The Two Rival Sects

As Vargus absorbed the gravity of the situation surrounding Carlos, he couldn't help but feel unsettled by the revelation of the formidable backing Carlos possessed. Seeking to understand more about the source of Carlos's protection, Vargus inquired further about the Crystal Fist Sect.

The innkeeper, sensing Vargus's genuine curiosity, offered a more detailed explanation. "The Crystal Fist Sect is not just any sect; it's a powerful organization that welcomes individuals with a natural affinity for the earth element. They are known for their rigorous training and the exceptional strength of their members."

She paused for a moment, ensuring her words were taken seriously. "Their prowess in martial arts and elemental control places them among the top sects. It's precisely because of their formidable reputation that few dare to cross paths with them, let alone challenge someone under their protection like Carlos."

Vargus, absorbing the information about the Crystal Fist Sect's influence, nodded in understanding before raising another point of curiosity. "It sounds like Carlos has quite the backup with the Crystal Fist Sect," he acknowledged, his tone reflecting his grasp of the situation.

"But if the Crystal Fist Sect is as powerful as you say, and I haven't heard much about them until now, there must be another sect keeping them in check. Is there such a sect?"

The innkeeper gave Vargus an appreciative look, her expression showing a mix of surprise and respect. "You're quite observant for a barbarian," she complimented. "Indeed, there is another sect that serves as a counterbalance to the Crystal Fist Sect. They've been rivals for many years."

Grateful for the acknowledgment, Vargus responded with a modest nod. "Thank you. Might I ask which sect that would be?" he inquired, eager to learn more about the forces at play within the martial world.

With a slight pause, as if weighing the significance of her next words, the innkeeper replied, "The sect in question is the Heavenly Beast Sect." Her mention of this sect carried a tone of reverence, indicating the esteemed status of this rival group in the martial community.

Upon hearing the name of the sect, Vargus's curiosity deepened. "Does the Heavenly Beast Sect specialize in talents related to beast taming or beast transformation?" he ventured, trying to connect the dots based on the sect's name.

The innkeeper offered a knowing smile, intrigued by his line of questioning. "You're on the right track, but not entirely," she responded, her amusement evident. "Your assumptions are partly correct and partly off the mark."

Vargus, undeterred by the partial validation of his guess, pressed on. "So, you're saying the Heavenly Beast Sect is indeed focused on beast-related talents. It must then involve both beast transformation talents and beast taming abilities, correct?"

With a nod, the innkeeper confirmed his deduction. "Yes, exactly. The members of the Heavenly Beast Sect are all linked by their unique talents related to beasts. They are renowned for their profound connection with the natural world and the creatures within it," she explained, validating Vargus's insight into the sect's core affinity.

"I've gained a lot from our conversation," Vargus said, a note of genuine gratitude in his voice. To express his thanks, he placed a few extra coins in the innkeeper's hand. "Your insights have been invaluable. Thank you."

Catching the coins, the innkeeper's expression brightened with surprise and a heartfelt smile. "Well, this is unexpected. Thank you kindly," she remarked, her gratitude evident as she subtly pocketed the coins.

As he gathered his things, Vargus offered a respectful nod. "I'll be on my way then. Goodbye, and thank you once more for all your assistance."

The innkeeper, clearly moved by his gesture and polite farewell, responded warmly, "It was our pleasure to host you. Thank you for your generosity, and may your journey be safe and fruitful." Their farewell was filled with a sense of cordiality and mutual respect, a fitting end to their meaningful exchange.

Stepping out of the inn, Vargus scanned his surroundings with a determined gaze until it landed on a particularly grand building that stood out from the rest. Connecting the dots from what he'd learned about Carlos's nefarious activities and the wealth they must bring, Vargus surmised that such an opulent structure likely belonged to his adversary.

"Considering all the trouble Carlos has caused and the profits he's reaped from it, that impressive building over there seems like it would be his," Vargus mused aloud, his eyes narrowing in resolve.

With Auris perched attentively on his shoulder, Vargus took a deep breath and set his sights on the building. "It looks like we've found our next stop. Let's head over there and settle this once and for all," he declared, his voice firm with the intention of confronting Carlos and putting an end to the threat he posed.

