"Run! Hide! The Shaman has escaped and has promoted!"

Well. I'm not a Shaman anymore. The Promotion went through, and now I'm a Druid.

Wes has Promoted to a Druid!

HP+6

Mag+4

Skl+2

Spd+5

Def+2

Res+4

Con+2

Mov+1

If only you came sooner, friend. You would've seen me promote to the shocked eyes of around 20 Mages and Monks. What? Tell you what happened? Oh, alright. It all started about two days after I shared a kiss with Ursula. The day after went by normally. Nergal threatened me, Ursula continued to inquire about my background, and Legault pretty much told me to hang on until I do Promote. Ursula healed my wounds (Which now became a regular thing because of our newfound relationship) and fed me before I slept. The next morning, instead of the normal torture at Mages and Monks' hands, I was now target practice for Mages and Bishops. Oh goody.

"Ready, men? This fuck of a Shaman has survived for too long! Today is the day whether he joins us or dies trying! Understood!?"

"Understood!"

"Sheesh, I never seen you all actually agree to something! This is new, I gotta say. And are those Bishops? You dunderheads are finally starting to use your brains, I see."

"Mock us while you still draw breath. Today will be your first day as a Black Fang member or your last day on this Earth."

"Say, I got a question."

"What is it, Shaman?"

"How do you wear white, the color of purity, when you work for a man who wants to destroy the world? Isn't that hypocritical? If anything, you should be wearing black, not me."

The look on the head Bishop's face was priceless. I assume it was because I said that without bursting into laughter. In fact, I had an eyebrow raised.

"You dare mock a-"

I interrupt his stupid question by jumping at the cage I was locked in. That caused him to jump back as he released an uncharacteristic high pitch. I couldn't contain the laughter anymore at that point.

"Hahahahaha! Oh, man! Screw being a Druid! I should be a Jester how much I make myself laugh! Hahahaha, whooo!"

The Bishop was steaming angry. "Rrrghhh! Men, fire!"

Well, I'd be a sadist if I said the spells didn't hurt. They had a slew of Bishops with Shine tomes at the ready. Even with my natural Resistance to magic, they were still hitting hard. It was Light Magic, and I was a Shaman. During this session, I was hit with enough Elfires and Shines to kill a small country, blood trickling from my face, and several small wounds forming in the openings of my robes.

I felt wobbly, using the cage bars as a crutch to stay standing while coughing up blood, my breathing growing heavy. I look up to see a mix of faces. Some were horrified at the sight of me still conscious after the first wave of spells. Others were laughing that I was going to submit to my tormentors, including the Bishop.

"Do you see the opposition before you, Shaman? So what will it be, Wesley of Latasi?"

*Pant* *Pant* "More... Please. I can take it. I can take all the spells you give me! I can take it!"

"This man is mad! But if that is what he wishes, we'll oblige. Men! Hit him some more!"

"Yes, Sir!"

Clinging harder to the bar, I braced for the second wave of punishment. They hurt more than last time, as they hit the same fresh wounds. The pain kept building until I blacked out. What was odd was I still felt the cold feeling of the bar, which meant I didn't fall.

Is this what death felt like? An empty feeling, and a pitch-black vision?

Those were my thoughts until a scene started unraveling before me. I found myself in a cave-like setting with one pathway. Seeing as the way behind me was darkened, I went forward. The path kept forming as I moved forward while it disappeared behind me and was linear. I scan the walls and see various symbols for Elder Magic spells, from Flux to the mythical Apocalypse.

At the end of the pathway was a door, the lock undone. I slowly open it to see a room. The interior wasn't all that detailed, only the walls that keep the room together. In the middle was a tome with no symbol, so I couldn't tell if it was even a tome at all. But it just floated atop this odd pedestal.

Seeing as I had nothing else to do, I took the book off its weird position. I can see the exterior looks like a normal book. But upon opening the first page, I notice a bunch of symbols of magic that I somehow couldn't recognize. I swear my mind must have been playing tricks on me as the symbols started to decipher themselves into words. I did nothing but stare in shock as these random symbols shifted into neatly written words! By the time symbols were done, the words had said:

"Why do you seek power, Shaman? For the sake of having it? A lustful gain of knowledge? Protection of others? It matters not to me. You have made it this far, Shaman, and you seek Promotion, do you not?"

I slowly nod as if this book was talking with me. It must have seen me nod as the next words it said were.

"Then allow me to awaken the hidden power within you, Wesley of Latasi."

"What the...?"

