Cultist of Cerebon

Chapter 3

Within his new residence conveniently located near TalQamars barracks, Zareth carefully studied the work hed done on the soldier sent to him by General Nasrith.

The young human was at a low enough Level that she would benefit from his augmentations, and expendable enough that the General was willing to send her as a test subject. Actually improving somebodys body with his [Permanent Flesh Manipulation] was a rather tricky endeavor, as natural selection had settled on each races particular biology for good reason.

For example, human skin might be much softer than the thick skin of an ogre or the scales of a lizardkin, but it was much better at sweating, thereby facilitating more efficient thermoregulation. Humans also had excellent day vision compared with most animals and even many of the sapient species found in this world. Lizardkin and naga both had superior night vision to humans, but also had notably inferior color perception.

While enhancing a human with naga eyes could improve their night scouting abilities, it would be more practical for General Nastrith to simply employ an actual naga for the task. As a result of all these considerations, Zareth was somewhat limited in the augmentations he could offer the human woman.

It was far more difficult for him to manipulate a persons internal structure, so he just decided to add thick scales over her important vital points. Such a change should have little impact on her ability to sweat while also providing a small layer of defense that just might save her life in a fight.

So how strong are these things? asked the soldier, scratching at the dark scales layered over her jugular vein.

Their durability should be about equivalent to the skin of a human with 30 Vitality, Zareth responded, studying his work with a critical eye. Far worse than a good suit of armor, but it might just be enough to save you from a stray arrow. What Im really interested in seeing is if they improve in resiliency once your Vitality improves.

The Grimoire of Cerebon claimed that they would, but Zareth wanted to see it for himself. It was a shame that the changes the System made to a persons body when they increased their Stats were impossible to perceive biologically. It would have made his life much easier if he could simply study the body of a person with high physical Stats and replicate their structure in others.

I suppose its better than nothing, said the soldier, her voice carrying a hint of uncertainty. At least it doesnt hurt or anything. You sure theres nothing you can do to give me claws, or some bigger muscles?

Claws would interfere with your motor skills unless they were retractable, Zareth said as he moved on to grow scales around her forearm. Internal changes are significantly more difficult than external ones, which is why I wont be giving you retractable claws or bigger muscles.

Zareth could probably actually give her venom glands or fangs similar to a nagas, but those were far less useful than they sounded without the corresponding skills. Those kinds of sneaky tricks might be helpful for an [Assassin], but they were much less practical for a frontline [Shieldbearer] like her.

Once they were finally done, Zareth nodded to his stoic observer and watched as Rizok escorted the soldier out of his home. He wasnt exactly fond of having someone watching his every move, but he couldnt deny that the lizardkin was useful. When Rizok returned, Zareth was relieved to see that he was alone and not being followed by another soldier that he needed to augment.

Was she the last of them? Zareth asked eagerly.

Yes sir. The General will be pleased with your efficiency, Rizok responded in a deep voice, his tone detached and professional.

He damned well better be. Its not like I can just use my Skills constantly without getting tired.

Using [Permanent Flesh Manipulation] caused a sort of mental exhaustion that felt like hed been poring over complex equations for hours on end.

Despite seeming relatively simple, each little adjustment required immense concentration and precision, making even minor modifications a tiring process. His Spirit Stat helped alleviate this somewhat, but there were limitations to how far he could push his mental endurance.

Good, Zareth said, rubbing his temple in an attempt to push back his impending headache. Please let me know whenever High Command finishes assessing the augmentations.

I will, sir. Will you be continuing with your plans for the day, or would you prefer to retire for the evening? Rizok asked neutrally.

Zareth would love to hop in his bed and take a nap, but he had far too much work to do.

It was only a few days ago that General Nasrith finished consolidating control of the government and established the Hierophant Council, to which Zareth and the other religious leaders had been assigned. Zareth knew that these early days would likely be the most significant of the Cult he intended to build, so he couldnt afford to waste a single moment.

Ill continue with my plans, Zareth said reluctantly as he began to make his way out of his workspace. His new home provided by High Command was very functional in design, and had only the bare necessary furnishings required for living. This is probably the best time of day to go to the Adventurers Guild, so I cant afford to waste any more time.

