Moving towards purpose

"What do you know about Mana?"

Inspector Luca asked me the question after the Don and his men had left the room. He needed to know how much he'd have to explain to me about the recent events. I answered with a combination of my own understanding and the information that the system had gleaned from the introductory magic textbooks.

"It's a naturally occurring energy source, utilized by magicians, for conjurations, crafting, and casting spells. The amount of ambient energy that can be stored is colloquially referred to as a 'mana pool'. Some areas are naturally more dense, while other regions are naturally devoid of mana, according to the information I've accessed."

The inspector's eyes lit up at my response. He seemed very pleased with my answer.

"That is correct! Mana is, to put it in very simple terms, a naturally occurring type of energy. It's renewable. Magicians, and even some monsters, use the ambient energy in the environment to alter reality in some way. The energy detected during your inspection is not Mana. It's an entirely different type of energy, one that is much rarer and more powerful, called Divine energy."

It seems that someone finally realized that I was using Dimensional energy to mimic magic spells. I knew that it would happen eventually, I'm just glad that it was an ally and not an enemy. I was curious as to why previous magicians hadn't detected anything, so I asked inspector Luca for clarification.

"How did you notice the difference inspector? Everyone else has been unable to notice any difference in the spells I've used so far."

He answered my question and cleared up a few things for me.

"Well, it's almost impossible to detect the difference between the two types of energy, unless one is extremely well-versed in the type of Mana being used. I've studied Spatial magic for many years and even I was fooled by the appearance. The only thing that gave it away was the color. If you'd have used the correct color I wouldn't have suspected a thing."

Rummaging through a nearby locker, Inspector Luca removed a few textbooks, handing the entire stack over to me.

"Here, take these introductory books, they'll help you learn the basics of Spatial magic. Once you've got the basics down you'll be able to use the correct colors to mask any elementary spatial spells."

I quickly absorbed the entire stack into my spatial world.

*Ding*

[Host has absorbed significant knowledge related to spatial magic. Magic subroutine has begun analysis. Basic Spatial magic unlocked.]

Checking the system revealed a few new spells courtesy of the books I'd just absorbed. Portals could be opened for instant travel, although the cost to maintain them grew exponentially, depending on how far apart they were. A portal across the room would only drain a few points per second, whereas a portal across the continent would drain the entire spatial world within minutes.

The entrance would be blue, while the exit would show up as orange portal. Functionally, they were the same portal, with either side teleporting to the other. Thinking about it any more would only make my head hurt, so I moved on to the next spell that was unlocked. Lesser spatial stasis was the foundation for the higher level spatial stasis spell.

Unlike it's higher level variant, the basic spell only slowed those were susceptible to spatial magic. I still remember when Xander cast the higher level version and it froze everyone in the area except me. I was slightly disappointed by only two spells being unlocked, but the system noted that the textbooks were mostly filled with the foundational knowledge for spatial magic, and that the spells were used to ascertain a beginner's progress.

Seeing that I was done reviewing the knowledge within the books, Inspector Luca once again addressed me.

"Study those books closely, whenever you have the time, as we'll be testing you on them once you're ready. As for the Divine energy, I suggest you learn to mask it as soon as possible, as it's typically wielded by those who have reached the apex of power. Very little is known of those who ascend to the next plane of existence, except that the Divine energy is granted by the concentrated belief of their followers."

Hmmm, it would seem that Dimensional points I'd been using so far are a form of Divine energy? I guess it made sense in a way. Every living thing in the spatial world was contributing points, at it's own rate, so the cost to do minor things was negligible now. Realizing that I was being rude, I snapped out of my thoughts and thanked Inspector Luca.

"Thank you, I'll study these books and report back, once I've mastered the contents!"

Waving his hand, Inspector Luca signaled I was free to go.

"Mastering them may take quite some time, come back whenever you feel you're ready."

With Inspector Luca's blessing, I made my way back over to the bar area, where I joined up with Vinny and Xander at their table. I noticed that Reed had already left, so I asked Xander about it.

