Azarinth Healer - Chapter 940 Farewells

Chapter 940 Farewells

Ilea relaxed on top of the wall that surrounded the southern territories, her legs dangling below. A breeze flowed through. She sighed at the arcane lightning that she saw in the distance. The same lands that had once been part of the Empire, now looked just like the familiar lands of the North.

“We'll find a way,” Felicia said. She glanced at Ilea with her yellow eyes and sipped from her wine. “But yeah, it's not a problem you can punch into solving.”

Ilea raised her eyebrows and gave Felicia a smile. “Never underestimate the power of Cosmic Deconstruction. Don't give me that look. I'll let the scientists and scholars do their work. Until more void creatures or some other abomination shows itself.”

Felicia smiled. “Have you been enjoying your vacation? Things are starting to move quickly now but I suppose you're still not particularly interested in politics.”

“I'm happy to see all the changes. And I might get involved here and there. It's less to do with interest and more with my skills. I'm good at fighting stuff and I'm sure my healing will remain important for the foreseeable future, but I can't exactly build homes or write legislation.”

They sat there in silence for a little while before Ilea continued. “The vacation has been nice. Had to deal with the Sanguerrihn recently as well, which wasn't exactly fun.”

“The legendary curse maker?” Felicia asked. “I see. I heard about Paarah but wasn't sure what to make of it. Did he attack us?”

Ilea shook her head. “No. I think he just wanted to be left alone. Making cursed artifacts forever. But I'm not sure. In the end, I got the impression that he was glad. Glad that someone could face and defeat him. I don't think he was well, but he refused my help as well. You know I can heal the soul now?”

Felicia moved a little closer and touched her arm. “You can't save everyone. As much as you want to.”

Ilea breathed in deep, and then she smirked. “We kind of did, you know? And I played an important part.”

Felicia flicked her nose.

Of course, Ilea saw the attack coming but she let it happen anyway. The damage was very low. Negligible, really.

“I know it’s not my responsibility. Just pisses me off, you know? He had so much power, and yet he stayed there and made horrific items that cursed the world. It's so bitter and hateful, and when I offer a real way for help, he fights me as if we’re equals.”

“He sounds very arrogant.”

“He was! And just so, irresponsible. At least Ravana knew what she wanted and followed her path, as much of an evil bitch as she was. I can almost respect her.”

Felicia patted her head. “Let it all out. Just don't use your magic, or I'll probably disintegrate or something.”

Ilea sighed. And then she shouted down towards the wasteland. She drank from her ale and relaxed a little. “Sorry. I know this was supposed to be a romantic date.”

“We all need to vent sometimes. Even the great goddess Lilith, blessed forever be her unholy name. Cheers,” Felicia said and raised her glass of wine to her lips.

“You should be careful,” Ilea said and leaned forward and over the woman, making the glass of wine vanish in the process. “I'm a well-known adventurer. You wouldn't want to offend me.”

Felicia smirked. “Oh my. What am I, forlorn and former noble girl to do, against such wanton threats?”

Ilea moved in for the kiss when she felt a spatial disturbance in the fabric next to her. She smiled and kissed Felicia, not stopping for a long moment.

Her guest, to her surprise, waited until she separated again.

Violence, the being sent to her, sagely as it nodded along.

“I know you chose this moment to appear,” Ilea said. “You could have waited another twenty minutes.”

The Fae twirled around itself as if it wasn't a highly intelligent, mythical, and malicious entity of untold power.

“He is very cute,” Felicia said. “Besides, this tournament you invited me to doesn't start for another few hours. I'm sure we can find time, for you to tell me about your brave adventures.” She whispered the last bit into her ear. This time, Ilea hadn't seen the attack coming.

Cute, the Fae sent.

Ilea pretended to swat at the little being, teleporting after it when it flew away. She hunted it for a little while, speeding up with every passing moment until she held its small form in her hands. “Caught you, fiend.”

She appeared back on the wall and sat down. “I hope you don't think I only asked you out to attend a tournament. I just thought we should make time for each other, now that you're so busy.”

“Of course. You're an important strategic resource. Regular dates are of utmost importance,” Felicia said.

“Exactly!” Ilea said and held out the Fae as if to underline her point. “And I brought gifts as well. So that at least something good will come from the legacy of the Sanguerrihn. That is also why I called you here,” she said and looked at the Fae.

Present?

Ilea nodded and let the little creature teleport to her shoulder.

It rubbed her dress for a moment and nodded to itself.

