Vile Evil Hides Under The Veil

Eren finally managed to get Menaka's Blessing for himself.

Though he caused a bit of commotion inside the city administration, it was dealt with rather peacefully.

The operability problems in the runic circles used to claim Menaka's Blessing weren't common. However, it was also the fact that the runic circle break would occur on rare occasions. As such, Eren was considered an isolated case before he was relieved.

Eren chatted with Akel for quite some time before deciding to head to the temporary residence Archpriest Jivem had arranged for himself. He promised to meet up with Akel in a couple of days before bidding him goodbye.

Serene Solitude!

Nestled in the heart of a bustling city, the inn named Serene Solitude emerged as a tranquil haven, cradled within the embrace of a lush garden. The inn's exterior, adorned with creeping vines and delicate blooms, offered a serene welcome to weary travelers seeking refuge from the outside world.

As Eren entered the inn, a subtle aroma of exotic herbs and fragrant blossoms enveloped him, adding a touch of natural allure to the air. The interior, a seamless blend of rustic charm and comforting elegance, boasted wooden furnishings embellished with intricate carvings that told tales of the land's history.

'People in Labh Salem seem to cherish all that is vintage it seems,' Eren had a random thought as he surveyed his temporary abode's surroundings.

The inn's common area featured large, arched windows that opened to the garden, allowing a gentle breeze to caress the space. Illuminating the winding ways of the garden were enchanting yellow magic lamps suspended from twisted iron stands. Their soft glow cast a warm hue upon the verdant surroundings, creating a peaceful ambiance.

'This inn has to be sponsored by Ishgaar's temple. Some intent-based magic is at play. They have done something to the inn so that it makes you seek peace and solitude here.

Not that I'm complaining. The less I talk with people the better would be my chances of not blowing my cover.'

***

Serene Solitude, with its enchanting garden and magical atmosphere, stood as a testament to the art of hospitality, offering respite and a touch of mystique to those seeking solace in the heart of the bustling city.

Eren greeted the passerby with a smile and nod as he carried on.

By the time Eren had reached the inn, the daylight was nowhere to be found. When the starry sky adorned the heavens, the garden became a mesmerizing sanctuary for the patrons of Serene Solitude.

Eren observed as individuals, under the celestial canopy, engaged in the intricate use of their Tantras – mystical techniques that allowed them to progress further in their respective Paths to Power.

'This world really is diverse,' Eren thought to himself as he watched people practicing their Tantras openly without worrying about anything. It seemed that there were special arrangements they could use through Menaka's Blessing, which would assure them of their safety while allowing them to focus on their techniques with no disturbance from the outside world.

'Or maybe it is because I come from Anfang that I find these things odd. Maybe the Tantras are not as restrictive as I thought them to be.

Then again, it is odd for people worshiping Ishgaar to seek company while practicing their Tantras. There's something I'm not aware of about Tantras I guess,' the butcher concluded in his mind.

Being from Anfang, Eren was like any other Ranker in his world. In his homeworld, the Ranker preferred practicing their Ranking Techniques in seclusion. He had never seen people here and had considered it to be a group activity.

'This is yet another culture shock. I may never get used to things like these. Especially considering the kind of Tantra I'll be required to practice. I should stick with my customs from Anfang for the time being– stay alone.'

Eren thought to himself as he walked ahead while observing his surroundings.

The winding paths meandered through the garden, revealing hidden alcoves and secluded corners where patrons could find moments of solace or engage in quiet conversations. The symphony of nature, amplified by the occasional soft melody of a harp or the gentle hum of distant laughter, added to the enchantment of the inn.

Eren found himself drawn to a quaint wooden bench nestled beneath an ancient oak tree, its sprawling branches creating a natural canopy overhead. From this vantage point, he could witness the celestial spectacle above.

'Labh Salem and Anfang…. This… this is indeed a different world. And I can see that the sky is different from what I used to see in Anfang. Yet, for some reason, it is not that different. I guess the sky, the suns, and the moons of the worlds all across the boundless cosmos have become Existential Concepts. They are the same yet different.'

Eren wanted to chat with Reen for a while while looking at the stars. However, she had fallen asleep. It seemed that even as an Elder Seed Artifact, she could not keep her consciousness active all the time.

Eren didn't mind. He let her sleep and indulged in the feelings of solitude that the inn had to offer.

***

As the night deepened, the patrons of Serene Solitude continued to explore the garden's wonders. Some practiced their Tantras with focused dedication, while others revealed the magic-infused camaraderie that flourished in the inn's tranquil outdoor space.

The innkeeper, a genial figure with a twinkle in her eye, approached Eren and offered a steaming mug of herbal tea, its aroma carrying hints of lavender and chamomile. With a knowing smile, the innkeeper gestured toward a small wooden table adorned with a vase of freshly picked wildflowers, inviting Eren to bask in the serenity that the inn so aptly promised.

The innkeeper of Serene Solitude was a vision of beauty and charm, a woman who appeared to be in her early thirties by mortal standards. With auburn hair cascading down her shoulders like a river of burnished copper and captivating red eyes that seemed to hold the warmth of flickering embers, she exuded an air of allure.

Her olive skin, flawless and radiant, accentuated her attractive features, framed by a sharp nose that added a touch of elegance to her countenance. Clad in a cute red dress that perfectly complemented her figure, she boasted perfect feminine curves that lent an air of grace to her tall stature.

Confidence radiated from her every movement as she gracefully navigated the inn's common area, attending to the needs of the patrons. Her voice, a harmonious blend of calmness and cheerfulness, echoed through the space, creating an atmosphere of ease and comfort.

