Cultist of Cerebon

Chapter 7

Zareth let out a hum of satisfaction as he bit into a piece of Gurzas freshly baked bread. He didnt know why he had never come back here after leaving the slums, but it was definitely a mistake.

There were many things about this world that Zareth didnt particularly like, but the food that someone could make with a culinary Class was absolutely the exception. He didnt know the details of Gurzas Class, but her bread was imbued with a quality that he found difficult to describe. Biting into it made him feel a strange sense of comfort as if his concerns and troubles were momentarily forgotten.

It was at times like these that Zareth wished he had received an actual education on the System and its capabilities. Even after living in this world for so long, he still often came across strange effects or interactions that he could only attribute to an unknown Skill or some obscure aspect of the System.

Zareth glanced toward Gurza, ignoring the many people who were staring at the table he and Rizok were sitting at. News of what had happened in his temple had definitely spread, and there were far more people paying close attention to him as a result.

Gurza was currently processing his order, placing several rolls of dough into the tandoor oven behind her. Zareth resigned himself to waiting for a while, as he was buying quite a bit more bread than usual.

After the attack at his temple, Zareth was forced to rely on the labor of his congregation in order to get everything fixed up. Hed tried to convince High Command that they should send a few soldiers to help out, but they refused because all of their troops were busy either guarding the city or preparing for war.

Zareth didnt exactly know when the announcement would be made, but everyone paying attention could tell that the military would soon be marching on FalAshar, which was the Conclaves current seat of power. The war was likely to be an ugly one, especially if the other nearby cities felt threatened and decided to help FalAshar. TalQamar had the largest, most experienced, and highest leveled military in the Qahtani Desert, so they wouldnt be allowed to expand uncontested.

Zareth was pulled from his thoughts by a groan of intense satisfaction and turned to see Rizok chewing on one of Gurzas meat buns. There wasnt actually any meat in the loaf of bread, but Gurza used a Skill to imbue it with the taste and texture of foods that nobody in the Sunrise Slums would ever have the chance to try.

Its good, isnt it? I bet its a lot better than the rations they feed you in the military at least, Zareth said with an easy smile, amused by the lizardkins obvious enjoyment.

The tension that had existed between them after the assassination attempt had mostly disappeared after Zareth calmed down. Rizoks explanation for his unusual strength was good enough for him and it would be hypocritical of him to get mad that the soldier hadnt shared his life story as soon as they met.

Plus, Zareth couldnt deny that Rizok had undoubtedly saved his life. That wasnt something that he intended to forget.

That is a common misconception, Rizok said as he finished chewing on the meat bread. Military rations are much better than civilians assume. High Command employs several high leveled [Cooks] who are responsible for feeding the soldiers. Quality depends on logistics and budget allocation, but is rarely below average.

Zareth raised an eyebrow, somewhat surprised. That must be fairly expensive. I once heard one of my clients complaining about the costs of hiring a high leveled [Cook]. The numbers she was throwing around make them sound like theyre worth a small fortune.

He didnt know much about TalQamars military, but his limited experience with High Command had already taught him that they dont like to waste money. The budget that they had given him was only enough for the essentials and he was forced to justify every copper he spent.

They justify it through the large benefits that they give to morale, Rizok explained, his eyes habitually scanning the room before focusing back on his food. The leadership cares a lot about keeping the ranks satisfied. Also, [Cooks] with a high enough level can make food that temporarily increases the Stats of those who eat it. The benefits outweigh the costs.

That made sense to Zareth. It was well known in the Sunrise Slums that the military paid well and offered many perks to its members. They never had any trouble finding new recruits.

He was just about to respond when he noticed Rizok suddenly turn his attention to the entrance of the bakery and tense. Zareth immediately felt his body flood with adrenaline and his mind began conjuring images of [Assassins] with poisoned blades. Fully prepared for a fight, Zareth turned to look at what had grabbed Rizoks attention, only to slump in relief when he saw a familiar figure walking into the store.

Mera was nearly unrecognizable due to the use of a Skill that altered her appearance, looking like a completely bland woman who wouldnt be out of place anywhere in TalQamar. The only reason that Zareth knew it was Mera was because of the distinctive wooden bracelet she wore. He had given it to her for this exact reason so that she could meet with him in public without it getting back to her gang.

