Chapter 683

Chapter 683: For the Dagger Association

Jesse had seen the spell Shadow Wrath before.

When encountering Teron Gorefiend in Dalaran, he had used Shadow Wrath against Kaffir and Vereesa Windrunner, disrupting their rhythm and nearly killing Kaffir.

This was no simple spell. Zardeth’s earlier Shadow Wrath paled compared to Teron Gorefiend’s might, yet it still proved effective.

Many in the basement felt unsettled by the spell’s aftermath, sitting aside to rest. Zardeth clearly recognized his recklessness, apologizing to Jesse and Surena before sprinkling a potion to purify shadow corrosion—filling the air with bitterness.

Jesse noticed Zardeth’s frustration over failing to enslave his summoned Voidwalker. Such emotional displays were rare for him.

"Have you all mastered this spell?" Jesse asked.

Erlan shook his head while others stayed silent. Ursula admitted, "I can cast it using a Wrath Potion, but my results fall short of Zardeth’s."

Jalane coughed from her seat. "The spell’s destructive force in enclosed spaces limits our practice."

"The Wrath Potion is essential, Ursula," Zardeth interjected. "Orcs named this magic Shadow Wrath for a reason. Though shadow embodies gloom, fury can ignite its power. Yet rage unleashes gathered shadows abruptly—causing chaos without lasting corruption."

"Because corrosive shadows detonate prematurely," Ursula concluded.

"Precisely." Zardeth turned to Jesse. "Your thoughts?"

"It lets warlocks control battles or create escapes—crucial for us," Jesse said.

"Especially when Fear fails," Zardeth added. "Against undead, Shadow Wrath’s disruption shines. I’ll share the incantation later. Practice it alone—this basement can’t withstand another casting."

"Understood." Jesse lowered his voice. "You risk too much gathering these spells. Don’t push yourself."

Zardeth shook his head. "Only through every Dagger Association member’s contribution can we unlock shadow magic and demons’ full potential."

As others’ resentful expressions eased, Zardeth addressed the Voidwalker in Demonic: "Your name?"

"Kormos," it answered hollowly.

"Return to the smaller practice room, Kormos. We proceed here."

"Yes, Master."

The Voidwalker ghosted away. Light returned to the corridor, revealing how its presence had significantly darkened the basement.

"You’re remarkable, Zardeth," Surena breathed. "Merely observing that creature strained my nerves—let alone commanding it."

"Prepare yourself further. Next we summon a Demon Guard." Zardeth produced a tattered scroll. "Bought this from a Black Morass mercenary. Without my Demonic knowledge, its value would’ve escaped me."

Ursula massaged her temples. "Everyone’s drained today, Zardeth. Handling the Voidwalker was achievement enough. Summoning stronger demons—especially a Demon Guard—should wait."

Erlan agreed. "Only you or Jesse could attempt that unfamiliar spell. Are you certain?"

Zardeth hesitated, noting the group’s reluctance. He turned to Jesse. "Ursula mentioned your upcoming northern journey?"

"Two or three months," Jesse confirmed.

"Then we postpone." Zardeth conceded. "Meanwhile, we’ll study the Voidwalker. Demon Guards pose real danger."

Relieved sighs followed. After dismissing the gathering, Zardeth hurried to the Voidwalker’s chamber, his succubus trailing. Jalane retreated to her room while Erlan and Surena brought drinks to the hall. Jesse entered Ursula’s Alchemy Room.

Scanning the empty corridor, he whispered, "Has Zardeth seemed unusual lately?"

"Today? Absolutely. Otherwise, he’s rarely in Stormwind—busy collecting spells between Ironforge and Darkshire." Ursula straightened her bookshelf. "Since Gakin’s death, he shoulders this alone. Thankfully Erlan cooperates now."

"Listen—I can’t bring Molofeel to Lordaeron," Jesse said. "Leave her with you."

"Why? I have Basadre."

"Zardeth…" Jesse frowned. "Consider it a favor. Watch that succubus."

He unfurled another scroll. "This demon-enslaving spell from Kalimdor isn’t easily mastered, but I’ve learned it. Should Zardeth attempt summoning a Demon Guard without me, use this if contracts fail."

"Demon enslavement? You truly distrust him." Ursula sighed. "He’s just jealous. That Voidwalker resisted him until you arrived—anyone would feel slighted."

"Molofeel may stay. With Jalane often sewing robes downstairs, company’s welcome."

"Then Molofeel and this scroll should suffice." Jesse placed three silver coins on the table. "Compensate Erlan for the damaged table—things were too tense earlier."

Ursula pocketed the coins. "Consider it done. Safe travels, Jesse."

That night, Molofeel materialized from shadows in Jesse’s rented room, sulking. "Guarding the basement? You just fear I’ll disrupt your tryst with Vereesa Windrunner, Master."

"What if I do?" Jesse retorted. "Would you enter Quel’Thalas? Burn to ash in its wards? Get me arrested as a demon summoner—"

"At least I’d die beside you," the succubus purred.

"Spare me." Jesse waved her off. "Monitor Zardeth—he’s unstable."

Molofeel chuckled. "He covets your shadow’s favor while you envy his growing power. You dread him surpassing you… especially with spells like Shadow Wrath. Few warlocks tame it."

"Perhaps suspicion stems from envy." Jesse stared into darkness. "I know shadow’s mental disturbances firsthand. Pray Zardeth’s will is stronger."

"Unlikely," she murmured.

"Regardless, prevent chaos in the Slaughtered Lamb basement."

The succubus bowed. "Your command binds me. Now, tonight—"

"Need mana?" Jesse cut in. "No. My mentor’s assignment awaits. Disturb me again until it’s finished, and you’ll regret it."

Laughter erupted near the desk as Molofeel’s tail lashed out—only to freeze against a suddenly raised spell scroll.

"I’m scrutinizing Zardeth’s incantations, Sayaad," the imp snapped. "Harm me and hinder our master’s progress? That’d be your end!"

"True enough," Jesse agreed, laying out fresh parchment.

Molofeel bared her teeth and flung herself onto the bed. Her increased weight made the frame groan in protest.