{T/N: I see the Stones that 'some' of you consistently throw at this TRANSLATION... Here's a bonus chapter as appreciation...}
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Upon hearing Karl's question, Quevedo quickly replied:
"Unfortunately, no. Though 'The Adventures of Gloria' and 'Valia's Magical Journey' were my favorite childhood books too, those kinds of powers don't exist... well, not exactly." He hesitated before adding, "Some say that after drinking a potion, you can gain abilities similar to Gloria or Valia's. But I've never seen it myself."
Erich interjected, "That's correct. Such Beyonder Pathways do exist, but they're beyond our reach. To put it simply, all Beyonder powers come from potions, whether 'magical' or 'heroic'. No one knows the true origin of Beyonder Pathways, though some claim they stem from our Creator."
Quevedo nodded in agreement before turning back to Karl, "But Karl, while obtaining a potion might seem simple, they come with a curse. At one of the gatherings I attended, someone turned into a monster on the spot. Thankfully, the host dealt with it swiftly."
"Loss of control," Florent chimed in, "That's what it's called. Potions grant power but also bring curses. We don't fully understand them, but if your emotions spiral, you will likely become a monster. Karl... may I call you that?"
After Karl nodded, and Florent continued, "Every power we gain comes with severe curses. Beyond the terrifying risk of losing control, there are also the whispers that accompany the transition. And worse, you might never even realize how your personality changes over time. Are you prepared to pay that price? And even then, we might never achieve true superiority, only suffering the curses."
Florent paused to let Karl process the information, then continued, "You're not like us. Your social status already surpasses most Beyonders. If you become one and are discovered, the consequences could haunt you forever. Besides, if you truly want to be a Beyonder, why not seek Roselle's help? He's an immensely powerful one."
Karl didn't answer immediately. After a moment of contemplation, the ice in his expression melted into a bitter smile:
"This isn't my first time hearing about Beyonders. When I was very young, I knew my father was one, and so was Roselle. But when I grew up and tried to investigate my father's death, Roselle refused. Even when I asked about Beyonders, he just fell silent before denying me outright..."
He sighed, "...If not for Erich, I might never have learned the truth about Beyonders. And my family's relationship with Roselle isn't as close as you imagine. Frankly, we can't just see him whenever we want. After my father died, though Roselle's generosity was immense, he never treated me the way he did when I was a child."
Florent fell silent, 'The dead are gone like extinguished lamps...'
Though Roselle had richly rewarded his "Four Horsemen" after their deaths, his childhood companions were no longer there. With his own family now, it made sense he'd distance himself from their sons. But why not guide Karl onto the extraordinary path? After all, Green had been a Beyonder too.
Sensing Karl's pain, Quevedo and Erich also stayed quiet...
But soon, Quevedo rallied, "Ah well, Roselle must have his reasons! Though I do think it's unfair he didn't even explain."
Karl regained his composure, "I understand. But I still want to become part of the Beyonder community, to uncover the truth with my own hands. That's why I've become such good friends with you all." Realizing how transactional that sounded, he trailed off awkwardly.
Quevedo quickly lightened the mood, "Hey, more friends means more Pathways! Friends shouldn't use each other, but they should help. Sometimes, 'helping' and 'using' are just two sides of the same coin. As long as your conscience is clear and you don't betray friendship, the label doesn't matter."
Without pausing, he added, "Anyway! Karl, the three of us have three potion formulas: my 'Savant', Erich's 'Reader', and Florent's 'Apprentice'. Which one do you want?"
Turning to Florent, Quevedo said sheepishly, "Sorry Florent. I only invited you to this gathering for this reason... I thought it'd benefit all of us as Sequence 9s. I'll give you my potion formula as apology. I'm really sorry, my behavior was rude."
To Karl, he added playfully, "But even brothers must settle accounts! No matter who gives you the formula, you have to pay for it. No debts!" He winked, trying to lighten the tension.
Karl's expression didn't flicker, "Of course. Though I lack knowledge of the extraordinary world, I won't skimp on something as precious as a potion formula. Money isn't an issue." He shot Quevedo a look, acknowledging that his seemingly foolish antics had actually helped ease the mood.
Florent also spoke up, "I'm willing to share the formula with Karl, both for our friendship and his. And you've helped me reconnect with peers after years apart. I won't forget that." He gave Quevedo a forgiving glance.
Erich quietly observed their exchange before adding, "Sequences rank Beyonder Pathways from weak to strong, that is Sequence 9 to Sequence 1 respectively. Each Sequence has only one correct subsequent step. If you drink the wrong potion, you'll lose control and become a monster. But even the right one carries great risk."
Without giving Karl time to digest this, he said flatly, "Now, Karl. Choose a Pathway. It's time to take your first step."