Chapter 14: The Duel of Pride and The Hidden Craftsmen
The tense silence was broken by a mocking laugh. A man named Teal, the leader of the slavers, stepped forward arrogantly. "What did you just say, boy?" he sneered, looking Vicky up and down.
Vicky repeated calmly, "I said, release them."
Teal burst into louder laughter, his men joining in. "Did I hear that right?" he taunted. "Don't mess with my head, kid. I'm in a good mood right now. Why don't you run along home and take a nap instead of meddling in grown-up business?"
Vicky sighed internally. It seems I'll have to teach them a lesson, he thought.
"Indeed," Reman's voice echoed in his mind. "Some people only understand the language of force."
In a blur of motion, Vicky vanished from his spot and reappeared behind Teal. With a single, powerful strike to the back of his head, he knocked the slaver leader unconscious before the man even realized what was happening. Before the other slavers could react, Vicky moved like a whirlwind, disarming and disabling each of them with precise, non-lethal blows. Within moments, all the slavers were on the ground, groaning in pain.
Vicky bound them securely and then focused his mana into his palm, placing it gently on Teal's head. A wave of controlled, excruciating pain shot through the slaver's skull, making him feel as if his head were splitting open. Teal screamed and immediately started talking. "We work for the Lin family! They hired us to capture these craftsmen!"
Vicky smiled coldly. "The Lin family? I will destroy them, slowly and thoroughly."
He then turned his attention to the prisoners. His eyes fell on a sturdy Dwarf he recognized—Thomas, the master blacksmith who had forged legendary weapons for the Lin family in his previous life. In this era, Thomas was unmatched in his craft across the entire continent.
Vicky approached him. "What's your name?"
"Thomas," the Dwarf replied warily. "What are you going to do with us?"
"Nothing harmful," Vicky said. "The Lin family captured you illegally. I could return you to them, but I won't. Instead, I'd like you to work for me."
Thomas scoffed. "I have no interest in working for you."
"Fool," Reman chuckled. "Show him your talent first. Then he'll reconsider."
Vicky walked over to a nearby tree. In one fluid motion, he drew his blood sword and carved the wood into a perfectly shaped practice sword, its details exquisite and precise.
Thomas stared in astonishment. No ordinary swordsman could achieve such precision and speed. This young man possessed incredible skill.
"Who are you?" Thomas asked, his tone now respectful.
"I am Vicky of the Arkaan family."
Thomas pondered for a moment. The Arkaans may not have much wealth now, but with talent like this, their rise is inevitable. "Very well," he said finally. "I will join you."
Vicky smiled. "Don't worry about money. We're about to become very wealthy."
He then turned to the Elven prisoners. Their leader, a graceful woman named Sofia, stepped forward. "What will become of us?" she asked nervously.
"You may also join my household," Vicky said kindly. "Elves are renowned for their skills in alchemy and archery, and Dwarves are master weapon smiths. Together, you will greatly strengthen our forces."
He ordered his knights to take the slavers to the city prison for punishment and to ensure the Elves and Dwarves were treated with honor and care.
---
As peace settled between the Naira and Wasco Empires, Theon Arkaan, Vicky's father, finally returned home. He had received a letter summoning him back for a reunion and an important task. Eager to see his son and learn of the changes in his household, Theon made his way to the Arkaan estate, unaware of the surprises awaiting him.
---