Category: This Necromancer Wants to Capture the Hearts of Deceased Beautiful Girls

Chapter 80: Special Resurrection Techniques

“Huh?” Flora blushed. “I wasn’t conscious back then… I didn’t do anything strange, did I? Like biting you?”

“No, I only awakened your subconscious mind, allowing you to follow my instructions,” Abyss explained. “My necromancy is different from traditional methods. It’s modified. Resurrecting you as high-ranking undead—a higher rank than usual—requires two steps. First, I awaken your body, restoring its functions. Then, I recall your soul, allowing you to regain consciousness with your memories and personality intact.”

“Sounds impressive,” Leona said, sitting on Abyss’s bed, her mouth full of roasted goose, looking at him with curiosity. “Wouldn’t it be easier to make us more obedient if you didn’t restore our personalities?”

“Perhaps, but I wouldn’t want that. What’s the point of having mindless followers?” Abyss shrugged. “If your loyalty was forced, I wouldn’t value it.”

Flora understood, but she didn’t say anything. Abyss didn’t just need their loyalty. He craved companionship. If they were merely puppets, he wouldn’t find true happiness.

His decision to preserve their free will stemmed from his confidence. He believed he could earn their loyalty through genuine connection.

And he had succeeded. He had earned Flora and Leona’s trust. Rebecca might need more time, but Flora was confident she would eventually entrust herself to him—although she didn’t want him to actually marry Rebecca.

“Hmph, that’s quite chivalrous of you. I’ll graciously commend you for that,” Leona said, taking another bite of the goose, grease staining her cheek.

“As for what you did when you first awakened…” Abyss said, thinking. “Nothing unusual, actually. You were quite docile. You were just physically weak. I intended to help you walk, but your knees were too stiff, so I carried you out of the tomb.”

He didn’t realize that this act of kindness was the reason Haina was so terrified of him—what normal girl wouldn’t be scared of a man who seemed to have a peculiar fondness for corpses?

“You carried Flora?!” Leona exclaimed, then remembered that Abyss had done something even more “inappropriate” to her—he had lain on top of her when she first awakened. She blushed and fell silent.

Flora, her cheeks slightly pink, smiled gently at Abyss. “I understand. They’ll be here tonight, right? Are you planning to clear up the misunderstanding?”

“Yes, it’s time to address this,” Abyss said, nodding. He retrieved a paper bag filled with pastries from his magical catfish and handed it to Flora. “This Haina and Captain Alva are loyal and courageous. I admire that. Share these pastries with Rebecca later. We should meet with them tonight.”

Flora sniffed the sweet aroma emanating from the bag, realizing it contained pastries. She had thought she was the only one who had noticed Rebecca’s fondness for sweets. It seemed Abyss had noticed as well.

She smiled wryly. Abyss was a walking contradiction. He could be incredibly oblivious to emotions, yet surprisingly attentive to details, his kindness genuine.

If he could overcome his emotional obliviousness, combined with his calm and collected demeanor, he would be irresistible to any girl. Like Leona’s ancestor, Star, a notorious womanizer, who had become an idol for the Western Empire’s playboys.

…

“Rebecca, I brought you some pastries from Abyss!” Flora said, entering Rebecca’s room, holding the paper bag.

Rebecca hadn’t closed her door. She was sitting at a table by the window, studying a manuscript. She looked up, her eyes lighting up as she saw Flora.

“Thank you!” she exclaimed, setting aside the manuscript and taking a frosted cupcake from the bag, taking a bite. “How did you know I love sweets?”

“You revealed your preference during our meals in Lavoisier City,” Flora said, smiling, placing the bag on the table. “Your expression changed whenever you ate something sweet, as if it brought you pure joy. I remembered—but these pastries are from Abyss. He noticed too.”

“Really? That’s so sweet!” Rebecca said, her eyes sparkling with delight, as she held the cupcake in both hands. “I wish Abyss was always this thoughtful!”

“If he were always this thoughtful, he wouldn’t be Abyss,” Flora said, chuckling, glancing towards his room. “He’s strangely oblivious in some ways.”

“Heehee, you’re right!” Rebecca giggled, nodding in agreement. She picked up the manuscript, smoothing it out, continuing to read while enjoying her pastries.

“What are you working on?” Flora asked, curious about the great inventor’s current project.

“I’m analyzing that ancient potion formula from the Alchemy Club. I’ve removed a few unnecessary ingredients and I’m planning to modify it. I have a very, very bold idea for this potion,” Rebecca said, looking up at Flora. Her multitasking abilities were impressive.

“The potion that can store Divine Grace?” Flora asked, glancing at the manuscript, its contents beyond her understanding. “Is there anything I can do to help?”

“Oh, not really. Research is a solitary pursuit… Wait, I do need your help with something.”

“Hmm? What is it?”

“I need your underwear.”

“Hmm… Excuse me?”

Chapter 79: The Restoration Army’s Guesthouse

Rebecca’s fatigue-eliminating potions, now transported to Givia’s headquarters with the help of her soldiers, provided Givia with a month’s supply.

Back at her post, Givia immediately immersed herself in work, poring over the reports from her guerrilla units, not even bothering to change her travel clothes.

After advising Givia not to overwork herself, especially after consuming the potion, lest she risk a mental breakdown from accumulated stress, Abyss and his companions left the headquarters. There wasn’t much to see there. It was a humble space, furnished only with essential equipment and a small room containing a simple bed and a table, left behind by the house’s previous owner. The table was bare, suggesting Givia didn’t snack while working.

A young female soldier escorted them to the guesthouse designated for distinguished guests. It was likely another donated property, formerly a private residence. Compared to the headquarters, its location wasn’t as central, but it was far more comfortable. It was a two-story house with multiple rooms, fully furnished, although lacking servants. A few soldiers stood guard outside. The guesthouse seemed empty. Despite preparing these accommodations, the Restoration Army hadn’t had many visitors.

“We apologize for the guesthouse’s humble appearance,” the young soldier said, her Common Tongue heavily accented with Ossi. Her sun-kissed skin suggested she served as Givia’s personal guard. “You may rest here or explore the town freely. We’re currently short-staffed, so you’ll have to dine at the town’s restaurants. However, the princess has instructed us to cover all your expenses. If you have any requests, please inform the guards outside. They’ll assist you.”

