The Nexus of Souls

It might sound unbefitting after everything he had gone through, but the doubts pressed on his heart more with each passing day.

A confident smile blossomed on his lips as he wiped his tears and rose to his feet. This faith, he'd never betray it.

Too motivated to sleep, he strode to the warehouse, his determined steps echoing as the stench of blood thickened the air and numerous carcasses cramped the wide space.

Notifications flashed before his eyes: fur, bones, fangs, and other materials neatly piling up on the shelves with each dissolving body.

Without taking the time to check everything, he smiled at the vibrant stash of fire elemental gems.

"Finally, one thousand."

With the unused iron badges—including one from the elven city and two brought by Merlin—his territory's rank would rocket to silver tomorrow. The thought of leveling his lord's mansion to twenty and building the heretic's guild sent an impatient jolt through his shoulders.