Yes sir, Rizok responded, his expression indifferent.

Zareth sighed as he extinguished the oil lantern lighting his home. I wish you would stop calling me that and just use my name. Even if youre technically my subordinate, we both know that you answer to High Command.

Regulations are clear on how you should be addressed, sir, Rizok replied, ignoring Zareths frustration.

Zareth rolled his eyes but didnt push the issue further. He knew the military cared a lot about discipline and hierarchy, and TalQamar was effectively a military dictatorship now. If Rizok insisted on maintaining a formal relationship between the two of them, then that was reasonable.

Fine. Lets just get going, Zareth acquiesced before realizing he had forgotten an important detail. Oh, before we go, you should change into something less conspicuous. Itll make things much easier for me if everyone who looks at you doesnt immediately realize youre a member of the military.

Rizok looked down at his armored uniform and the sword sheathed at his waist. Understood sir. Ill make the necessary adjustments.

Zareth watched as Rizok retreated into a small room to change. This wasnt the first time they had done this, and Zareth had eventually decided to keep a spare change of lizardkin clothes for Rizok. Ever since General Nasrith took control of the government, the citizens of TalQamar had been acting rather cautiously around the military. It didnt help that many of the people Zareth was acquainted with were criminals.

It wasnt long before Rizok returned wearing a simple shawl over a nondescript tunic, his sword nowhere to be seen. Zareth gave the soldier a quick once over before nodding in approval. Alright, now we can get going.

The two of them made their way out of the house and stepped out onto the streets of TalQamar. Nowadays, Zareth always felt a hint of unease whenever he exited his home; not because the city was any more dangerous than it usually was, but because of the large number of soldiers who lived near his house. The military didnt have any standardized uniform, but they all wore cloaks over their armor that was a particular shade of crimson forbidden for civilians and non-military personnel to wear.

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Zareth couldnt help but note that the crimson was the same color as General Nasriths scales

It had been several years since Zareth had managed to become a [Cultist] and ceased being a lowly [Street Urchin], but he still sometimes felt a hint of dread whenever he saw a guard.

Now Im technically a member of the government how times change.

Zareth continued to look around for several moments before he began making his way to the Adventurers Guild. They were on the western side of the large oasis TalQamar had been built around while Zareths new home was near the barracks to the north. This meant that he had plenty of time to take in the results of General Nasriths takeover.

Although the changes werent quite as drastic as he would have expected, they were still obvious to a TalQamari native. The streets were still crowded with vendors and shoppers, children still darted in and out of alleys, and people still went about their business, but Zareth could notice a few stark differences.

A quick glance was enough to confirm that the military was patrolling the streets far more than the city guard ever had. Zareth also noticed a human [Seamstress] that he knew to be a worshiper of Rayya was no longer wearing the pendant common to members of her faith. Given her cautious glances at the passing soldiers and the general subdued atmosphere, it was obvious that the people of TalQamar were still adjusting to the new regime.

So, how much longer do you think things are going to stay like this? Zareth quietly asked Rizok.

I wouldnt know, sir, Rizok replied, his gaze fixed forward.

Really? It seems like you would have a better understanding of the military and the Generals plans than I would, Zareth insisted. He needed to learn everything that he could about Tal Qamar's new political situation if he wanted to come out ahead.

Rizok was silent for a long moment before he eventually replied. You are mistaken, sir. You likely know far more about this city than I do. I can only tell you that General Nasrith will maintain a heightened security state in the city until the citizens fully accept their new leadership

Zareth was startled by the lizardkins response. That was the longest he had ever heard Rizok speak, and his words carried a distinct tone of bitterness.

Arent you a native of TalQamar? Zareth asked hesitantly. You should know this city just as well as I do.

Merchant Lord Raqasor hardly ever allowed us to stay in the city for more than a few months at a time, said Rizok, his voice now carrying a hint of resignation. This will likely be my longest posting in TalQamar since I joined the military more than fifteen years ago. I likely know the sands and roads leaving the city better than I know the actual streets of my home.

Zareth had already known that Raqasor had sold off the militarys services as mercenaries, but he hadnt really thought about how that must feel from the perspective of the soldiers.