"Yes, I know your name, Wesley. Fear not. I will grant you the power you so desperately need at this fading hour. What you do with this newfound power is up to you. You will now walk down the road, so few Shamans walk. Your presence here shows that you have met the pain threshold to Promote. Are you ready, Wesley of Latasi?"

"Yes... Yes, I'm ready. To become a Druid."

"Wonderful. You will shortly reawaken in the living world. Allow me the pleasure to serve as your guide in showing your newfound power."

"Who are you?"

"I have no name. My voice is universal to all Magic users but is never the same between Magic school members. I may sound like a deity to you but sound like a little child to another. Now before sending you back, I must speak your promotion rights."

"But I have so many questions! What is happening to my body in the real world?"

"Relax, Wesley. Time has been halted in the waking world and will continue to be so while you are here. Also, this is the Cave of Promotion. Shamans who will Promote through the pain method traverse here."

"How many Shamans have walked this path?"

"Very few, Wesley. You mark the eighth Shaman to meet the pain threshold and survive. Now hush. I must start now."

"Very well."

For a moment, there was silence. But a moment after the book I was holding flew out of my hand, the sky burnt itself with a purple flame. Soon after, the voice started to speak about the promotion rights.

"From the Void of Elder Magic lies this soul who suffered greatly and lived to tell the tale. Now he stands mere centimeters before the great power he so greatly deserves. With all my being, I place my complete blessing to grant him powers that ascend him to the realm of Legend. Grant Wesley of Latasi the gift of Promotion!"

The room shakes violently, and like a flash of lightning, disappeared while turning to a purple entity of pure energy. It floated around for a moment before flying at full speed, entering my body. I could feel it spread around from the inside of my being. For a short period, great pain persisted but went away and was replaced with a tremendous surge. My Shaman robes were tatter before shifting into a more intricately designed robe. The sleeve tore in a specific pattern and felt more spacious. After being cloaked in my Druid robes, the same voice spoke with newfound confidence.

"Now awaken, Wesley! Show these unfortunate fools your newfound power and purpose!"

The pitch-black void unraveled, and a faint light appeared. Briefly, the light grew brighter. When I opened my eyes, the cage imploded and left nothing there. The Bishops and Mages stood terrified of what they saw. After an eternity of silence, one of them ran inside the room.

"We have intruders! All available hands at the front of HQ!"

"Screw that!"

The main Bishop yelled before fleeing the room. Before he made his escape, without even chanting a spell, I flick my fingers, and a Luna sphere suddenly materialized. It flew at full speed towards him and, upon making contact, instantly disintegrated him. And so here we are.

"Run! Hide! The Shaman has escaped and has promoted!"

Not going to lie to you, Reader, I kind of went in too deep with the role temporarily.

"Yes! Run from the Nightmare! Run from the NIghtmare of Latasi!"

Nightmare of Latasi? What was I on? I was on... Power.

I feel slightly better after making that realization, not done living up the persona or even notice I was walking slowly toward the torturers who were still there. In reality, I should've gone back to my prison cell, blow out the crack in the wall, and escaped, but I wanted them to suffer. I, however, was short on time, so I simply cast a Flux spell. That is what I would like to say; as soon as I thought of a Flux spell, an explosion was summoned, killing the remaining Mages.

"Well, that was rather easy."

Before I left, I gave a quick scan of my outfit. The injuries I received before Promotion were gone. The gem on the Guiding Ring was shattered, leaving an admittedly nice ring on my right ring finger. Anyway, I leave the torture room and make it back to my cell to see Legault.

"Brother Wes! Your new duds suit you nicely!"

"You think so? They feel a little spacey, but I can work with it. Are you leaving as well?"

"Yes. You haven't noticed, but there are intruders attacking HQ. Ephidel has taken a prisoner and brought her to Nergal. They are trying to find her, and I assume they are looking for you as well."

"My mind is set. I may be talented, but I'm still a greenhorn Druid. I need a few days to get a grip on my new powers. Escaping is the priority for the time being. If they are looking for me, remember-"

"I will tell them about your condition. Look, I even broke down the wall for you. I was just waiting for your arrival here before taking off."

"Thanks again, Brother Legault. I will see you soon, friend."

"Indeed, Brother Wes. If I run into Ursula, I'll tell her of your escape. Until next time."

And he ran away, the prison door open, and the wall completely destroyed. It was as simple as walking through the hole. Seeing as I was unconscious when brought here, I took a second to survey my surroundings. If the place didn't seep in malice, I'd make visits here regularly. Then again, the place is called the Dread Isle.