Dense.

“Yes, yes.” Ilea summoned the Twilight Shield, the divine artifact that the Sanguerrihn had used to protect against her mana intrusion. The bracer was far too large for Violence but its size reduced as soon as it touched it.

Nice.

“That's a divine artifact that can probably block almost all magical attacks. That's all I get?”

The Fae nodded.

“To be fair, it's not like you crafted it yourself,” Felicia said with a smile, twirling her recovered glass of wine.

Ilea rolled her eyes. Felicia was right of course. She just distributed her loot.

“Well then, I also found this piece of chunk. Might still be a slight upgrade for you.”

She summoned and unceremoniously handed Felicia the Primal quality Earth Elemental Core armor chest piece. The nigh indestructible piece that may very well rival her own Dragon scale set.

“I think it comes with the ability to move through rock and earth as well but I'm sure your current set can do something like that too. Also hardens your skin so you'll be far more durable.”

Felicia's eyes sparkled as she looked the piece over. “This is the most beautiful dress I've ever gotten. Do you mind if I get changed immediately?”

Ilea smiled. “Go for it.”

A whirlwind appeared around Felicia before she appeared in a twirl, the silver and dark stone armor having slimmed to cover her form. Sleek and beautiful lines that accentuated her eyes and black hair. She looked dangerous and powerful.

“Positively regal. I hope Alyris won't get the wrong idea.”

Felicia enjoyed the moment before she waved Ilea off. “I don't worry about the Empress, but this piece will annoy some of the old nobles to no end. I can't wait to show it off.”

“Didn't think you'd want to take those kinds of risks.”

“You should spend a few days at court. Some of those old clowns are insufferable. And now, with everything shaken up and uncertain, the Accords at the height of their power and new allies and factions to figure out, they cling to old power and ideas more than ever before.” She paused and then went for a hug, separating a long moment later. “It's perfect, Ilea. I love it. And I love you.”

“I love you too,” Ilea said and kissed her again. She waved at the Fae and teleported it as far away as she could. Despite her considerable power, she couldn't quite get rid of the giggle that she still heard in her mind.

***

The Meadow accepted her request for the tournament to be held in its domain. With its barrier, earth, and life magic, it was uniquely suited to make the whole thing safer than anything before. Certainly something that Ilea wanted to prioritize considering her track record with tournaments.

Of course, this one was not exactly meant as a way for people to test themselves. The Sentinels knew each other very well and they had a good idea about each other's capabilities. With the void monsters remaining on Elos, they certainly had their hands full and as far as Ilea understood, they hadn't had much of a break since the Architect was defeated. Nor a lot of time to meet and hang out with each other. The same, in many ways, was true for her friends and allies, all of them invited for this occasion.

She was once again glad for the teleportation network that made something like this possible in the first place. People could attend for a day or two and leave again to the cities and settlements thousands of kilometers away.

“Barring any new appearing threats, events like these should probably be held every few months. For diplomatic reasons alone,” the Meadow sent into her mind as it set up the large arena with broad platforms for food, musicians, painters, and dancing. They didn't expect hundreds of guests but perhaps a few dozen high-level individuals.

The Sentinels were there. Most of them at least. Close to 300 members strong at this point in time. Recruitment had picked up after the Extraction, which meant that quite a few of them were still below level 200. Ilea saw that some of the veterans had made leaps and bounds in terms of levels. Fighting Soul Rippers certainly bears fruit. I wonder if Gael or Vienna are close to the five hundreds yet. She couldn't see them yet but was told they would arrive later.

The faculty was present as well of course. Sidney, Orthan, Lyza, as well as a few choice individuals from the Shadow’s Hand. William, Dagon, Elise, and Sulivhaan as the leaders, with other high-level Shadows that chose to attend, a few of them part of the Ravenhall council.

And then, of course, her team joined as well.

“It looks like everyone's starting to arrive,” Claire said, straightening her dress as she looked at the still growing platforms and arena.

“I'm still impressed seeing the Meadow work,” Kyrian said.

“Maybe you'll get there too if you reach the thousands,” Ilea said. “You're a metal mage after all. I can already imagine the structures you could build. Suppose ash and volcanic glass isn't quite as suited.”

“I'm steadily getting stronger but I'm not sure when and if I'll ever get to your level of power. Not sure I'm willing to take those risks.”

“I don't see why you couldn't build an ominous castle at the top of some mountain with volcanic glass. But I guess I wouldn't expect it from you. Maybe in 100 years when you get bored?” Trian suggested.

