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The Trionian government was known for its fairness and efficiency, standing as a rare example of governance untainted by systemic corruption. Administrators were chosen based strictly on their skills and ability to perform their duties, ensuring competence in every office.

Rulers, on the other hand, were selected for their strength, intelligence, and ability to lead. To complement this meritocratic approach, officials were fairly compensated, their pay reflecting the value of their efforts and discouraging any temptation toward bribery or abuse of power.

This structure fostered an environment where corruption found little room to thrive. Bribes and favoritism rarely succeeded, as the system itself was designed to prioritize accountability. Oversight was thorough, with higher officials meticulously monitoring the actions of those beneath them.

Naturally, no system is flawless, and occasional misconduct did occur. Yet, even the so-called "bad apples" operated cautiously. Knowing the government's intolerance for excess and the vigilance of oversight, they might exploit their authority for minor personal gains but they refrained from pushing their advantage too far. Overstepping the bounds risked exposure and swift punishment, reinforcing the integrity of the system.

This balance between strong leadership, fair compensation, and constant oversight allowed the Trionian government to maintain stability and trust, even in the face of the challenges that came with governing a complex world.

As a result, the government's judgment was rarely challenged, and only a handful of organizations held the power to influence it and they could only affect it slightly.

---

"Do you know why we're going back to Istarra? I was about to level up," Zack grumbled.

"I don't know either, but it sounded urgent. So less chatting and more moving," replied Pierre, keeping his pace brisk.

The Gamers pressed on toward Istarra without stopping since receiving Arlon's message, covering the distance quickly.

"Arlon said Charon the alchemist is at the Moonlight Potion Store. Does anyone know where that is?" Pierre asked, glancing at his companions.

"I do. It's on the east side of town," Lei responded confidently.

Without wasting any time, the group made their way to the store. Inside, they found an old man selling potions to a small group of players.

"Excuse me, are you Sir Charon?" Pierre asked politely as he stepped forward.

The old man turned to him with a sharp gaze. "What do you want?" His tone was curt, almost dismissive.

"We were sent by the Legendary Guide, Arlon," Pierre replied.

Charon snorted. "Legendary, huh? Did that kid go around calling himself that now? Anyway, what does he want?"

"We're not sure. He asked us to contact him from here. Is it all right if we do that now?" Pierre kept his tone respectful, as he usually did.

Something shifted in the room. The group exchanged subtle glances, suddenly aware that the old man before them wasn't just any potion seller. His presence, commanding yet understated, hinted at someone of importance. They instinctively avoided any casual chatter, staying on their best behavior.

Charon studied them for a moment before nodding, his expression growing serious. "Go ahead," he said, his tone no longer dismissive.

---

Arlon and Shirl sat across from each other at a small table. In the center, the communication crystal rested, its faint glow casting soft light between them.

Arlon broke the silence. "What is the Magus Council?"

Shirl raised an eyebrow, clearly surprised. "You're a Magus, and you don't know what the Magus Council is?" she asked. "Even though it's a small council, every Magus knows about it."

"I have... different circumstances," Arlon replied, keeping his tone neutral.

Shirl sighed, leaning back slightly. "The Magus Council is the strongest organization after the government. It was founded by Agema, the legendary Magus, to help Maguses grow stronger by supporting one another. But over time, it became an exclusive, insular community."

Arlon's eyes narrowed. He could already imagine the kind of power dynamics at play. "So, have they become rotten?"

Shirl hesitated before answering. "Not exactly. Some members believe that Maguses are superior to all other races. But ever since Efsa's time, that kind of thinking isn't something you can openly say. You're free to think it, but starting another race war? That's strictly forbidden."

She paused, her expression darkening. "Then again, things might be different now. Earlier today, before you came, I was informed that the council knew about my communication with the Keldars. They requested my reassignment."

Arlon frowned. "If they knew, why wouldn't they inform the government and have you handed over? It sounds like they're aware of your contact with the Keldars but not the full context. This means only a few people within the council know—and they're keeping it from the government."

The implication hung heavy in the air. If the council genuinely wanted to stop the Keldars' plans, they would have alerted the government to save the frontlines from potential disaster. But if they didn't…

"Do you think the Magus Council is helping the Keldars?" Arlon asked.

"Not the entire council," Shirl said carefully, "but some individuals within it, perhaps."

Arlon sighed, rubbing his temples as a dull headache began to form. He already had enough on his plate, and now this added layer of intrigue made things even more complicated.

As they spoke, the communication crystal flared to life, its glow intensifying. Someone was trying to contact him. Without hesitation, Arlon touched the crystal, activating the link.