Well then, I guess youll get the chance to have some new experiences, Zareth said, attempting to lighten the mood. If theres anything that you dont understand about TalQamar, feel free to ask.

He would very much prefer to be on the good side of the person who would be both protecting his life and reporting his activities to High Command.

Zareth was surprised when Rizok glanced at him thoughtfully and decided to immediately take him up on the offer. There is one thing, sir. Ive noticed that there are certain alleyways that everyone seems to be avoiding and that you quickly glance at when we pass by.

Ah youre a tad more perceptive than I expected, Rizok, Zareth said hesitantly, feeling slightly embarrassed at being called out. Its just a habit of mine, checking the markings on the walls to see which crews territory Im in. Some of them are worse than others, but I dont need to worry too much now that I think about it. Theyre probably all keeping their heads down after the new government took over and trying to avoid crackdowns.

Crew? Are you referring to organized criminal groups, sir? asked Rizok, his tone somewhat surprised. Ive been told that they exist in TalQamar, but I know little about them. Are they truly that dangerous?

It depends on who you are, Zareth admitted after a moment of thought. The Merchant Lord didnt like anything that made foreign merchants afraid to come to the city, so they tended to stay away from foreigners. Theyre pretty active in the poorer parts of the city though.

At least they were last time I checked.

As soon as he started making money, Zareth had done everything he could to cut the people he used to associate with out of his life. As a result, he wasnt actually up to date on things in the worst parts of the city.

Rizoks curiosity seemed to be satisfied with his explanation, and the rest of the journey was spent in comfortable silence. The Adventurers Guild was located in the same district as the rest of the citys Guilds, so it was naturally one of the more active areas of TalQamar. Zareth wasnt much of a fan since he didnt enjoy large crowds thanks to his rural upbringing in his first life.

Thankfully, the district had been intentionally designed to be easy to navigate with wide streets and signage advertising a variety of Guilds, so it wasnt as bad as it could be.

Such organizations were very common due to the nature of the System. People with a certain variety of Class would often learn, monopolize, and then leverage secrets of their Class to accumulate wealth and influence. The Guilds were usually organizations dedicated to maintaining that monopoly of information and advancing the interests of their most powerful members.

Not all Guilds were like that though, with the Adventurers Guild being the most obvious exception.

Hmph. Why am I not surprised that the Adventurers Guild is the least impacted by the change in government? Zareth muttered as he watched a constant stream of people going in and out of the large building constructed along the edge of the oasis.

TalQamar was a very diverse city, but the adventurers were even more so. Zareth could see individuals of several species who were rarely found in this portion of the world, such as a tall six-armed shivarath wearing heavy armor or a diminutive dwarf who looked to be some kind of [Mage]. Even the humans were rather diverse, with many of them carrying features more common in foreign lands.

However, none of them seemed all that concerned about the subtle tension that enraptured the rest of the city.

That was never in question, sir, Rizok said in agreement. If they reacted to danger like a normal person, then they wouldnt be adventurers.

Unable to argue against that point, Zareth merely sighed and began making his way into the Guild. The interior was just as bustling as the exterior, with several people standing around a large bulletin board examining the various request postings. Others were chatting at long tables in small groups, most likely discussing plans for future expeditions.

Zareth mostly ignored them, making his way straight to the counter that ran along the back of the hall. Behind it, an older, harried-looking human woman with graying hair was dealing with a particularly agitated adventurer. He caught a few words of the conversation, noting that the man seemed to be arguing over the belongings of a recently killed teammate.

After a couple of minutes, the adventurer stomped away in a huff, leaving the woman, who was likely a [Clerk] or some other type of administrative class, to rub her temples. Seeing her free, Zareth approached.

Rough day? he asked, placing a hand on the counter to gain her attention.

She looked up with a weary smile. Oh, not at all. Just another day in the Guild. What can I do for you, sir?

Id like to negotiate a series of requests with one of the adventurer groups and potentially set up a long term partnership, Zareth explained. I was hoping you could recommend to me an experienced group that has proven themselves to be reliable and consistent.

The woman gave him a knowing look before nodding. Ah, I see. Well, we have a few groups who fit the bill. Just a moment.

