Chapter 33 – Calm Before the Hunt

Maximus returned to his home, his thoughts heavy as he replayed everything that had transpired. I will need to prepare for the worst. He sighed as he took out his pots and bowls and began preparing everything for a new batch of healing potions. This time, he decided to add a portion of the troll’s blood to enhance the regenerative effect.

As he prepared to brew a new batch, Felix and Oscar had just begun their morning practice out in their backyard.

Oscar thrust forward toward Felix, who calmly parried and pushed the spear aside before stepping in, spinning to the left and raising his sword, the blade stopping just short of Oscar’s neck. “What are you doing? You left yourself wide open,” Felix said coldly, his tone sharp with criticism.

“My bad, mate. Was just thinkin’ how we’re well-nigh finished here…” Oscar frowned, his grip tightening slightly on the shaft of his spear.

“We did well enough, taking everything into consideration,” Felix replied with a small shrug, lowering his blade.

“That’s not what I mean. What happens to Max once we’re off?” Oscar asked, concern plain in his voice.

“He is stronger than anyone has any right to be on the first plane. He’ll likely pass the trial without any issue,” Felix said, though his gaze drifted slightly, betraying a hint of doubt.

“Will he find any proper mates? What if he mucks up and kills someone he shouldn’t? You know what he’s like,” Oscar muttered, unease creeping into his tone.

“You are not his mother, Oscar. He will manage. Don’t worry, alright?” Felix sighed, though the reassurance sounded more forced than he intended.

“Easy for you to say,” Oscar shook his head. “Let’s go again, all this thinkin’ is giving me proper pain in the noggin.” He stepped back, raising his spear into a ready stance once more.

“Stay focused. I don’t want to hurt you,” Felix smirked lightly as he settled into position.

“You can try, mate!” Oscar grinned, his energy returning as he lunged forward again.

***

Skill Leveled Up: [Potioncraft (D) LV.10]

Maximus had just finished his final batch when Felix and Oscar walked in. “Came to get some free potions, huh?” Maximus teased, trying to end their last days together on a lighter note.

“Not at all. Oscar wanted to talk with you,” Felix said simply, crossing his arms.

“Hey, hey. I’ve got nothin’ against a bit of free potion, don’t listen to this muppet!” Oscar cut in, staring at the pots of rich, fragrant liquid with poorly hidden greed.

“There’s more than enough, and this batch should work even better,” Maximus said with a small, knowing smile.

“Did you use the troll’s blood?” Felix asked, his voice turning slightly suspicious.

“Just a little. Don’t worry, Oscar, you won’t taste it at all,” Maximus chuckled.

“Oh, come on, mate. Why’d you have to go and tell me that for?” Oscar gagged dramatically. “That’s absolutely vile.”

“You don’t have to drink it. I don’t mind,” Maximus shrugged casually.

“Fine, fine. I’ll take it. You don’t need to be shoving it down my throat,” Oscar said shamelessly, already reaching for a bottle. “Anyway, I wanted a word, mate. Since we’re moving on soon, I wanted to make sure you won’t go giving grief for others, or yourself, without us,” he added as he sat at the table, his tone turning more serious.

“I am not a psychotic killer, boys. I left that guard alive back then, didn’t I?” Maximus replied evenly.

“Only because you decided he wasn’t a threat,” Felix interjected without missing a beat.

“All threats will be dealt with accordingly. I’m not foolish enough to create problems for myself. And threats can be handled in more ways than just killing, boys,” Maximus said calmly.

“Well, I hope you remember that. Even when we return to Earth, you’ll have to adjust to human rules, you know,” Felix added.

“I’m not a savage, and I am a human as well. Obviously,” Maximus replied with a faint smile.

“Alright then, human Maximus, what are you planning to do about your cousin?” Felix asked, eyeing him carefully.

“Oh, I met him earlier today,” Maximus said casually.

“Bloody hell?! You met him? Did you clock him? What went down?” Oscar leaned forward, eyes lighting up as if this were some unfolding drama.

“He recognized me. Doesn’t seem like a trustworthy fellow, I’ll tell you that. He’s also been spying on us. So be careful, you two,” Maximus said, his tone sharpening.

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“Snide bastard. I knew he was proper dodgy, that one!” Oscar muttered with a firm nod.

“So, what now?” Felix asked.

“Nothing for now. The current me isn’t the one he knew. I’ll continue on my own. If he tries anything… Well, you know how that usually ends,” Maximus replied with a small shrug.

“Well, at least you’re consistent. You’ll deal with your own family the same way you would with anyone else if they become a threat,” Felix said with a heavy sigh.

“Anyway, you don’t need to worry about that. I’d rather help you gain a few more levels, so if you hear anything about the Blood King, let me know. In the meantime, I’ll meditate and prepare more potions,” Maximus explained.

“If you say so. I know you can take care of yourself, but just remember, killing people isn’t so easy for most. And try to stay friendly,” Felix added. “If we hear anything about raids, we’ll let you know. How about we grab something to eat?”

“I’m absolutely famished!” Oscar sprang up from the chair instantly.

“Alright, let’s go eat,” Maximus nodded, gently nudging Silex awake before following after them.

***

Earlier that day.

“Boss, where were you?” Andre asked, glancing up as Toby entered.