At any rate, I start moving in the direction of Rendall, but before I got far, I felt an Elfire hit my back. Due to my Promotion, it didn't even tickle. Turning around, I'm eyeing the bastard who took me: Ephidel.

"You will not escape, Shaman."

"Not a Shaman anymore, Ephidel. I have become a Druid due to the pain threshold. And I remember what happened at Castle Celicri, you son of a bitch."

"I was merely doing what I was told of Lord Nergal. Nothing personal."

"You are a morph and can't feel emotion - pain the exception, of course."

"I will ask you once. Will you come with me back to your cell?"

"No. I may be a fresh Druid, but I'm past your equal because of my Promotion. I will escape alive, but you won't live to see the sunset."

I simply think of a Flux cage, and one traps Ephidel in place. He casts an Elfire in a vain attempt to escape. Normally, that would be enough to break through, but it did absolutely nothing in this case.

"How come I can't break through!?"

"Don't know, and in your case, I could care less."

A Fenrir Flame starts to spawn. I aim my hand at Ephide, l, but the Fenrir started to decrease in size for a moment.

"What is the matter, "Druid"? You cannot cast the Fenrir spell at this stage?"

I never understood why he still talked like he was the one. If the spell wouldn't work, I'd leave him to die by whoever intruded. But instead of the spell dissipating, it went into me. I felt a surge of Magical Power as it flew through my body. Soon after, the Fenrir Flame not only returned but tripled in size and shot itself at Ephidel. As it made contact, it spread furiously across his body! Critical Hit! Unlike last time, when the Flames didn't even burn the grass around me, Fenrir's flames spread as regular fire does. It even got on me... but I didn't feel any pain from the Flames themselves. I would stop and question this, but my thoughts were cut off by Ephidel's excessive screaming.

"Damn you! Damn you, Druid!"

"Yeah, yeah. Have fun being burnt to a crisp by Fenrir's Flames Morph. Ta."

Ignoring his excessive yelling, I casually walk out of Black Fang HQ. Luckily, I know how to pilot a small boat from one of the summers of my youth. If I were to estimate, it would take a few hours, but anything to get of this damn island. Why not just join with the others? I'm not ready to reunite with them yet. Not like this.

I need answers, and I need a few days to come to terms with these powers. Me being around people is too risky.

*Sigh* I hope the waters aren't shaky this afternoon. May the Gods favor my fortune. Well, I'm 1/1, so what's the worst that can happen?

The more time passes by without knowing Wes's fate, the more I grow to despise the Black Fang and their people. Particularly that patron taint Ephidel. He suddenly appeared, mocked, taunted us, and then took away poor Ninian. That left us to deal with the best Black Fang had to offer. Most of these people looked like they were horrified, like they recently awoke from a nightmare. A Paladin rides up to us, and I assume he's not friendly.

"You four The Monk, Anima Mage, the Druid, and Sage. I hear you four killed Damien. Is that true?"

"So what if it is, Paladin? What will you do about it?"

The Paladin chuckled. "I'll save you four for last. You will all perish before me, the great Cameron! Be pleased to die at the hands of such a noble warrior such as me. Bye, bye now. Hehehehehehe."

And he rode off. I will remember him. Cameron, huh? I'll remember him when he bleeds to death by the holy might of St. Elimine!

"You think he was friends with Damien?"

"No, I think they were rivals of a sort. It matters not to me. I won't tolerate his compulsive trash talking."

"Luphy, be careful, okay? Remember. Wes was taken, and we're here to get him back, as well as Ninian."

And that's when we saw it. An eruption of purple flames from the base's outskirts was accompanied by screams, who I assume was from Ephidel.

"What the? Mark!"

"No doubt about it. That was Ephidel's voice. But who could have done something so destructive?"

"That is easy, tactician. Only a Druid can do something like that."

We turn to see a man with lavender hair wrapped in a blue bandana. He had a matching cape, a silver shirt, with brown pants and shoes. He had a confident smirk plastered on his face, a Steel Dagger latched on his waist. We ready our tomes as Mark hid behind us.

"Relax, mates. I'm not an enemy. Name's Legault."

"Legault? The Hurricane? What are you doing here?"

"Well, Monk. I'm here to relay some good news, I hope. But first, allow me to help in dealing with these soldiers."

"What? Aren't you with the Black Fang? Why help us? What's your angle?"