Evening, gentlemen, Mera drawled as she slinked into a chair at their table. Lovely day that were having, isnt it?

He hadnt been attacked yet, so the day had been decent enough so far.

It is, Zareth agreed, his voice neutral as he wondered why Mera would seek him out like this. Im surprised to see you here, rather than at my temple.

It would have been far safer for Mera to meet him there, where they had relative privacy, instead of in Gurzas Oven, where several of the customers were likely current or future criminals.

Its alright, darling. You can afford to speak freely, Mera said with a pleased smirk. Anyone who listens wont hear anything other than a relatively innocuous conversation thanks to a new Skill I picked up recently.

Zareth couldnt help but be surprised and began stretching his senses outward, only to find nothing. However, that didnt mean much since only a portion of Skills registered to his [Magical Perception] for some reason, so hers could just be an exception.

She speaks truthfully, said Rizok, his eyes distant as he observed something Zareth couldnt see. Shes used [Veil of Secrecy]. The System usually offers the Skill to those who consistently deal in falsehoods, such as [Spies], [Courtiers], or other similar Classes. It functions as she described.

Meras smirk faltered for a moment before she managed to hide her discomfort. Thats rather impressive. I wouldnt have expected a soldier to be so well educated on Skills unrelated to combat. What did you say your full name was?

Zareth wasnt interested in allowing Mera to probe his bodyguard for information, so he decided to ask a question himself. How did you get access to [Veil of Secrecy]? I dont think Ive ever heard of a [Thief] using a Skill like that before.

He could tell from Meras expression that shed seen through his change of topic, but she didnt call him out on it.

Easy, it wasnt offered to me by [Thief], said Mera, a hint of pride in her eyes. Its a Skill that the System offered me after I took the [Deceiver] Class.

Zareth could feel his eyes widen in surprise. You took a second Class? Why?

While it was technically possible for a person to multiclass, it wasnt a good idea for people like Mera or Zareth. A person with more than one Class would find their leveling progress split between however many Classes that they had. The only real reason to have multiple Classes was if you intended to consolidate them into a more powerful Class in the future.

There were several ways that a person could acquire a more powerful Class, the most common of which was simple evolution. According to the Grimoire of Cerebon, Zareth had already reached most of the requirements to become a [Cult Leader] and would be offered the Class once he reached Level 25. However, better Classes could also be gained through consolidation.

For example, it was well known that [Blacksmith] and [Enchanter] could be consolidated into [Artificer]. However, most consolidations werent public information and had several other requirements before the System would offer them.

Mera wasnt stupid. In fact, she always was the most intelligent and ambitious member of the Phantom Scorpions. Therefore, he was confident that she wouldnt have taken on another Class without a specific purpose in mind.

Zareth was curious as to what Class consolidation Mera was aiming for, but that wasnt information that shed give up for free.

The world hasnt stood still since you took your leave from our beloved Phantom Scorpions, darling, Mera began, her voice low and smooth. You arent the only one whos danced with fortune and made a few opportunities of their own in the passing years.

Hmph. Took my leave. You make it sound so peaceful, Zareth muttered.

As bad as it was, you know that it couldve been far worse, said Mera, her expression twisting into one of sympathy. Things have worked out far better for you than most.

Zareth forced himself to take a deep breath and push down his anger. Objectively speaking, he knew that Mera wasnt wrong. Still, knowing that it couldve been worse didnt stop him from having nightmares of Tharkun laughing as he broke nearly every bone in his body. It didnt stop the overwhelming weakness he felt when he remembered how powerless he was to stop it.

Why are you here, Mera? It wouldve been safer for you to meet with me in the temple, Zareth said once he calmed down. He wasnt really interested in speaking to her any longer than necessary. You wouldnt take this kind of risk unless it was necessary.

Ive heard that your temple has become quite the thrilling spot these days, Mera said before her expression began to grow serious. We were all sorry to hear about what happened. Even my dear Saless, as devoted she is to Yaqin, was taken aback by the Conclaves audacity. Aldarim wished to offer his sympathies in person, but I assured him that might not sit well with you.

