Chapter 35 - The Soul Magic - Void Star

As Skalain's words echoed through the graveyard, a flicker of surprise flashed across Jareth's face. He listened intently, his eyes narrowing with intrigue.

Jareth couldn't help but mutter under his breath, "Soul magic."

Skalain's ears caught the muttered words, and he turned his attention to Jareth, curiosity etched on his face. Skalain wanted to know more about soul magic, but he did not say anything and waited for Jareth to explain.

Jareth's expression turned thoughtful as he spoke, and his voice lowered. "Soul magic is a rare and forbidden branch of magic. It delves into the very essence of life and death, manipulating the souls of both the living and the deceased. It is a power shrouded in darkness and mystery."

"It has its connections with necromancers, as in the end, it is only to be expected that necromancers have an interest in soul magic."

Skalain absorbed the information, his mind racing with the implications.

It was a dangerous and forbidden art, which its practitioners often feared. From what he knows and can imagine. Defending oneself against a soul mage is not an easy thing. They attacked souls, and most likely they were able to perform this act even if there was a huge distance between the target and themselves.

Jareth continued, his voice grave. "There is a dark mage organization known as the Void Star in Obsidian Keep. They specialize in soul magic and possess knowledge that surpasses that of the Tower of the Black Sun. However, the two organizations are bitter rivals, locked in a perpetual struggle for power."

Skalain's brow furrowed, his mind grappling with the revelation. The existence of another dark mage organization, especially one adept in soul magic, added a layer of complexity to their investigation. It meant that the forces at play extended beyond the immediate scope of Red Copper Town.

"But," Skalain interjected, "if the perpetrator of this murder is not adept at using the spell, it suggests they may not be affiliated with the Void Star or possess their level of expertise."

Jareth nodded in agreement. "Indeed, it seems that way. The spell used in this murder might be a crude imitation or a beginner's attempt at soul magic."

"Still, we cannot let this go unreported; even a novice in soul magic can wield unpredictable and destructive power."

The weight of the situation settled upon Skalain's shoulders, and he realized the grave responsibility he had undertaken. They were treading in treacherous territory, facing enemies both known and unknown.

With a smile, Skalain turned to Jareth. "We must proceed with caution, and if needed, violence is always an option."

Jareth's eyes met Skalain's, their gazes mirroring a shared understanding.

Jareth then nodded and started talking.

"You are already doing a good job. Our investigators did not find out that Elliot was killed by soul magic and the mage was a novice."

"Just these two pieces of knowledge give us a great advantage."

Skalain just smiled and then added.

"I will keep on investigating. If we are lucky, I may be able to find the body proportions of the murderer using my knowledge."

Jareth was not expecting these words, and his face showed a different kind of look. He noted it in his mind.

"Skalain must be put in a different category. He is more experienced and has more knowledge than we thought."

then Jareth added.

"That would be the best. if you are able to find how the murderer looks."

Skalain then continued his investigation of the body. Jareth kept his silence, not wanting to interfere with the process.