'Damn. She's… she's not bad.'

The butcher thought to himself as he looked at the innkeeper. He wanted to ask her name. But decided otherwise after seeing how busy she was handling her chores even so late into the night.

Upon noticing Eren's gaze from a distance, the innkeeper greeted him with a genuine smile on her face, the expression reflecting both warmth and hospitality. Her eyes sparkled with an inner light, mirroring the enchanting ambiance of Serene Solitude.

"Grand Knight Eren, let me know if you need anything while you enjoy your stay in Serene Solitude."

She greeted Eren with a calm and cheerful voice once again.

***

Eren roamed some more after enjoying his beverage while kinda being accompanied by the innkeeper. Too bad, she was busy with her affairs. Otherwise, he had plans to ask her for a tour of the inn.

Only when he confirmed that the inn was safe for his stay did he allow himself to retire in his room for the day?

Eren's room at Serene Solitude embodied a blend of comfort and whimsy, providing a refuge within the enchanting inn. The door, adorned with a weathered brass handle, opened to reveal a space that mirrored the tranquility of the surrounding garden.

The walls, painted in a soothing shade of celestial blue, held murals depicting scenes from ancient myths and constellations that seemed to come alive in the soft glow of the ambient lighting. A large, ornate mirror adorned one wall, reflecting the room's ethereal ambiance.

A four-poster bed, draped in flowing curtains of deep indigo, stood as the centerpiece. The bedspread, woven with intricate patterns reminiscent of cosmic galaxies, beckoned Eren to rest beneath its celestial embrace. Pillows adorned with embroidered moons and stars added a touch of whimsy to the sleeping quarters.

In a corner, a wooden writing desk held parchment and quills, inviting creative musings amid the enchanting atmosphere. A potted fern, its emerald leaves reaching toward the room's canopy, added a touch of verdant life to the space.

'Hmm? Did they also figure out the fact that I write poems?'

Eren asked himself before shaking his head. 'Naah. All of this… this is just to increase the intense feelings of solitude in one's heart. This place… it's a trap for those who are not proficient in using Intent-based magic.

I understand now why they arranged for me to stay here. Kekeke. I'll just allow you guys to use your little schemes on me until they work in my favor as well.'

Eren thought to himself as he surveyed his room.

'I have to say… the place is not bad.'

The window, framed by diaphanous curtains that billowed gently in the breeze, offered a view of the garden bathed in the soft glow of the yellow magic lamps. As Eren gazed outside, he could see the winding paths illuminated by the enchanting lights, creating a serene tableau that hinted at hidden wonders.

A cozy reading nook nestled beneath the window, complete with a plush armchair and a small bookshelf filled with tomes of ancient lore, provided a quiet spot for contemplation. The air within the room carried a subtle fragrance of lavender, contributing to the overall sense of calm.

The room exuded an aura of mystery, a calm retreat where the magical energies of the garden seamlessly transitioned into the private sanctuary of Eren. Serene Solitude had woven a haven where the terrestrial and the mystical coexisted, creating an experience that transcended the boundaries of the mundane.

When Eren was left all alone inside his room, he took a deep breath before accessing the spectral panel. The same spectral panel that one could access by getting Menaka's Blessing.

When he did, he was shocked and amazed by the number of choices and options the screen presented to him.

[ Menaka's Blessing: Special Pact ]

[ Name: Eren Elijah Idril ]

[ Human (?) / Half-blood (?)]

[ Origin: Anfang ]

[ Current World: Labh Salem ]

[ Current Location: Brol, Onianum Continent ]

[ Path to Power: Mana Core Harnesser / Ranker ]

[ Mana Core Status: A-Rank Vapour State ]

[ Ranking Status: Grandmaster / Grand Knight ]

[ Special Status: Demi-god, Elder Seed, True Inheritor of Elder Ichor's Divine Throne ]

[ Divinity: Edict Over Water (elemental) ]

[ Tantra: Unavailable ]

[ Current Affiliations: Ishgaar's Temple (non-restrictive) ]

[ Base Attributes:

Vigor: 400

Mind: 400

Endurance: 400

Strength: 400

Dexterity: 400

Intelligence: 400

Spirit: 2000

Faith: ????

[ Active Profession: Close Combat Warrior ]

[ Passive Professions Available: Summoner (Varied), Runemaster (Varied), Berserker, Assassin, Ranger, Potioneering Warlock ]

[ Greater Skills: Domain of Wrath, Domain of Gluttony, Domain of Lust, Domain of Pride, Domain of Greed, Domain of Envy, Domain of Sloth ]

[ Bloodline Skills: Memory Extraction, Expedited Regeneration, Life Drain, Devour, Shapeshift, Partial Shapeshifting ]

[ Skills: Instant Reset, Unlimited Weapon Works, Potioning (varied), Hero's Heart, Demi-god's Gaze ]

[ Equipment:

Elder Seed Artifact– Shallot's Mirror (Wielder-defined name) ( Inactive )

Elder Seed Artifact (?) – Reen ( unrecognized / Unknown )

Elder Seed Artifact (?) – Shura ( inactive ) ]

[ Currency Available:

Menaka's Runes– 10,000 (Recent History: 10,000 Meroons Credited by Jivem

Onianum's Direm– 500

Extols (Anfang)– 67312946 (unusable in Labh Salem)

Jolan (Echidna)- 4775 (unusable in Labh Salem) ]

[ Personal Storage Access: Granted– 295 Out of 300 Slots Used ]

[ Communication Access: Granted ]

[ Menaka's Market: Granted ]