"Hi, Sir," came Pierre's voice. "We're at the potion shop as instructed. May we learn our quest now?"

Arlon noticed Charon standing in the background behind Pierre and his team. "I'll explain it soon. Let me speak to Sir Charon first."

Pierre nodded, signaling for his group to step outside and give the two some privacy.

Arlon turned to Charon, recounting everything he had experienced in Oceina. Shirl chimed in when Arlon hesitated, filling in the details he wasn't certain about.

As Charon listened, his expression grew increasingly grim. When Arlon finished, the old man leaned back, his face pale with concern.

"This is dangerous," Charon said finally, his tone grave. "Show me the medallion."

Arlon held it up to the communication crystal, letting its intricate details shimmer in the dim light of the room.

"I'll handle the rest," Charon said after a moment of inspection. "Bring the woman to Istarra along with the medallion. And whatever you do, don't absorb the energy inside—it's unstable. It wouldn't give you much power anyway, and it's more trouble than it's worth."

"I have another matter to settle first," Arlon replied, his voice steady. "But I'll make sure she gets there safely. Please give the party I sent to you a map to guide them."

After finalizing the arrangements, Arlon received Charon's contact information and talked to the Gamers.

"Your quest is an escort mission," he informed them, shifting back into his NPC persona. "Travel to Oceina and ensure Shirl's safe passage to Istarra."

By maintaining this façade, Arlon ensured that his role as an NPC would shield his true identity. He knew the information he uncovered would eventually make its way to Zephyrion, the ruler of Istarra, paving the way for monumental change. The lives saved, the plans delayed—it was a step closer to his ultimate goal of defeating the last boss.

But the time to reveal himself as a player was still far off. Kelta was not yet a place for anyone to venture lightly.

Exhausted from the day's events, Arlon let himself fall into a deep sleep, his mind filled with the possibilities his actions had set into motion.

---

The next morning, before dawn, Arlon made his way to Edrich's shop. The streets were nearly empty, and the quiet stillness felt like a reprieve from the chaos of recent days. As a savvy merchant, Edrich always opened early, ensuring he was ready for the day's business before the crowds arrived.

It was the most suited time for Arlon. There was no way that Keldars realized the monster was dead. They would only realize it the next day since normally, the monster was going to complete its evolution then.

Even if they realized, there wouldn't be enough time to send someone. Arlon was sure that there weren't any spies here, or they wouldn't need Shirl. So, they would need to send someone to take care of Shirl, which would take at least 3 days.

Arlon utilized this time to visit Edrich.

When he arrived at the shop, he met with the same luxurious view. Arlon noticed the sight of Edrich arranging his wares with the help of a young assistant. Upon seeing Arlon, Edrich waved the boy off to continue working and approached with a warm smile.

"You're looking more the part of an adventurer today," Edrich remarked, his eyes appraising the impressive Sentinel's Legacy Set Arlon wore.

Since everyone had already seen it, there was no reason to hide the set anymore.

"Thank you," Arlon replied with a small nod. "I'm here to do some business."

"I'd be glad to help," Edrich said, his tone genuine. "Charon filled me in on what you've done for Oceina. We owe you much for that."

"It's nothing," Arlon said modestly. He opened his inventory and began laying out the spoils from his recent battles, including the valuable hide of the monster Durant.

Edrich's eyes lit up as he examined the items. "You've done well," he said, clearly impressed. "Even without the perks of being a player, you've managed to collect some fine loot. Especially this one." He held up Durant's hide with care. "This will sell in no time—likely to someone with more money than they know what to do with."

Arlon felt a flicker of unease but managed to smile. If only you knew, he thought. His identity as a player was a secret he had to keep.

"I'm glad you think so," Arlon said, his gaze wandering the shop. His eyes landed on a small case of neatly arranged potions, each labeled meticulously. "What about those? Can I see them?"

"Ah, a good choice," Edrich said, following his gaze. "This is a standard adventurer's kit—potions for every situation. Please, take it. Consider it a token of gratitude for what you've done for us."

Caught off guard by the unexpected generosity, Arlon hesitated. It had been over a decade since anyone had offered him something out of pure goodwill. Unsure how to respond, he finally accepted it with a quiet "Thank you."

After exchanging farewells, Arlon left the shop and stepped into the cool morning air. His mind turned to the day ahead. The Gamers would arrive in a few hours, but for the first time since returning to Trion, he had nothing pressing to do.

Looking out at the serene beauty of Oceina, he realized how little he had allowed himself to enjoy it. Why not take a day off? he thought, a rare smile tugging at his lips.

For once, the world could wait.