The two guards standing at the entrance snapped to attention, their boots stamping the ground in unison.

“Please convey our gratitude to the princess,” Abyss said, nodding at the young soldier. “We’ll be staying here for a few days. If the princess needs anything, she can find us here. We’re currently devising a plan to take the offensive against the enemy. If we have any ideas, we’ll visit her at headquarters.”

“Understood!” the soldier said, saluting smartly.

Leona watched the soldier with admiration. Although she had grown up surrounded by luxury, her knightly spirit resonated with this display of discipline and efficiency. Shodo Town, despite its small size, was the heart of the Restoration Army. Soldiers, assisting the citizens, were everywhere. The military camp outside the town, its rhythmic training cries echoing through the streets, filled her with a sense of purpose.

After the soldier left, they chose their rooms. Leona, naturally, shared a room with Flora. They had become close friends, Leona enjoying the comfort of Flora’s embrace. If she were still alive, she might be the type who couldn’t sleep without Flora by her side.

Rebecca didn’t request to share a room with Abyss. She chose a room further inside the house, explaining that she would set up her portable alchemy equipment there. Alchemy was her life’s passion, and now that they had a stable base, she wanted to rebuild her laboratory, a space filled with the comforting aroma of herbs and potions.

Abyss chose a dimly lit room. Although he didn’t dislike sunlight, he preferred darker environments. And here, he could discreetly summon his undead servants without being observed, eliminating the need to constantly erase people’s memories.

After settling in, the three girls changed their travel clothes. Abyss wasn’t concerned about his ability to produce items from thin air being discovered. He had done it several times during their journey, and no one had questioned him. Givia seemed unconcerned, even casually consuming Rebecca’s potions, brewed with ingredients seemingly conjured from thin air. After all, powerful mages often possessed unusual abilities. They simply assumed it was one of Abyss’s talents.

But producing items from thin air was an extraordinary feat. Spatial magic was still underdeveloped on this continent, considered a useless field. Yet Abyss could store and retrieve objects effortlessly. People’s indifference was simply due to their lack of understanding of spatial magic. They didn’t realize how remarkable his ability was.

“ABC! Give me something delicious! I’m hungry!”

Abyss had just settled down in his room, reading Star’s notes on Outer Gods, when Leona, dressed in a pretty new dress, burst in, her voice loud and demanding, like a hungry cat.

“Oh, alright,” Abyss said, summoning his magical catfish and retrieving a roasted goose from its belly. Thanks to the time-freezing effect within the catfish’s stomach, the goose was still warm and fragrant. He tossed it to Leona, who beamed at the sight of the delicious food, then noticed Flora standing behind her.

“Flora, are you hungry too?” he asked. “Where’s Rebecca? Didn’t she come with you?”

“Rebecca said she has some new ideas she wants to try. She’s conducting experiments in her room. I’ll bring her some food later,” Flora said, entering the room and standing beside Abyss. “I wanted to ask you about something. The young soldier who escorted us here seemed frightened when she saw me. Do you know why?”

“Oh, you mean Haina?” Abyss chuckled. “Of course I know. I carried you out of your coffin right in front of her and Alva. That poor girl must be filled with questions.”

Chapter 78: The Captain and Haina

“Hmm? Haina, what’s wrong?” Givia asked, tilting her head with a friendly smile. “You seem to want to say something.”

“She’s just shy, Your Highness. She probably wasn’t expecting so many strangers,” Alva said, her hand still covering Haina’s mouth. The mature woman, around thirty years old, her demeanor confident and capable, looked at Givia with a slightly embarrassed expression, then glanced at Flora and Abyss, her eyes filled with a mixture of surprise and suspicion. “We just arrived from the camp. Are these distinguished guests you brought back with you, Your Highness?”

“Yes, they played a crucial role in my successful acquisition of the potions. They are our allies,” Givia explained, unaware of the underlying tension. “This is Abyss, the mage, Leona, the knight, Flora, the healer, and Ray, the alchemist.”

She then turned to Abyss and his companions, introducing the newcomers. “This is Alva, Captain of my Royal Guard, and Haina, also a member of my guard. When I was plagued by nightmares, they risked their lives to steal an artifact from the Church’s sacred tomb—Saint Flora’s pendant. Oh, it shares your name, Flora. I believe it means ‘flower.’ It’s a beautiful, poetic name favored by the Western Empire. Thanks to that pendant, I could finally get an hour of sleep each night. I was on the verge of giving up…”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you,” Abyss said, bowing politely, his voice calm.

He, of course, remembered them. They had been present when he opened Flora’s coffin. He still remembered the look of fear and confusion in Haina’s eyes. It had been quite amusing.

After stealing Flora’s body from the Church’s territory, he hadn’t seen any wanted posters with his face on them. This meant that Alva and Haina had kept their promise, not revealing his appearance. And the Church wouldn’t publicly announce the theft of a Saint’s body—it was too embarrassing. They could only conduct their search discreetly.

And thanks to Abyss’s dramatic entrance, smashing the tomb’s entrance, the Church’s attention hadn’t been focused on Alva and Haina. They had successfully returned, delivering the Fountain’s Draw to Givia.

Abyss had considered resurrecting their fallen comrades, but he had abandoned the idea, anticipating potential complications in their future interactions. Instead, he had soothed their souls, ensuring their peaceful rest.

“I’m glad you returned safely, Your Highness,” Alva said, saluting Givia. She wasn’t carrying a weapon, so she tapped her fist against her chest.

“Me too! I’m so relieved you’re alright, Your Highness!” Haina exclaimed, suppressing her confusion and nervousness, curtseying before Givia.

“Thank you for welcoming me. Alva, how are your injuries?” Givia asked, her voice filled with concern.

“I’m recovering well, Your Highness. My internal injuries were severe. The medic said it might take a few months for a full recovery, but I can walk and talk normally now. I’m currently training new recruits at the camp. At least I’m not completely useless,” Alva said with a smile.

“Good, I’m glad to hear that… If there’s an opportunity, I’ll take you to a Church healer. They might be able to prevent any long-term complications.”