"I understand the suspicion, but as I say, I have some good news to relay to you as well as your group. Besides, if you couldn't tell already, the Fang is nowhere as prominent and proud as they used to be. I'm leaving before I get involved."

"Well, Legault. May St. Elimine help us through this day."

"Right. Point me in the direction of your tactician, and I'll introduce myself."

Mark comes out of hiding to reveal himself. "That will be me. Call me Mark. So I assume you're a thief?"

"Correct. That a problem?"

"Not at all! Matthew can appreciate the extra pair of hands. He should be around here somewhere. But for now, survey the area and pilfer any chests you find."

"Done. I know the place like the back of my hand. I'll be back shortly. Pleased to make all of your acquaintances."

And he vanished.

"What do you think of him, Mark?"

"Well, Luphy. If he says he has good news, then it will be wise to keep him alive. Besides, I sense no ill will from him. I'm convinced he meant what he said."

"You think his news involves Wes?"

"I can hope. Let's just get through this battle first before inquiring him."

"Mark, the front force has just recently broken through the back entrance."

"That's our cue. Thanks, Marcus."

"Not a problem."

"Let's get going."

"Right. We ride together!"

We all rush for the back entrance before being cut off by the same Paladin, Cameron.

"You aren't leaving here alive!"

"Get out of the way, Cameron! You have lost the day! Don't throw your life away over something as trivial as a dead rival!"

"You don't command me! Die, Monk!"

A now angry Cameron charges me with Lance in tow and strikes at me, but I nearly dodge.

"Hold still, Monk! I'll kill you quickly!"

He charges again with murderous intent, but Hector viciously cleaves his mount in two. Cameron falls hard to the ground, and before he could get back to his feet, I finish him with Shine.

"May St. Elimine bless your soul, Paladin."

"We should cremate the body, Luphy."

"Later, Lucius. First, we deal with Darin. He'll answer for his crimes against Lycia."

"And that's what happened, King and Queen Rendall."

I stand before the Marquesses of Rendall. Through the multiple visits by Luphy and I, the King and Queen know us personally. In doing so, we're the only humans allowed on the Beastkin side of the country.

"Wesley. We believe you and have a hunch that you would not lie to us, considering the penalties. Would you like for us to send a group to take back Latasi?"

"That won't be needed. In due time, Latasi will be liberated from Magmeal. I ask for a place to stay for a few days to tune with my new powers. I have recently been promoted and would like to get acquainted with this new magical strength before traveling once more. If you can point me in the direction of the nearest inn and library, Milord and Milady, I would be swiftly out of your hair."

"Hush, Wes. You can stay in the castle and use our library. It would not be the first you have done this, no? We don't mind you staying with us as we are fond of your mother, Lea. We insist."

"If you say so. It would be incredibly rude of me to say no. I thank you both for this, Milord and Milady."

"Yes, it is of no problem. Just make sure that next time you come to Rendall, bring your mother as we would love to meet her. For now, make yourself at home, Wesley."

"Thank you, Queen Rendall."

After cleaning up (as I haven't taken a shower since my imprisonment), I made my way to the Castle Library. While not as big as Latasi's many Libraries, it was pretty spacious. King Rendall told me that the books were placed in alphabetical order.

"Well, I found where the books on Druids, are but it's so high up there. How in the hell am I going to get it?"

I make a vain attempt to stretch and reach it, but expectedly to no avail. Then a shadowy construct of a hand appears and reaches for the book I was looking for and handed it to me. I take it while it stays with an open palm. I made a correct guess. It wanted a Hi-Five, so I gave it one.

*Slap*

"Whoo, I feel the static! Good one."

It gives me a thumbs up before disappearing. I find a seat and start reading.

"Druids on promotion go through a period of Magical Overload. For about two to three days, fresh Druids gain a surge of Magical Power in addition to what they get from Promotion. Most Druids lose some control during this time, but this will be mitigated if mentally strong enough. The Magical Overload, thankfully, is always temporary and will dissipate within the allotted time. Once in a while, all magic users in combat may receive a Magical Overload when performing a spell. You will feel the magic itself overflow your body and shoot itself out of the spell being cast."

Which explains how that Fenrir spell on the Dread was more powerful than normal. Magical Overload, eh? Grandma never told me of this. Then again, I was a mere child when she was teaching me, and no child never promoted that early on in life.

