A Hero's Downfall

"The Bloodline Transformation ritual has been refined and improved over generations by the many wizard families of the Ice Fortress. It can now be performed without contaminating one's mental power or Soul Force, and a person can undergo the transplant more than three times."

"Oh?"

Dago's eyes flickered. "What are your terms?"

"It's a pleasure talking to someone as clever as you, Mr. Dago."

Lady Dairen chuckled. "My terms aren't demanding. Stay at the manor for a year and do a few things for me, and I'll perform three Bloodline Transformations for you free of charge. If you want the Great Ice Serpent's bloodline, it should be available in two or three months."

Dago refused outright. "Those terms are too demanding. I can't accept them."

Bloodline Transformation wasn't essential to him, and the difference between one transplant and three wasn't that great. Work for someone for a whole year just for that? And miss the Mirror Forest trial? It wasn't worth it.

"Then I think you'll find my terms much less demanding once you hear what I'm about to say."

Lady Dairen said evenly, "I possess the technology for a true Bloodline Transformation. One that's nearly permanent."

"Permanent?!"

Dago's eyes widened. He stared into Lady Dairen's eyes and asked in a low voice, "You aren't joking, are you? Do you know what a true Bloodline Transformation means?"

"I don't need you to teach me that, little one."

Amusement crossed Lady Dairen's face. She idly played with the gemstone ring on her finger. "If you don't believe me, we can sign another Soul Contract. Oh, and do you remember Benson? He's just received the bloodline of a Second-Circle Ice Storm Bear. Its power will let him run roughshod over Mid-Second Circle wizards. He might even be able to challenge someone in