"Did Reed leave already?"

Xander finished the bite he'd just taken, before replying.

"Yeah, he had to take off for some business, probably going to check on one of his brewing stills. Looks like you're finally all setup? How are liking things so far?"

I showed Xander my official 'Logistics' badge as I answered him.

"I'm having a lot of fun so far. Do you know what my next assignment is? They didn't give me any immediate orders, for now."

Taking a long swig from his glass, Xander finished his drink and answered my question.

"The probationary period doesn't really have any hard requirements. The candidates are graded on their academic performance, training missions, and how they fit into the organization. Basically, you have free reign to study, you're also encouraged to follow senior members and observe how the various departments operate. Speaking of... do ya wanna come with me on a training mission? It'll be fun, I promise!"

I was curious to see what these spatial mafia mages actually did, so I quickly replied.

"Sure, where are we going and what are we doing captain?"

Chucking, Xander gave me the details of my first assignment. Well.. training assignment that is.

"We'll be traveling to a remote city on the Norsecan continent. Be sure to bring some winter gear, it snows all year-round over there. As for what we'll be doing... well, someone busted up one of the shops who paid us protection money. We're going to track them down, seize their assets to offset the damages, and then leave a nice, permanent reminder to whoever was responsible."

The glint in Xander's eyes twinkled with more than a slight buzz, there was a deep-seated rage that told me we were probably going to be breaking some bones, once we got there.

----------------------

Inside the storehouse several of the nearby guards stood with perplexed looks on their faces. They'd just witnessed me absorb several of the various crates and boxes containing the provisions assigned for the journey. The bishop sat back with a smug look on his face, as if he'd been personally responsible for the 'miracle'.

The head guard turned to the subordinates under his command. Coughing twice to get their attention, he asked them to read off the list, making sure to double check that everything was accounted for.

"Is that the entire list? You're telling me that we've got rations, backups for the weapons and armor, materials for repair, food for the mounts, and everything else we need for the entire journey?"

One of the guards holding the list replied to the guard in charge.

"Yes sir! We've actually got twice the supplies needed for the journey and several of the soldiers were able to include personal effects. With initiate Angel handling the logistics and transportation, we'll be able to make excellent time, in addition to keeping up the morale. We should have no issues."

The head guard turned towards us to relay the information.

"I don't know how this is even possible, but with our supplies taken care of, we can head out immediately Bishop Krenalis. The acolytes stand ready to guard you both during the journey to our glorious capital."

The bishop waved his arms around demonstratively while he replied.

"Let us set off at once my children. Bring my personal carriage around. We shall set off before it gets too dark."

Nodding in compliance, the head guard motioned several of the nearby acolyte guards, spurring them into motion. They quickly scampered off to the stables, before returning with the gaudiest carriage I'd ever seen. Bedecked in gold, it shone like a beacon of corruption, it's tasteless decoration was exactly what I'd expected the bishop would choose.

As if sensing my disdain, Bishop Krenalis turned to address me directly.

"Is there something wrong with my carriage Angel?"

My lips twitched involuntarily as I suppressed the urge to rebuke the bishop. After a deep breath, I gave my reply.

"That will attract way too much attention. Every bandit and criminal in the vicinity would try to rob us as we passed. Why don't we take my carriage?"

Bishop Krenalis waved his hands at the guards and motioned them to return his carriage back to the stables.

"You're right initiate! I often forget that world outside can be a cold and harsh place. We should exercise caution, lest we tempt the will of wicked men, who might do us harm."

While the bishop was replying I waved my arm to summon my modified ghost dragon hand. Using the tactical armored carriage as a base blueprint, I performed a few modifications, in order to manufacture a new one that looked 'holier'.

A clean white and gold theme replaced the previous dull gray metallic look. Rich wooden paneling was placed over the armor plates, serving to conceal them, while improving the overall look. The Church of Helios symbols were emblazoned proudly on the panels and banner flags, signifying the ownership and affiliation of the vehicle.