"Second, all Druids gain more magical freedom upon promotion. This is a mental block that's released when a Shaman promotes. For example, performing secondary functions of Elder Tomes becomes easier. Druids also gain access to Speedcasting." (More on pg. 45)

That makes sense. I remember merely thinking of a Flux cage and one spawned around Ephidel back on the Dread Isle. And it worked again as a Flux Cage quietly spawned in the room. I should go to bed soon. The quicker this Magical Overload passes by, the quicker I can get back on the road. But what is this about Speedcasting? Let's take a look.

"Speedcasting: Upon promotion, Sages, Bishops, and Druids learn this ability. Speedcasting allows promoted Magic users to cast spells without the need of a tome. That's why you see some promoted Magic users without tomes but can still cast them with ease. However, some promoted users still carry some tomes just in case."

This also explains how I cast that Fenrir spell with little difficulty. I guess the reason why it slowly distinguished was that my mind was having trouble reciting the rest but quickly remembered afterward. The increase in size must've been due to the Magical Overload. I conclude that I read enough to know what I'll do for the next couple of days. I stand, and that hand comes back, takes the book back, and places it back where it was. This time, it went for a fist bump, and I gave it to the hand. It disappears again.

"Hehe, incredible."

"Who's there?"

The door opened to a female Beastkin with a beaststone in hand, hair shaggy and wild. She wore little, (As Beastkin normally do) nothing on top, save for a top that covered her breasts, sporting a Pareo with intricate designs, and barefoot except for an ankle cuff on her left foot. She also had a furry black tail. All this was topped by a suntan-like complexion, tattoos all over her body, and curves in all the right places.

Needless to say, she was beautiful.

"Relax, Beastkin. I'm here with the permission of King and Queen Rendall."

"Oh. You're Wesley then. You are just as handsome as the stories say. I'm Rei, Princess of Rendall."

"You're Princess Rendall? It's an honor. I would bow, but that's something I don't do. Will a handshake do?"

"No," she stated.

Her voice was a bit raspy and deep enough where I actually found it somewhat arousing. Yet the priorities I had in hand kept me from saying that aloud. Besides, she carried herself like she knew it, so I probably would've been beating a dead horse.

"Us Beastkin are very physical. I know that you refuse to bow to nobles. Hence why you're favored by all levels of society. But I don't like handshakes. I would rather you hug me."

Before I could respond, she pulls me in and embraces me. I admit, her soft skin made me contemplate not letting go. I returned the hug, and her being a head taller than me, she even stroked my hair.

"Are you stroking my hair, Rei?"

"Shhh. Don't ruin the moment. Wow, your hair is soft."

I let go, but she didn't, compelled to continue our conversation like this. "So, Wesley. Why is it that you have taken up residence in Castle Rendall?"

"Can you let go?"

"No. I like hugging you. You have a huggable physique. And you're well built as well. Are all Druids this fit?"

"No, I'm an oddity in that regard. As for my stay here, I'm currently staying as I have escaped from capture by the Black Fang and needed a place to hide. Your parents insisted I stay."

"A good call. The humans of Rendall are savages who can't even give a united Rendall a try. You're better off staying on the Beastkin side of Rendall. If you don't mind, I would like to talk with you some more. I'll let you go now."

Rei released me, and we did indeed talk for a while. Maybe if I wasn't so hellbent on sending Nergal and the Black Fang to Hell, I'd loosen up a bit. But alas, I still had a job to do and had to help Eliwood with his father. It was getting late, and I was growing tired of everything that transpired today.

"Well, Rei. It was nice having a casual conversation with someone for a change, but I am exhausted. Will you show me to a bed so I may sleep?"

"Of course. Follow me," she said with a hint of softness.

She showed me to a bedroom, and after saying goodnight, I practically passed out on the bed. Later in the night, I felt shuffling, which woke me up. I look on the sheets to see a black wolf positioning herself on the pillow I wasn't resting on. I can make a solid guess at who it was but was too tired to call her out and went back to sleep.

When I awoke, I felt a familiar sensation. I grab my glasses and put them on to see Rei hugging me like she did last night, a warm yet seductive smile plastered on her face.

"Good morning," she greeted while stroking my hair again.

"You're quite intimate for just having met me not even 12 hours ago."

Rei chuckled at my comment. "Wolves like marking their territory when they have the chance. You were recently widowed, were you not? I would like to show you what could await you for allowing me to be yours. I've heard of few who wish to steal you away from me, and I'll slaughter any who stand in my way."

"Rei, don't tell me-"

"Yes, Wesley. I'm entering myself in your love life; whether or not you are ready is of no concern."

"Oh, goody," I conceded.