If thats true, then Im grateful, Zareth said, surprised to find that he meant it. But please get to the point. Gurzas going to be done with my order soon, and I intend to start heading back to the temple as soon as it's done.

Certainly, though what happened at your temple is somewhat related, Mera responded, causing his curiosity to grow. After hearing about the Conclaves actions, it seemed only prudent to begin looking into things like you told us to do. After all, the powers that be certainly wouldnt want TalQamar descending into chaos the instant they left.

Meras speculation was definitely correct. High Command had placed a heavy priority on rooting out any high level [Smugglers] or anyone else who would be able to sneak the Conclave or their agents into TalQamar. Allowing saboteurs to freely enter and exit your city was a bad idea, especially during a war. This meant that any information that Mera could provide might be invaluable.

The reason that I came to meet you is because I recently heard an interesting story from one of the girls from the Veiled Oasis, Mera continued, referring to one of the most popular pleasure houses in TalQamar. Apparently, one of her regulars is a member of the Silk Serpents and is a bit of a braggart. According to him, his gang has managed to find some new backers recently and are planning to get back into their old business soon . Seems a bit suspicious, no?

Zareth couldnt help but agree. Unlike most gangs, the Silk Serpents preferred to involve themselves primarily in selling contraband goods and tended to avoid violence when they could. However, that didnt mean that they were nice. In Zareths opinion, the Silk Serpents were easily one of the most evil and corrosive organizations in TalQamar.

He had personally seen the effect of addictive drugs back on Earth, but they couldnt even begin to compare to what a proper [Alchemist] could make on this one. Zareth had once watched a perfectly mild-mannered woman turn into a merciless monster after drinking too many sleeping potions mixed with Devilroot.

When the city was still ruled by Raqasor, they tended to export most of their most damaging wares to foreign lands, taking advantage of the many [Merchants] that passed through the city. This strategy was effective in keeping the authorities off their backs, but would grow less effective as TalQamar gradually grew more insular.

And you believe that their new backer is the Conclave? Zareth asked. It made sense once he thought about it, given that the Silk Serpents would be the best at sneaking things in and out of the city. That could easily apply to people. Do you have any evidence?

Hard evidence? No, I dont, Mera admitted reluctantly. But things line up far too well to be dismissed. Ive done some investigating on my own, and verified that the Silk Serpents have been flush with coin recently.

Zareth let out a thoughtful hum. Then that sounds like something that High Command should be told. Thank you, Mera. Id give you your payment now, but Im not in the habit of carrying gold on me. Youll need to return with me to the temple if you want it now.

He only hoped that High Command would have the manpower available to properly look into the Silk Serpents. Zareth wanted to do everything that he could to help the military lock down TalQamar and prevent any more [Assassins] from breaking into his temple and stabbing him in the throat.

Zareth spent the next several moments considering his options until he realized that Mera hadnt responded. When he turned to look at her, Mera was showing an uncharacteristic hint of uncertainty.

What is it, Mera? Zareth asked, already having a feeling that he wouldnt like what she was about to say.

Its I know that this is a difficult topic for you, but I wanted to talk about what happened when you left the Phantom Scorpions, Mera began hesitantly.

Zareth didnt bother to hold back his sigh. He should have guessed that it wouldve been something like that. What specifically do you want to talk about?

I understand that you parted with us all on bad terms, especially when it comes to Aldarim, but things have changed, Mera continued, her eyes earnest. When he went to Tharkun and told him about your plans to leave, Aldarim genuinely thought that he was doing the right thing. He didnt really understand what was going to happen.

Intellectually, that was obviously something that Zareth already knew. Mentally speaking, he had been approaching forty years old when he left the Phantom Scorpions while all of his peers were less than half that. Even if his mind was somewhat affected by his young body, he still saw the world in a vastly different way compared to Aldarim, Saless, or Mera.

Despite the fact that Aldarims decision to betray him resulted in Zareth very nearly being beaten to death, a part of him had always forgiven his former friends actions as that of an impulsive child. Aldarim was ultimately a boy who had grown up in the harsh world of the slums, where loyalty to your gang was often the only thing keeping you alive.