The bishop was enraptured by the sight of such a fine carriage gradually appearing before him. The acolyte guards also watched in fascination as the carriage parts whizzed around and formed into a functional vehicle. They all looked over at me as if I'd grown another head. It was amusing to see them all so shocked again, especially after they'd just been surprised by my handling of the supplies.

Clapping his hands together, the bishop addressed the guards.

"I told you this man is full of miracles! Quickly now, bring the steeds over, I want to see how this carriage handles."

Two large bovine creatures were brought over and attached to the front of the carriage. They looked quite similar to the Big Horn cattle that I'd commonly seen used as working animals. However, these creatures had no horns on their heads and their fur had a muddy golden color. Curious, I asked the bishop about them.

"What are those creatures? They look like Big Horn cattle?"

Hopping onto the driver's seat, the bishop offered his hand to help me up, while he answered my question.

"These are Golden Buffalo. While they may lack the horns of common cows, they're renowned for their endurance. The church allows it's higher ranking members to use them for long distance journeys. They are quite rare from what I understand. When we get to the capital the breeders can provide more in-depth information, should you require."

During his brief explanation the acolyte guards all piled into the main compartment of the carriage. I could hear their compliments from the passenger seat, as I sat next to the bishop. Without the need to haul any supplies we were traveling extremely light. Needless to say, there was much more room inside the carriage than they were used to.

Spurring the Golden Buffalo onward, the bishop was so impressed by the suspension system that he made a comment on reflex.

"Wow, this is a smooth ride. I can't even feel any bumps!"

I couldn't help but chuckle as this refined and scholarly man lost any pretense of composure. Clearly, he was having a blast driving the carriage. His driving skill caught me off-guard, as he effortlessly swerved around the various citizens of Ishtar, while responding to their greetings.

Upon seeing the bishop approach, the gate guards cleared a path for us, ensuring a smooth exit from the city. Our exit was even further expedited due to the fact that we had no supplies. The gate guards had only briefly 'inspected' the carriage, chatting with the acolyte guards for a moment, in order to show that the church wasn't above the law.

After we left the city, the bishop instructed us to 'hold on', which prompted me to inform the acolyte guards about the seat-belt style fasteners installed for safety. Once everyone was secured, he took the carriage up to a substantial speed, while he laughed with glee.

"I used to race carriages, Angel, before I joined the church. Oh, how this really takes me back!"

----------------------

Several pirates approached village, cautiously following behind their leader. They walked with an authoritative air about them, as they discussed their plans among themselves. With over four dozen pirates they had a natural numerical advantage over the small fishing village. Many of the villagers were previously injured during their last attack. The woman, children, and elderly who remained weren't seen as an obstacle.

Suddenly, the leader stopped, causing a few of the men who weren't paying close attention to bump into each other.

"Quit yer yappin' ya gits. Something don't feel right about this. Everyone stay sharp!"

Startled by their leader's sudden suspicion, the trailing pirate crew unsheathed their eponymous black daggers, as they took extreme caution in approaching further towards the fishing village. The more astute among the group noticed that the hair on the back of their necks were standing up.

The normal sounds of the village were nowhere to be found. In fact, not even a single villager appeared to be present. The situation was quickly giving the more observant pirates a very chilling feeling, as if they were in imminent danger.

Attempting to reassure his men, the pirate captain ordered his scouts to find out what was going on inside the village.

"Everyone stay quiet. Scout the village and report anything suspicious."

Two of the men dressed in dark colored cloth armor silently crept into the darkness like shadows. A few minutes later they came back, visibly shaken by what they'd seen. After a few moments they relayed the information to the group. The younger scout was the first to report.

"There be another group o' pirates in there. Seems ta be twenty or thirty of 'em. They had the villagers in back huts, locked up tight."

Taking the information in, the captain questioned the other scout as well.