First Anna, now Rei, Princess of Rendall. She was interested in me by the stories she's been told by, I assume her parents. Great, I wonder how Anna will react? Or Priscilla, or Yuki. This is going to get messy.

"Is something the matter? If someone has to die, tell me who, and they will perish before sunset."

By the Eight, Rei can be fierce when she wanted. And the look in her eyes spoke of determination and fire. I certainly would not like to get on her bad side.

"No one needs to die. Not yet, anyway. That is a 'me' problem."

"Fair enough. I will leave you to get dressed and see you later, Wesley."

She kissed my forehead before getting out of the bed and leaving the room. This is not what I was expecting, to say the least.

Support Lvl. Increased

After getting dressed, I exited the room and headed back to the castle library. When I arrived, I see Rei sitting at the table where we talked last night. She motioned for me to sit where I did last night. I reluctantly complied, Rei chuckling lightly before speaking.

"How did I know you were going to be here?"

"I'm trying not to show myself for a couple of days because of my promotion. After today, I'm heading to the Nabata Desert."

Rei raised an eyebrow. "Why there?"

"I have unfinished business with two Berserkers there," was my dark reply. So much so that Rei visibly flinched. "But I'm not going there until my powers stop going ballistic."

"What did those two do that warrants such malice from you?"

"You really want to know?"

Rei got up, took the seat next to me, grabbed my hand, and looked into my soul with her black pearl as the other was covered by her hair. "I wouldn't ask if I didn't care, Wesley. All jokes aside, I care for your well being and happiness."

Taking a deep breath and squeezing Rei's hand as she looked at me with concern, I began explaining.

"Those two Berserkers under a contract killed a platoon of Magic Users during an excursion at the Nabata Desert. I'm the only survivor and convinced that the person who hired them gave the order to spare me. After that, the group who hired them pillaged Latasi and killed my wife while she was sick. I moved past Magi's death, but now, I must spill their blood all over the Nabata Desert! It is the only way I can have some measure of peace. But not like this. Not when I can cause unnecessary damage to those around me and to the environment."

I still remember burning the grasslands at the Dread Isle while killing Ephidel. I loosen my hold on Rei's hand with what I assume was a bitter expression across my features.

"Wesley..."

"What?"

"I'm going with you."

"What are you talking about, Rei?"

"I am going with you. You have a lot on your mind, I can only imagine. Dealing with it by yourself will only serve to destroy you mentally. You need a companion. That's why I'm here."

*Sigh* "Why are you saying this? You had only met me yesterday. What did your parents tell you?"

"They told me that you're a wonderful man in times of peace. That whoever meets you are never the same again. That whoever you court will be the luckiest woman in all of Lycia. That within your destructive attitude belies a man who just wants peace for all. You make for the perfect husband, Wesley. So I, whether or not you want it or not, will be by your side until you see this through. We Beastkin are known for being fiercely loyal, and I will show that loyalty to you until you see this campaign to the end."

To my surprise, Rei closes the distance to where we could feel each other's breath. Her expression softens while proceeding to sit in my lap. She tapped her forehead on mine, her blush revealing itself. Rei traces her arms around my shoulders, leaning her lips onto mine as we share a soft kiss. At the time, I was too bewildered by what was happening to return her affections. We part, Rei's blush deepening.

"Know this, Wesley of Latasi. I may be a stranger to you, but to me, you are and will always be my husband. We'll leave tomorrow when you awake."

"What brought this on?"

"You didn't think when you revealed yourself to your friends, our female companions wouldn't throw themselves at you? My dear little Wesley, don't be so naive. As I said before, I like to mark my territory as soon as possible. But I appreciate the competition, especially that fiery redhead."

"You know of Anna?"

"Who hasn't? She made a note to me that she'll be yours in due time. I remained silent but will show her what a real woman looks like in front of your very eyes."

She pecked me on the lips before getting off of my lap. "I will get my things ready as I have some spare Beaststones I'll need. I'm looking forward to this."

And she left me alone.

"Goodness. I thought she would never leave."

"What the...? It's you!"

"Yes, it is I. Your guide on this short mental excursion. I was waiting for you to be alone so I can contain these Magical Overloads."

"You couldn't do it while I was asleep?"

"No. The Princess was sharing the bed with you. Now is the perfect time to fix this affliction. I will pull you into the Cave of Promotion right now."

"Wait a min-"

At that instant, the room went dark, and I felt lightheaded. I blink a few times but passed out before waking in the Cave of Promotion. I see a figure running towards me. (Assuming it was Rei) Unlike the first time I arrived here, I'm in the room where this voice first began talking to me.