But Aldarims decision and what came of it had been the straw that broke the camel's back. It had taught Zareth the true nature of this world and allowed him to leave behind his naivety.

Zareth studied Mera for several moments and decided that there wouldnt be any harm in giving her a clearer explanation.

Theres a lesson that I once heard from an Eldamiri [Merchant], Zareth began, his tone a bit colder than he intended. He told me, Trust, once lost, is like a broken mirror. You may fix it, but the cracks will always show. Im not particularly interested in wasting my time with going back to something that is irreparably damaged. Especially after Ive seen the mistakes that Ive made and finally have the chance to fix them.

A hint of confusion passed through Meras eyes before she responded. Mistake?

Correct, Zareth said with a nod. This was something that hed thought a lot about over the past few years. I made a mistake of priorities. Back then, my only goals were to build myself a good life alongside the people I cared about. I wasnt interested in becoming a famous Adventurer or the richest person in TalQamar. I didnt have any particular ambitions other than to be comfortable.

Zareth had always been like that. Perhaps other people might be passionate about achieving the heights of wealth and power, but he had always found those desires to be far too exhausting. So long as he was safe, well-fed, and had a way to entertain himself, Zareth was satisfied.

At least that used to be the case.

Im sure that you remember exactly where Tarkun took me after Aldarim told him I wanted to leave the gang, Zareth continued, locking his gaze with Mera. He hated that she was looking at him with pity in her eyes. He took me to the busiest street in the Sunrise Slums while he hurt me so that everyone would know that I wasnt to be associated with. That day it made me understand that relying on others and aiming for just a good life isnt enough. Not in this world.

Zareth hadnt allowed himself to turn into some kind of angry revenge-seeking misanthrope, but hed definitely changed. It had taken him some time to reevaluate his values and goals, but he had finally learned the lessons that this world had been trying to teach him since he arrived.

The presence of the System made societies far less forgiving than they were back on Earth. Even the most advanced and successful nations had a weak rule of law, much less a small city-state like TalQamar.

In this world, those who desire to live peacefully need power, Zareth said, his voice resolute. Ive been given an amazing chance to gain Levels and influence far quicker than I ever expected. My cult is far too important for me to waste my time rebuilding relationships with people whove proven that they arent worth the effort.

Zareth didnt miss the disappointment and hurt in Meras eyes, but he didnt waver. The way he saw it, he would have time to worry about his relationships once he ensured he was powerful enough that he didnt need to be afraid of cruel criminals or bloodthirsty [Assassins]. Zareth had fully committed himself to this path the moment he took General Nasriths offer.

I see, Mera finally murmured after a long moment of silence, her expression one of resignation. Im sorry to hear that, but I can tell that youre not going to change your mind. Just the nobles that pass through the Veiled Oasis arent all that much happier than us, Zareth. Levels and power arent everything.

Perhaps, Zareth admitted, knowing that what she said was true. But its a start.

Once it became clear that Zareth wasnt very interested in a reconciliation between him and his old friends, there wasnt much more for the two of them to talk about. Mera promised that she would continue looking into the Silk Serpents and Zareth swore that he would pay her well for her services.

After she was gone, Zareth couldnt help but lean back in his chair and sigh deeply. Hed come to Gurzas Oven to get some bread for the members of his cult, not to be ambushed by Mera and be forced to dwell on the past.

Are you alright, sir? asked Rizok, concern obvious in his expression. That conversation was more tense than expected.

Zareth rubbed his temples to stave off the approaching headache. A part of him was tempted to use [Deaden Nerves] and simply ignore it, but the Grimoire of Cerebon included many warnings against frivolously using that Skill in particular.

Im fine, Rizok. I just hope thats the last time that conversation needs to happen, Zareth said, managing a weary smile. But I can tell that somethings bothering you. What is it?

Nothing, sir. Its just that much of what you said isnt what I expected to hear from you.

Zareth could see why Rizok would get that impression. The lizardkin had been following him around for several months now and had seen him act kind and polite to nearly everyone hed met. Zareth had once even gone out of his way to help Gurza with her charity efforts, but none of that had cost him much of anything.

