Cursed Empire: Rising against the gods

Axel and Arthur return to the forest where Becca and Atlas wait patiently.

Atlas clapped his hands as the two brave warriors returned from combat, "It seems that the three of us will be working together from now on. Now, let's get to the negotiations. What do you expect us druids to offer your village?" asked Atlas.

Axel moved at an insane speed and appeared next to Becca and said, "We have a few requests: we would like access to druid magic, the construction of an essence fountain in the center filled with Atlas magical essence, complete support in conflicts that are limited to the heavenly army and elves, and finally, any civilian from Neverport should be granted permission to walk in the forest unharmed. Those are our terms." Becca was surprised by how prepared he was. He already had his priorities straight and laid out.

Atlas was not pleased upon hearing the terms, "I understand that you want artificial magic, which we can produce fifteen units of within two weeks. I can also provide the fountain with my essence. However, I cannot agree to the conflict aspect. Regardless of the situation, we will not get involved. Lastly, we grant you permission to enter our land, but only on the condition that we receive a day's notice."

Axel sighed while unbinding his hair, "That sounds reasonable. Is there anything we can offer to your tribe?"

Atlas circled around them before stating, "The leaders of Neverport grant my people access to their settlement. If we request any form of assistance, we expect Neverport to provide it. Additionally, three buildings will be constructed to display the druid affiliations with Neverport, and they must be maintained. That is all." Axel seemed to agree with the terms.

However, Becca stepped forward and shared her thoughts, "Why do we have to help you, but you won't help us? How is that fair?" she asked.

Atlas turned to Axel, expecting him to explain why. Axel sighed and said, "It's because there is a treaty between the elf nation, the druid nation, and the siren nation that bans any human involvement in combat-related affairs. I was hoping he was no longer part of that system, but unfortunately, I was mistaken. Additionally we are requesting magic from them, which carries more weight than the requirements he is asking for." Axel was slightly irritated that he couldn't rely on their cooperation but was okay with this outcome.

Atlas moved closer to Axel, casually resting his arm on Axel's shoulder, which seemed like a bold move, "He is right human girl. Magic is something that your God didn't see fit to grant you access to. By allowing you to tap into this power, I am defying the divine order. If they discover our little transaction, I could get into a lot of trouble. Do you understand now?" He stared at her, and she glanced at Axel, who gave her a silent nod in agreement with Atlas's words.

"Okay, I understand now. Will you be asking for the price of the essence fountain and artificial magic?" she asked.

A calm smirk appeared as he said, "We'll do this one for free, considering our newly formed relationship. However, you must pay for the refueling, which will cost five gold coins. Do we have a deal?" He extended his hand to Becca, waiting for her to shake it.

Becca was contemplating whether to shake his hand or not. Axel looked at her and smiled while nodding. "Sure, we accept the offer," she said as she shook his hand.

"Excellent! Now that we've concluded our business, I will send someone to deliver the essence in gem format. You don't mind taking your leave, do you?" Atlas immediately returned to the giant rose and seemed eager for them to leave.

Axel whistled for Diego, who approached him. He quickly mounted his horse and said, "Thank you for entering this partnership with us. I trust that no issues will arise between our settlements." Becca noticed that he didn't sound happy at all, despite wearing a forced smile.

She climbed aboard Diego and said, "Thanks for the chat, I hope to learn more about your tribe soon." That comment caused Atlas to laugh, but out of genuine curiosity before he completely dismissed them.

The two then made their way out of the forest. "Hey," Becca wanted to speak, but Axel immediately said, "Not yet; we can talk once we leave the forest."

After a few minutes of complete silence along the trail, they made their way out of the forest towards the path to Neverport.

That's when Axel said, "We are in an I use you relationship. Mostly in the near future, we might go to war." Axel's bombshell completely caught Becca off guard.

Becca nearly fall off Diego after hearing what he just said, "What do you mean a war?" She replied instantly.

"I have interacted with countless druids during my travels, and he didn't behave the way I expected. The moment he asked for a favor, I can guess that we will be doing many more favors, but with greater risks and fewer rewards in the future." he mentioned.

Becca rested her head against Axel's back, believing she made a mistake with this one.

Axel realized that and said, "Don't be so glum about it. Regardless we would have had a negative outcome, but this one is easily the best."

Becca's eyes shifted to his right arm and she asked, "What's so special about your right arm? Since we can't use magic naturally...how's it that you are able to do so?" Immediately, Axel stopped Diego.

Becca jumped back, believing she had made a mistake. "Wait-" But Axel interrupted her by speaking over her words, "In my life, only two people have beaten me in combat. First was my older brother, and to commemorate our battle, I carry his amulet as a good luck charm." As he spoke, he began unwrapping the bandages from his right arm.

Once the bandages were removed, Becca was beyond shocked at what she saw, "The second person was an angel who spared my life to fight another day. As a reward for me and a trophy for himself, he took my arm and gave me his." Becca now realized why Atlas had been so interested in him.

His right arm carried the presence of divinity, "Becca, you have no idea how much humiliation a man can feel when his pride is shattered by someone superior. I have felt weak twice in my life, and I hated that feeling. My motivation drove my will to improve myself so that I can never feel that way again. You have no idea how far I will go to achieve my dreams." As he finished speaking, symbols began to appear, and he turned his head to face her.

His eyes glowed even brighter than before.