"Are you ready, Wesley of Latasi?"

"I have so many questions I would like to ask!"

"And I will answer them. But curing you of Magical Overload takes priority. Hold still while I do so."

A chair spawns under me, and I'm strapped in. Shortly after, the room violently shakes, and I hear a sharp ringing in my head in addition to a sharp pain all over my body. What felt like an eternity was only a few moments. Everything went back to normal. Well, as normal as the Cave of Promotion can get anyway.

"How do you feel, Wesley?"

"I don't know. I felt unbearable pain a minute ago. Now it's all gone."

"Sorry, but Magical Overload is never pleasant. I learned that telling the Druid what I would do doesn't really help. But in the case of your mind, how does it feel?"

"My mind feels... open. Like it created more space for my thoughts."

"Which means the Overload has been lifted. Magical Overload holds back all new Druids' abilities - especially those like yourself who Promoted through the Pain Method. When you awake in the real world, you'll find casting spells as well as making your own to be child's play. Now you said you had questions. This is the time to ask them as we will be meeting no more after this."

"You said that I was the eighth Shaman in history to promote this way. Would I recognize any of the other seven?"

"Quite a few. The first is Bramimond, the most notable wielder of Apocalypse. The next is your own Grandmother Niime."

Grandma promoted through the pain method? No wonder she was so damn powerful in her own right.

"The last one you would recognize is Nergal. Though he promoted to another level available to those who became Druids this way. The Dark Druid."

"Doesn't sound good."

"It isn't. You only become a Dark Druid by gaining so much power and forgetting why you wanted it in the first place. It never ends well for those who become one of these. Best never lose sight of yourself. With the people you surround yourself with, I have no reason to worry. Anything else you wish to know?"

"One more question. Are there any benefits to promoting this way that a regular Promotion doesn't give?"

"Besides better gains, Druids who Promote through the Pain Method gain immunity to the spells they cast no matter how destructive they are. It is also near impossible to lose yourself to the knowledge you worked so hard to gain. But forgetting why you want the power ends up turning you into a Dark Druid, as I have previously mentioned. If that is all, then it is time for us to part. I wish you the best of luck in your future endeavors, Wesley of Latasi. I have high hopes for you. Now return to the waking world!"

And the Cave was gone in an instant as a strong light shined where the cave used to be. The next thing I know, I awoke with Rei sitting next to me on the bed, holding my hand while she slept. I lay back down to look out the window - nighttime.

That was... an experience.

The voice wasn't joking when he said that it would take a while. I turn to look at Rei, who I assumed stayed by me while I was out. Her expression was soft, breathing slow and light. I felt slightly guilty for questioning her alignments earlier. I pull her closer to me and positioned her, so she rested against my neck. Rei subconsciously snuggles up to me, a small smile across her face as she started whispering in her sleep.

"Don't let me go, my love. Keep me warm tonight. I miss your embrace."

She then crept closer, and I swore her tail started to wag. Rei looks rather pleasant when like this, a stark contrast to what she's like when awake. Soon enough, I let sleep grasp me once more.

After what felt like an eternity, the battle at Black Fang HQ concluded with us taking Ninian back, Darin's death, and us meeting a sketchy fellow named Legault. He said he came with great news but hasn't told us yet. After escaping the Dread Isle and finding a place to stay for the night, Luphy decided to ask him.

"Oh, right! Thanks for reminding me, Luphy."

"Legault, was it? What is this great news?"

"I'm glad you asked. Luphy, Yuki, Ms. Lea, Mark. I am here to tell you that Wes... is alive."

"What?"

"Yes. Brother Wes is alive and well. In fact, that Fenrir eruption was him killing Ephidel."

"But how did he have so much Magical Power? He's still a Shaman!"

"On the contrary, Luphy. He actually Promoted moments before escaping through the Pain Method, becoming a Druid of incredible power. He easily blew through his torturers, killed Ephidel, and fled to Rendall. He told me to let you know that he's well and will catch up with you all after a few days to let his powers get situated. Wes will travel with a large group of people he cares about. And I say, he looks nice in his new duds."

"Oh, my Gods. Wes... Wes is..."

I couldn't take it anymore, tearing up before I eventually started crying. Wes is alive! The truth was so pleasant to hear but left me shocked. I couldn't move. What I didn't expect was Luphy to comfort me in an embrace. I didn't know what to do.

"It's okay, Yuki. I know how you feel. My best friend is alive and well. You can let it all out."