She turned to a large wooden cabinet behind her and began shuffling through a series of parchments and scrolls. After a moment, she pulled out a couple of parchments and spread them out on the counter.

I have three groups that might fit your needs. The first one is a local group called the Silver Serpents. Theyre a mixed group, led by a naga named Sylira. Theyve been consistent in their missions and have good feedback from their clients. Theyre currently ranked at Silver, and have been for some time, she explained, pointing at the detailed profile of the group on one of the parchments.

It included details of their prior missions, the Classes of its members, and an approximation of their Levels.

The second group is the Dusk Hunters. Theyre a human-centric group, led by a man named Kael. Theyre a foreign group that only recently came to the city, but their ranks have climbed quickly because theyre willing to take on a wide variety of requests. Theyve just broken into Gold rank.

The last group is one that came from Eldamir, the Pathfinders. Theyre a diverse group led by a shivarath named Kajal, she stated, indicating the third parchment. Theyve been rather dependable and have a reputation for being very thorough. Theyre currently Silver, but theyre on the cusp of becoming Gold if they continue as well as they have been.

The clerk paused, allowing Zareth to look through the information as he carefully considered his options. There was a reason that he had specifically asked for groups that were reliable, and it was the same reason why the Adventurers Guild was different from any other Guild.

Because adventurers were a group of people well known for fanatically chasing Levels.

The System was more opaque in how it functioned than Zareth would like, but the general factors which contributed to an increase in Levels were widely understood.

Level increases depended on how often you did an activity related to your Class, the overall difficulty of that particular activity, and the danger involved in said activity. As a result, the Adventurers Guild catered to individuals who constantly placed themselves in dangerous situations so that they could Level up quickly. Zareth hadnt met many Adventurers in his life, but the few who he had gave off the impression of being power-leveling obsessed adrenaline junkies.

He had actually considered becoming an Adventurer when he first reincarnated into this world, but his first look at one of the monsters beyond TalQamars walls put that ambition to rest. Zareth really didnt want to die in some ditch somewhere while a nasty critter slowly ate him.

Adventurers were almost universally higher level than most people their age, and some of the most powerful individuals in the world were adventurers, but they also had an absurdly high fatality rate.

Which of these do you think is most likely to still be around a few years from now? Zareth asked bluntly, showing the parchments to Rizok. Im hoping for a partnership that will last a while, so itd be better if I could avoid the ones likely to get themselves killed.

The woman winced at his indelicate statement, but Rizok merely hummed thoughtfully and leaned forward. That would depend on their mission objectives, sir.

Ill mostly be hiring them to capture live monsters for study, Zareth said hesitantly. Among other things.

He needed to be able to offer more than just scales and claws with his [Permanent Flesh Manipulation], and that would require him to look at a wide variety of biology. Given that he was a veterinarian in his past life, he would probably learn a lot more studying creatures that resembled animals.

Aside from that, having a group of capable adventurers under his employ that he could hire for various tasks would be important for his plans to establish his Cult.

In that case, I would recommend against the Dusk Hunters, sir, said Rizok after a moment of consideration. Their Classes arent well suited for capture-retrieval missions, and theyve ranked up too quickly. Ive seen too many fresh recruits die due to impatience, and these people seem likely to do the same. A balanced squad that consolidates their strength and takes the time to consider risks is more likely to survive.

Zareth nodded in agreement. The Dusk Hunters were a Gold ranked team, which meant that they would cost more money anyway. The budget given to him by General Nasrith wasnt exactly unlimited. That sounds reasonable. Then were left with the Silver Serpents and the Pathfinders. Which of these would you choose?

Zareth could tell that Rizok was growing more comfortable as he considered the question. He was starting to get the feeling that the lizardkin only knew how to be a soldier and was uncomfortable with things unrelated to that.

Rizoks eyes moved quickly between the two parchments before settling on one. The Pathfinders, sir. While the Silver Serpents have local knowledge, the Pathfinders have successfully completed tasks that should be beyond their levels. That shows a degree of strategic acumen rare in lower-ranked adventurers. They would be a skilled squad for the acquisition of valuable assets.

Zareth thought over Rizoks reasoning and couldnt find any faults. Besides, he could always check out the other groups if the Pathfinders didnt work out.

