A murmur spread through the gathered warriors, some nodding in approval, others exchanging glances of quiet acceptance. The trial had been a test of not only skill but of will, and Zarphinion had emerged victorious.
Asira, standing at his side, released a breath she had been holding, relief evident in her expression. "I never doubted you," she murmured.
Selene smirked from the sidelines. "I suppose I should have wagered on your success. It would have been a profitable gamble."
Zarphinion chuckled before turning back to Kael. "Then let us speak. If we are to move forward together, I must know the extent of your warriors' strength."
Forging the Pact
Seated around the roaring fire at the center of the encampment, Zarphinion listened intently as Kael spoke of the Moonfang Tribe's history. They were a people forged by hardship, their survival dependent on their ability to adapt and overcome. Each warrior was trained in the ways of tracking, ambush tactics, and precision strikes—methods honed by generations of living within the untamed wilderness.
"We are hunters," Kael said. "We do not march in formation like the armies of the noble houses, nor do we wage war with brute force. Our strength lies in the shadows, in striking before the enemy even knows we are there."
Zarphinion nodded, absorbing the information. "That will be invaluable in the battles to come. But I need to know—what of your warriors' individual strengths?"
Kael gestured toward a few of his warriors, who stepped forward one by one, each displaying their unique abilities.
One, a lithe woman named Rhyssa, could blend into the shadows, vanishing from sight even in the firelight. Another, a towering man called Varric, possessed unnatural strength, able to crush stones with his bare hands. Others showcased mastery over weapons, agility beyond human limits, and keen senses that allowed them to track even the most elusive prey.
Zarphinion felt his anticipation grow. With their abilities added to his forces, his army would become something far greater than just a collection of warriors.
Activating his Taming Sigil, he extended his power, forging pacts with those who willingly offered themselves to his cause. Each successful bond granted him a fragment of their strengths in return, enhancing his own skills while empowering them in turn.
[Taming Successful!]
[Moonfang Hunters Added to Taming Slots]
[New Skill Acquired: Shadowmeld – Grants the ability to become nearly invisible in low light conditions]
The energy of the pact settled within him, and he felt the newfound skill integrate seamlessly into his being. This was what made him different from other leaders—he did not simply command warriors; he made them stronger, and in return, they made him stronger.
The Gathering Storm
As the night stretched on, plans were made. The Moonfang Tribe would serve as scouts and elite strike forces, gathering intelligence and eliminating key threats before larger battles could begin.
But before they could enact any grand strategies, Selene brought forth another piece of crucial information.
"There is a fortress not far from here," she said, her tone serious. "It is controlled by the Blackthorn Order—mercenaries who owe their loyalty to the highest bidder. Right now, they serve those who conspired against your house."
Zarphinion's expression darkened. "Then they are my enemies."
Selene nodded. "If we take the fortress, we gain not only a strategic foothold but also access to resources—supplies, weapons, and possibly more warriors willing to turn against their masters for the right incentive."
Kael stroked his chin thoughtfully. "A direct assault would be foolish. But a well-planned strike? That is something we can achieve."
Zarphinion met Asira's gaze. He could see the same determination burning within her eyes. This was more than just another battle. This was a step toward reclaiming what was his.
He turned back to the gathered warriors, his silver hair catching the firelight. "Then we prepare. We strike swiftly, without warning. And when we do, we make it clear—House Soient is not finished."
The warriors raised their weapons in silent agreement, the air thick with the promise of war.