, and he would undoubtedly be surrounded by powerful individuals ready to protect him. Raven would have to play his role carefully, combining physical strength, political tactics, and magic to achieve his goal.
"The first step is clear," he thought. "I need to ensure that I get invited to the tournament, and from there, I'll find a way to get close to Alaric."
With this plan, Raven began to devise further tactics. He couldn't rely solely on strength; he also had to manipulate the political situation within the palace. Every move had to be calculated carefully, as one mistake could cost him this golden opportunity.
As the night grew late, Raven left the tavern and headed to a small inn in the corner of the city. He chose to rest for a while, further refining his strategy, and waiting for the right moment to strike. In his mind, a grand map was starting to take shape a map leading to the throne of Veloria, and perhaps even beyond, to the entire world.