Youve convinced me, Rizok, Zareth decided, handing the documents back to the clerk.

Very well, Ill arrange a meeting for you, the clerk responded. She quickly wrote down a note and handed it to a young boy, most likely a trainee hoping to earn the [Clerk] Class, who quickly scampered off.

Zareth went to take a seat at one of the long tables while he waited. The clerk had given him more documents related to the Pathfinders, so he decided to spend his time reading about them. They were a four person group, all of them around the same age as him aside from the shivarath leader. Zareth couldnt help but feel a bit envious when he saw their approximate Levels, all higher than his own.

Adventurers are really crazy I have a lot of catching up to do once my Cult gets going.

Zareth found himself lost in his thoughts as he considered his plans for the future and was only brought out of them when Rizok cleared his throat. Sir, the adventurers have arrived.

He looked up to see four individuals approaching their table. The most striking among them was the middle-aged shivarath [Blademaster] who was their leader, Kajal. Standing at little under seven-feet-tall, his silver eyes shone with a sharp intelligence and he moved with a grace that made it clear he knew how to use the many blades hanging around his waist.

Zareth had never actually spoken to a shivarath before, although he had seen a few in the market. They werent native to the continent of Valandor, where TalQamar was located, so it wasnt common to see them here. They were long-lived species known for their six arms, height, and skill in combat. With his silver-gray skin and multiple muscular arms, Kajal was rather intimidating up close.

The other three were races that Zareth was much more familiar with. Tilda was a dwarf [Elemental Mage] wearing robes carrying the insignia of some mage school Zareth had never heard of. The dwarves were a people who were fairly common in the neighboring empire of Eldamir, so he had spoken to many of them.

Casper was a human [Scout], although one likely also from Eldamir given that he had short blond hair and a complexion that was much lighter than any human native to the Qahtani Desert. He was the only one in their group younger than Zareth and smiled brightly with a friendly expression.

The last of them was Sefirah, a lizardkin [Beast Tamer] who would undoubtedly prove invaluable for live capture missions. Lizardkin were native to the desert in which TalQamar was located, but Zareth had a feeling that she was most likely from FalAshar or one of the other nearby oasis settlements. Something about her just didnt seem like a native to him.

Are you the one who wished to meet us? Kajal asked in a low rumbling voice as he and the rest of his team took seats at the table. I was told that you wish to negotiate a long-term partnership with us.

Thats right, Zareth confirmed, giving them a friendly smile. My name is Zareth, and I was hoping to employ you for some unconventional missions.

Kajal raised a brow at his description, his gaze meeting Zareths. Unconventional?

I would like you to capture monsters for me, alive, Zareth clarified. He figured that it would be better to be upfront with his intentions given that they would be working together for a while. These missions would mostly be in the Qahtani Desert at first, but I do intend to send you further abroad in the future.

Once I start making enough money to actually afford that

A collective look of surprise passed among the Pathfinders, and it was Casper who excitedly broke the silence. Capturing live monsters? That sounds amazing! Much more fun than the missions we usually take. Kajal, we have to accept this!

Kajal glared lightly at Casper, who shrank back and offered a slight apology. It was clear to Zareth that they had agreed to let Kajal do the negotiating.

It is an interesting task, but whether or not we accept it depends on the nature of the beasts involved and the compensation, Kajal replied professionally.

Absolutely, I understand that, Zareth said with a nod. Some of them will be dangerous, but they wont all necessarily be that way. Ill mostly be sending you to gather creatures with unique biological characteristics. As for compensation, that also wont be a problem. However, I have an additional proposal that I would like to present to you.

A flicker of caution entered Kajals expression. What kind of proposal?

Here it goes

Zareth lifted his hand for the Pathfinders to see and quickly gave them the same demonstration of his flesh manipulating abilities that he had given the General. Scales grew along his palm as his fingers grew into claws.

I am a [Cultist] who serves Cerebon, God of Flesh and Transformation, Zareth said as the adventurers watched the spectacle with varying degrees of fascination and wariness. My god has granted me the ability to manipulate biological material, which is why I wish to study the creatures that you bring me. It also means that I can offer my services to you all either as healing or for permanent augmentations to your bodies. I dont know much about your profession, but I do know that healing potions must be a sizable portion of your budget.

