The Rise of the Black Plain

"That's your theory?" The older of the two Demigods asked, seeing the meaning behind Minos' words.

If what had created the Spiritual World was home to beings like the one sealed in that space, and such a place had collapsed and eventually given rise to new life forms, there was a possibility that other parts of this larger world had life forms similar to or superior to those of this world.

If there was a way to travel between one place and another, destructive wars for both sides could break out quickly after first contact.

Obviously, the chances that Minos was right were slim. But his theory was by no means implausible or less credible than what the members of this faith feared today.

The two Demigods grew more serious as they considered the possibilities, worried that aliens might invade their world and endanger everything.

What if the rules behind those other fragments of the world that formed the Spiritual World differed from those of this place? What would happen if this world were 'flooded' by aliens?

In short, there were 'n' questions to be asked, and these beings couldn't help but worry about the many possibilities.

"If you're right, your worries could be about beings far worse than we realize." The weakest Demigod commented worriedly.

What they thought could destabilize this world was a combination of beings from this world capable of controlling the preserved bodies of beings from the races of the time of Fah'um of Dunov. In other words, they were worried about corpses and people from this world.

Minos, however, was worried about unknown beings who were alive and capable of doing unexpected things that could break the standard rules of this world.

It was much worse!

Better a 'known' enemy than a stranger!

The level 97 elder looked into Minos' eyes and asked. "Young Minos, your concern seems justified. But are you willing to take an oath?"

Many people with good intentions give up or fail to keep their promises. Even though he was so willing now to do something for this world that would help this race fulfill its purpose, it didn't mean that Minos would continue like this until the end.

Whether he liked it or not, he was still weak in terms of his level. There was still a long way to go before Minos reached the peak of the 10th stage, and by then, he might have changed his mind and preferred to hide.

Between reaching the peak and dying for the world, the first option was definitely preferable. Perhaps his concern and willingness to act were great today. Still, as he grew and became stronger, Minos might become more defensive about the powers he had worked so hard to build.

This elder of the Sea Folk faith could only demand a commitment from Emperor Stuart to prevent this from happening.

If Minos swore to the heavens that he would do as he said, no matter what, the man was willing to choose some observers to accompany the young man.

"I am," Minos said.

Immediately, the level 97 elder raised one hand to his navel height and said. "Well then, as a witness to your words, the heavens will punish you terribly if you return on what you said. From now on, you are part of the defense of our world and cannot shirk your responsibilities."

As the being said these words, the energy around the area changed, circling one of the elder's hands and Minos' body, while the three felt like they were being watched.

Minos felt as if a handcuff had connected him to the heavens, something similar to what one would feel when signing Soul Contracts, but on a much higher level.

"Raise your dominant hand and say, 'I agree.' That will complete our agreement." The elder advised.

Minos did so without hesitation, confident that he wouldn't return his words since he had already committed himself to such a thing. Besides, he didn't expect to get agreements to support his crusade without compromising, so that was fine with him.

After this agreement, Minos felt his surroundings return to normal. Yet, he also noticed that he now had some limitations on himself, something that would probably only change once he reached level 100 or fulfilled his promises.

After completing this deal, which was directed by the elder who was currently guarding the shrine, Minos heard from him. "Very well, I will send three of my people to accompany you on your journey in search of evidence.

If they see enough for us to take up the possible problem in the North Sea, I'll bring the matter to the Imperial Court to get men to join your cause.

How long will it take you to get this evidence?"

Minos thought for a moment and answered. "A few years. No less than five. The North Sea is dangerous, so I want to strengthen myself before going there. I'll also be looking for allies and people who are willing to follow me and witness what my group and your emissaries will see."

"Hmm, I agree to leave these men at your side indefinitely as long as they report to me once a year about their actions. At the same time, they will accompany you only as observers. Don't think of them as your troops or soldiers. They won't act unless their own lives are in danger." The elder clarified the rules of how their partnership would work until the journey to the North Sea.

After that trip, they would either be on the same side because there was something terrible in the North Sea, or they would be on the same side because they had the same goal of acting for the Spiritual World. Therefore, this elder would lose nothing by sending only three of his men with Minos, even if they would discover nothing relevant.

With that, Minos thanked the man for his support, and then the weaker Demigod left to call the names the level 97 elder had chosen.

This elder wouldn't send weak people to the North Sea. That place was dangerous. Soon, three Demigods, two at level 90 and one at level 91, stood in front of the elder and Minos.

"You three will follow young Minos from today. Cooperate with him and don't hinder his group's journey." The old man ordered, quickly introducing Emperor Stuart and the purpose of this mission to the group in front of him.

With that decided, Minos and the three of them soon left the building, following the level 90 elder who had led him earlier.

...