Chapter 21 - Offer - Decline

Jareth continued, his voice carrying a note of interest. "These two individuals you crossed paths with, Alvin and Alice, were agents of the Secret Light, were they not? It appears their true intentions were far from noble."

Skalain nodded, acknowledging Jareth's observation. "They were light mages; I am certain about that. But I don't know if they are people you name them to be."

Jareth smiled and started to talk. "Impressive. You have piqued our interest, Skalain. The Tower of the Black Sun is always in search of talented individuals who can harness the dark arts to further their own ambitions."

Skalain studied Jareth, his mind processing the implications of the dark mage's words. While wary of aligning himself with any faction, he recognized the potential benefits of forging alliances in this treacherous world of magic.

"You speak of ambition," Skalain replied, his voice steady. "What do you seek from me, Mister Jareth?"

Jareth's lips curled into a knowing smile, his gaze fixed on Skalain.

"We seek individuals who can challenge the status quo, those who possess the hunger for power and knowledge. Should you choose to align yourself with us, Skalain, the Tower of the Black Sun can provide you with resources, guidance, and opportunities beyond your wildest dreams."

Skalain took a deep breath and then answered.

"I am new to this place. I have no plans to join any organization for the time being. I hope you can understand that I am not disrespecting your organization."

Jareth looked at Skalain for a few seconds and then nodded.

"Okay then, do you mind if we take what's left from these two light mage you handled?"

Skalain nodded.

"Yeah, I do not mind."

Skalain answered as he thought.

"They are trying to suppress me using their numbers and power. I rejected them once, and if I reject them once again, considering they are dark mages and we are in a forest, they would not hesitate to kill me."

"It is a simple technique for conmen demanding something big, and after it is rejected, they demand another thing, this time much smaller than the first thing."

Skalain smiled as he looked at the dark mages picking up the pieces left by the two mages.

"Conmans use guilt feelings in the people, and these dark mages used intimidation and fear of death."

Skalain watched as Jareth and his group receded into the distance, their dark figures blending seamlessly with the shadows of the surrounding forest.

As the silence settled once again, Skalain took a deep breath, refocusing his thoughts. He knew that delving deeper into the world of dark magic carried its own risks and consequences.

Aligning himself with the Tower of the Black Sun could grant him power and opportunities, but it could also tie him to a web of intrigue and dangerous alliances.

"I made the right decision for the time being."

Skalain thought as he kept walking.

Skalain turned his gaze back toward Red Copper Town.

He knew that he needed time to reflect and weigh the potential benefits against the potential dangers.

Returning to the familiar streets and buildings of the town felt like a sanctuary, a place where he could regain his bearings and make informed decisions.