Lord Nuu IV

"Heave…."

"Heav…"

"Hea.."

Drenched in perspiration, their bodies stood steadfastly behind Nuu. The past three hours had proven far more grueling than their typical training sessions with Lord Oga and Sir Gregor.

During the week without Lord Nuu, they had focused on the theoretical aspects of mana and its intricate interaction with living and non-living objects, a concept they now grasped more intimately.

Lord Oga had delved deep into the significance of Nodes for Aura Practitioners, explaining how they functioned similarly to blood vessels. Nodes regulated the untapped reservoir of mana trapped in the Sea of Conscience.

Drawing from this vast, latent wellspring of mana, the practitioners mastered the art of creating stable pathways, thereby augmenting their individual capabilities, heightening sensory perceptions, and enriching their interactions with the Material Plane.

Once these pathways were established, a metamorphosis occurred within the individual, and they were no longer classified as mortals. To signify this great change, A manifestation of gates descent upon these pathways, preventing further advancement.

Lord Oga further clarified how Aether played a crucial role in breaking past barriers once the requirements for a breakthrough were met.

In contrast, their time with Sir Gregor mirrored a bird pushing its young off the edge to teach them to fly. The Colosseum provided the perfect arena to gain practical experience in battles.

[ Frigu- 12:00 PM]

The weight of their exertions was evident in their heavy breaths and wearied expressions. Conquering the formidable back mountain demanded nothing less than a daring handstand for the initial ascent, followed by the agile frogman's hop, all the while burdened by the weight of a thousand pounds.

The grand finale consisted of deftly dodging treacherous rocks as they scaled ever upwards. This morning ritual, known simply as "Hiking," was a prelude to even greater challenges ahead.

Their next task was to capture three magical creatures; these ingredients will become part of the Human Cauldron: a Giant Frostbite Wolf, a Silver Ironclaw Bear, and a pair of Dreadwing Serpents.

The successful capture of these low-tier Ferocious Monsters would mark the completion of the assignment, so far they have already captured two of the three creatures securely trapped, and the fulfillment of their assignment seemed within reach until an unexpected pause was forced upon them, thanks to some unwanted guests.

In the grip of their master, a diverse group of nine individuals found themselves imprisoned. Nuu disdainfully referred to them as "Rats," mocking their aimless wanderings on Hillside.

Among the captives, indignation flared, and a person, with a countenance resembling that of a weasel, boldly demanded to know by what authority Nuu acted.

A young lad, no older than nineteen years old, wielded a formidable Greatsword and questioned the reasons behind their capture, threatening to gouge out the eyes of Amin, Yeli, and Menos if they did not lower their gaze, only to receive a tight slap.

Meanwhile, a strikingly mature woman, draped in a wool cloak adorned with velvet trim, silently assessed Nuu.

In stark contrast, a fiery lass, unyielding in spirit, defied Nuu, displaying her rebellious nature as her hands crackled with combustible flames.

Her struggle was met with a forceful tap upon her forehead, falling flat on her backside.

Not long after, Nuu release the Mertaru children from their cages.

Along with confiscating their Long Nose Bashu, a Low-Tier Ferocious Monster, renowned for its exceptional long-distance tracking abilities.

'This must be what they employ to trace Priscilla's scent,' Nuu deduced.

His eyes fell upon a wanted poster of Priscilla, bearing a staggering bounty of 50 million Aether—a fortune equivalent to half a billion ducats.

Visible veins pulsed on Nuu's forehead, as he realized that a daring fool was attempting to capture his beloved. The very air seemed to tremble, and the ground shook as his wrath surged.

The boys, under his command, felt the compelling force of their master's anger and wisely retreated. However, those unfortunate souls imprisoned by him were not granted such mercy.

In the heat of the moment, the fiery Jocelyn found her face pressed against the dirty mountain road, her breath quickening, mirroring the tension gripping the entire scene. As quickly as Nuu's rage descended, the pressure suddenly dissipated. With a subtle yet powerful shift, the cloaked vixen, Xena pushed back, braving Nuu's aura with some difficulty.

From this charged exchange, Nuu discerned she had recently attained the esteemed Rank 3 Acolyte status, her elemental affinity unmistakably aligned with lightning.

Not only had these intruders captured Priscilla's kin, but they were also unknowingly drawing closer to the village.

Nuu couldn't help but wonder what would have happened if he had gone along with Oga. They might have had free reign to do as they pleased. His frustration was justified—he couldn't allow others to exploit what rightfully belonged to him.

