The Paladin in the Abyss

Chapter 195 Pakos's Invitation

"Transformation? Is that the reason for his power?" Lancelot was still brooding over his failure to defeat Enrique, and upon hearing this, he asked, "What exactly is a Dark Guardian?"

"When a Holy Warrior completely abandons the sacred oaths once sworn, they can transform into a Dark Guardian through a series of evil rituals such as sacrificing innocent souls, swearing new oaths of darkness, and forging pacts with powerful Fiends," the Succubus Paladin glanced at Lancelot, "All the skills, Divine Arts, and Spiritual Light that were used to fight evil will transform into versions that sow destruction and evil. However, this doesn't grant any additional strength, other than the freedom to act without moral constraints."

"Well, it seems his strength was already that formidable," Lancelot shrugged.

"He's practically your opposite," Kalalin exclaimed to Elothysia, "You were a Succubus, he was a beloved Holy Warrior. You seek redemption for yourself, while he has walked the path of the Fallen. Sending him to hunt you must be particularly ironic for your former master."@@@@

"His power is indeed very strong; I certainly stand no chance against him alone," Elothysia looked apologetically at the group, "I'm really sorry for bringing such a dangerous enemy upon you all..."

"Bah, he's just a Fallen human. I dared to face a six-armed Serpent Demon to rescue you. Of course, she was gravely injured at the time..." Lancelot joked, then turned serious, "Don't you get any weird ideas. We're helping you because we respect your choices, your journey. In some ways, helping you is helping ourselves."

"When I first set out on this path, I braced for all the difficulties, but I never anticipated receiving such an overwhelming amount of support," the Succubus Paladin's face showed a complex expression, "Thank you, truly."

"Don't mention it," Lancelot waved a hand nonchalantly, "As for that Dark Guardian, he and I aren't finished yet. I'm sure he won't give up so easily. Next time we meet, I'll have to settle the score and prove that I am the strongest Human Knight in the Abyss."

"Gurgle gurgle."

Bruto made protesting noises from his belly, interrupting Lancelot's grand declarations.

"We've been up since early morning getting a good workout, haven't we?" The Dwarf looked around somewhat embarrassed, "The innkeeper mentioned breakfast, right?"

"So how wealthy does the rumor claim I am that these creatures dared attack your inn?" Lancelot skillfully countered.

"No amount of wealth could explain their stupidity," Pakos shrugged, "Those werewolves argue they were controlled by a guy in Black Armor. They wouldn't have the guts to do such a thing without that excuse, clearly made up to avoid being sent to the slave pen. Who would believe them?"

"That guy is indeed one of our enemies," Lancelot didn't bother to hide this fact, as the one in front of him had already encountered the knight in Black Armor. "But I believe he won't be bothering us again anytime soon."

"Yet my reputation has been tangibly damaged," the Halfling proprietor jumped onto the table. "You must compensate me."

"What reputation? That guests need not fear being attacked in their rooms?" Bruto interjected quizzically, but Lancelot knew the Dwarf was doing so deliberately.

"Perhaps I didn't make myself clear," Pakos leveled his gaze at Lancelot. "I invite you to act as my representatives in the search for the Eye of Sarizdon. Aren't you eager to obtain the map and leave this city? If you successfully find the Divine Artifact, you'll certainly be the first to get the map."

"We have no objections," Lancelot nodded. "But what about you? What do you stand to gain?"

"Do you plan to settle down in this city for the long term?"

"No, we have no such plans."

"Then it's none of your business," Pakos settled back into his chair. "How about it? Any other questions?"

"Many, like where do we start looking for the Eye of Sarizdon?"