BACK AT THE BAR

I was drenched in blood when I found the family huddled behind a flimsy bush. Seriously, to hide here? No wonder they're not used to fighting.

"Okay, Dior and -"

"You're a weapon magic user! By the Great Mage, you're the one we've been waiting for!"

I rolled my eyes. "Of course I am. I am the only one who could lead you to safety."

"No. What I mean - "

"Save the talk for later. We need to go someplace safe first. Let's get going. Good thing the car's still working."

I ushered them to move faster. It was a miracle that the car wasn't that damaged, only a dent or two. But my heart ached for my favorite car and the money it would cost for repairs. Next time I won't ever use my precious cars for missions like this.

We cruised the highway without any interruptions, which gave me huge relief. One more fight and I swear I'll go crazy. Without Ren and Cellon, I don't think so.

Finally, we reached the bar, which was still closed due to the owners' no-show.

The bar was magic-protected, and only registered magic was recognized to open it.

I placed my palm over the door and a magical barrier sizzled revealing a warping gate straight inside the bar.

I ushered them all inside and activated the barrier once again.

"Please help yourselves. Drinks and food, over there. I'll just go get a breather."

I walked to the couch while the family went to the bar and rummaged the refrigerator.

I sat down as soon as my tired body screamed for comfort. I stretched my body and closed my eyes to assess signs of magic depletion. Luckily, my magic is still at its highest point. Healers back in Agrissi were praising me for my immense magic storage which was a rare occurrence. Only the strong ones have that kind of storage.

I shrugged at them but inwardly I was chuckling. I knew I am the best. Okay let's stop on the vainly thoughts.

I took out my phone and dialed Ren's and Cellon's phone but they still won't pick up.

Is there a major problem in Agrissi? Good gods I'm alone in the human world and I cannot protect every mage present here. I sighed. I've probably got no choice but to toughen up. Good thing I'm a strong mage. Hahaha I swear I'm getting crazy every day.

I finally stood up and joined the family messing the bar. Sweet revenge.

---------

REN

The barrier was strengthened once again. After that surprise attack, the Great One took no chances. It was a wonder how a baby sphinx entered Agrissi when the whole city is undetectable and impregnable. The Council and a lot of people started speculating that it was an inside job and that there was someone holding the reins.

I couldn't deny that it was a huge possibility. A baby sphinx is much much weaker compared to a baby minotaur and yet adult minotaurs have failed to enter here.

Or, it was an evolved one. But I doubt it. No one has discovered how to do it.

I sighed and plopped down on the ground. All mages were required to help in strengthening the barrier, and so a lot of us are close to magic depletion. Good thing the healers were put out of the task. They were much needed in the after care.

My eyes slowly closed as the sun finally set.

I was woken by a vigorous shaking and tapping of my shoulder.

"Reeen! Reeeen! Wake up! Wake up!"

I sat up immediately, defense spells at the ready.

"What's happening? Is there another attack?"

"No. Much worse."

I looked at Cellon and a dangerous aura permeated from me.

"Ah, its Nina. She has been calling us nonstop. I only checked now after I finished my rounds."

I stood up abruptly and glared at him. "Why did you only tell me now. What happened? Where is she?"

"I haven't talked to her yet. Call her."

He handed me my phone. I saw there were a lot of missed calls from Nina. What could possibly have happened?

My hands shook as I pressed the redial button. The phone rang but she didn't answer. Oh shit.

I made Cellon and a spatial magic user get ready to send us back to the city while trying again to get a hold of Nina.

After two attempts, she finally picked up.

"Nina! Where are you? What happened? We're on our way."

"Ren," she said in a weak voice.

Shit shit shit.

"Nina," I replied. I was fucking worried about her. This is not me. What is happening.

"Help," another weak reply and then the line went dead.

Fck.

"Cellon!" I angrily called out. "Where was the last time you saw Nina?"

"At the bar, when I gave her that detection device. Why? Something happened?"

I sighed. "I don't know. She was asking for help. She didn't even tell me where she is. We'll go to the bar and find her magic signature. We could probably trace her then. Where is Ling?"

"I'm here," a white haired young man came into view.

I nodded. My magic hasn't been filled but Nina needs me. I hope it would last until we can save her.

"Lead us back to the bar."

Ling nodded and quickly opened a warp gate.