Ery returned to the inn with his mind weighed down by thoughts.
Despite Julian’s sincerity and the tempting nature of his offer, he had given no answer.
The truth was, Ery felt compelled to lend his full support. Not rely for the sake of friendship, but because being part of a rising Grade 3 faction—especially one with a potential seat on the Council—would give him power and influence. Power he could use to investigate and perhaps root out the Magus Alliance’s secret faction: the Eternal Watchers.
Yet, there were doubts. Doubts about the foundation of Nova Roma, about how deep the Nephilim’s influence ran in Julian’s faction. Ery had no wish to be bound and being manipulated by others.
So, for now, he chose silence.
Still, as he sat by the window of his room, staring at the dim city lights below, Ery couldn’t help but feel inspired. Julian’s ambition, his drive to rise in such turbulent tis—it struck a chord within him. Power was necessary in this era of chaos, and seeing how his own apothecary shops had fallen apart only strengthened his resolve. If he wanted to protect what mattered, he needed strength—real strength.
As he pondered, a faint knock ca at the door.
Ery didn’t move, his divine sense already brushing over the aura on the other side. Recognizing the visitor, he exhaled lightly.
"Co in," he said.
The door creaked open, and a young magus stepped inside. Titus entered with a composed expression, though a trace of nervousness flickered beneath the surface. As soon as he crossed the threshold, he knelt on one knee, lowering his head in respect.
"What is it, Titus? Did your lord send you here?"
The young magus took a breath before answering. "Yes, Master... but it was on my own request. I ca to maybe convince you—to settle any doubts you might have."
Ery turned from the window, eting his gaze with quiet curiosity. "Good," he said evenly. "Then start by telling what happened to Arminius."
The question hit like a blow. Titus’ disciplined posture faltered. His lips trembled as if the re mory hurt to recall. Then, with effort, he whispered, "Master... my brother Arminius... he passed away five years ago. He failed his breakthrough into the Magus Realm."
Ery’s eyes softened. A sigh escaped him, deep and heavy. He had already sensed pain in Titus’ emotions earlier when he ntioned Arminius, but he hadn’t expected this.
He leaned back slightly, voice quiet. "I see..." Another pause, and then, gently, "What happened? Tell ..."
Titus nodded, gathering his courage. He began recounting their journey—how he and Arminius had joined Nova Roma nearly two decades ago, working tirelessly to serve Julian’s cause. They were not the most gifted among the followers, but both brothers had been loyal, devoted, and unyielding in their belief.
As Titus spoke, Ery listened closely. He couldn’t help but think that Julian might have been too harsh on them—pushing his people too far, too fast. But before the thought could linger, Titus quickly added, "Please, Master. Do not think ill of Lord Julian. Both my brother and I... we would have gladly given our lives for our Lord."
He went on to explain how the Nephilim’s involvent, while granting imnse advantages, also ca with a heavy burden. Their resources, techniques, and power had helped Nova Roma grow faster than most, but it also placed the faction under constant expectation and pressure. Julian, Titus said, had done everything he could to keep them independent.
Titus hesitated for a mont before finally speaking again. His tone softened, and his eyes carried a glimr of unease. He confessed that if his lord had seed less than forthright during their earlier eting, it was not because Julian sought to deceive. Rather, it was because he did not wish to appear vulnerable before an old friend.
"Lord Julian bears many burdens," Titus said quietly. "Nova Roma may seem prosperous from the outside, but the truth is... we face mounting pressure from rival factions.. And now, this expedition... it’s not just about treasure and i.. we believed it will be dangerous.. Master.. I am worried of my lord safety."
Ery closed his eyes for a mont, digesting the young magus words.
"Master," Titus said finally, bowing again, "I hope you will help us."
Silence hung in the air. Ery’s mind weighed every word, every intent.
Inside, he was conflicted. Julian’s ambitions were great, and the weight he carried was clearly not light. Perhaps Ery had judged him too harshly. After all, anyone leading a rising power in such an era would have to make compromises.
He exhaled softly.
If Julian is being manipulated... then I should stay close, not walk away. That way, I can see things for myself—and protect him if needed
Still, fully joining Nova Roma would be too much. Ery had his own roots, his own people to consider; The Earth faction, and he couldn’t allow himself to be bound under another banner. Cooperation, however—an alliance toward a shared goal—was acceptable.
Finally, he looked up, his decision made. "Very well," he said evenly. "Tell Julian that I accept his invitation. I will join the expedition."
Titus’s head snapped up, his face brightening with relief and gratitude. "Yes, Master! I am sure my lord will be delighted to hear this."
He bowed once more, deeply and respectfully, before taking his leave.
When the door closed behind him, the room fell silent again. Ery stood still for a while, staring at the faint shimr of starlight filtering through the window.
The expedition would take place in a month’s ti. That would be enough ti for him to strengthen his mastery over his new artifacts and prepare himself for whatever traps or dangers awaited. At the sa ti, he needed to start his own research on Randhall, the Celestial Machinist.
The next morning, as the first rays of dawn brushed across the rooftops, Ery was interrupted by the sound of footsteps. It was Glita and Gwen who entered.
Gwen spoke first, handing over a sealed letter. "This one cos from the Academy. Permission to enter has been granted." She paused before adding, "Also, soone nad Urix was excited to see you."
Ery nodded. "I see," he replied calmly. "And what about the other matter?"
Glita imdiately puffed her cheeks and crossed her arms. "Brother! How could you send us to such places? I didn’t know you were that kind of person!"
Her exaggerated expression made Ery sigh softly. He knew exactly what she ant. The other task he gave them was to locate Nyx—the succubus who, according to the last information, had beco the owner of a famous brothel in Centauri.
Compared to Glita’s reaction, Gwen appeared far more composed. Still, Ery caught the faint look of judgnt in her eyes as she spoke.
"Apparently, the owner has been gone for a few weeks," Gwen said. "We couldn’t reach her, and no one knows where she went."
Ery nodded slowly, deep in thought. He had hoped Nyx could provide useful information about Centauri’s undercurrents. If she’s not available, then he’ll reached out to Emissary Duncan instead.
"But that can wait. Today, I’ll visit the Academy first."
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