The Empires Rise

With the memories of two different lives rushing through my mind, I consider the notification in front of me.

- Guardian Lich Ritual 95% Complete.

Please select a location you would like to be the Guardian Lich of:

Caelnova -

There are no other options available. I sigh at how stupid this choice is; I select Caelnova.

- Are you sure you want to be the Guardian Lich of Caelnova? Yes/No -

When I select yes, my mind immediately gathers around two points. The first is the phylactery in the corner of the room, which holds my soul. The other is the body lying in the coffin near the phylactery.

When I checked my status, my race had changed to Guardian Lich (E). I could allocate a couple more stat points, and I did. I am still a level 2 mage but have acquired several new spells by transforming into a Guardian Lich.

I raise undead from those foes the settlement has killed through traps, towers, or the population.

I can also use the condensed death mana the settlement accumulates to further my powers, but once I use it, it is gone.

With these considerations, another notification shows.

- Quest: Becoming a Guardian

As a recently decreed guardian of Caelnova, you have a responsibility to help your fellow settlers.

Tasks:

Kill outside forces: 0/5

Save various settlers: 0/?

Help the noble of the settlement: 0/1

Rewards: ??? -

Feeling out of sorts due to the dual perspectives, I climb out of my tomb to see blood and dead creatures.

Gathering the power I have been given, I raise a few dead creatures and have them follow along.

Progress to the manor is quick, and I find more dead bodies; this time, some are of people other than the monsters.

One of the monsters dies, and my quest updates.

Raising the ones around me, I quickly gather a small group of undead monsters and send them out to kill the remaining monsters.

The ones with more blue take little time to reach the battle before the greener ones slaughter them. But as they die, I raise them and have them fight the others.

I analyze my minions to get a feel for how tough they are.

- Raised Sea Devil

Level 3

HP: 15/20

Raised Sea Devil Baron

Level 5

HP: 50/50 -

When I help clear the remaining Barons, one more enemy remains left to kill. With everyone exhausted from all the fighting, I look for Draemish first.

As I look around, I notice a familiar face, and I do a double-take before hurrying to cover my presence from her.

It is futile. She sees me and rushes to my side. "LAX-LAX!" she scoops me up into a big hug.

Smiling at her, remembering her as a small spiderling, "I see my little spider has grown. And my, how you have grown."

She is stunned before asking, "What do you mean, your little spider? Don't you remember we met by saving you from that despicable 'Bishop'?" She says the title with venom.

Shaking my head, I said, "I would have to disagree. I remember a small spider catching little bugs while watching me work. Always happy to please me with little tasks."

"Haulgard?" She asks tentatively.

Smiling brightly, I shake my head again: "I am neither Haulgard nor Laxreal individually. I still have to figure out what I want to be called, but don't worry—whatever you call me for now is fine."

Hearing my affirmation, she hugs me tighter; I feel some of my bones creaking from the pressure.

During this reunion, Draemish approaches us. "Glad to see you back. I have overheard some of what you two talked about and am quite impressed. For now, let's hold off on the pleasantries. We have to finish this battle."

Nodding in acknowledgment, "Where is the last monster?"

"Ilpheus brought it away from the frontlines. I think he was hoping to kill it off. Can you go and check on him with your newly risen? I don't have a good feeling. I will rest for a second and then be behind shortly."

"As you say, General," I send my minions out following her orders. "Where is Drake?" I ask.

"He is in the manor and has been passed out for over an hour now. I am getting concerned he won't be able to come back," Draemish states, concern in her voice.

"Lich," I hear in my head. Looking up, I spot Ritotorous.

Giving him a light bow, I reply, "How can I assist my Lord?"

"Go to him. Your risen should be able to hold off the Viscount long enough for everyone to be prepared. Save him first."

Bowing one more time, "As you command."

Heading upstairs, I activate mana into my eyes. From what I see, there is a cyclone pushing down on the house, full of death and corruption mana. Concern fully taking over, I reach his room.

Inside, I see Drake lying on a bed. Reaching out to him, I can feel that his Mana Heart is in the process of finalizing, but there is something wrong with it. It would be better to say that it is unheard of.