“That’s not necessary, Your Highness. I appreciate your concern, but I can recover on my own. The Church’s healers are expensive. I wouldn’t want to waste the Restoration Army’s funds on such things,” Alva said, shaking her head, declining Givia’s offer. “You always say we should save our resources for more important matters, right?”

“Thank you for your dedication, Alva. You’re a loyal warrior. I’m fortunate to have you by my side,” Givia said, her voice filled with gratitude. She gently placed a hand on Alva’s shoulder, careful not to aggravate her injuries.

Alva smiled, her expression reassuring. Leona, observing their interaction, knew that the Captain of the Royal Guard would be close to the princess, willing to risk her life for her. It was a common dynamic—although Leona hadn’t been close to her own Captain of the Guard. With her strength, she hadn’t needed protection.

“And Haina? Has your magic improved?” Givia asked, turning to Haina, her voice gentle.

Haina nodded eagerly. “Yes, Your Highness! I’m a fifth-tier, second-grade mage now! I’ve advanced one grade! Soon, I’ll be strong enough to protect you!”

“You’re already strong enough, but I want you to become even stronger, so you can protect yourself as well,” Givia said, taking Haina’s hand. “You’re the youngest member of my Royal Guard, and the only survivor besides Alva. I want you to grow strong and become a valuable asset to our kingdom.”

Alva’s expression turned somber. “It’s my fault. I led the Royal Guard and a few other soldiers to raid the Church’s tomb without your permission, and… Your Highness, when will you announce my punishment? I’m consumed by guilt.”

“You’ll be punished, but not until you’ve fully recovered,” Givia said, sighing. “Your actions were reckless, but the Church’s defenses were too strong for you to overcome. You’re not entirely to blame—and the Fountain’s Draw you retrieved saved my life. Without your sacrifice, I might have succumbed to madness, or even taken my own life.”

“Thank you, Your Highness,” Alva said, bowing her head respectfully. “I accept any punishment you deem appropriate.”

Haina, flustered, also bowed. As she looked up, she saw Abyss, hidden from Givia’s view, beckoning her with a finger.

Although she was scared, she cautiously approached him.

The faint scent of sandalwood emanated from him, and he whispered, “Come to my room tonight. It’s important.”

“Eek!” Haina nearly burst into tears.

Chapter 77: Humble Headquarters

Besides the crowd that had rushed out to greet Givia, many other townspeople lined the streets, respectfully making way for her procession. Santos, Abyss, and the girls followed closely behind, along with the guards who hadn’t been assigned to unloading duties.

Leona, experiencing such a grand welcome for the first time, couldn’t help but feel a twinge of envy. She was a far more powerful warrior than Givia, yet she had never received such enthusiastic adoration from the people.

“Thank you for your warm welcome. I must return to my duties now. Please, everyone, return to your work! Until we reclaim our kingdom, the future of Ossi depends on our collective efforts!” Givia said, waving to the crowd, urging them to disperse. Although they were reluctant to leave, her words carried weight, and they gradually returned to their daily routines.

Givia led them through the town, stopping before a modest house. Shodo Town wasn’t large, its population only a few thousand. The house seemed almost humble, less luxurious than even a moderately wealthy home in Lavoisier City. Its low walls enclosed a small, two-story building, its only remarkable feature being the well-tended garden, lush and vibrant. Two wooden watchtowers stood within the courtyard, the soldiers atop them saluting Givia with the formal Ossi military salute—striking their chests with their weapons.

“This is my headquarters. I receive reports from our guerrilla units here,” Givia explained, leading them through the gate. “We haven’t engaged in any major battles yet, mostly harassing their forces, avoiding unnecessary bloodshed. Although the Ossi army now serves Prince Kevin, they can still be swayed. I believe they will eventually abandon his cause and join us, fighting for the future of Ossi.”

“What’s the current state of public opinion in Ossi?” Abyss asked.

“Most people support the Restoration Army. Once we defeat Kevin’s forces, reclaiming our cities will be easy. The people will open their gates for us,” Givia said, smiling. “We Ossi people are resilient. We never surrender. Few support the treaty Kevin signed. Only the wealthy, fearing the loss of their possessions in the chaos of war, have sided with him.”

“What are your plans after reclaiming the kingdom?” Rebecca asked, curious about the Restoration Army’s agenda.

“We won’t recognize the treaty Kevin signed. We’ll reclaim Oakning, then seek the Eastern Empire’s support. They wouldn’t want the Western Empire to gain control of this territory. Oakning has several valuable mineral deposits. If they fall into the Western Empire’s hands, it would significantly strengthen them,” Givia explained. “This information comes from my intelligence network in the Eastern Empire. They’re definitely interested in Oakning.”

“Hmm, with the Eastern Empire’s support, the Western Empire wouldn’t dare attack. And with the local population’s resistance, they’ll have a difficult time controlling this territory,” Rebecca said, nodding in approval. “It seems the Restoration Army’s victory is inevitable.”

She wasn’t just being polite. With their help, Givia’s victory was practically guaranteed. And it aligned perfectly with Abyss’s goal of confronting the Lord of Nightmares.

“Ha, that spineless Beos,” Leona scoffed. “If you secure the Eastern Empire’s support, he won’t dare attack. He can’t even control his own daughter.”

As Beos’s half-sister, Leona was qualified to make such a judgment. Beos had always been controlled by his mother, never developing any independence. If Princess Helen actively sought power, Beos would be a mere puppet emperor. And Helen, who cared about her people, would never approve of this unjust war. The Western Empire had ample opportunities for growth. They didn’t need to conquer Ossi.

“I hope the people won’t suffer the ravages of war. A peaceful resolution is always preferable,” Flora said, agreeing with Givia’s plan.

As they followed Givia further into the courtyard, they realized how small the house was. When she opened the door, they were surprised—it was just an ordinary house, stripped of its furniture.

“This is where you command your army? Isn’t it a bit… small?” Leona asked, looking around, her voice filled with disbelief.

“It’s conveniently located, and the environment is pleasant. A local gentleman donated it to us,” Givia explained apologetically. “It is small, but it’s sufficient for my needs. I’ll arrange separate accommodations for you. I wouldn’t want you to stay here with me. It would be too impolite.”