“I'll be happy to teach her the basics of construction,” the Meadow informed.

“That could be a hobby,” Ilea said but she could tell her heart wasn't in it. Not yet at least.

“Thank you for organizing everything, Claire,” she said.

“Of course. A simple matter with Aki at my beck and call.”

A nearby Sentinel Executioner glanced their way with its glowing eyes.

Even after all this time, Ilea still thought the machines menacing. The Taleen did something right with their design. Or was it the One without Form who created the Executioners?

“I'll go mingle then, see if we can't accelerate a few projects while we're here,” Claire said.

Trian watched her go. “She never wastes an opportunity.”

“Remember when her only responsibility was making sure our team showed up to classes?”

“Yeah, and Sparky was the most difficult,” Ilea said.

Trian drank from a cup. “I have no idea what you're talking about.”

“Right,” Ilea said and moved her gaze to the appearing entourage from the western Courts, Verillion and his vampires as dashing as ever. On another gate, Empress Alyris, her guard, and various high-nobility from the Empire appeared. Ilea assumed the various Kings of the human kingdoms would join as well.

She herself would probably stick to her friends, not having seen some of them for months. She would leave the deals and politics to those more interested in such affairs.

A broad smile came to her face when she saw the first Elves appear, Feyrair making a beeline for her before he landed and bowed.

“Queen Lilith, it is good to see you again.”

She laughed and hugged him, ignoring his obvious provocation. “And it's good to see you too. Got a gift for you as well.”

“Well, I'm embarrassed now. I haven't yet reached ample strength to face you in battle once more, but I'm working hard.”

“I can see that,” Ilea said. She saw he was close to 700 already. He must have killed tens of thousands of void monsters since they had last met. “This may help with your goals.” She summoned the Primal quality Fire Elemental leg armor she had taken from the Sanguerrihn, handing them to her elven friend.

He looked them over for a moment and then promptly got them on. “Pants befit a Monarch. And more heat to burn my enemies. I have always liked you, Ilea. Thank you for this gift.”

Isalthar and his close group of Cerithil Hunters watched on before they too joined the crowd to mingle. Many were still hesitant to even talk to Elves but with the trust they had in the Accords and specifically, the safety provided by the presence of the Meadow, conversation was no longer an impossibility.

Ilea was glad to see Dale and his family join the festivities. The air between them felt less tense by now but she didn't think they could truly go back to how things were. Which was okay. Things were changing quickly and they too would have to find their place in the new shape of this continent. And if they ever needed her assistance, she would be there in a heartbeat.

“Quite the esteemed crowd,” a familiar voice said from behind her.

Ilea smiled and turned to see Walter and his Vultures. Indra and Celene were already joining the crowd, both of them likely interested in the diversity of the present specimens, for different reasons. Lucia stuck close to Walter, as did Harthome and the younger members. Granpa Bones was chatting up one of the vampire nobles with a large femur in his bony hands.

“It really is. And I'm glad you could come as well, old friend. Will you be joining the musicians?”

His eyes sparkled with dark energy. “I heard some familiar names. Don't think I can match their skill, but I might try.”

“The dark magic smith. How are the third layer enchantments going?” Balduur asked as he approached. He gave Ilea and the others a nod, clearly more interested in Harthome and a previous work conversation they must have had. With the gates present and the Meadow’s assistance with Goliath’s curse, it was easier than ever for master craftspeople to meet up and share notes or even work together, even though they were reclusive by nature.

The dark sorcerer excused himself and joined the other smith.

“I'll excuse myself as well, the banquet looks exquisite,” Walter said.

“Of course, Keyla is at the helm after all,” Ilea said. She had already tried everything and would do so again later, but for now, she enjoyed the exciting atmosphere. She could see that some of the Sentinels must have noticed as well that the crowd was a little more than they were used to. The fights that soon started were another attraction but not the main reason most of the people joined the occasion.

The allied Ascended and Erik joined for a short while as well but left to resume their research once they had chatted with a few people.

By now, there were excited Mava running around the stands, the foxes most interested in the battling Sentinels and their skills. They made for quite the cheerleaders, adding group spell fireworks and loud proclamations whenever something interesting happened or someone won a fight.

Ilea watched Chana and Ford duke it out when Catelyn joined her.

“I thought I'd come and say hi,” she said and looked at the ongoing battle. “Your Sentinels have grown.”

Ilea smiled. “They have.” She was proud of them. Every single one of them. And she could only imagine what they would accomplish in the future.

