Chapter 22: Kik’lit
The two were back in the cell, the foul smell of blood now dominating the earthy scents of the cave.
Micky didn’t seem bothered, however, as he pecked chunks off the croco-bear’s severed leg. Being allowed to eat their kills was apparently one of the few joys afforded to the prisoners of the colosseum. Not that Percy particularly enjoyed the taste of the still-bleeding meal – he preferred his food cooked. At least this one was fresh. Surprisingly tender too. A Yellow beast’s flesh was supposed to be tougher, but his host had softened it quite a bit after that massacre of a bout.
‘So, I take it your people were attacked out of greed?’
Micky nodded.
‘Originally, our enemies only wanted our resources. Upon perfecting the Dance, my ancestors managed to turn the situation around for a few millennia, regaining some of the lost territories. But the only thing we achieved was to give our foes an even greater reason for coveting our world. Eventually, they joined forces with a few other races to conquer Huehue.’
‘But why? Does it even work with other affinities?’
Fighting above one’s grade was certainly valuable, but if it only worked with pure mana then the advantage would be offset by its weakness. In that case, it would be priceless for the people of Huehue, yet not quite as much for others.
‘Sadly, yes.’
Hearing that, Percy’s feelings were mixed. Part of him did want it to work solely with his second core, to finally make it worth it. Stumbling upon a powerful technique that only worked because of his affinity sure sounded better than one that did so despite it. But he shook those thoughts away, knowing they were silly.