As everyone regained their breath, the once fiery lass, Jocelyn, felt her thoughts galloping like untamed stallions, and regret engulfed her for not requesting her master to send a senior brother on this journey.

Xena's temperament was not suited for the current predicament. In truth, Jocelyn hadn't held high expectations for Xena from the start. Among all master apprentices, this senior sister of hers has kept to herself and spent the most time in the laboratory.

How could Joceyln have anticipated that she would need twice the manpower to capture a lowly Mertaru? And, most disheartening of all, how had she allowed herself to be caught, by this brute?

Jocelyn contemplated the idea of shattering her master lifesaving pendant. Yet, she hesitated. Just enough for Nuu to notice the oddity.

With an imposing stride, he stood directly before the lass, "Oh, look what we have here," he exclaimed, revealing the small, dark bird she had attempted to conceal.

Nuu jeered, effortlessly confiscating both, her precious pendant, and the Holding Bag.

"You—" Xena glared hatefully. She, too, was forced to surrender her Holding Bag. Or watch as Nuu slaughter everyone. With both bags in hand.

Nuu delved into the trove, deftly uncovering a handful of intriguing items: materials for concocting potent potions, the coveted Trollwood Heart, the ethereal Starlight Essence, along with Faerier Nectar.

"Not bad," he mused, carefully stowing away newfound treasure, his palm turned into a mouth in no seconds, devouring the content he desire, while maintaining a firm grip on the dark wing pendant.

As for the other six members of this group, be it holding bags or any type of spatial treasure was nonexistent, but thanks to their 'generous contribution' especially the two knights in the group. He amassed a sum of 700,000 Aether.

'Nothing beats robbing a fat sheep' Nuu muse

Upon questioning the last three members, Nuu came to a realization that this group was somewhat mismatched.

In total, he managed to secure two Holding Bags, a few rare herbs, and a substantial amount of Aether— not a bad harvest

'Why does he possess a Flesh Pouch? Even my master doesn't have one,' wondered Jocelyn, her curiosity piqued.

With Jocelyn's escape route now blocked, she adjusted her approach and took a deep breath. She opted for a method that had proven successful countless times before.

"I am Acolyte Jocelyn," She stated

"I don't think I asked for your name!" Nuu retorted

"I understand, Sir, but please allow me to properly introduce myself. I believe we got off on the wrong foot!" Jocelyn said with a tone of sincerity.

"Well, keep it short. I don't have all day," Nuu replied, relenting slightly.

Jocelyn continued, sharing her background as a member of the Murdock Academy, boasting a Grade 5 Aptitude, and proudly disclosing her status as a disciple of the renowned Magus, Yvette.

"If you grant me a safe return, I solemnly swear not to breathe a word about this place. Furthermore, I am prepared to part with the Holding Bags, but please return my master's Pendant!" Jocelyn concluded, her voice unwavering and resolute.

Her words reverberated through the air, and a sudden transformation in the atmosphere could be felt. The rugged mountainside seemed to hush as if awaiting a reply.

Nuu's tough expression softened, "An Acolyte of the Murdock Academy, you say?" Nuu mused, his grip on the pendant easing slightly. "And an apprentice of a Magus, no less."

"..."

Jocelyn's heart leaped in her chest; her master's revered name seemed to have an effect. 'Good, at least he acknowledges his place. Once I'm out of here, just you wait.'

Harold, the Knight, seethed with anger, his inner thoughts raging as he glared fiercely at Jocelyn. If it weren't for his cousin Harrison's infatuation. Harold would have never participated, yet she's only negotiating for her release, what about them?

Nuu continued, "Your accomplishments are undeniably impressive, especially at such a tender age…If I am not mistaken, you must be no older than eighteen, correct?"

"I'm sixteen at the moment, but in three days. Sir, I shall celebrate my seventeen birthday" Jocelyn replied, her eyes brimming with glee.

"Oh, my, you share the same birthday with my 'nephew.' Could this be fate?" Nuu remarked, glancing at Menos, who bashfully averted his gaze.

Jocelyn did her best to conceal her disgust. She was not oblivious to the implications of the man's words. How could she ever consider a frog like him? He wasn't even a Squire.

You truly shine like a brilliant star, and it appears you are on the cusp of attaining the esteemed Rank 3 Acolyte. Your achievements are truly remarkable," Nuu lavishly praised.

Jocelyn's smile widened, a sense of relief washing over her as the conversation took a positive turn.