“You live here?” Leona asked, surprised.

“I don’t require luxury. I just need a place to rest my weary body,” Givia said, shaking her head. “Besides, before you arrived, I was tormented by nightmares. Even the softest bed couldn’t provide me with restful sleep. I might as well stay at headquarters, so I can receive reports from our soldiers quickly. Santos, please organize the reports that have accumulated during my absence. I’ll read them shortly.”

“Yes, Your Highness,” Santos replied, heading inside to fulfill her request.

“Would you like to rest, or would you prefer to explore the town? My men can escort you. We have accommodations for distinguished guests. They’re not luxurious, but they’re comfortable…”

“Your Highness, Alva requests an audience,” a soldier announced, entering the room.

“Alva’s here? Bring her in!” Givia exclaimed, her voice filled with joy. “It seems she has recovered from her injuries.”

The soldier left to relay the message. Soon, two pairs of footsteps approached, and two figures entered the room.

Flora, standing at the back of the group, turned to face the newcomers, her eyes meeting those of a young woman in a blue mage robe.

“Shhh…” the young woman started to say something, but her companion quickly covered her mouth.

Chapter 76: A Hero’s Welcome

As Givia approached, the cheering crowd suddenly fell silent, then knelt as one, their heads bowed low, as if in reverence.

Soldiers, officers, and civilians alike, all prostrated themselves, chanting “Long live the princess!”

A middle-aged man in ornate armor rushed towards them, his speed belying his age. Upon seeing Givia, he accelerated, then dropped to his knees before her.

“Governor of Shodo Town, Duane Dobler, greets Her Highness! I apologize for my late arrival! I deserve death!”

“Rise, all of you. Look at me,” Givia commanded, her voice ringing with authority, as she sat astride her horse. “You are the proud people of Ossi. I want to see your heads held high!”

Without hesitation, they obeyed, rising to their feet, dusting off their knees, and looking at their beloved leader with renewed vigor.

“Good! I see the spirit of Ossi burning brightly within you!” Givia said, her voice loud and clear. “I have three announcements! First, and most importantly, I have successfully acquired a large quantity of military-grade potions from the Eastern Empire. Every bottle has been tested and verified. With these potions, our brave soldiers will be unstoppable, striking fear into the hearts of Kevin’s dogs! More of our countrymen will abandon his treacherous cause and join our ranks! With these potions, more of our wounded will survive, receiving the treatment they deserve!”

The crowd roared with approval, the soldiers at the gate especially enthusiastic. These potions meant the difference between life and death, victory and defeat. With a sufficient supply of high-quality Eastern Empire potions, they would have a significant advantage in battle! Even Kevin’s army lacked such potent potions. The best alchemical formulas were all in the hands of the Eastern Empire.

“And I have finally overcome the nightmares that have plagued me for years! That monstrous creature hasn’t appeared in my dreams for two days!” Givia announced, her voice ringing with triumph. “Free from these nightmares, I can now focus all my energy on leading our victorious army! We will reclaim Ossi from that traitor Kevin!”

The crowd cheered even louder. They noticed the absence of the usual fatigue and stress on Givia’s face. She looked radiant, her eyes shining with renewed vigor. Her very presence seemed to inspire courage.

“Victory for the Restoration Army!” someone shouted.

“Victory for the Restoration Army! Victory! Victory!” the crowd chanted, their voices echoing through the streets. Abyss had been right. Givia was the embodiment of their hopes and dreams. Her victory had rekindled their fighting spirit. The Ossi people, already known for their bravery, now united under their resilient leader, their collective strength formidable, even Flora was impressed.

“Duane!” Givia called out, her voice commanding.

“Your servant!” the governor replied.

“Have the soldiers transport all the potions from my caravan to the city’s warehouse! And post heavy guards! There can be no mistakes!”

“Yes, Your Highness!” the governor replied, immediately issuing orders. He was clearly a capable leader, his commands efficient and precise. The officers, under his direction, organized the soldiers, who, with the assistance of the caravan guards, began unloading the potions.

“And finally, the third announcement. I must introduce you to four heroes! I encountered these powerful individuals during my journey to the Eastern Empire. They share our goal of defeating Kevin! Without them, I wouldn’t have returned safely. They are our friends, our saviors!” Givia said, gesturing towards Abyss and his companions.

“Eh? We’re making a public appearance?” Rebecca asked, surprised. “I thought we would discreetly enter the town with Givia and find a place to stay.”

“Of course we’re making an appearance. Givia wouldn’t just let us slip in unnoticed. She’s planning to record our deeds in her kingdom’s history books. She can’t hide us now,” Abyss said with a smile. “What’s wrong? Are you shy?”

“Shy? I used to sell adult novelties in public,” Rebecca said, waving her hand dismissively. “I just didn’t expect such a grand welcome from Givia.”

“Finally, a chance to show off!” Leona exclaimed, standing up in the carriage, eager to hear Givia announce her name.

“Wait a moment…” Flora, also surprised by the public introduction, adjusted her clothes, smoothing out the wrinkles from where Leona had been leaning against her. She then carefully combed her long, golden hair, which, thankfully, remained smooth and shiny.

“Mr. Abyss, a powerful and righteous mage, capable of single-handedly defeating an army!”

Abyss jumped out of the carriage, hearing Givia’s introduction, and the crowd roared with approval.

“Miss Leona! A glorious knight, brave and strong, no enemy can withstand her might!”

Leona, unable to contain her excitement any longer, jumped out of the carriage, trying to appear mature and composed. The crowd, momentarily surprised by her small stature, then erupted in cheers.

“Miss Flora! A kind and powerful healer mage! She saved the lives of several of my guards!”

Flora stepped out of the carriage, Leona chivalrously offering her a hand. The crowd, awestruck by her beauty and her graceful demeanor, cheered even louder.

“Miss Ray! A brilliant alchemist! She helped me dispel the nightmares and protected our precious potions!”

Rebecca finally emerged, curtseying politely. The crowd responded with enthusiastic applause.

“Everyone! Let’s enter the city! I can’t wait to plan our counterattack against Kevin!” Givia exclaimed, jumping off her horse, gesturing for Abyss and his companions to follow.

