Infinite Paths: The Raging Phoenix

"Sometimes, it is the only solution to have them for numerous reasons," Branden said. "When people here have too much debt, they become servants of others for a determined period of time. Still, it is rare for them to serve other tribes, and the conditions are much better than inside the dragon's country since they either kill or enslave those who they want with their magic."

Rain's apparent lack of surprise regarding the existence of slavery in this world reflected his pragmatic outlook on reality. Through his diverse experiences and travels, he had come to understand that slavery was an unfortunate feature of many societies. This oppressive institution had endured in various forms and manifestations in their world and throughout Earth's history.

It served as a somber testament to the darker aspects of humanity, highlighting how individuals could exploit and dominate others for personal gain.

While some societies had made efforts to abolish slavery and rectify this historical injustice, Rain had observed firsthand that it still persisted in the shadows. This reality was a stark reminder that the pursuit of justice and equality was an ongoing challenge. His lack of astonishment stemmed from a sober recognition of the world's complexities.

It underscored how oppression and exploitation could endure, even in the midst of societal progress and enlightenment.

"Dragons magic?" Rain asked.

"This is kept as a secret for many reasons and not to spread panic, but I guess it is fine if you learn about that," Branden said. "While dragons also can use high-level elemental magic, they can also use something like authority magic. It has many applications, but one of them is to magically bind someone or something to obey their will."

Rain couldn't help but feel a sense of puzzlement. During his time at Tristan School, he had delved into various texts and materials, including those related to magical creatures. Yet, he had never come across any records or mentions of authority magic being employed by dragons.

This new revelation added yet another layer of complexity to the world of magic and its applications that he was only just beginning to explore.

"Dragons are wild creatures that live for their desires, and they are the purest manifestation of the seven deadly sins," Branden added. "They are greedy, so they attacked many kingdoms throughout history to steal their riches, and they also took the woman they liked."

Dragons are born with a fiery rage that fuels their territorial disputes and conflicts. They fiercely protect their nests and hoards, often engaging in battles over dominance. Their wrath is a driving force throughout their lives, especially in their youth.

As dragons mature, they become beings of intense desire. This desire can lead to intense conflicts and rivalries, driven by their insatiable lust. In their early adulthood, dragons succumb to Sloth. They prefer lounging by molten lava pools, taking long naps, and conserving energy. Their once-fiery natures become lethargic, and they exert minimal effort unless provoked.

Dragons amass vast hoards of treasure, from gold to precious gems. They guard these riches zealously and will often raid nearby settlements for more plunder. Their desire for wealth and material possessions is insatiable.

Dragons have an enormous appetite, consuming entire herds of livestock and vast swaths of natural resources. Their consumption disrupts ecosystems and leaves barren landscapes in their wake, driven by an endless hunger.

As dragons age, they become envious of younger, more powerful dragons. They may conspire and plot to undermine their rivals' dominance, seeking to elevate their own status. Envy often leads to manipulation and treachery. While it wasn't common for that kind of thing to succeed, it certainly happens.

In their twilight years, dragons become consumed by Pride. They see themselves as the supreme beings and demand respect from all creatures. Their pride is unwavering, leading to arrogance and a refusal to yield to others.

"Is it somehow connected the existence of the dragons' habits with the birth of the demi-humans?" Rain asked.

"It isn't confirmed yet, but many think that is true. When they impregnate females from other species, they give birth to demi-humans as well, but most of them are half-dragons. It is rare for their traits not to surpass the ones from the other parent…" Branden said and then realized Esmeralda's discomfort thanks to that topic. "Anyway, they aren't a problem for now."

Rain wondered about that… Branden was pretty much raising a red flag right there. In any case, Rain wondered if he could face a dragon now or if he was getting carried away for thinking of that.

In any case, soon night fell, and the group didn't hear anything from Geio. Still, some people brought food to them and left at the door. Rain was starting to get addicted to the pasta filled with meat and veggies. Still, the pasta wasn't something that they produced in their territory… it was probably thanks to some grain that only existed in the magic people's country.

Esmeralda couldn't help but be astonished at Rain's capacity to eat and not to worry about anything. She often would leave a lot of food behind and Rain would chew down without reservations.

"He is a growing boy. It can't be helped," Branden said.

In the end, it took two days of waiting for them to finally see Geio again, but it seemed like he had brought good news. Rain wondered if the guy was acting or something since they didn't have time to waste. Maybe they were having a hard time calling their forces to ambush them, or perhaps they were making it look like they captured those three to the humans.

"My sincerest apologies. The council has been rather busy in the last few days, so I ask you to wait a bit longer for the meeting," Geio said while bowing deeply.

"I suppose since you work as a council, you can't make a decision without the agreement of most members, and we can't just meet a few of them," Branden said. "... Are the dragons causing trouble to you all?"

"That is…" Geio said while looking around. "Something that I can't disclose."