After exchanging a few light-hearted banter, Jocelyn cut to the chase, her voice brimming with glee, "Sir, may I inquire if I am now free to go?"

In the unfolding scene, Xena assumed the role of a silent observer, keenly aware of the unfolding drama.

'He's toying with her,' she concluded, her perceptive gaze fixed on the man before them. From the very beginning, Xena sensed the man's intentions - a clear lack of desire to let any of them depart.

How could he, when they had all seen his face and the undeniable proof that Mertaru inhabited these very mountains?

As expected, not long after, Nuu responded exactly as Xena had anticipated, his answer aligning perfectly with the course Xena had foreseen.

"Do you find me slow, lass? What significance does your achievement hold to me? Not only did you attempt to kidnap a group of children, but you also dare to boast about the greatness of your cocksucking master?"

The man's once-smiling countenance vanished, replaced by a chilling demeanor, leaving Jocelyn speechless.

No one took more offense to Nuu's comment than Jocelyn herself. The audacity of a lowly Grand Knight to slander someone as respected as Magus Yvette was unthinkable. This man was truly courting death.

The audible grinding of Jocelyn's teeth reverberated, accompanied by an ethereal spark dancing at the tips of her fingers.

The situation was teetering on the brink of her losing composure entirely. Yet, in this pivotal moment, a calming hand reached out, pulling her back from the precipice.

"Sir, I have failed to grasp your name…" Xena inquire.

Nevertheless, the visible veins throbbing on her forehead betrayed her underlying emotions. She did not expect this man to speak in such a coarse manner about her master.

"You shall address me as Nuu," He declared

"Of course, Sir Nuu, allow me to address a matter of utmost significance," Xena continued, composed but firm. "Junior Sister Jocelyn holds a position akin to that of a daughter to Magus Yvette."

Follow by a curt reply of "So what?"

Xena took another pause, doing her best to steady her mindset. "It won't bode well for any of us if we persist.

Why not permit Jocelyn to depart? I am willing to remain behind, should you desire it." Despite realizing the unlikelihood of him agreeing, she knew she had to make the effort.

Moreover, she was offering him a Rank 3 Alcolyte.

" What about them?" Nuu pointed to the rest that had a bitter smile

"..."

"I regret to admit that I lack the means to secure their release," Xena spoke, her voice tinged with desperation.

"I must admit, the offer of just you is tempting," Nuu said, his tone laced with a sense of regret, "but unfortunately, none of you will be allowed to leave here. The reason is simple – trespassing.

If I had found you anywhere else, then it might be a different story." he continues, "If you were in my shoes, would you simply let me go? Although I must say, being captured by such beauty wouldn't be so bad."

The audacious remark left Xena speechless, rendering her unable to form complete sentences. 'How could he utter something so shameless in such a situation?' Xena blush

Observing Nuu's unabashed finesse, his apprentices couldn't help but admire

"In any case, if you have nothing else to say, then step back!"Nuu said

"Hold on, Sir Nuu, let's talk this out….." Xena made one more attempt to persuade Nuu

"Senior Sister, why squander these precious moments?" Jocelyn exclaimed, her hand aglow with a fiery crimson light, as she turned her attention to her companion.

"It's evident that his intellect is lacking. Let's forge ahead on our own path. I don't think that by banding together, he can impede our progress."

Nevertheless, her words seemed to fall upon unresponsive ears, as her companion made a concerted effort to feign ignorance towards her audacious proposal.

"Cowards, all of you," Jocelyn couldn't resist spitting out the words with a palpable disdain, particularly aiming her ire at Harrison.

With resolute determination shining in her eyes, Jocelyn lunged forward, making a mad dash toward the tall lad standing in the center. Her mind swiftly recalled Nuu mentioning that the boy with faded, top-brown hair was his relative.

"You dare!" Nuu's voice roared, taken aback by the audaciousness. Not long after a sound akin to a bullet to the head, shattering the once silence, only to engulf the surroundings in terror-stricken cries. Jocelyn was mere inches from seizing Menos' throat, only for her body to be catapulted through the air.

"Always keep your guard up! How many times must I repeat myself" Nuu scolded his apprentices as he advanced forward?

Amin and Yeli stood frozen, their eyes wide with disbelief. Not only was that bitch targeting Menos, but she also unleashed two deadly fireballs hurtling in their direction. Had it not been for Lord Oga's invaluable teachings, they would have been reduced to charred remains.