I immediately return the hug and cry into Luphy's shoulder, sniffling a few times before laughing a bit.

"Oh, no. I got snot on your robes."

"It's alright, Yuki. You were having a moment. I can wash it off."

"No, I'll wash it off. Come, there's a stream nearby. Thank you so much for the good news, Legault."

"Glad I didn't disappoint."

"Mark and I will tell the others the news."

After finding the stream, I immediately get Luphy's robes off and start clearing the snot off.

"So, Luph. What do you think Wes is up to?"

Luphy started to think hard. "Probably reading up on his power. He likes to know these things to be safe. And being a Druid means he has access to a lot of new things he doesn't know. Either that or resting. When he has to learn something, Wes can go literally days without eating. It is truly an awe-inspiring and frightening sight."

We share a peal of soft laughter then stand up after I finish cleaning his robes.

"Here you go! I'm sorry for ruining them."

"I told you, Yuki. It's nothing. We should get going."

"Right."

We start walking back to the campsite, but before we got far, I started to trip.

"Uh, oh! Ahhh!"

I close my eyes and waited for impact, but it never came. I open them to see that Luphy caught me as we had our arms around each other on the floor. I blush a deep shade of red.

"Luphy? Oh, I'm just a mess. First the tears, now this."

"It's okay, Yuki. I don't mind doing this with you."

"Uhhh... Luphy?"

"Can we stay like this for a while? I want to feel you. We barely do this anymore."

"Sure. We can stay like this."

Support Lvl. Increased! Yuki and Luphy have reached A-Rank Support!

The next morning came by fast. I got my things, and Rei got hers before meeting with King and Queen Rendall.

"Thank you very much for your hospitality, King and Queen Rendall."

"Think nothing of it, Wesley. You are always welcome here in Rendall. The Beastkin will gladly take you in with open arms."

"Now, Wes. Rei asked us to go with you. I said yes, but please do your best to protect her from harm. Will you do that for us?"

"I promise I'll do my best to protect your daughter."

"Thank you, Wes. Bring our Rei back, and you can have her hand if you wish."

In reality, I really didn't want Rei's hand. Still, I'll keep it in mind when I eventually start looking for a new wife since others want me too. And we were off. Luckily for us, Nabata Desert is close to Rendall, and we were there within the hour.

Traversing through the wasteland, we noticed three figures, two of them I recognize. One of them I obviously didn't recognize was wounded. But before the two imposing figures can finish the third figure off, I throw a Flux that grazed the figure on the right but still knocked him down.

"Jasmine!"

"Paul, that was a Flux tome Brother."

The third figure retreats in our direction. He was bare-chested and wore a combination of blue and silver. From the giant Killer Axe mounted on his back, he was a Berserker as well.

"Who are you?"

"Someone who hates your assailants. Those two killed Mages, a group of my colleagues, while sparing me. Wes is my name, and this here is Rei."

I create a Mend, thanks to the cure of Magical Overload. I heal this Berserker's wounds quickly enough for those bastards Paul and Jasmine to reveal themselves.

"Looky here, Jasmine! It's little Wesley!"

"Indeed, Paul! What are you doing here, Wessy? Didn't we tell you not to show your face around here again?"

"And yet I'm here again, Jessie. But if you think I'm still a Shaman, then you're sorely mistaken. That fresh Flux scar that knocked you down like harsh wind was mine. You're lucky I missed. Otherwise, I would've obliterated you on the spot."

"Oh, Wessy gained a Promotion, hmm?"

"And an attitude to match. Let's see how long that will last. Oh, boys!"

In the mirages of the Desert, we see troop after troop appears from seemingly nothing.

"We have intruders! Let's deal with them!"

"To think that two dunderheads like you actually have a group."

"They are Black Fang members that Nergal gave us for doing our job those few months ago. Now they will kill you and your pretty little girlfriend here."

"I'm not his girlfriend. I'm his wife, and I will not tolerate what you said about my husband. I'll sink my fangs into you and rip you apart for saying such things!"

"It looks like we made her mad, Paul!"

"Indeed, Jasmine. We'll save her for last. Boys, kill them all!"

"Any plans, Wes?"

"Simple. You're healed, and we're both at 100%. We'll massacre this troupe and those two fruits."

"Very well. You two are a Druid and a Beastkin, respectively. Meaning you won't be restricted by the Desert. You may call me Hawkeye. Now, let's deal with the Brigands."

"Well said, Hawkeye. Well said."