They watched for a little while until Ford managed to get in close and land a few decisive blows. The fight was over as Chana groaned in annoyance. She grinned when Ford helped her up, Bright explosions of fire and lightning flaring up above to signal the victory. Ilea didn't miss the barriers appearing here and there to keep the Mava’s excitement contained.

“How are things in Hallowfort?”

Catelyn nodded to herself, her many tales moving behind her. “Things are good. Though it's been a little too busy for my tastes. I let the others manage most things these days, now that there are so few threats out there, and so many powerful allies ready to help out. I might even get to explore again if things keep up. Just hope that the void creatures haven't wiped out and infested every dungeon around.”

“I'm sure they haven't. As powerful as they are, there are thousands of us hunting them down, and there are hundreds of dungeons still hidden and forgotten below the lands,” Ilea said and nodded towards the approaching pair.

“Did I hear right? The old fox plans to scavenge again?” Terok asked, his war machine having received quite a few upgrades it seemed. It shimmered with enchantments but retained the sleek form it always had.

Maro looked almost ordinary standing next to him. “I was just catching up with the dwarf. Been a while since I was on an adventure, and we considered finding some of the ruins in the North. None from Rhyvor but there were rivals that I wouldn't mind looting after millennia.”

“I'm not sure if I would want to team up with the two of you. But maybe, maybe it would make things fun. I've been around serious and capable people for a little too long,” Catelyn said.

“We are both serious and capable,” Maro said and crossed his arms, nodding to himself in a smug manner.

Terok jabbed his side with his elbow and laughed. He calmed down and nodded as well. “Yes, ma'am, very much so. At your service.”

Ilea excused herself when she saw Lily amongst the crowd, looking around until their eyes met.

“Hey,” Ilea said.

The girl gave her a weak smile. “Hey. Been, a while. What with all the chaos,” she said and gave her an awkward laugh.

Ilea got closer and hugged the girl. “Good to see you, little huntress.”

[Summoner – lvl 212]

“And congratulations on reaching the two hundreds.”

“I wasn't sure if the invitation was real. When that machine showed up, I thought I had messed up somehow. There are so many crazy people here.” She said the last sentence in a whisper. “Is it true what they say? That you fought and stopped an Ascended? And that you can reverse aging? It all sounds insane but then, one of the suns vanished.”

“Do you mind walking a bit? I can tell you what happened. But I'd love to hear about your adventures too,” Ilea said. “Been a while since the last tournament.”

The girl nodded shily and followed.

Ilea told her about her exploits, walking through the crowds. She spotted the former Elders of the Hand in an argument with an older Cerithil Hunter. She saw Weavy talking to Nelras Ithom of all beings, the ancient former Monarch nodding with interest. It seemed the topic was either runes or fish, or both, based on the gestures and snippets of words she could hear.

Iana and Chris had joined the gathering crowd of smiths and craftspeople, Goliath demonstrating a technique within a set of barriers conjured by the Meadow. There were a few onlookers too.

They finally reached the platform where a few artists had set up shop, Cless being one of them.

Raphia turned to glance at Ilea, then smiled, glancing at Lily before she turned again and watched Cless paint. Dany, Philly, and Cornelius were there as well, chatting about the depicted form of a massive Void horror.

“... and then I discovered there was a second layer to the dungeon. My wolves sniffed out the path and I followed. The raiders never got to me. A few of them died before they reached the final chamber, which made it easier for me to get there,” Lily retold and leaned in close. “Found enough gold to last me a lifetime. I could even buy a house, Ilea.”

Ilea touched her shoulder and smiled.

“When I returned to the frontier base, the machines were talking about evacuation and we were led to the teleportation gates. I've been training but I'm not strong enough to fight the void monsters yet.” She looked around as if someone was listening in and continued in a whisper. “I joined the Academy as well. Some of the classes are quite fun.”

“I'm glad to hear it. Been making friends as well?”

The girl's expression soured. “It's not easy.”

Raphia turned around and walked up to them as if she heard the cue. Maybe she did. Or maybe the Meadow sent her a hint.

“Mistress Lilith, it is good to see you in good health.”

“And you, Raphia. May I introduce a friend of mine? This is Lily. She recently joined the Academy.”

Before Lily could vanish, Raphia grabbed her hands with an excited look in her face. “You look so cool! I’m Raphia. I create wood. Let me introduce you to my friends, we've been learning at the Academy as well, and we've been fighting with the Sentinels sometimes. They're really cool as well. What's your magic like?”