As Vargus approached the imposing structure, he couldn't help but pause, taken aback by the sheer scale of the building. "I knew Carlos was wealthy, but seeing this... it's another level," he remarked, his eyes scanning the grand facade.

He pondered the extent of Carlos's ill-gotten gains. "Just how much has he amassed through his banditry?" Vargus wondered aloud, genuinely curious about the wealth that funded such extravagance.

With a determined smile, Vargus then affirmed his resolve. "Bringing an end to Carlos's reign... it's not just necessary, it's justice," he stated, his voice carrying a sense of purpose. "Let's go, Auris. It's time to finish what we came here for."

Drawing closer to the grand building, the clamor of a confrontation drew Vargus's interest. He navigated his way through the crowd, eager to uncover the source of the uproar.

He tapped the shoulder of a bystander, seeking clarity. "Can you tell me what's happening here?" Vargus asked, his gaze fixed on the scene.

The bystander glanced towards the commotion before turning back to Vargus. "Oh, that? It's a showdown between Carlos and the Heavenly Beast Sect. Apparently, Carlos owes them a hefty sum," he explained, watching the scene unfold with keen interest.

"They're here to collect, but Carlos is playing the innocent, claiming he's debt-free to them," the bystander continued, filling in the details of the dispute.

Vargus absorbed this information, a strategic gleam appearing in his eyes. "Interesting," he murmured, and his smile also appeared, thinking about what he could do from this commotion.

With the scheme forming in his mind, Vargus looked down at Auris, who was still perched on his shoulder. "Auris, I need you to be your adorable self and distract the crowd for me," he whispered, conspiratorially.

Understanding the plan, Auris gave a slight nod before hopping down from Vargus's shoulder. He then began to perform an array of endearing antics, rolling on the ground, playfully pouncing at invisible prey, and flashing his big, innocent eyes at the onlookers.

As expected, Auris's cuteness quickly captivated the crowd. "Look at that little tiger! How adorable!" someone exclaimed, and soon enough, more people were drawn to Auris's display, their attention diverted from the heated confrontation at the building's entrance.

With the crowd's focus shifted to Auris, Vargus seized the moment. He slipped through the now-distracted onlookers, making his way stealthily towards the entrance of the grand building. The diversion had worked perfectly, allowing him to approach unnoticed, ready to confront Carlos and resolve the matter at hand.

Meanwhile, the members of the Heavenly Beast Sect remained focused on their grievance with Carlos, undistracted by Auris's enchanting performance. Their brows were furrowed in frustration, their minds occupied with thoughts of retribution against Carlos.

They knew all too well that their dispute with him wasn't just a matter of an unpaid debt; it involved deceit and theft. Carlos had exploited them with underhanded tactics, and now they were determined to reclaim what was rightfully theirs.

Muttering among themselves, they cursed Carlos's cunning. "That man has no honor, using our trust to line his pockets," one sect member spat angrily, his voice low but filled with venom.

"Carlos thinks he can play us for fools, but he'll soon learn the price of crossing the Heavenly Beast Sect," another added, his words laced with a promise of impending justice.

Their conversation was a mix of anger and strategic planning, each member contributing their thoughts on how best to confront Carlos and ensure he couldn't weasel his way out of accountability this time. The air around them was charged with determination, a unified resolve to see Carlos answer for his actions.

While the Heavenly Beast Sect members were outside, consumed by their plans for retribution against Carlos, Vargus had successfully made his way inside the building, thanks to Auris's distraction. With the sect's attention fixed on their grievance, they didn't notice the barbarian slipping past them, entering Carlos's stronghold.

Inside, Vargus moved with purpose, his eyes scanning the opulent interior for any sign of Carlos's presence. The grandeur of the building was a stark contrast to the tense atmosphere brewing outside. Hallways adorned with lavish decorations and rooms filled with extravagant furnishings spoke of Carlos's wealth, but Vargus was not swayed by the display. His focus remained on finding Carlos, aware that every moment counted.

As he navigated through the building, Vargus relied on his instincts and the occasional hints from the building's occupants, who were too caught up in their own concerns to question his presence. His steps were silent, his movements calculated, as he made his way deeper into the heart of the enemy's lair, determined to confront Carlos and put an end to the threat he posed once and for all.