He considered himself a nice person, but Zareths main priority was growing his cult and achieving a high enough Level so that no [Assassins] or gang leaders could ever threaten him again.

Before he could say as much to Rizok, they were interrupted by Gurza dropping a bag of freshly baked bread onto their table. Here you go, boy. Noticed that you were havin a serious conversation, so I turned down the heat and let it bake a bit longer. Its still warm, so it shouldnt be a problem.

Zareth nodded, a flicker of gratitude in his eyes. Thank you, Gurza. Im sure that the folks at my temple will love it. Oh, and thanks for putting a good word in for me with the slums. Id been worried that people would stop coming to the temple after what happened, but there actually seem to be more converts than before.

Hmph. No need to thank me, Gurza said with a scoff. Most of the brats around here think youre some sort of badass for survivin the [Assassins]. If you thought a few bloodstains were going to scare them away, then youve been out of the slums for too long.

Gurza wasnt wrong about some street kids seeking him out because they thought he sounded cool, but that wasnt the full story. Her endorsement meant a lot when it came to convincing people around here that he had good intentions. Zareth was glad that he had recruited her.

After thanking Gurza again and reminding her that services at his temple would resume in a week, Zareth left the shop and began making his way back to the temple. He made sure to use his headscarf to cover most of his face, wanting to avoid the annoying stares of the pedestrians. Both he and Rizok remained vigilant as they walked through the streets of TalQamar, knowing that High Command hadnt managed to find any trace of the escaping [Assassins].

I really hope that Meras information pans out, Zareth quietly said to his companion. Pretty sure Im going to go crazy if I have to keep looking over my shoulder every time I step outside. Theyll only be freer to move once the military declares war and starts sending troops to the frontline. Any idea on how long we have?

Hed heard whispers that High Command was almost done with their preparations. TalQamar had already been gradually changing since Raqasor was killed and the military took over, but things would likely accelerate significantly once they were actually at war.

Likely within the next moon cycle, sir, Rizok replied as the two of them stepped around a drunken ogre arguing with a guard.

A month. That was how long Zareth had before TalQamar became a city at war for the first time in his life. During that time, he fully intended to prepare himself as much as he could, for everything from [Assassins] to living in a city under siege. After all, who knew what would happen?

Fortunately, the Adventurers that he had hired were expected to return sometime soon with the creatures hed paid them to capture. Depending on their success, Zareth would soon be able to make himself both more difficult to kill and more valuable to High Command. They had been relatively pleased with the augmentations that he offered to their soldiers so far, but he had many ideas that he was eager to try out.

It wasnt long before they reached the temple, filled with Cerebons recent converts helping to rebuild the place. Zareth was glad to see that the atmosphere was light and pleasant, with several people chatting and working together. Many of them greeted him as he entered the temple, and his assistant Tamir started heading in his direction.

Tamir! Im back from the bakery, Zareth said as he handed over the basket of bread to the teenager. Please pass this around to everyone. Theyve all worked really hard and deserve a bit of a treat.

Tamir grinned, his face lighting up. Gotcha, boss. Gurzas bread, eh? Thisll make their day for sure. Oh, before I forget, a couple of Adventurers came by and dropped off those monsters like you said they would. Theyre in cages waitin for you in your office.

Zareth could feel himself grin with excitement. He had been waiting for this for a while and now the time was finally here for him to make proper use of his [Permanent Flesh Manipulation].

Excellent, Tamir, Zareth said eagerly, his voice filled with satisfaction. Ill go check on those now.

It probably would have been better for him to spend time bonding with the new members of his cult, but Zareth couldnt bring himself to wait. As he stepped into his office, Zareth was greeted by the sight of three cages of various sizes sitting by his desk. Each of the cages was covered with a thick cloth to hide their contents and there were no sounds coming from them, so Zareth assumed that the creatures had been forced into long-term alchemical sleep as requested.

Walking over, Zareth carefully lifted the cloth of the first cage, revealing a small sleeping creature that looked like a cross between a rabbit and a porcupine. It had long bushy ears, sand colored fur, and a back covered in thick spikes sharp enough to pierce through most light armors. Best of all, the Quillhare was capable of launching its quills like a barrage of needles, making it a dangerous adversary despite its size.