Lily glanced back at Ilea as if to seek help but she seemed confused most of all.

“Can't hurt to chat with them for a little while, right? They're nice. Cornelius can be a bit brash but I'm sure you can handle him.”

Lily raised her eyebrows.

“Good luck,” Ilea said and gave her two thumbs up.

She smiled to herself and let them be, going back to watching the ongoing fight. Before she reached the railings occupied by several Mava, she saw another interesting trio.

Kevan and the two orphans he had taken in. She waved at them and saw them approach.

The two kids seemed vigilant and stuck close to Kevan.

The old vampire on the other hand seemed relaxed. “Lilith.”

She smiled. He looked better. Calmer. “Kevan. You look good.”

“I am. A little miffed about having to sell the ruins of my mansion back in Riverwatch but I do know these two like the sun.”

“I wondered if you had gone to Marrindayne, after the gates finally reached the Courts.”

“We visited,” Vin said. She was still a teen but she looked far less on edge than she had in the past. It looked to Ilea that the girl got to have a childhood after all.

“It's so easy to travel with the gates but yes, we've been thinking about where we should settle next. I think the kids like the excitement of the southern territories. But how have you been? Of course I heard the stories but do you have any plans now?” Kevan asked.

Ilea smiled. “Have you eaten already? I think I could go for another round.”

“We haven't.”

“Great, let's have some food. As to my plans. I've been on vacation for a while but I do have some ideas.”

***

Ilea woke up the next morning with purpose. She stepped out onto the balcony of Felicia's new home and breathed in deep, closing her eyes for a moment before she focused on the horizon.

The last sun of Elos was yet to rise, a cool breeze flowing through her hair.

Felicia joined her and touched her back. “You're up early.”

Ilea nodded.

“You came to a decision then.”

“Yeah.” Ilea locked eyes with Felicia. “Seeing the Sentinels fight... I guess in the end it was only a matter of time. I hope you're not angry.”

“Why would I be angry,” Felicia asked, leaning on the stone railing. “Though, I do expect you to check in from time to time.”

“I do like the regular dates,” Ilea said.

“Make sure to find a few new places. I'm excited to test out the armor as well.”

“I'm sure I'll find you some interesting monsters to fight. Want to see me off? It would mean a lot.”

Felicia smiled. “Of course.”

Ilea smiled, stabilizing the railing with space magic as she leaned against it. Ford had won in the end, receiving the Hammer of Dawn. Not because he won every fight but because of his defense and grit. The artifact was in good hands. And she could tell he would go far. How far exactly, only time would tell.

She breathed in.

“I’m ready,” she sent to Claire.

***

They joined the rune mage in the deep cavern below Ravenhall.

Before them stood the ancient stone gates that Erik had first used to travel to another realm. And he left the keys, metaphorically, with Claire.

“Are you sure you don't want to use an Ascended Transporter? It would probably be more reliable,” Claire said.

“Where's the fun in that?” Ilea asked.

Claire rolled her eyes while Trian and Kyrian laughed by her side.

The latter walked up to Ilea and touched her shoulder. “I know it's moot, but be careful out there. The fabric reaches far and wide, and I'm sure there are monsters around that could match you.”

Ilea smiled.

“She counts on it,” Trian said.

“That was my line,” she said.

The small Fae finally appeared nearby, teleporting to her shoulder.

Adventure?

“That's the idea.”

“Make sure to test if your abilities work and you can return reliably before you start exploring. And don't bring anything back before you’ve checked it with Erik,” Claire said.

“I will. You know me, Claire.”

Claire walked up to one of the ancient stone structures and touched the runes, the fabric shifting slightly as a gate formed and stabilized mere moments later.

“That's the problem, Ilea. I know you all too well.”

Felicia gave her a kiss. “Go get them, Lilith.”

“Enjoy yourself,” Kyrian said.

“And don't start any wars,” Trian said.

“You guys are making this a bigger deal than it is. I'll be back for dinner,” Ilea said and walked up to the gate. She could feel it now. Slowly building within her. Excitement. Like she hadn't felt in a long while.

She glanced back at the others and then to the Fae on her shoulder. “Ready?”

Violence!

Ilea smiled. And stepped into the gate.

“Let’s find out if they have any Drakes.”

Author’s note: This is the last epilogue chapter of Azarinth Healer.

May Ilea find the monsters she is looking for :).

And as always, thank you for reading.

Rhaegar