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“Chapter 218: Processing of Skills”
Shamsheel, The Sage of the Volcano, has been living in Wols for a long time.
There was a time when it was dangerous to even enter the foot of the mountain. Lava, dangerous temperatures, and volcanic ashes.
Even the surrounding countries were growing worried by the constant violent eruptions.
That’s when the Sage came in.
– Have you noticed that us sages have a title fixed with our name?
The Sage of the Volcano, who resides in the world’s biggest active volcano.
The Sage of the Clouds, who freely travels around the world in the thundercloud boat.
The Sage of the Forest, who watches over the forest surrounding Snowpeak.
The Sage of Light, who lives in a region where they worship an ancient goddess.
– Unlike them, I don’t go around taking strolls everywhere. I’m trapped here. Well, I knew what I was getting into. I specialized in earth and fire magic, so I was able to stop the earthquakes and eruptions.
– So, in exchange, you asked for permission to carry out your research?
– We coat it by saying “Your baby will be receiving the blessing of the sage”, but that’s it. In fact, my magic is already in effect. This country doesn’t need me anymore.
Basically, the people of Wols don’t need to undergo Shamsheel’s ritual, but since they don’t know about the volcano, they have no choice but to accept.
That’s why she called them “hostages”. Because she could activate the volcano at any moment if she wanted to.
– Disappointed? One of the saviors that fought during the war with the demons is now doing something so dishonest.
– Not really.
If anything, it’s thanks to her that Meirir and Dyke manifested their skills, which eventually saved my life.
Bluntly said, this is human experimentation. But is it okay? Is it wrong? Who am I to say?
Akane acquired the ability to control ice while she was under Moonlight’s control. It’s similar to what Shamsheel is doing, just with a different approach.
I came here to gather information, and that’s what I’m doing.
– So, are you in or what?
– Yes. My Grandmaster sent me here. She knew it would be useful for me.
I have no intentions of turning back. I’m already a magnet of problems, surely one more won’t hurt.
– Good. I wasn’t planning on letting you go anyways. Regda.
– Yes. His friends would’ve been a problem. I’m glad he took the easy way out.
They knew Akane, Mumuruu and Mike would’ve posed a big threat if they kidnapped me. They really thought this far.
– I’m gonna need you for a little longer.
– There’s still more, huh?
– Of course there is. What you saw was only the “blueprint”. It’s time we get to the real experiment-
– Master!
– Mike, Meirir

I heard Shamsheel click her tongue as Meirir and Mike entered the room.
– Sorry it took us so long. It’s been a long time since I last came here. Who’s that beauty over there? (Meirir)
– Regda, take care of the rest. Until next time, Meirir. Send my regards to Dyke too. (Shamsheel)
– Huh? Excuse me? (Meirir)
Shamsheel exited the room.
For Meirir, this is the first time she had seen the sage. But for Shamsheel, Meirir was one of the “responsive” papers coming into the chapel once again.
(You said you were at the Blazing Arbor, right? Wait for me. At night. Make dead sure you’re alone) (Regda)
(But my friends
) (Takaya)
(It’s fine. I have a plan)
Regda finished putting away the ritual tools and walked through the now nonexistent door.