Abyss smiled, his voice low, as he addressed the girls beside him. “Yes, I’m also eager to take the offensive. I’m not fond of being on the defensive.”

Chapter 75: The Leader’s Return

The Restoration Army’s base was located within the Western Empire, in a region called Oakning, formerly Ossi territory. Its inhabitants were all Ossi natives.

After the Western Empire annexed Oakning, seizing its towns and villages, they hadn’t truly established control, merely claiming the territory on paper. The locals refused to speak the Western Empire’s Common Tongue, clinging to their Ossi language. The appointed governor couldn’t govern these resentful people. Even executing a few instigators hadn’t quelled their resistance, nearly sparking a full-scale rebellion. The governor had been recalled, fleeing this unruly land in disgrace.

Knowing the Ossi people’s fierce independence and fearing that further suppression would only worsen the situation, turning peaceful citizens into bandits and disrupting trade, the Western Empire abandoned its iron-fisted approach and adopted a more gradual assimilation strategy. They encouraged trade and cultural exchange, offering tax exemptions to Oakning’s residents for thirty years and appointing locals to official positions. This appeased the population somewhat, and they began paying a small, albeit insufficient, amount of taxes.

However, they still refused to obey the Western Empire’s direct commands, and banditry remained rampant in the area. Emperor Beos of the Western Empire even regretted listening to his mother’s advice and invading Ossi in the first place.

This defiant land became the Restoration Army’s base. The Western Empire was unwilling to exert direct control, and the Ossi army, bound by the treaty signed by Kevin, couldn’t enter their lost territory. Thus, Oakning became Givia’s sanctuary, its inhabitants welcoming their compassionate and courageous princess. Every day, young men and women flocked to the Restoration Army’s camp, eager to join her cause.

The morning sun shone warmly on the bustling streets of Shodo Town, Oakning’s harsh winter finally over. Blacksmiths, leatherworkers, bakers, and butchers worked tirelessly, producing supplies for the Restoration Army. The citizens, having secured their own necessities, also contributed to the war effort, men offering their labor, women their skills. Even the children, boys and girls alike, played war games with wooden swords, their movements mimicking those of seasoned warriors.

From the military camp outside the town, the soldiers’ training cries echoed through the streets. Many families had sons and daughters in the army, their hearts filled with pride and concern.

Shodo Town, now the Restoration Army’s base, had been transformed into a fortress, heavily guarded by patrolling soldiers.

A lone rider appeared in the distance, catching the attention of the guards at the east gate.

“Archers, prepare!” the commanding officer shouted, his gaze fixed on the approaching figure, ordering the archers to defend the town.

As the clatter of hooves grew louder, the officer saw that the rider was dressed as a mercenary. He was alone, and a sense of anticipation, a flicker of hope, filled the officer’s heart.

“Brothers and sisters of the Restoration Army! Prepare to welcome Princess Givia’s caravan! We’re back! We’re back!” the rider shouted, his voice carrying through the air, speaking in fluent Ossi.

His horse, its mouth foaming, hadn’t even stopped when he jumped off, landing with a slight stumble before regaining his balance. He quickly pulled out a silver badge, hanging from a red cord, and waved it at the guards.

The commanding officer recognized the badge instantly. It was the symbol of the guards who had escorted the princess to the Eastern Empire!

“The princess has returned! Inform the governor!” he shouted, his voice filled with joy, ordering a young messenger. “Make sure everyone knows! Spread the word!”

As the boy ran through the streets, shouting the news, the entire town erupted in celebration. The governor’s orders arrived swiftly: open the gates, assemble all off-duty soldiers, and welcome the princess at the east gate. Even the governor himself was on his way.

The guards and soldiers lined up at the gate, a large crowd of excited citizens gathering behind them, eagerly awaiting the princess’s return.

Soon, several carriages appeared, cresting a hill in the distance.

It was the princess’s caravan, disguised as merchants! They had returned!

The crowd cheered, singing songs of praise, celebrating her safe return. The soldiers, despite their discipline, couldn’t contain their excitement, their faces beaming.

As the caravan drew closer, they could see the faces of the riders. The cheers grew louder, the crowd’s waving hands like waves in the ocean, their joy overflowing.

“Princess Givia! Princess Givia! Princess Givia!”

As the crowd chanted, the door of one of the carriages opened, and an agile figure leaped onto a waiting horse, appearing before them, waving regally.

“It’s the princess! She’s back!” the crowd roared, recognizing their beloved leader. They surged forward, craning their necks to catch a glimpse of her. Some parents lifted their children onto their shoulders.

“People of Ossi! I have returned! I have brought the potions!” Givia announced, her voice clear and strong, proclaiming her victory. “The traitor Kevin tried to stop me, to defeat me! But he failed! I have returned unharmed, and the potions have arrived safely!”

“Long live Princess Givia! Long live the princess!”

Inside the carriage, Abyss and his companions could hear the deafening cheers. Even Flora, accustomed to large crowds, was moved. “Princess Givia is truly loved by her people… Even during my sermons, the crowds were never this enthusiastic. This is what a true leader looks like.”

“She is the hope of the Ossi people. She embodies their strength,” Abyss said, closing his eyes, listening to the cheers and the songs, a smile on his face.

Chapter 74: “No One Would Have Guessed”

In a secret basement chamber within the Ossi Kingdom’s palace, the scene of the old Dream Seer’s demise, now meticulously cleaned, held a new occupant. A thin, dark-skinned boy lay on the bed, his eyes wide and unseeing, his pupils dilated, his mouth agape in a silent scream, as if witnessing unspeakable horrors. He was dead, his life taken without warning.

Apos, his slender frame casting a long shadow in the dim light, sat nearby, a triumphant smile on his face, unfazed by the gruesome sight.

“It seems I’ve outmaneuvered them,” he muttered to himself. “No one would have guessed that my attack would unfold in two seemingly unrelated stages. You might have killed my Shadowlings, but you couldn’t stop my plan… I might have lost with the diversion, but this Trojan Horse strategy will surely surprise you… Abyss… I hope you enjoy my little gift…”

As Apos reveled in his victory, the basement door suddenly opened.

Without hesitation, he rose from his chair and knelt before the entrance. “Your Majesty, you’ve arrived.”

