Infinite Paths: The Raging Phoenix

"That is unexpected… I thought you guys wouldn't leave your territory no matter what," Rain said while frowning.

"I also thought that, but the younger generation is quite curious about the world and the dust gave them the reason for the older generation to agree with them and do some investigation work," Isa explained. "I was kept away from the loop, so I am a bit behind the news, but the rumors are spreading quick about the fact that the whole world already knows the basics of the magic that we developed.

They are also thinking that this might give the chance for the dragons to finally find some ways to bypass our defenses."

It was only obvious and natural that the demi-humans would harbor a sense of unease or dissatisfaction upon realizing that their technological advancements were no longer solely theirs. The revelation that their knowledge was now being used and integrated with other nations might have unsettled them.

Despite having a significant lead in technological and magic development, boasting thousands of years ahead of other nations, the demi-humans were forward-thinking. They foresaw a future where their isolated stance could potentially lead to a loss of their competitive edge over time.

Their isolationist approach, while preserving their knowledge and advancements, also limited their growth potential by restraining interactions and exchanges with other civilizations.

"So, what should I be wary of?" Rain asked. "You told me that they might want to become allies in the future if we keep showing promise, but I am still not close to reaching the tools that I need."

"So far, it is hard to say what will happen, I just want you to keep your guard up," Isa said. "I didn't expect that they would find so many barriers being employed and they know that it is only a matter of time before other nations make developments on that aspect… in the worst case scenario, they might attack those countries to make sure that they will lose that technology."

Rain felt like sighing… that was really troublesome. It seemed that the demi humans were getting stirred since they weren't only access to their premium magic.

Still, they would have to cross a massive ocean and the territories of the sea folk and the sea dragons to reach the human, magic people, and the beast people territories… they will lose their terrain advantage and they will expose themselves to the dragons as well.

Rain finally understood the reason behind the demi-humans' reluctance to share their knowledge with the outside world. It dawned on him that their primary concern might be tied to their exceptional ability to create barriers capable of nullifying or restraining dragon magic.

Reflecting on his past experiences, Rain recalled crossing the demi-humans' barriers without encountering any discernible effects or magical hindrances. This led him to deduce that their barriers served a crucial purpose beyond mere territorial disguise. These magical barriers likely possessed the ability to neutralize or weaken dragon magic within their confines.

This realization shed light on the demi-humans' strategic use of barriers. Their primary objective might have been to create shields that could cloak their territories while also acting as a deterrent against the dragons. By preventing the dragons from effectively using their magic within these barriers, they effectively safeguarded their territory from potential magical threats or influence. Stay tuned for updates on My Virtual Library Empire

"You remember fighting that woman, right?" Isa asked. "While she is the third strongest, the other two true strength still is a mystery and I have many reasons to believe that they have been sent outside to nullify possible threats to us. Now and then, I find relics made using the bodies of dragons. Their strength shouldn't rely on stealthy only, but they should be pretty good at that.

As for now, you are probably their easiest target since you are the main human who is focusing on that research."

"Sorry to say this, but if they come to attack me or get even close to my home with ill intentions, they won't live to see the light of another day," Rain said. "I take it that once this happens, their leaders won't take well those losses."

"Yes… it might lead to a war," Isa said after a long sigh.

Rain experienced a profound sense of exasperation and weariness upon grasping the situation. The last thing he needed was to accumulate more enemies, especially considering the extensive list of foes he had accrued thus far. The prospect of adding yet another faction to the roster of potential enemies troubled him.

Adding to the weight of this realization was the broader context of humanity's existing conflicts and adversaries. Humans already found themselves entangled in numerous disputes and conflicts with various factions. In such a situation, it wouldn't be entirely unexpected if these disparate enemies united forces in a coalition against humans, aiming to eradicate or subjugate them altogether.@@novelbin@@

"Maybe I shouldn't kill them… just breaking their arms and torturing them for information should be enough and more efficient," Rain said while rubbing his chin thoughtfully. "Can't say that I will be able to keep my cool like that, though."

"I wish that I could help you more, but I can't get involved with the upper echelon without looking suspicious," Isa said. "I will try to find other ways to help you when the time comes."

"Thanks, I appreciate it," Rain said.

Rain felt deep gratitude towards Isa for her assistance, yet an obvious curiosity lingered within him. He couldn't help but wonder about Isa's motivations and the extent of her willingness to help him. This curiosity raised questions in his mind, prompting him to contemplate whether there might be deeper reasons behind Isa's aid.

Rain couldn't ignore the possibility that his wives might have logical grounds for feeling jealous. Isa's unwavering support and willingness to extend help beyond what was expected could be seen as going beyond the usual bounds of friendship or alliance…

"I guess I have become a sinful man," Rain thought.