Chapter 14
With every minute that passed, Zeth’s heart beat faster. His own blood dripped from his chest and arms, his hands leaving red prints behind anywhere he planted them. He felt his fingers shake from the pain he felt, taking care to not allow himself to sink into his work in the way Vile Focus allowed him to do. It would’ve let him pass the time without feeling any of it, but he also wouldn’t notice if the guards came back ahead of schedule and he had to erase the circle and flee.
Vile Focus, despite Zeth ignoring its secondary effect, still Ranked up once as he worked, apparently not needing him to indulge it in order to make progress. Zeth was extremely glad to see it happen, since even the extra two-point-five percent discount to the time required could make a difference here.
Soon, as he traced line after line of the intricate pattern, he felt the circle begin to near completion. The twenty-eight Shaping he’d accumulated so far allowed him to feel the latent mana energy emanating from it, growing stronger and stronger as he continued to work. Eventually, he could practically feel the air around the circle humming with power.
It was at that moment he heard a distant knock.
Three bangs echoed out from the house, followed by a shout. “Ma’am, we’re back to search the area!”
He heard the door of the house open and faint conversation as his mom spoke with the guards.
No, no, no! I just need a little more time. C’mon…
Holding his focus on the ritual, he continued frantically drawing, hoping against hope that he’d be able to complete it in the next couple minutes. He could feel it getting closer and closer. He knew it wouldn’t be long.
Mom, invite them inside for a drink or something before you start. At least have some extended conversation about their process, or something. Sophie, ask them a bunch of questions about how their magic works. Please!