Only Apos, the Dream Seer, and Kevin had access to this basement. With the Dream Seer dead, the newcomer could only be Kevin.

The imposing figure of King Kevin entered, his expression cold and severe. He glanced at the dead Dream Seer, then looked down at the kneeling Apos.

“It seems the Dream Seer has fallen victim to your scheme. Did his death yield any valuable results?”

Apos looked up, his pale face creased with a smile. “Your Majesty, the enemy mage, Abyss, might be powerful, but my tactics caught him off guard. I sent two illusionist Shadowlings to incapacitate two members of their caravan, then sacrificed the Dream Seer to Master, gaining the power to possess those unconscious individuals, placing them inside their cargo wagons…”

“I’m not interested in the process. Just the results,” Kevin interrupted, his voice impatient, not even glancing at Apos. He walked to the bed and sat down, the corpse behind him seemingly forgotten.

“…Yes, Your Majesty. I controlled the two guards and destroyed three of their wagons, likely shattering half of their potions. They didn’t have a large quantity to begin with, so they must be desperate now. Those meager potions won’t be enough for their rebel army. They won’t be able to challenge us for a long time.”

“Hmm, that’s acceptable,” Kevin said, his voice finally showing a hint of approval. But then his tone shifted. “But you didn’t destroy all the potions. Are your abilities so limited?”

“Abyss’s power is unfathomable. He froze the two men I controlled, sealing their magic, preventing me from controlling them any further. And then, they used some kind of high-level power, likely Divine Arts, to sever my connection to them,” Apos said, his voice laced with a hint of disappointment. He hadn’t expected to be reprimanded. “My abilities are indeed limited. The enemy is too powerful.”

“Then so be it. Weakening their forces is enough to please me,” Kevin said, looking down at the kneeling Apos with disdain. “If what you say is true, the Restoration Army has suffered a heavy loss. I can enjoy a few days of peace now.”

“Are you satisfied with the maids I selected for you, Your Majesty?” Apos asked, trying to ingratiate himself.

“They’re acceptable. Their experiences in war have instilled deep fears within them. Master seemed displeased recently, but he praised my efforts,” Kevin said, his voice slightly warmer when mentioning “Master.” “One of Master’s important sources of sustenance seems to have been disrupted, but he didn’t tell me the details.”

“Perhaps it’s something Princess Givia is responsible for,” Apos said, pondering.

“Before coming here, I killed one of the new maids you selected. She was beautiful. If I were an ordinary king, I might have been attracted to her, but she was too kind, too attentive. I suspected she was trying to manipulate me, make me fall in love with her. So I executed her. Don’t bring me any more scheming—or overly kind—women. I don’t want to dirty my hands again,” Kevin said.

“Understood, Your Majesty,” Apos replied immediately.

He knew the King had no interest in women or wealth. His only pleasure seemed to be serving his Master.

“I’ll leave now and arrange for a new Dream Seer. Although Givia is returning to her base, and we can no longer monitor her freely, I need a Dream Seer available when I require one.”

“Of course, Your Majesty,” Apos said, bowing his head.

…

Givia’s caravan was moving quickly, their horses well-fed and rested. The rough terrain made the journey uncomfortable, but Givia’s smile remained bright.

“Kevin must think he has the upper hand. To prevent them from spying on us through our dreams, as Abyss suggested, we won’t sleep tonight. We should reach our base tomorrow morning. We can rest then,” Givia said, taking Rebecca’s hand. “Thanks to you, we’ve achieved a great victory!”

“You’re too kind, Your Highness. I only did what I could,” Rebecca said, smiling. “No one would have guessed that after I added those ingredients, the potions would remain intact, even without their bottles.”

Leona held what appeared to be a potion bottle—but upon closer inspection, it was a solid block of solidified potion, shaped like a bottle. The original glass container had shattered.

“By adding those ingredients, you turned the potions into unbreakable solids. Even if the bottles break, the potions remain intact, and we can restore them to their liquid form with another potion… You’re truly remarkable! This invention could revolutionize alchemy. It’s as brilliant as a Gray Elf’s heart,” Abyss said, praising her.

“Thanks to you, we’ve safely transported all the potions to our base. This will be a great boon to our army!” Givia said, her voice filled with determination.

Chapter 73: A Heavy Loss?

The caravan rolled steadily onward, the rhythmic creaking of axles and the clatter of hooves filling the air. The recent skirmish with the mercenaries hadn’t caused any significant setbacks. Givia, reassured by Abyss’s explanation that the two unconscious guards would recover fully after some rest, felt a sense of relief. Aside from a minor bruise suffered by the guard who had fallen from his horse, the caravan had emerged unscathed.

“If we make haste, we should reach the Restoration Army’s base soon,” Givia said, her voice cheerful, as she lifted the carriage curtain and pointed towards the road ahead. “The scenery is becoming familiar. Our comrades await us. Soon, these potions will be in their hands.”

Her face radiated excitement, her beauty enhanced by the sunlight streaming through the window.

Leona, sitting beside her, couldn’t help but admire Givia’s profile. Her beauty wasn’t the conventional kind, not the elegance of a noblewoman, the charm of a young lady, or the allure of a courtesan. It was the unique charisma of a leader, a warmth and strength that inspired trust and confidence.

Unlike Emperor Camper of the Eastern Empire, whose intelligence and dominance commanded obedience, Givia’s power stemmed from her empathy, her courage, and her keen understanding of human nature. Her gentle approach was more suited to a smaller kingdom like Ossi. She shared some similarities with Princess Helen, but she was more grounded, more attuned to the struggles of ordinary people, a quality honed through years of hardship and exile.

“Wait… I sense magical fluctuations from that wagon…”

Abyss’s soft voice interrupted Leona’s thoughts, pulling her back to reality.

Everyone in the carriage tensed.

A loud bang suddenly erupted from one of the cargo wagons.

Boom!

The powerful shockwave startled the horses, already on edge from the constant threat of ambushes. The guards struggled to calm them.

“Impact!” Abyss exclaimed, recognizing the spell. He jumped out of the carriage, his gaze fixed on the source of the magical fluctuation—the wagon that had been carrying the two unconscious guards. It was now in splinters. Two figures emerged from the wreckage.