Zareth admired it for a moment, imagining everything that he could do once he finished studying the launching mechanism that the creature used. The next time an [Assassin] started chasing him around his temple, he wouldnt hesitate to fill them with a bunch of venomous quills from the other side of the room.

Unveiling the next cage, Zareth was greeted to the sight of a rather imposing spider that was the size of a cat. The Qahtani Swarming Silkspider had a carapace that would blend in perfectly with the desert sands, and possessed a paralytic venom that was potent enough to affect anyone with less than 40 Vitality. It could also produce silk strong enough to trap a fully grown man, and that wasnt even the best part.

Zareth turned his attention to the two, jewel-like protuberances on the spiders abdomen, the source of its innate magical abilities. The Qahtani Swarming Silkspider lived in groups and used its ability to control sand to create traps that they used to capture their prey.

All of these abilities would be very useful to him. Its venom was more powerful than any Zareth could currently make and silk was one of the most versatile materials in the world. Hed even heard stories of a noble house in Eldamir that built their fortune by using a special version of [Beast Tamer] to farm the material.

Zareth was also eager to learn if his [Permanent Flesh Manipulation] would allow him to mimic the magical abilities of this world's creatures. The Grimoire of Cerebon had been a bit vague on this issue, so he would have to find out on his own.

As he unveiled the last cage, Zareth turned his eyes to one of the strangest creatures he had ever seen. He distantly heard Rizok hiss in surprise, but Zareth was too focused on the infant Oasis Maw to pay him any attention. Even in the depths of its sleep, the creature seemed to be flickering to his senses as its natural illusionary abilities struggled to hide it from him.

When he could see it, Zareth was greeted by the sight of a fleshy, eldritch creature that looked like a pulsing mass of tentacles with a fanged maw at its center. It was referred to as an Oasis Maw due to its habit of hiding in the sand and tricking travelers into seeing whatever would convince them to get closer.

He didnt know if he could actually make use of the creatures biology, but Zareth was eager to find out.

Is that an Oasis Maw? Has High Command given you permission to handle a System Spawn? Rizok asked, staring at the sleeping abomination with a look of caution.

Of course, so long as it's just an infant, Zareth responded as he continued to study the creature. Its nothing to worry about, Rizok. [Alchemists] study and use System Spawns all of the time without issue. Its only the strong ones that are as scary as people claim.

Nobody really knew where System Spawn came from, but there were certain creatures in this world that were just different. They had abilities and biology that went far beyond what was considered normal, even in a world with magic. They gave off a feeling of being wrong, and were referred to as System Spawn because they only started appearing after the System came into being.

Zareth intended to be extremely careful while he studied the creature, as the Grimoire of Cerebon stated in no unclear terms that handling System Spawns was a dangerous venture.

However, it didnt state that they couldnt be learned from and his curiosity was strong enough that he intended to do so.

Zareth took a step back and admired the three creatures in front of him, his mind already racing with possibilities.

Rizok, help me transfer these things to my home, Zareth said as he began to place the thick cloths back over the cages. It would probably be better if I perform my examinations there. Also, theres something else that Im going to need from you.

And what would that be, sir? Rizok asked, still glancing warily at the cage of the now covered System Spawn.

I need you to teach me how to fight, Zareth said, his voice filled with determination. I intend to use these creatures to make my body as deadly and resilient as possible, but that wont matter unless I learn how to use it. Please teach me.

Rizok seemed a bit taken aback by Zareths request, but didnt hesitate to agree. I see no reason why I should refuse, sir. You being able to defend yourself would be for the best.

Zareth let out a sigh of relief as he picked up the System Spawns cage. Thank you, Rizok. This means a lot to me.

As he began making his way to the door with Rizok carrying the other two cages and following behind him, Zareth swore to himself that he would make full use of this opportunity. Never again would he allow anyone to make him feel helpless while they tried to kill or hurt him.

If the Conclaves [Assassins] attempted to come after him again, Zareth intended to be ready.