"We still outnumber them. Why do ya look like ya seen a ghost?"

Having caught his breath, the older scout continued the report.

"They was sitting around the campfire eatin' and drinkin'. Thing is, not a single one of them was talking. I never seen anything like that. Not a word from any of 'em. It don't feel right."

Pondering the information, the pirate captain motioned his men to prepare for an attack.

"They're probably just some mute weirdos. I say we move in while they's eatin' and kill the lot. We gotta show them who's territory this is!"

With their minds made up, the entire Black Dagger pirate crew moved into the village, with the intent to launch a surprise attack. Before they got into striking distance, a man clad in black plate-mail armor called out to the group.

"Ya got a lot of nerve, trying to sneak up on me men."

Exposed, the Black Dagger pirate crew had no choice but to give up the hope of launching a sneak attack. They quickly did their best to form up into combat ranks. Meanwhile, the captain approached the head of the group.

"Who might you be?"

I chuckled at the thought of this peon trying to buy time for his crew to take up battle positions. If only he knew that he was little more than a marionette. It was time to make this little puppet dance for me.

"I'm the dread lord Devil Blackhand, captain of the Loot Sect. We've laid claim to this fishing village, so I'll ask again, who the hell might you be?"

Several of the Black Dagger pirates laughed at my response. Emboldened, the captain attempted to intimidate me.

"This be the territory of the Black Dagger pirates. If ya leave your food and treasure, we may consider letting you leave with your lives. Or maybe, ya'd like ta join us and see what it's like ta run with a REAL pirate crew, eh?"

Receiving the kind of response that I expected, I kept the captain talking, as my plan moved closer to fruition.

"I don't think you realize the gravity of the situation you're in. You've made a serious mistake and at this point it's already too late for you and your crew. Do you even know what's going on?"

At this point almost of my nearby 'men' had gathered by my side. Their disjointed movement was slow and clunky. The Black Dagger pirate captain wanted to get one last dig in, before ordering his men to attack.

"Empty threats from a soon to be corpse. Enough of his drivel, everyone attack!"

To their credit, the Black Dagger pirates moved in swiftly, attacking several of the slow moving soldiers. Puncturing and slashing at my crew, they quickly realized that something wasn't quite right. As the 'men' were stabbed black blood oozed out, while they returned the attack with viscous counters, seemingly unfazed by their injuries.

One of my men removed his helmet, exposing a ghastly and zombified visage. Startled by the grotesque appearance, several of the Black Dagger pirates backed up, attempting to disengage from the melee. Some even attempted to flee through the entrance gate.

Unfortunately for them, Dante and my real crew had already blocked the gate, trapping the entire group of pirates inside the small fishing village. Completely surrounded, they begun to panic, having already been unnerved at the grotesque appearance of the undead zombies.

One of the pirates made a last ditch effort to rush me. He died with a sickening crunch and a shocked look on his face, as my gravity axe flew directly into his head, splitting his skull vertically and instantly ending his life.

Waving my hand to retrieve my gravity axe, I called out my final order for the evening.

"Bring me their captain alive! We're going ta have a good old fashioned keelhauling tonight!"

Both sides moved in to sandwich the Black Dagger pirates with a pincer attack. Screams of abject terror rang out into the night, as the wails of the dying pirate crew reached a crescendo. With superior equipment, equivalent numbers, and ambush tactics we made short work of the entire group.

After the combat I absorbed the various bodies, bits, and blood that now littered the beach. The former pirate captain was tied and bound. He could only watch in horror as I resurrected his men into zombies. With the combat resolved, I ordered them to take him back to his own ship, where he could be held in the brig.

As the danger was past we released the villagers from the medical huts. Having heard the horrifying screams earlier, they were all looking quite pale. Under their elders orders they left the tents and we resumed the preparations for a feast. I did my best to try and restore the mood a little.

"Hahaha! Nothing like a good feast after a rousing battle. Come, come! Everyone eat and drink, let's celebrate!"