Abyss raised his hand, about to suppress their mana, when one of them spoke.

“These two are under our control now. Are you sure you want to suppress their magic? I’m warning you, if they attempt to use magic while suppressed, their blood vessels will rupture, and they’ll die.”

Abyss narrowed his eyes, observing the two men, their bodies now puppets of an unknown enemy.

So the illusionists were just the first stage of their attack! Their true goal wasn’t to incapacitate the caravan’s defenses, but to infiltrate their ranks, taking control of their minds while they were unconscious! This was a new tactic employed by the Lord of Nightmares, something Abyss hadn’t encountered before. He could control mortals through their dreams!

Boom! Boom!

The two controlled guards, without hesitation, attacked the other cargo wagons.

The raw concussive force of the Impact spell, accompanied by a low, rumbling sound, shattered two more wagons. The sound of shattering glass echoed from within—the potion bottles had broken!

“No! The potions!” Santos exclaimed, his face pale with horror. Three wagons filled with potions! Almost half of their haul from the Eastern Empire!

Abyss didn’t hesitate this time. He chanted a spell, a powerful wave of mana enveloping the two controlled guards, disrupting their magic.

As the unseen controller had warned, their skin turned crimson, their capillaries rupturing from the strain of forced magic.

“Freeze!”

Abyss instantly encased them in ice, halting their movements and their spellcasting, protecting them from further harm.

“I’ll heal them!” Flora exclaimed, rushing out of the carriage. She would use her Divine Arts to free them from the enemy’s control and heal their injuries, concealing her methods from the others.

But the potions in the three wagons were destroyed. The force of the Impact spell had even shattered the wagons’ wheels, sending splinters of wood flying through the air. No potion bottle could survive such an impact.

“Damn it!” Santos cursed. “That treacherous Kevin!”

The other guards were devastated. They had risked their lives, lost several comrades, and endured countless hardships to acquire these potions from the Eastern Empire. And now, half of them were gone.

“It seems I underestimated the enemy’s cunning. I didn’t anticipate this,” Abyss said, stroking his chin, his voice filled with regret.

“The potion bottles are broken?” Rebecca asked, leaning out of the carriage window, observing the wreckage. “That’s a ruthless tactic. Forcing those two to use magic beyond their capabilities must have put a tremendous strain on their bodies. Thankfully, we have Flora.”

Flora, crouching beside the two guards, nodded at Abyss, signaling that she had freed them from the enemy’s control. High-ranking Divine Arts were incredibly useful in such situations.

“Your Highness! I failed to protect the potions. I deserve death!” Santos exclaimed, kneeling before Givia’s carriage, his voice filled with grief.

But Givia’s reaction was calm and composed. “It’s not your fault, Santos. The enemy was cunning. I won’t punish you. Have everyone gather the remains of the potions. We’ll leave immediately and return to our base as quickly as possible.”

“Gather the potions? But they’re broken,” Santos said, confused.

“You’ll understand soon,” Givia said, a knowing smile on her face. “Hurry. And tell the soldiers to be careful not to cut themselves.”

Chapter 72: Attack of the Illusionist

“Halt!” Santos, hearing the commotion, turned around and, seeing the fallen guard, shouted his command.

The guards, though surprised by their comrade’s sudden collapse, quickly regained their composure. Their weapons were drawn, shields raised, as they formed a protective circle around Givia’s carriage.

The caravan came to a stop. Santos, a seasoned commander, efficiently organized his men, anticipating an attack.

“Abyss? Are we under attack again?” Givia asked, her voice filled with concern, as she peeked out the carriage window. “One of our men just collapsed. Is it enemy magic?”

“I don’t sense any enemy presence yet… Leona, I’ll leave this to you. I’ll provide support from the rear,” Abyss replied, his voice serious.

Leona, eager for action, jumped out of the carriage. As a powerful Dou Warrior and a high-ranking undead enhanced by Abyss’s necromancy, she had no fear.

“Leona, just search the area quickly. I’ll assist you with my magic,” Abyss’s voice echoed in her mind.

“Understood,” Leona said, sprinting away without hesitation.

Another guard collapsed, falling from his horse. Fortunately, his comrades caught him before he hit the ground.

Leona increased her speed, circling the caravan, Abyss’s magic radiating outwards, using her as a conduit.

Hum…

A faint vibration resonated in Leona’s mind, followed by Abyss’s voice. “There! Follow the magical fluctuations! The enemy is there! An illusionist. He’s no match for you, but don’t get too close!”

A smile spread across Leona’s lips. She propelled herself forward, her body like an arrow loosed from a bow, towards the source of the magical energy.

Hum…

She entered the dense forest flanking the road, the magical fluctuations growing stronger. She followed the sound, quickly spotting a lone figure. The mage resembled the one-eyed Shadowling mage they had encountered earlier, although their robes were different. He seemed oblivious to her approach, his lips moving as he chanted a spell.

“Using illusions to incapacitate our men? You would have succeeded if it weren’t for Abyss,” Leona thought, scoffing at the enemy’s cowardly tactics. She conjured a longbow with her Dou Qi, nocking an arrow as she approached the mage. The orange arrow, a streak of light, pierced his chest!

Leona, having learned her lesson from their previous encounter with the strange sleep-inducing smoke, wouldn’t fall for the same trick twice.

Boom!

The Dou Qi arrow pinned the mage to the ground, then exploded, obliterating his body, sending a spray of foul-smelling black mud into the air. Leona dodged it effortlessly.

“Abyss, mission accomplished! It was an illusionist. I took care of him. I wonder what their next move will be,” she reported.

“Search the area thoroughly! I’ll maintain vigilance over the caravan,” Abyss’s voice replied.

Leona nodded, sprinting away.

After a thorough search, she found another Shadowling mage, repeating her previous tactic, tearing him apart with her Dou Qi before he could react.

“That’s it? That’s all they got?” Leona asked, returning to the caravan, satisfied, smoothing her silver twintails, which had become disheveled during her high-speed maneuvers. “Your Highness, Abyss, the surrounding area is clear. Now we can tend to those affected by the illusions!”

