The flame of the ever-burning lamp still flickered, while the dim glow within the crystal slowly swirled.
The daimyo's back was soaked with sweat, yet he remained standing, the respectful smile fixed on his face.
A moment later, that voice suddenly laughed.
"Ha ha ha..."
The laughter echoed through the secret chamber, low and lingering.
"You truly are an ambitious man."
The daimyo bowed even deeper. "I wouldn't dare."
"Good."
The voice said, "Since you have such resolve, I shall give you some means."
The light within the crystal suddenly flared brightly.
A dark streak of light shot from the depths of the crystal and struck the daimyo squarely between the brows.
The daimyo felt an icy force surge into his body and flow along his meridians. Wherever it passed, senses that had gradually dulled with age became sharp in an instant, and his weary body seemed to be infused with new vitality.
He lowered his head to look at his hands—the calluses formed over years of handling government affairs remained, but something seemed to surge beneath his skin, making him feel more than ten years younger.
"I have given you power."
That voice returned to its usual calm.
"Complete my task quickly."
The daimyo dropped to his knees, unable to suppress the wild joy on his face.
"Yes, yes, yes! Certainly! I will complete the task! Rest assured, Divine Envoy!"
The light within the crystal gradually dimmed, and the voice fell silent.
The daimyo remained kneeling there, feeling the unfamiliar power within his body as the smile at the corners of his mouth grew wider and wider.
Finally.
At last, this day had come.
He rose to his feet, gave the crystal one final glance, then turned and walked back up the stone steps to the surface.
The secret