The Pathfinders seemed more than a little interested in his abilities. Zareth knew that it would probably cut down a lot on the time they spent between missions recovering, and the physical augmentations werent anything to scoff at either.

I really hope they accept

Adventurers traveled far and wide, so Zareth would eventually be able to spread news about Cerebon outside of TalQamar if the Pathfinders managed to do well thanks to his assistance. This had the potential to open up a lot of options for him if he played his cards right.

After a few moments of quietly discussing among themselves, Kajal turned back to Zareth with a suspicious expression. What do you want for these services? Additional payments mean that you expect additional work.

All I ask is that you assist me with a few matters in TalQamar, Zareth answered, careful to keep his tone casual. Im sure that youve heard about the political situation in the city, something that Ive recently found myself involved in given that I now work for the government. You dont need to worry, I wont ask for anything that will get you in trouble with my bosses or be overly dangerous. Youll also be free to decline, although I would of course be forced to stop providing my services.

The offer that Zareth gave was an extremely generous one, basically offering free healing until he needed them for something and even making it non-binding. Of course, Zareth knew that they would be very reluctant to turn away his services once they experienced it for themselves and as his abilities grew more powerful.

Sure enough, the Pathfinders spoke amongst themselves for a while before Kajal once again turned to Zareth. Your proposals seem acceptable, though I need to see the exact details.

Naturally, we can go over them now, Zareth said with a smile.

The next hour was spent going over the exact details of their agreement and a sample of the creatures that Zareth wanted them to acquire. He mostly started off with the weaker ones so as to not scare them off, but added a few that would be a decent challenge. The Pathfinders collectively decided that they would need to give it a lot more thought before they allowed him to change their bodies, but they seemed very interested in the healing. By the time they were done, Zareth was convinced that he had gotten a good deal.

Oh, theres one more thing that Id like to ask, Zareth said just as they finished their meeting and settled on a price for the missions. If any of you are interested in becoming a worshiper of Cerebon, or if you know someone who might be interested, I think it could be a great help. [Cerebons Boon] offers increased physical stats, slight regeneration, and it makes it easier for me to give you augmentations. Worship of Cerebon also doesnt require any overly difficult rituals.

Zareth wished that he had [Devotion Perception] so that he could better target his sales pitches, but he didnt so he had decided to just start spreading the word of Cerebon whenever he could. Zareth wasnt actually expecting any of them to be interested, and most of them werent, but Casper actually paused to ask a question.

What do Cerebons worshipers need to do? asked Casper, his eyes filled with curiosity. That Boon seems really good, but I dont want to do anything crazy.

Nothing much, just a little bit of ritualistic body modification and some prayer, Zareth hurried to reassure, pushing back his hair and revealing his piercing filled ear. The modifications could be anything that you want, so long as theyre done in Cerebons name.

Casper wore an expression of obvious interest until his dwarvish teammate began to pull him away. Come on lad. Choosin a god aint somethin you do without thinkin. We can talk it over as a group.

Tilda glared at Zareth suspiciously as if he was some kind of [Merchant] trying to scam an impressionable kid. Kajal seemed equally protective over their groups youngest member, but was too diplomatic to glare at him. Thank you for your offer, but none of us are currently ready to convert. We can speak more about this once weve returned from our first mission.

Zareth wasnt offended. He already had other plans for gathering members for his Cult.

After a short goodbye, the Pathfinders made their way out of the Adventurers Guild to prepare for their first monster acquisition and Zareth was once again alone with Rizok. His guard hadnt spoken at all during the negotiation, but Zareth was quick to ask for his opinion of the adventurers once they were gone.

Difficult to say, sir, Rizok said after a moment of thought. The [Elemental Mage] and the [Beast Tamer] stayed mostly silent, but that was in deference to their leader. They seem to trust each other, which is essential for any squad. They also seem saner than most adventurers.

Zareth had a similar impression. He would have to spend some effort to learn more about them, but that was a task for the future.

Now that he had hired his adventurer group and secured a path for him to continue improving his abilities, it was time to recruit some followers for his Cult. Zareth had been considering how he would do so since the moment that he had become a [Cultist], and he had a few ideas.