Using illusions to shut down an opponent’s mind, rendering them unconscious, was a common tactic employed by Illusionist mages. Their attacks were silent and often undetectable, which was why they had managed to incapacitate two guards, even with Abyss nearby. (Of course, the Shadowlings’ ability to diminish their presence was also a factor.) Abyss, a master mage himself, jumped out of the carriage and examined the unconscious guards.

“How are they?” Santos asked, his voice filled with concern. “The enemy’s attacks are difficult to defend against.”

“They used a classic ‘Mind Lock’ spell. Their minds are shut down, preventing them from controlling their bodies—it’s like surgically removing their brains without causing any physical damage,” Abyss explained, carefully examining the two unconscious guards. “If we had been any slower, they might have become brain-dead. Fortunately, we acted quickly, and the caster is eliminated. I can dispel the spell, but they’ll need to rest, allowing their minds to reconnect with their bodies naturally.”

“I’m glad they’ll be alright,” Santos said, relieved. Abyss glanced at him, his expression softening. Santos, despite his high rank, genuinely cared for his men. Abyss appreciated that.

He effortlessly dispelled the Mind Lock spell. Based on his assessment, the two Shadowling mages were around sixth or seventh-tier, not particularly powerful. The other guards carried the unconscious men into a cargo wagon. The caravan, having confirmed there were no further threats, resumed its journey.

…

Half an hour later, inside the darkened cargo wagon, two pairs of eyes silently opened.

Chapter 71: Givia’s Back at Full Strength

The caravan continued its journey, drawing closer to the Restoration Army’s hidden base within the Western Empire.

Since Abyss also wanted to investigate Kevin, Givia extended a warm invitation for him and his companions to visit her base and discuss their plans.

Abyss readily agreed. To defeat the Lord of Nightmares, he needed to dismantle the Outer God’s support network, preventing his minions from providing him with sustenance. It was like a war—cutting off the enemy’s supply lines was always a sound strategy. And he couldn’t handle this alone. He could cripple the Ossi Kingdom’s entire army within half an hour, but that would cause widespread chaos and panic, something he wanted to avoid. His war against the gods shouldn’t disrupt the lives of ordinary mortals.

Givia was in excellent spirits. Not only had Rebecca devised a method to protect the potions, eliminating her worries about their fragility, but she was also well-rested.

Two days had passed since the last attack. During those two days, Givia had been consuming Rebecca’s fatigue-eliminating potion. Its only side effect was a temporary decrease in reaction time, but since she only consumed it at night, it didn’t pose any problems. The potion’s benefits far outweighed this minor drawback.

Thanks to the potion, she no longer needed to sleep. She simply waited for the fatigue to dissipate, her body and mind revitalized. It not only replaced her need for sleep but also alleviated the exhaustion and stress accumulated from the recurring nightmares. She was impressed by Rebecca’s skills and wondered why such a talented alchemist was relatively unknown in Lavoisier City. Were the alchemists there blind?

Givia looked radiant, her natural beauty enhanced by her newfound energy. The dark circles under her eyes, a result of her sleep deprivation, had vanished.

“Your Highness, this potion can eliminate those dark circles under your eyes,” Rebecca said, handing her a small bottle. “I brewed it last night and let it mature. Would you like to try it?”

Givia nodded, trusting Rebecca’s abilities. She followed Rebecca’s instructions, pouring a few drops of the potion onto her fingertips and gently applying it around her eyes.

The dark circles faded, then vanished completely. Givia blinked, a cool, soothing sensation spreading around her eyes. The fatigue, the main cause of the dark circles, had melted away like snow. She felt as refreshed and energized as someone who had enjoyed a full night’s sleep.

“Wow… Givia, you look stunning,” Leona said, observing Givia’s transformation, her voice filled with admiration. She was still sitting on Flora’s lap due to the carriage’s limited space. “When we first met, you always seemed so tired and stressed. You were pretty, but you also seemed frail. Now, you look completely different. Ray, you should sell this potion to everyone who suffers from sleep deprivation!”

“Well… I’d rather not,” Rebecca said, chuckling, waving her hand dismissively. “My potion formulas are confidential.”

Indeed, except for a few publicly known potions, she kept her formulas secret. People were curious, but she never revealed them, as if some unpleasant experience had made her cautious.

“Now that you’re well-rested, Your Highness, your army’s morale will surely soar,” Flora said with a smile. “You followed that fortune teller’s advice and traveled to the Eastern Empire. Although you didn’t find a cure for your nightmares from Lannis, you’ve temporarily escaped their torment. My ancestor had a saying that applies here: ‘Planting flowers might not yield blossoms, but planting willows unintentionally provides shade.’”

Givia smiled. “I don’t know how to repay you. You’ve helped me so much. Although our destinations align, your selfless assistance is truly humbling. When… When I reclaim my throne and restore the Ossi Kingdom’s glory, I’ll record your stories in our history books, so everyone will remember your contributions, as I promised Mr. Abyss.”

“Of course,” Abyss said, nodding. “But as I said before, please don’t include our names. It’s a bit embarrassing.”

“Four heroes, their deeds unmatched, will be immortalized in our epic,” Givia said, her voice filled with hope, envisioning their future victory.

Abyss had no doubt that with his help, Givia would succeed. Rebelling against an oppressive treaty was a popular cause in the martial Ossi Kingdom. They might face hardships, but with a strong leader, they wouldn’t be easily defeated. Even though Ossi was a small kingdom, united, they could withstand even the mighty Western Empire, weakened by its current ruler’s incompetence.

“Abyss, when do you think those Shadowlings will attack us?” Leona asked, after admiring Givia’s beauty, settling comfortably in Flora’s lap. “They won’t give up so easily. Should we guess when they’ll strike?”

“I believe they’ll attack again before we reach our base,” Abyss said. “Givia mentioned that although she’s plagued by nightmares at her base, she hasn’t been harassed by Shadowlings there. This journey to the Eastern Empire was the first time she encountered them. This suggests the enemy is hesitant to act near her base. They must be concerned about something. So they’ll seize this opportunity. We’re almost there. They won’t wait much longer.”

Thump!

As they discussed the enemy’s potential attack, one of the guards suddenly collapsed, his eyes rolling back in his head, falling from his horse!